American revamps frequent flyer program

FORT WORTH, Texas, May 11 (UPI) -- U.S. carrier American Airlines said Monday it would revamp its AAdvantage frequent flyer program with a new feature called "One-Way Flex Awards."

The feature's primary option allows AAdvantage members awards tickets for one-way flights. Passengers can also combine up to four flights under the definition of out-going travel -- making the awards available to travelers on multi-city trips.

The feature makes it possible for passengers to book an outgoing trip from New York to London with a return trip from Paris to New York, the company said in a statement.

"Our One-Way Flex feature takes frequent flyer award travel to a whole new level by offering customers unprecedented options and flexibility," said Rob Friedman, president of AAdvantage Marketing Programs.

The AAdvantage was launched in 1981, but the program has fallen behind Delta Air Lines, US Airways and others that offer one-way options for frequent flyers, the Chicago Tribune reported Monday.

The service was made available online on Monday, the company said.

Friedman said the variety of options "will position us as the industry leader" in frequent flyer programs.