Citi launches point transfers to American Airlines

Citi adds point transfers from the ThankYou program to American Airlines for select cardholders.

Citi introduces point transfers to American Airlines for premium cardholders

Citi has launched the ability for Strata Elite, Prestige, and Strata Premier cardholders to transfer points from the ThankYou program to American Airlines AAdvantage. Initially, this feature was available only to new Strata Elite cardholders but has expanded to include the two other premium cards. This change marks an important development as American Airlines offers valuable booking options that were previously difficult to access without a specific credit card. Currently, these three credit cards are the only ones eligible to transfer points directly to American Airlines, giving an advantage to users who hold these cards.

The introduction of point transfers to American Airlines signals Citi's commitment to enhancing its card offerings. This move also seems strategic with American Airlines losing another credit card issuer in Barclays. As Citi becomes the sole issuer of American Airlines credit cards, the ability to earn AAdvantage miles through everyday spend on these premium cards will likely make them more attractive to customers. However, this might create an exclusivity risk, alienating those who use other Citi cards without similar earning potential.

Highlights

Citi's strategic shift may steer more customers towards their premium offerings in the competitive credit card market.