American Offers Double Elite-Qualifying Miles Through January 2012

2009 was a banner year for promotions featuring elite-qualifying miles (EQMs), with at least three of the largest U.S. carriers offering double EQMs for at least six months.

EQM-wise, 2010 was a bust. And this year was shaping up to be the same.

If you'd given up on a double elite-qualifying miles promotion before the end of 2011, as I had, it now appears we're in for a last-minute EQM deluge. Or at least a year-end trickle.

What's changed? American's bankruptcy.

Offer Details

Between December 13, 2011, and January 31, 2012, AAdvantage members can earn double EQMs on all American and American Eagle flights.

Bonus EQMs earned during 2011 will count towards elite status in 2012; bonus EQMs earned during 2012 will count toward 2013 status.

Only elite-qualifying miles are doubled—not redeemable miles or elite-qualifying points or segments.

Registration is required, prior to travel.

Deal or No Deal

This promotion is clearly a move by American to shore up loyalty among its most profitable customers as the carrier's bankruptcy creates a heightened level of uncertainty and anxiety.

Generally, a systemwide double-EQM promotion would be an ultra-compelling offer.

But this offer loses some of its value as a result of the timing: The first three weeks of the promotion period apply toward 2012 elite status; the subsequent month applies toward elite status in 2013. Practically, what we have here are two very short-term promotions, back to back. And neither is as rewarding as those EQM offers from 2009.

Still, if you're within striking distance of AAdvantage elite status, or are close to a higher elite tier, double EQMs will get you there twice as fast. And that's certainly a point in American's favor if you're considering the alternatives.

But the competitive advantage may be short lived. While so far there's no counter-offer from United, Delta, or US Airways, it's likely that there will be.

Reader Reality Check

Is American's double-EQM offer a game-changer for you?

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