You can only transfer Amex points to two U.S.-based airline programs: Delta SkyMiles and JetBlue TrueBlue. However, by taking advantage of airline partnerships, you can use Amex points to book award flights with other major carriers, including United Airlines, American Airlines and Alaska Airlines.

No, American Express Membership Rewards does not transfer directly to American Airlines AAdvantage in 2026. This remains one of the few major gaps in the Amex partner lineup. However, there is a popular "workaround" for savvy travelers: you can transfer your Amex points to British Airways Executive Club or Iberia Plus at a 1:1 ratio. Since both BA and Iberia are members of the Oneworld alliance, you can then use those "Avios" to book American Airlines-operated flights directly on the British Airways website. While the pricing might be slightly different than if you used AA miles, it is often an excellent value for short-haul domestic flights. Another option is to transfer Amex points to Marriott Bonvoy and then to American Airlines, but the transfer ratio (3:1) is generally considered a poor use of points. For those who strictly want to earn American Airlines miles, the Citi or Barclays co-branded credit cards remain the only direct earning method in the U.S. market.