American Airlines last week dropped its AirPass program that allowed members the ability to pre-purchase travel and a discounted prepaid price, and which came with perks including upgrades, lounge access and preferred seating.
The program, which required a deposit of at least $10,000 against future travel, and also provided access to a special service desk for booking and arrangements. Deposits of $50,000 or more even conferred top status.
AA did not give reasons for discontinuing the program, which has been running since 1981, but it is possible that the discounted fares at a time when seats are full and fares are rising was a motive. The program originated at a time when AA was having financial issues; the deposits gave it a quick cash infusion.
That was especially true for the one aspect of the program that will continue: The airline sold AirPasses good for unlimited lifetime travel, with a companion added for an additional charge. The original price was $250,000 plus $150,000 for the companion; the price eventually rose to $1 million. American says it will continue to honor the 66 passes that were sold, minus two that were canceled years ago for fraudulent use.
