American AAdvantage has announced their 2012 Elite Rewards program. Elite Rewards are for elite members only and these members can earn bonuses depending on the number of elite qualifying points earned. For example, AAdvantage Gold members who earn between 40,000 and 49,000 elite-qualifying points can choose from 15,000 bonus miles, four 500-mile upgrades, two Admiral Club one-day passes or one AA.com 10 percent discount for travel on American Airlines. AAdvantage Platinum members who earn between 75,000 and 99,999 elite-qualifying points can choose from 25,000 miles, eight 500-mile upgrades, four Club passes, 15 percent flight discount or a gift of AAdvantage Gold status for a friend. AAdvantage Executive Platinum members who earn 125,000 or more elite qualifying points can choose two from 35,000 bonus miles, two one-way systemwide upgrades, one-year Admirals Club membership, 20 percent flight discount or a gift of AAdvantage Gold status for a friend.

Bottom line: This is American’s way of enticing members to continue to travel even after reaching their desired status level. Elite Rewards are based on elite qualifying points, not miles. The number of elite-status points members earn is based on a combination of earned miles and the class of service purchased.