How much does it cost to buy AA miles?

0-4,000 miles: No discount (3.76? each) 5,000-54,000 miles: 20% discount (3? each) 55,000-149,000 miles: 25% discount (2.82? each) 150,000 miles: 35% discount (2.45? each)



As of early 2026, the cost of purchasing American Airlines AAdvantage miles typically ranges between 2.25 cents and 3.76 cents per mile, depending on the quantity you buy. For example, a small purchase of 2,000 miles (the minimum) costs about $75.25, while buying 150,000 miles in bulk often triggers a "40% discount," bringing the total to roughly $3,400. Generally, buying miles is considered a "bad deal" for standard travel, as the average redemption value of an AA mile is only about 1.5 cents; you are effectively paying more for the mile than it is worth in airfare. However, it can be a smart move if you are just a few thousand miles short of a high-value Business Class "Award" ticket, where the cash price would be significantly higher. American Airlines frequently runs "Buy Miles" promotions with bonuses up to 100%, so if you must buy them, it is always best to wait for one of these sales to bring your average cost-per-mile down closer to the 1.8-cent mark.

The cost to purchase AAdvantage miles (AA miles) can vary depending on promotions, the number of miles you buy, and whether you are a member of the AAdvantage program. As of October 2023, here’s a general breakdown:

  1. Standard Pricing: - The cost typically ranges from 2.5 to 4 cents per mile, depending on the quantity purchased. - For example, buying 10,000 miles might cost around $325, while 50,000 miles could cost around $1,625.

  2. Promotional Discounts: - American Airlines occasionally offers discounts (e.g., 20%-40% off) on purchased miles, which can lower the cost per mile. - Always check for promotions before purchasing.

  3. Minimum Purchase: - There’s usually a minimum purchase requirement, such as 1,000 miles.

  4. Maximum Purchase: - You can typically buy up to 150,000 miles per year (including bonus miles from promotions).

  5. Taxes and Fees: - There may be additional taxes or fees depending on your location.

Important Notes: - Buying miles can be expensive compared to earning them through flights or credit card rewards. - Carefully evaluate whether purchasing miles is worth it for your specific redemption goals (e.g., award flights or upgrades).

For the most accurate pricing, visit the AAdvantage Buy Miles page on the American Airlines website.

People Also Ask

Miles generally cost 2.95 cents each, although American regularly offers sales that work out to a better value. However, even with any discounts, purchasing miles should be a last resort (e.g., only do this to top up your account for an award redemption or to keep miles from expiring).

MORE DETAILS

You can purchase airline miles at most airlines, directly from the airline. However, you will most likely get a much better price by buying miles from an independent broker, such as buyflightmiles.com.

MORE DETAILS

50,000 American Airlines miles are worth about $645, which is the equivalent of at least one round-trip flight between New York and Los Angeles on American Airlines. AA miles are worth about 1.18 cents per mile, slightly less than average for a major airline.

MORE DETAILS

AAdvantage miles expire after 24 months of account inactivity, but you don't have to fly to remain active. American Way, Hemispheres, CultureMap, JohnnyJet, and more.

MORE DETAILS

You cannot convert American miles to cash. However, you can redeem your miles for Admirals Club memberships, rental cars and hotel stays, vacation packages, luxury experiences, and donations to partner charities.

MORE DETAILS