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Your next flight might feel the same, but the partnership powering your travel perks just got a major renewal.
American Airlines and Mastercard renewed their decades-long partnership on July 21, 2025, keeping Mastercard as the exclusive network for all AAdvantage co-branded credit cards. For loyal American Airlines customers, this renewal means continued access to familiar rewards and travel benefits, plus a few new upgrades.
Same Great Perks With Some Extra Surprises
Both companies say this deal focuses on improving the travel experience with smarter technology, stronger security and perks tailored to cardholders.
If you already have an AAdvantage card, nothing changes for now. Mastercard remains the exclusive network on these cards, so you’ll continue enjoying perks like early boarding, free checked bags and bonus AAdvantage miles on qualifying purchases.
Additionally, AAdvantage cardholders can still access Mastercard’s Priceless Experiences platform, which is its collection of exclusive events and experiences. These range from cultural events and curated travel activities to behind-the-scenes access at major sporting events.
While these perks may not be why most people choose a travel credit card, they’re a bonus for frequent flyers who enjoy added value.
A Push Toward Smarter, Smoother Travel
The renewed deal isn’t just about rewards—it’s also about tech. Mastercard says it will continue working with American Airlines to enhance travelers’ digital experience, offering stronger fraud protection, improving online and in-flight payments and using smarter data to personalize offers.
Travelers could see more tailored promotions or upgrades, faster checkouts with mobile wallets or a more seamless booking process within the American Airlines app.
Why It Matters
Airline credit cards play a significant role in how U.S. carriers make money. For travelers, they’re an easy way to rack up miles and enjoy travel perks for an annual fee.
In a crowded travel credit card market, consistency is a relief. Some programs switch networks or shake up their terms without much notice, but this renewal means AAdvantage cardholders won’t have to worry about sudden changes. This is especially important if you’ve built your travel plans around the American Airlines AAdvantage program and its associated credit cards.
Bottom Line
American Airlines and Mastercard are sticking together—and that’s good news for frequent flyers. With your AAdvantage credit card, you’ll still earn miles on everyday spending, board early, check a bag for free and maybe even score access to a few memorable events along the way.
While the updates aren’t sweeping for now, they hint at more digital improvements and personalized travel features. If you’re considering becoming a cardholder, this long-standing partnership might offer you extra confidence in a card’s long-term value in your wallet.