How to redeem the American Airlines companion certificate

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Travel is at an all-time high, and with the winter holiday season upon us, everyone is looking for a way to save on costly flights.

If you hold certain American Airlines cobranded credit cards, you have what's known as a companion certificate that you can use after you meet a spending threshold. The certificate allows cardholders to bring a friend (or two) along on a flight at a discount or for just the cost of taxes and fees.

Here's what you need to know about redeeming your American Airlines companion certificate.

Which credit cards offer the AA companion certificate?

You can get the American Airlines companion certificate with one of four cobranded credit cards, each requiring different spending thresholds. Depending on the card you opt for, you'll need to spend $20,000-$30,000 in a year to earn an American Airlines companion certificate. Here are the cards that grant a companion certificate if you meet the spending requirements:

• AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite Mastercard: You'll earn a companion certificate after spending $20,000 in a calendar year. This certificate allows you to book airfare for a travel companion for just $99 plus taxes and fees. This card carries a $99 annual fee.
• AAdvantage Aviator Silver World Elite Mastercard: You'll earn a companion certificate for two guests after spending $20,000 in a calendar year. Each guest ticket is $99 plus taxes and fees. This card carries a $199 annual fee but is not currently open to new applicants.
• AAdvantage Aviator World Elite Business Mastercard: You'll earn a companion certificate after spending $30,000 in a calendar year. This certificate allows you to book airfare for a travel companion for just $99 plus taxes and fees. This card carries a $95 annual fee but is not currently open to new applicants.
• Citi® / AAdvantage Business™ World Elite Mastercard®: You'll earn a companion certificate after spending $30,000 in a calendar year. This certificate allows you to book airfare for a travel companion for just $99 plus taxes and fees. This card carries a $99 annual fee, which is waived in the first year (see rates & fees).

The information for the AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite Mastercard, AAdvantage Aviator Silver World Elite Mastercard, and AAdvantage Aviator World Elite Business Mastercard has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

How to use the American Airlines companion certificate

American says it can take 8-10 weeks to deliver the companion certificate. After it arrives, you must redeem it through American Airlines Meeting Services. You can do so by calling 800-433-1790 and providing your flight information.

Having this information in advance is always helpful to ensure a smooth booking process.

Related: Your ultimate guide to American Airlines AAdvantage

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FAQ

What is the AA companion certificate?

The AA companion certificate certificate allows you to book airfare for a travel companion for just $99 plus taxes and fees.

When does my AA companion certificate expire?

The AA companion certificate is valid for one year from the issue date.

How much are taxes and fees?

Taxes and fees range from $21.60 to $43.20.

Can I use the AA companion certificate on business- and first-class tickets?

The American Airlines companion certificate is only valid for round-trip economy-class tickets for flights within the contiguous 48 states.

Can I use the AA companion certificate on partner airlines?

The American Airlines companion certificate is valid for travel on flights within the 48 contiguous U.S. states on flights marketed and operated by American Airlines or on flights marketed by American and operated by Envoy Air, Republic Airways, SkyWest Airlines, PSA Airlines or Piedmont Airlines.

The companion certificate is not eligible for travel on codeshare flights booked with an American Airlines flight number but operated by another airline. For residents of Alaska, Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands or Puerto Rico, companion certificate-eligible travel is defined as round-trip travel originating in either of those two states or your territory and continuing to the 48 contiguous United States.

Related: Best cards for American Airlines

Bottom line

The AA companion certificate provides you with a second (and sometimes third) flight for just $99 plus taxes and fees. This can be a great way to save money on American airfare, especially on more expensive flights or during busy travel periods.

However, keep in mind that earning a companion certificate requires hefty spending, which could be better spent on a new card with a large welcome bonus. You'll want to calculate which offers a better value for your spending before working to earn one of these certificates.

Related: How to earn miles in the American Airlines AAdvantage program