Effective July 1, 2020, accumulated miles on American Airlines AAdvantage accounts for members under 21 will not expire. Once the account holder reaches the age of 21, the miles will fall under regular expiration rules.

For AAdvantage members who had turned 21 years of age before July 1, 2020, the 18-month qualifying activity period will be applied on a pro rata basis. For example, if X turned 21 on April 1, 2020, the the 18-month qualifying activity period for this member will commence on April 1, 2020.

At this time, regular rules state that AAdvantage miles expire after 18 months of inactivity. American had placed a hold on expiring points due to the coronavirus pandemic but has reinstated the expiration program as of July 1. This is contrary to the other major airlines.

Regardless of your age, you have options if your miles in your AAdvantage account are set to expire. For example, you can use a co-branded American Airlines credit card, shop on the American Airlines AAdvantage shopping portal, donate some miles, or earn miles as you deposit your savings with Bask Bank.

At this time, the airline has not stated if it will make any additional adjustments to its frequent flyer program due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Airlines are trying to encourage people to start flying again now that more states are lifting restrictions, and more international destinations are reopening to travelers.
