Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: AAirpass
Apr 8, 2020
Discover the intriguing story of American Airlines' AAirpass, a lifetime pass for unlimited first-class travel that had a wild ride of its own. Learn how a few enterprising travelers played the system, leading to extraordinary adventures and some serious consequences. Explore the initial allure of this luxury program, its eventual fallout, and the controversies surrounding it. Each story reveals a unique blend of glamour and chaos, painting a vivid picture of travel exploits that took the airline by surprise.
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AAirpass: A Lifetime of Luxury
- American Airlines offered the AAirpass, a lifetime unlimited first-class ticket.
- Notable figures like Willie Mays, Mark Cuban, and Michael Dell purchased these passes.
The Rising Cost of Luxury
- Initially priced at $250,000, the AAirpass included companion passes for $150,000.
- American Airlines later increased the price significantly, ultimately reaching $3 million.
Pushing the Limits of Luxury
- Jacques Vroom and Stephen Rothstein, AAirpass holders, exploited the program's flexibility.
- They used it for everyday tasks and personal errands, costing American Airlines millions.