Many Citi AAdvantage cardholders take advantage of the reduced flight awards offered each quarter to members. When the first quarter list in 2009 was published on the Web site, however, cardholders on FlyerTalk were quick to notice the lack of discounted awards to international destinations. “Now they are cutting international destinations? Unreal. This is a reduction in the value of the Citi AA cards. Paying $50 plus per year for the card isn’t worth it to me for just miles and domestic reduced mileage awards (I use miles mainly for international and last minute travel). Many better cards already out there,” said one disheartened FlyerTalk member.

In the past, members were able to find good deals to destinations in Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America, Europe and Asia. Granted, selection was limited to specific dates and cities, but many members were willing to travel during off-peak times to save a few thousand miles. Now, members will only find domestic destinations at reduced rates through their credit card membership.

Citi Platinum Select MasterCard and Citi Select American Express cardmembers can redeem coach awards for 17,500 miles and first/business class awards for 42,500 miles. Citi Gold MasterCard and Citi American Express cardmembers will find coach class awards for 20,000 miles and first class awards for 45,000 miles. There are a total of 49 discounted destinations across the United States, including Monterey and Fresno, Calif.; Houston; Albuquerque; Key West and Madison, Wis. The discounted awards are valid for travel between now and March 31, 2009.