5 Reasons I’d Like to See American Airlines as Citi ThankYou’s Next Transfer Partner

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Citi ThankYou could possibly add a new transfer partner this year. Or, at least we can hope, right? Now, if that’s the case, here’s a few quick points on why I’d like that partner to be American Airlines.

1) Citi ThankYou still doesn’t have a US-based legacy carrier partner. While those experienced in the travel industry probably have little issue maximizing the opportunities of Citi ThankYou’s foreign-based transfer partners, adding American Airlines will present more accessible offerings to beginners and casual travelers.

 

The Citi ThankYou Card

 

2) Most folks probably already have a stash of American miles. The ability to transfer in ThankYou points would open up many new award possibilities instantaneously. Combine that with the fact American award availability, especially in business class, has been more open than usual, and I think we’ll see quite a spike in redemptions immediately.

I’d be thankful if American partnered with Citi soon.

 

3) American’s award chart, despite the impending devaluation, still represents a significant value over many of United and Delta’s awards. And more options is never a bad thing.

 

(Normally, I’d create a compare and contrast chart here. But several factors led to me deciding to apply for this position at the last minute. Sorry about that.)

 

4) Again, the devaluation didn’t do the award chart any favors, but there are still excellent opportunities to utilize American transfer partners such as Etihad and Cathay Pacific for aspirational bookings.

 

Enjoying the Eithad first-class product

 

5) It just makes sense. Citi and American clearly have a strong business relationship, as many of American’s credit cards are co-branded by Citi. And with American devaluing their program as of March 22, 2016, the numbers might finally come together enough to form that partnership.

Which airline would you like to see partner with Citi ThankYou?

 

 

 

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