Hyatt's partnership with AA: Deepened or Devalued? | Coffee Break Ep29 | 10-15-24
Oct 15, 2024
auto_awesome
Explore the recent changes in the partnership between Hyatt and American Airlines, sparking debate among travelers. Dive into the new benefits for Hyatt elites and the mixed reactions to what many perceive as a potential devaluation of rewards. Discover the intricacies of earning and redeeming loyalty points and how these changes can impact different types of travelers. Personal insights and strategic tips offer a deeper understanding of navigating this evolving dynamic in loyalty programs.
The changes to the Hyatt and American Airlines partnership are viewed by many as a devaluation, primarily benefiting Hyatt elites over American Airlines elites.
New milestone rewards for Hyatt elites, including American Airlines seat coupons, may offer significant perks, albeit with mixed reactions from users.
Deep dives
Changes to the Partnership Dynamics
Hyatt and American Airlines recently announced significant changes to their partnership, shifting from a previously reciprocal earning structure to a new framework that has sparked debate among users. Under the old arrangement, Hyatt elites earned points from American Airlines flights, while American Airlines elites could earn Hyatt points for their stays, benefiting both groups. The new benefits introduced in 2025 include milestone rewards that allow Hyatt elites to select American Airlines seat coupons and status options, which some perceive as a decline in value. Critics argue that these changes primarily favor Hyatt elites while providing little to no tangible benefits to American Airlines elites, leading many to view the partnership as weakened.
Reader Reactions and Perspectives
The reader feedback regarding the partnership changes reflects a strong sense of disappointment and frustration, with many feeling that the updates serve as a devaluation rather than a deepening of the relationship. Comments from users expressed skepticism about new benefits, highlighting that the perceived value of the rewards offered, such as seat coupons and elite status for Hyatt stays, are not worth the trade-offs being made. For instance, readers criticized the low value of redeeming American Airlines miles for Hyatt free night certificates, arguing that alternatives like booking flights have far more value. This backlash indicates a divide between how the changes are viewed by those who frequently use Hyatt and those more engaged with American Airlines.
Personal Benefits and Future Opportunities
Despite the criticism, some individuals see potential benefits in the new partnership, particularly those who often stay at Hyatt and want to gain American Airlines status. For example, Hyatt elites can now earn American Airlines elite status more easily, which can provide meaningful perks such as free checked bags on flights. Furthermore, the option to gift status for a day or for an entire elite membership year introduces a level of flexibility that can benefit travelers with varied itineraries. While the overall sentiment may lean towards devaluation for frequent American Airlines users, proponents of the changes argue that they create new opportunities for Hyatt loyalists to enhance their travel experience.
Recently news broke that Hyatt and American Airlines plan to change their partnership with each other. Was the partnership "deepened" like we suggested when we wrote this post, or was it "devalued" like our readers thought in the comments? (Or is it somehow both?)
(02:49) - What is the current Hyatt / AA relationship like? (Until 12/31/24)
(03:39) - New AA benefits for Hyatt elites...
(08:33) - Comparing Old vs New
(13:27) - Stephen's thoughts
(14:21) - Nick's thoughts
(16:57) - Greg't thoughts
Visit https://frequentmiler.com/subscribe to get updated on in-depth points and miles content like this, and don’t forget to like and follow us on social media.
Music Credit – Beach Walk by Unicorn Heads
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
