American Airlines and US Airways are in the final stages of their corporate merger. Most recently they merged their loyalty programs. It was supposed to happen automatically electronically, but I have discovered many accounts have not been merged or have duplicate numbers with AA. If you did not get an email from American Airlines you may want to call them at 800-882-8880 to confirm your account.
Loyalty programs combined – One loyalty program, two airlines for now. Here are some additional details:
- US Airways Dividend Miles members moved into the AAdvantage program
- edeem miles and make updates to your account on AA.com
- New elite upgrade benefits on both airlines
- Check in and manage your trips with the airline operating your flight for now.
- Once the reservation systems are combined, AA will sunset usairways.com and AA.com will be your one-stop-shop in late 2015.
A second major change happening is with TSA
This month, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is making changes to the TSA Pre✔ Trusted Traveler Program that will impact which travelers receive expedited screening. If you are not already a member of one of the Trusted Traveler programs like Global Entry or the TSA Pre✔ Application Program, you will probably see a decline in how often you receive expedited screening, even if you were previously “opted-in” through a frequent flyer program. In another words, the loyalty programs will no long grant pre-check service.
The only way for you to increase your chances of receiving TSA Pre✔ on a regular basis is to register for a Trusted Traveler Program with the Department of Homeland Security at www.dhs.gov/tt. Once you receive their Known Traveler Number (KTN) from TSA, you should be sure to update yourloyalty programs profile. For more information on TSA Pre✔, visit www.tsa.gov/tsa-precheck.
And have a comfortable flight!
AlwaysHarriet 