For the most part, coverage of airline loyalty programs typically centers around new offerings, updates to frequent flier schemes, or new partnerships with cobranded credit card issuers. Rarely does a story regarding an airline loyalty program center around the members themselves and specifically regarding a genuinely honorable action that they have taken as a whole.

Well, over the weekend, members of American Airlines’ AAdvantage loyalty program proved to be the exception to the norm, as they donated over $2 million for relief efforts in support of those who have been affected by Hurricane Helene. These funds will be passed along to the American Red Cross, which will provide critical aid to communities that have been affected, and will be extremely welcome in this time of intense need.

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Photo: American Airlines

American Airlines has been quick to note in its latest news release that the need for further financial support remains urgent, as the damage created by the hurricane remains ongoing. For a limited time only, until October 18th, 2024, American Airlines
AAdvantage members can receive 10 AAdvantage bonus miles for every dollar that they donate to relief efforts launched by the American Red Cross. Please note that to be eligible for this benefit, passengers must donate a minimum of $25.

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An honorable effort from both the airline and AAdvantage members

Today’s news follows up on an earlier relief effort by American Airlines that was announced on September 30th, where the carrier directly donated AAdvantage miles to relieve organizations beyond just the American Red Cross. Namely, the carrier donated 10 million AAdvantage miles to Airlink, a humanitarian nonprofit that works to bring critical aid workers to communities in need during times of distress.

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Photo: American Airlines

These miles will help the organization bring emergency responders and aid workers to the places they are most needed by taking advantage of American Airlines’ extensive network. The carrier’s leadership team is undeniably proud of its relief efforts over the past couple of weeks. In a statement, Ron DeFeo, the carrier’s Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, had the following words to share:

“We are proud to join forces with Airlink and the Red Cross to deliver critical aid to those affected by Hurricane Helene. At American Airlines, it is our purpose to care for people on life’s journey, and we are committed to helping communities in times of need.”

In times of need, airlines are some of the most crucial companies when it comes to relief efforts, as air transport is often the most efficient way to transport the personnel and supplies needed. In instances like that of Hurricane Helene, flooding has made it difficult to transport aid via roads, making air travel all that much more critical.

Not the first time this year that American has stepped up

Today is not the first time in which American Airlines this year has provided significant support to the American Red Cross. Earlier this year, the relief organization named American a Mission Leader, as it was one of the many donors that consistently provides over $3 million annually to air in relief efforts. The airline has been a member of the Annual Disaster Giving Program since 2014, a group of donors that has worked with organizations like the Red Cross to prepare for relief efforts by supplying logistical and financial support.

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