JetBlue walked away from a partnership deal with American Airlines. It’s likely that United was just willing to overpay and promise the moon to JetBlue, in part to get back into New York JFK and in part so that United CEO Scott Kirby could stick it to his former airline. American is suing for funds they believe JetBlue owes them from the wind down of their Northeast Alliance.
And now that JetBlue is a clear competitor, American is going after their best customers with a limited-time status match offer. Through June 30, American is more generous in the status they’ll offer to TrueBlue members. In fact, Mosaic 3 and 4 members can get Executive Platinum status.
American also currently has an elevated offer for disgruntled Southwest flyers who ‘Wanna Get Away’ from Rapid Rewards.
American Airlines status challenges are called Instant Status Pass.
- Earn points in the first few four months that determines your status in the next four months
- And your earning during those four months determines what status you have for the next four and what status you’re “going for”
- Finally, during the last four months to earn points to keep the status for the year ahead
These offers haven’t always been available and haven’t always been free. This is an explicit offer for anyone with United, Delta, JetBlue and Southwest status. And right now JetBlue and Southwest status qualifies for higher AAdvantage status than usual.
As a NY based AA platinum, I don’t see the appeal if your travel patterns are to Florida (except MIA), the Caribbean, LHR, CDG, DUB, AMS, LAX or SFO. Despite having AA status, I’d rather fly with no status on B6 for travels to Florida (Jax & Mco) and the Caribbean (Aua) and get on a direct flight rather than deal with Clt or MIA hell.
Competition is generally good for consumers, so I’m happy to hear this. Ironically, I used EP to get Mosaic in a status match over a year ago. Those Move to Mint certificates saved me thousands. When it all works out, it’s pretty awesome.
They are all still over priced budget yellow bus airlines compared to the Eastern country counterparts.
The only catch is you have to fly on AA.
I don’t see M3 and M4s leaving to fly on AA even for that.
I really wouldn’t take any offer from American Airlines, no matter how lucrative it would seem. Poor service and unhappy employees do not make for a good travel experience at any level.
AA is the spurned suitor in this situation and licking its wounds.
Therefore, picking off the cream of the crop of B6 is a natural (AKA jealous) reaction.
Also, AA is seeking reimbursement (AKA alimony) for its its NEA agreement (AKA rendezvous).
Looks like United is next up on the plate!!
B6 is going to develop a reputation!!