American Airlines is offering a choice of special rewards for elite members who reach elite-qualifying point thresholds by Dec. 31, 2011. Unlike in previous years, qualification for Elite Rewards will be based exclusively on elite-qualifying points. Members earn .5 points per qualifying mile flown on deeply discounted coach fares, one point per mile in discount coach, 1.5 point per mile in full-fare coach, business class and first class.

If you earn enough points to qualify for Elite Rewards, you will receive an email in early 2012 with an invitation to choose your rewards. Gold members who earn between 40,000 and 49,999 elite-qualifying points can choose one of the following: 15,000 bonus miles, four 500-mile upgrades, two Admirals Club one-day passes or a 10 percent discount on a future American Airlines flight. Platinum members who earn 75,000 to 99,999 elite-qualifying points can choose from: 25,000 bonus miles, eight 500-mile upgrades, four Admiral Club day passes, a 15 percent discount on a future American Airlines flight or the option to gift Gold elite status to a friend.

Executive Platinum members who earn 125,000 or more elite-qualifying points can choose two of the following: 35,000 bonus miles, two one-way systemwide upgrades, a one-year Admirals Club membership, a 20 percent discount on a future American Airlines flight or the ability to gift Gold elite status to a friend.