10xTravel is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as CreditCards.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
In a landmark move for travel enthusiasts, American Airlines and Citi have announced an exclusive partnership that will transform the landscape of AAdvantage credit cards in the U.S. Starting in 2026, Citi will be the sole issuer of these cards, following the acquisition of the Barclays AAdvantage credit card portfolio. This significant development means Barclays cardholders will gradually transition to Citi AA cards, ensuring continuity in benefits. Travelers familiar with the AAdvantage program can anticipate a seamless transition, with access to the same perks they’ve come to enjoy.
Adding to the excitement, the press release hints strongly at the inclusion of American Airlines as a transfer partner for Citi ThankYou Rewards. If confirmed, this would be a monumental enhancement, elevating the value of Citi’s points program and allowing cardholders to maximize their rewards.
Our Take
This exclusive deal marks a turning point for both Citi and American Airlines. In our view, the potential incorporation of AA as a transfer partner for Citi ThankYou Rewards is a game-changer, since no other transferable currency is a direct partner with American Airlines. Should this integration occur, it would significantly boost the attractiveness of Citi’s points for frequent travelers, making them a top currency for those looking to leverage points for travel.
For those currently holding or contemplating securing a Barclays AAdvantage card, act swiftly. With the impending exclusive partnership, the opportunity to earn welcome offers from both Barclays and Citi cards may soon diminish. Strategic cardholders should seize the chance to maximize their points and miles before the transition fully takes place. The future of travel rewards with Citi and American Airlines looks promising, and this development could pave the way for even more innovative reward strategies in the coming years.
Citi® / AAdvantage Business™ World Elite Mastercard®
65,000
bonus miles
after spending $4,000 in purchases within the first 4 months of account opening.
Annual Fee:
$0 for your first year, then $99.
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
70,000
AAdvantage® bonus miles
after spending $7,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
Annual Fee: $595
Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®
50,000
American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles
after spending $2,500 within the first 3 months of account opening.
Annual Fee:
$0 for your first year, then $99.
New to the world of points and miles? The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the best card to start with.
With a bonus of 60,000 bonus points after $4,000 in purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. , 5x points on travel booked through the Chase Travel Portal and 3x points on restaurants, streaming services, and online groceries (excluding Target, Walmart, and wholesale clubs), this card truly cannot be beat for getting started!
Editors Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
10xTravel is part of an affiliate sales network and receives compensation for sending traffic to partner sites, such as CreditCards.com. This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
Editors Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
bonus cash back
after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
Miles
once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
bonus points
after $4,000 in purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
Membership Rewards® Points
after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
