Columbia, SC: New Air Travel Rewards Impact Local Economy

Columbia, SC, December 24, 2025

Columbia, SC faces adjustments in air travel as American Airlines modifies its AAdvantage loyalty program, affecting Basic Economy fares and regional connectivity. As residents and businesses navigate these changes, the impact on travel expenses, route availability, and the overall economy becomes paramount. This article explores the implications of these updates, within the vital context of maintaining a connected, thriving local economy for entrepreneurs and travelers alike.

Columbia, SC: Navigating New Air Travel Rewards and Regional Connectivity

Columbia, South Carolina, constantly thrives on the dynamism of its local businesses and the spirit of its entrepreneurs. In an ever-evolving economic landscape, adaptability and informed decision-making are crucial for continued growth and personal achievement. The travel industry, a vital component of commerce and personal connection, exemplifies this constant change. Recent adjustments by major air carriers, particularly those dominating nearby regional hubs, necessitate a closer look for Midlands residents and businesses alike.

For many in the Columbia area, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) serves as a critical gateway to national and international destinations, largely due to American Airlines’ significant operations there. American Airlines recently announced changes to its AAdvantage loyalty program, specifically impacting Basic Economy fares. Understanding these shifts, alongside other regional developments, is essential for optimizing travel strategies and supporting the ongoing vitality of the Richland County economy.

American Airlines Adjusts Basic Economy Rewards

Effective December 17, 2025, American Airlines has implemented a significant alteration to its AAdvantage loyalty program: Basic Economy tickets purchased on or after this date will no longer earn AAdvantage miles or Loyalty Points towards elite status. This adjustment marks a shift from the previous policy, where AAdvantage members accrued two miles and loyalty points for every dollar spent on a Basic Economy fare. This means that individuals and businesses seeking to accumulate frequent flyer benefits will now need to opt for higher-priced ticket categories, such as Main Cabin fares, to earn these rewards.

Despite this change, American Airlines confirms that Basic Economy passengers will retain several key amenities. Travelers will still be entitled to one free personal item and one free carry-on bag, along with complimentary snacks, soft drinks, and in-flight entertainment. It is also important to note that American Airlines credit card holders and customers with elite status will similarly not earn miles on Basic Economy fares under the new policy; however, they may still retain other perks like seat selection or extra legroom, depending on their specific status level.

Implications for Columbia’s Travelers and Small Businesses

The impact of American Airlines’ policy change extends directly to residents and businesses in the Columbia SC business community. Given that American Airlines operates approximately 90% of flights at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), a primary hub for many South Carolinians, these modifications necessitate a re-evaluation of travel planning. South Carolina entrepreneurs and professionals who frequently travel for business, often utilizing the most cost-effective Basic Economy fares, will now find that their travel expenses will need to be higher if they wish to earn loyalty rewards. This could influence budget allocations for travel and potentially shift purchasing decisions toward other airlines or fare classes to maximize perceived value.

The decision by American Airlines to modify its rewards structure for Basic Economy fares is a move the carrier states is intended to “routinely evaluate its fare products to remain competitive in the marketplace”. This aligns American Airlines more closely with the policy set by Delta Air Lines, which similarly does not award miles or status on its Basic Economy tickets. In contrast, United Airlines still offers miles on its Basic Economy fares, though it typically restricts carry-on bags in this category. This evolving competitive landscape highlights the importance of consumers carefully comparing offerings across different carriers to find the best fit for their travel needs and reward aspirations.

Enhancements to the AAdvantage Program and Regional Fleet

While the Basic Economy reward changes are significant, American Airlines has also announced several positive enhancements to its broader AAdvantage program and substantial investments in its regional fleet. For 2025, the Loyalty Point thresholds required for achieving AAdvantage status will remain unchanged. Moreover, new Loyalty Point Reward options are being introduced, providing more flexibility for loyal customers. Starting in 2025, AAdvantage members will also gain the ability to redeem their miles for onboard food and beverage purchases. The airline is also expanding its Million Miler status with new tiers and extending the validity of systemwide upgrades, offering more benefits to its most frequent flyers.

In a notable commitment to enhancing the travel experience, American Airlines is investing in comprehensive upgrades across its regional fleet. Nearly 300 regional aircraft are already equipped with high-speed, gate-to-gate satellite Wi-Fi, with plans to extend this service to the entire dual-class regional fleet by early 2026. AAdvantage members will enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi access starting in January 2025, a valuable perk for business and leisure travelers alike. Furthermore, new Embraer 175 and Bombardier CRJ900 planes will feature modern cabin interiors mirroring the mainline fleet, along with consistent snack offerings across regional and mainline flights. The airline is also working with Embraer to design larger overhead bins for its regional aircraft, aiming to improve boarding efficiency and provide more space for carry-on luggage. These enhancements underscore a dedication to improving the overall journey for those flying regionally, a direct benefit for Midlands economic growth by making travel more comfortable and connected.

Direct Impact: Columbia’s Chicago Route Discontinued

Beyond the broader AAdvantage program updates, a specific change directly impacts Columbia, SC: American Airlines will discontinue its route between Chicago (ORD) and Columbia, SC (CAE), effective January 8, 2025. This route, which American Airlines had operated since July 2023, is being cut as part of the airline’s continuous evaluation of its network. While American Airlines will continue to offer service from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) to five other cities across the U.S., this discontinuation means that United Airlines will now hold a monopoly on the Chicago-Columbia route. This shift could have implications for flight availability and pricing for those traveling between Columbia and Chicago, influencing business connections and personal travel plans for Columbia small business owners and residents.

The evolving landscape of air travel rewards and regional route adjustments highlights the constant flux within the industry. For Columbia SC business leaders and individual travelers, understanding these changes is key to making informed decisions that support both personal achievement and regional economic vitality. By staying attuned to airline policies and leveraging available benefits, South Carolina entrepreneurs and residents can continue to navigate their travel needs efficiently.

As our community continues to grow and adapt, remaining informed about these changes is essential. We encourage readers to engage with their local businesses and explore how a strategic approach to travel can bolster the Richland County economy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the main change to American Airlines’ AAdvantage program?

American Airlines has stopped offering AAdvantage miles and Loyalty Points for Basic Economy tickets purchased on or after December 17, 2025.

When did this change take effect?

The change took effect for Basic Economy tickets purchased on or after December 17, 2025.

What perks do Basic Economy passengers still receive?

Basic Economy passengers will continue to receive one free personal item and one free carry-on bag, free snacks, soft drinks, and in-flight entertainment.

How does American Airlines’ new policy compare to other major airlines?

This change aligns American Airlines’ policy with Delta Air Lines, which also does not allow travelers on Basic Economy tickets to earn miles or status. United Airlines still allows Basic Economy customers to earn miles but generally not to bring a carry-on bag.

Are there any other changes to the AAdvantage program for 2025?

Yes, for 2025, American Airlines is maintaining the same status requirements for AAdvantage status, introducing new Loyalty Point Reward options, allowing AAdvantage members to redeem miles for onboard food and beverage purchases, adding new tiers for Million Miler status, and extending the validity of systemwide upgrades.

What regional route is American Airlines discontinuing that affects Columbia, SC?

American Airlines will discontinue its route between Chicago (ORD) and Columbia, SC (CAE), effective January 8, 2025.

What airline will now have a monopoly on the Chicago-Columbia, SC route?

United Airlines will now hold a monopoly on the Chicago-Columbia, SC route.

What upgrades is American Airlines making to its regional fleet?

American Airlines is upgrading its regional fleet with high-speed Wi-Fi, modern cabin interiors, consistent snack offerings, and larger overhead bins. AAdvantage members will also enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi access starting in January 2025.

Key Features of American Airlines’ AAdvantage Program Changes and Regional Impact

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Author: HERE Charlotte

The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.