American Airlines Boosts Network With New Routes and Enhanced Loyalty Program

American Airlines plane flying in a blue sky.

American Airlines is significantly expanding its reach with the addition of new routes from New York’s LaGuardia Airport and increased service to Florida. The airline is also deepening its partnership with South American carrier JetSmart, offering AAdvantage members more redemption opportunities.

Key Takeaways

  • Four new "sun-and-fun" leisure routes are launching from LaGuardia Airport (LGA) to popular warm-weather destinations.
  • American Airlines is introducing nonstop service to Vero Beach, Florida, connecting it to a major hub.
  • AAdvantage members can now redeem points for JetSmart flights directly on American’s website, expanding travel options within South America.

Expanding LaGuardia Operations

American Airlines is bolstering its presence at New York’s LaGuardia Airport (LGA) by introducing four new routes, primarily targeting popular leisure destinations. Starting November 5, 2024, through May 4, 2025, the airline will offer twice-daily service to Orlando and West Palm Beach, Florida, and daily flights to New Orleans and Sarasota, Florida. These routes, while technically resumptions for some, haven’t been consistently operated in years. The expansion is facilitated by the acquisition of slots previously used by JetBlue as part of the wind-down of their Northeast Alliance.

New Florida Connection

In addition to its LaGuardia expansion, American Airlines is adding Vero Beach, Florida, to its route map. Beginning February 12, 2026, the airline will provide daily nonstop service from Vero Beach Regional Airport (VRB) to its hub at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). This new route, operated by PSA Airlines on a Bombardier CRJ-900, will offer travelers from Vero Beach access to American’s extensive global network and marks the city’s first connection to a major network hub. This move comes as other airlines, including Breeze Airways and JetBlue, have also recently expanded service to Vero Beach.

Enhanced JetSmart Partnership

American Airlines AAdvantage loyalty members now have an expanded ability to use their points for travel within South America. The airline has enabled direct redemption of AAdvantage miles for flights on JetSmart, a South American low-cost carrier, through American’s website. This integration closes a significant gap in their partnership, which began four years ago with American taking an equity stake in JetSmart and JetSmart adopting AAdvantage as its loyalty program. While redemptions are limited to JetSmart-only itineraries and offer a single fare option, they include a free checked bag, seat selection, and flexibility. This allows AAdvantage members to book intra-South American travel more conveniently, complementing American’s existing extensive network in the region.

Sources

Welcome back

To get started, please log in

or continue with

Get Started with TravelMint

Sign up with email or Google and discover a restful, premium lounge experience.

or continue with

Forgot password?

Please enter your username or email address, you will receive a link to create a new password via email.