Unlocking the Secrets of Transferring American Airlines AAdvantage Miles

American Airlines AAdvantage miles can be earned through various activities, including flying with American Airlines or its partner airlines, using an AAdvantage co-branded credit card, and shopping online via the AAdvantage eShopping portal. But did you know that you can also transfer your AAdvantage miles or even transfer rewards from other programs into your AAdvantage account? Here’s everything you need to know about transferring AAdvantage miles and maximizing your travel rewards.

American Airlines, a major player in the aviation industry, boasts an extensive network of domestic and international routes. As a member of the Oneworld alliance, it partners with airlines like Alaska Airlines, British Airways, Qantas, and Cathay Pacific, providing travelers with numerous options for reaching destinations across the globe. Unlike its competitors—Delta Air Lines and United Airlines—American Airlines still maintains published award charts, making it easier for travelers to understand the cost of their flights.

Whether you’re aiming to fly across the United States or venture to Europe, the Middle East, or Australasia, American Airlines and its esteemed partners can help you get there. Although AAdvantage miles may not always offer the best value for long-haul flights on American Airlines due to dynamic pricing, redeeming miles for partner flights can still provide excellent value.

As of July 2025, The Points Guy values AAdvantage miles at approximately 1.55 cents each, which can help you strategize your travel plans.

Transferring Points to AAdvantage Miles

You can transfer points from various hotel and credit card programs to AAdvantage miles. One of the most popular options is Marriott Bonvoy, where points transfer to AAdvantage at a ratio of 3 Marriott points for every 1 AAdvantage mile. However, unlike other Marriott transfer options, you won’t receive an additional 5,000 miles for every 60,000 points transferred.

While you can also transfer World of Hyatt and IHG One Rewards points to AAdvantage miles, the transfer rates are less favorable, making these options less appealing.

Citi has recently added American Airlines as a transfer partner, allowing you to transfer ThankYou Rewards points to AAdvantage at a 1:1 ratio if you hold one of their eligible credit cards. This makes Citi the only major credit card issuer with a direct transfer option to American Airlines, providing a significant advantage for those looking to maximize their points and miles strategy.

Transferring AAdvantage Miles Between Members

If you want to share your AAdvantage miles, you can transfer them online to another AAdvantage member in increments of 1,000 miles for a fee of $5 per 1,000 miles. This fee includes taxes, fees, and discounts. However, it’s important to note that you cannot transfer AAdvantage miles to a credit card program or another airline loyalty program.

Additionally, you can use your AAdvantage miles to book flights for other travelers. This flexibility can be a great way to help friends or family members who may not have enough miles for their desired trip.

Booking Flights Without AAdvantage Miles

If you find yourself without AAdvantage miles, you can still book flights with American Airlines through various methods. Utilizing the airline’s partner airlines or online travel portals allows you to earn additional rewards, even if you don’t have any AAdvantage miles in your account.

There are many ways to earn AAdvantage miles, from using the right credit card to transferring rewards from other loyalty programs. American Airlines offers several co-branded credit cards that can help you accumulate miles more quickly. Some of the top options include the Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select and the Citi Prestige Card, both of which provide valuable benefits for travelers.

Maximizing Your Travel Rewards

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In conclusion, transferring AAdvantage miles and maximizing your travel rewards can open up a world of opportunities for your next adventure. By understanding the various ways to earn and transfer miles, you can make the most of your American Airlines AAdvantage account and enjoy the benefits of travel that await you. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a long-haul journey, American Airlines and its partners are ready to take you there.