It's actualy pretty straightforward.
Check the chart on
this page, and it'll be pretty clear, I think.
It merely allows one to qualify faster if one purchases premium fares - one can qualify for EXP flying 100,000 EQ Miles, but if you fly premium fares you can earn 100,000 EQ points - even though you may fly as few as 66,667 miles to earn them.
But if one flies very cheap / highly discounted fares, they can still qualify with 100,000 EQ miles (but would only earn 50,000 EQ points) - or segments, of course.
Originally Posted by
gsupstate
I'm not a business traveler or Road Warrior but am at least conversant with the concepts of FF programs. Coming from NW and then DL I'm familiar with earning elite status with miles and/or segments. But adding the third element of points seems a bit redundant to me.
Can someone explain the relationship between these three vehicles for gaining elite status in the AA program in layman's terms?