American Airlines Freezes Elite Status Requirements a Third Straight Year

Loyalty Points Stasis

Well hello there. Indiana Jones here reporting from… well not exactly the Temple of Doom but close enough – an American Airlines press release. It seems they're freezing the spending requirements for elite status for the third year running. Three years Dr. Jones three years. This is akin to finding a perfectly preserved Incan mummy only less dusty and more about maximizing airline profits. Airlines like American are sweetening the deal to lure those high spending adventurers much like how Belloq always tried to one up me with shiny artifacts. Always about the profits those guys.

Industry Wide Trend

Interestingly Delta and United are playing along keeping their elite status thresholds the same too. It’s like they're all following the same treasure map. They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery but in this case it's more like a calculated move to keep up with the Joneses—or should I say the Deltas and the Uniteds. This reminds me of that time in Cairo when everyone wanted the Staff of Ra headpiece. Except this time it's loyalty points. Speaking of which you should read Disney Names New CEO in Shocking Mouse House Shakeup for more high stakes adventure – albeit in the corporate world.

Beyond the Usual Perks

Now here's a twist even I didn't see coming. American is throwing in extra perks for achieving milestones *between* the usual elite tiers. Think of it as finding smaller idols along the way to the main treasure. Food and beverage coupons subscriptions to The New York Times games… it's like they're saying "We have top men working on it… on your loyalty that is." It's not exactly a golden idol but hey free food is free food.

Gold Standard?

The first level of elite status Gold is awarded at 40,000 loyalty points. That’s a lot of frequent flying even for someone who's been around the world more times than I can count. It's like earning a PhD in air miles. But remember it's not the years honey it's the mileage.

Cabin Upgrades and Wi Fi

American has been investing in swankier cabins and larger lounges. I imagine they're trying to distract you from the fact that you're hurtling through the air in a metal tube. Oh and free in flight Wi Fi. Finally. Now I can access all my archaeological research without worrying about exorbitant charges. It's about time they joined the 20th century… oh wait we're in the 21st aren't we?

Credit Card Shakeups

Finally the credit card situation. American is dropping Barclays as a partner which is like replacing a rusty whip with a brand new one. They promise changes later this year so keep your eyes peeled. In the meantime remember: X never ever marks the spot… unless it's a good credit card deal.