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American Basic Economy Fares expand to Transatlantic Flights

Avatar for Jared Kamrowski Jared Kamrowski -
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Starting in April, American will introduce Basic Economy on some transatlantic flights. This new expansion is also being made with partners British Airways, Iberia, and Finnair. There have not yet been any specific route announcements.

Our take – Basic Economy is bad for the consumer. It has replaced your normal Main Cabin economy fare. which included seat assignment (for the same price). You now have to pay more for what you previously got for free.

 

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American Airlines Basic Economy

American tested out basic economy fares in several markets in early 2017 and then rolled out nationwide in September, and then to the Caribbean in December, and will now roll out to transatlantic fares next month. One positive development is that carry-on bags will be allowed (unlike their domestic Basic Economy fares). American fares still earn elite credit (albeit reduced).

  • One carry-on and one personal item
  • Seat assignment at check-in (or anytime for a fee)
  • No flight changes or refunds
  • Not eligible for upgrades
  • Board in Group 8 (last to board)

 

Tricks to help beat Basic Economy 

AAdvantage elite status members and Citi AAdvantage or Barclaycard AAdvantage Aviator cardmembers are exempt from certain restrictions. Check out the specifics here.

Elites and AA credit card holders can:

  • Keep your priority or preferred boarding privileges
  • Keep your checked bag benefits

Award miles and elite qualification

  • Award miles and Elite Qualifying Dollars (EQDs) earned based on ticket price
  • Elite Qualifying Miles (EQMs) and Elite Qualifying Segments (EQSs) earned at a reduced rate of 0.5 per mile/flight segment flown

 

Bottom Line 

Make sure to watch out for those basic economy fares next time you’re searching for a cheap flight. We will be posting American Airlines transatlantic fares, because they do include free carry-on, unlike domestic basic economy fares. A great way to avoid seat and checked bag fees it to pick up an American Airlines credit card. If you would like to apply for a card, make sure to visit our Top Credit Cards section.

 

 

Avatar for Jared Kamrowski

Jared Kamrowski

Jared Kamrowski is the founder & CEO of Thrifty Traveler. His obsession with the world of points and miles led him to launch the site in 2015. He's been a TEDx speaker and featured in many travel and business publications and podcasts.

Jared has been an avid traveler since 2009, when he began traveling over 100 nights per year as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Instead of nerding out in a lonely corporate cubicle, he's now leading a team of 20+ in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He’s since been to 50+ countries and counting.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Disclaimer: The responses below are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser. Responses have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the bank advertiser. It is not the bank advertiser’s responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.

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