Don’t assume that the AA-BA Codes-Share Relationship Means Parity or Clarity
It has been almost six months since American, British Airways, and Iberia started their “joint-transatlantic business venture,” and we thought this would be a good time to point out the fine-print that comes with code-sharing. It’s a good lesson for anyone new to this endeavor of gaming airline loyalty systems, and also serves as a reminder to those of us who have been playing it for years.
Know your Partnerships
Because when you’re on an online booking engine, trying to sort through all the fare options, you may easily exclude a partner. Code-sharing gives you access to more flights via partner airlines and at the same time, more opportunities to earn miles. But at times, it can also cost more money.
Example Via the AA-BA Refresher Course
AAdvantage members can earn AAdvantage miles on both AA and BA flights from the U.S., and British Airways Executive members can earn BA miles on both BA and AA flights from the carrier’s U.S. gateways. This is one of the major changes wrought by the agreement. So now the question is, how do the carriers’ fares compare?
Fare History
American has usually offered lower promotional Business Class fares than British Airways. As recent as November 2010, the fare difference (depending on the season and route) has been as high as $2,100.
How do Business Class Fares Compare Now?
One would assume that AA and BA would now offer comparable Business Class fares, but that’s not the case.
For American AAdvantage Members
Stick with American. Book an American flight operated by BA (meaning the flight designator is “AA”, but the flight is actually on BA) and you’ll pay more. From New York to London for departure on May 11 and return on May 25, American-operated flights in Business Class cost $2,481 (plus taxes). Book a code-share flight operated by BA and the fare is $3,193, a difference of $712.
For British Airways Executive Club Members
You have to book BA flights that are operated by AA to get the lower fare. There’s a slight penalty: You only earn 125% miles for Business Class instead of the 150% miles you would get on a BA flight.
Example Business Class Code-Share Fares NYC to London
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