What To Know
- American Airlines has a select group of partner airlines with which you can transfer AAdvantage miles.
- The maximum number of miles you can transfer in a single transaction is 200,000.
- It may not be advisable to transfer miles if there are high transfer fees, a limited partner network, or better redemption options with American Airlines.
Frequent flyers often accumulate a significant number of miles with their preferred airlines, but what happens when you need to redeem them on a different carrier? Can American Airlines miles be transferred to another airline? This comprehensive guide will explore the ins and outs of transferring American Airlines AAdvantage miles, providing you with a clear understanding of the process and potential limitations.
Understanding Transferability
Generally, airline miles are not transferable between different airlines. However, there are exceptions to this rule, and American Airlines is one of the few carriers that allows limited transferability of its miles.
Eligible Transfer Partners
American Airlines has a select group of partner airlines with which you can transfer AAdvantage miles:
- British Airways
- Cathay Pacific
- Emirates
- Qantas
- Japan Airlines
Transfer Process
To transfer American Airlines miles to an eligible partner airline, follow these steps:
1. Log in to your AAdvantage account.
2. Navigate to the “My Account” section.
3. Select “Transfer Miles.”
4. Enter the partner airline‘s name and the number of miles you wish to transfer.
5. Review and confirm the transfer details.
6. Pay the transfer fee (if applicable).
Transfer Fees
American Airlines charges a transfer fee of 12.5% of the miles being transferred. For example, if you transfer 10,000 miles, you will pay a fee of $125.
Transfer Restrictions
There are certain restrictions to consider when transferring American Airlines miles:
- Minimum transfer amount: The minimum number of miles you can transfer is 1,000.
- Maximum transfer amount: The maximum number of miles you can transfer in a single transaction is 200,000.
- Transfer limits: You can transfer up to 1 million miles per year from your AAdvantage account.
Benefits of Transferring Miles
Transferring American Airlines miles to a partner airline can provide several benefits:
- Redeem for flights on multiple airlines: Expand your redemption options by accessing the partner airline’s network.
- Unlock exclusive award availability: Partner airlines may offer award availability on routes that are not available through American Airlines.
- Maximize the value of your miles: Different airlines may have different redemption rates, allowing you to find the best value for your miles.
When Not to Transfer Miles
While transferring miles can be beneficial, there are situations where it may not be the best option:
- High transfer fees: The 12.5% transfer fee can significantly reduce the value of your miles.
- Limited partner network: American Airlines has a relatively limited number of partner airlines, which may not meet your travel needs.
- Better redemption options with American Airlines: If you primarily fly with American Airlines, you may find better redemption options by keeping your miles within the AAdvantage program.
The Bottom Line: Exploring Your Transfer Options
Understanding the nuances of transferring American Airlines miles to another airline is crucial for maximizing the value of your frequent flyer points. By carefully considering the eligible partner airlines, transfer fees, and restrictions, you can make informed decisions about whether or not to transfer your miles. Remember, the goal is to find the best redemption option that meets your specific travel needs and maximizes the return on your hard-earned miles.
Popular Questions
Q: Can American Airlines miles be transferred to any airline?
A: No, American Airlines miles can only be transferred to its eligible partner airlines.
Q: How much does it cost to transfer American Airlines miles?
A: American Airlines charges a transfer fee of 12.5% of the miles being transferred.
Q: What is the minimum number of miles I can transfer?
A: The minimum number of miles you can transfer is 1,000.
Q: How many miles can I transfer per year?
A: You can transfer up to 1 million miles per year from your AAdvantage account.
Q: When is it not advisable to transfer American Airlines miles?
A: It may not be advisable to transfer miles if there are high transfer fees, a limited partner network, or better redemption options with American Airlines.
Q: Can I transfer miles from my AAdvantage account to someone else’s account?
A: No, American Airlines does not allow the transfer of miles between different AAdvantage accounts.
Q: How long does it take for miles to transfer?
A: Miles typically transfer within 48 hours, but it can take up to 7 business days in some cases.
Q: Can I transfer miles from my American Airlines business account to a personal account?
A: Yes, you can transfer miles between your AAdvantage business and personal accounts, but there may be restrictions and fees associated with the transfer.
Q: How can I find the best value for my American Airlines miles?
A: To find the best value for your miles, consider the redemption options, award availability, and partner airline fees before making a transfer decision.
Q: Can I use my American Airlines miles to upgrade a flight on a partner airline?
A: In most cases, you cannot use American Airlines miles to upgrade a flight on a partner airline.
