American Airlines vs Alaska Airlines: A Budget Traveler's Guide to Choosing the Right Airline

Angie - Your Guide
Sep 26
9 min read

Updated: Oct 13

Choosing an airline can feel like picking a dance partner for your next grand adventure. Do you go with the one who knows all the classic steps and can take you anywhere, or the one with fresh moves and a specialized flair? In the world of air travel, this often comes down to a choice between giants like American Airlines and celebrated regional powerhouses like Alaska Airlines. Get ready to dive into a vibrant comparison to see which airline’s rhythm matches your travel beat!

This detailed look will spin you through everything from ticket prices and loyalty programs to the planes you'll fly and the places you'll go. We'll explore luggage fees, seat comfort, and what it’s like to fly with each carrier. By the end, you'll be ready to book your next trip with the confidence of a seasoned globetrotter.

The Changing Landscape of Air Travel

The airline industry is constantly evolving, not just with domestic flights but international ones too. With so many different carriers, from budget-friendly Frontier, JetBlue, and Spirit to other major carriers like United Airlines and Delta Air Lines, it can be hard to keep up with seat classes, upgraded seat names, or even if carry-on bags are included in your purchase. This blog will help with a comparison of two major players in the industry.

American Airlines vs Alaska Airlines: The Comparison

Loyalty Dance-Off: AAdvantage vs. Atmos Rewards

Your airline loyalty program is valuable, especially if you fly often. Airlines compete to win your loyalty with dazzling frequent flyer programs. Let's see how American's AAdvantage and Alaska's Atmos Rewards stack up.

American Airlines AAdvantage Program

AAdvantage is one of the original frequent flyer programs, a true classic in the industry. It operates on a simple principle: you earn miles for flying, spending on co-branded credit cards, and engaging with partner hotels, car rentals, and retailers. As a founding member of the Oneworld alliance, AAdvantage gives you a passport to earn and redeem miles with an incredible network of global partners, including British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Qantas.

Overview: AAdvantage is American Airlines' frequent flyer program. Members earn miles through flights, co-branded credit cards, and partnerships.
Earning Miles: Miles can be earned on American Airlines flights, Oneworld partner airlines, and other affiliated partners.
Redeeming Miles: Miles can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, vacation packages, car rentals, and more.
Elite Status: Offers tiers like Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, and Executive Platinum, each with increasing benefits such as priority boarding, free checked bags, and bonus miles.
Partnerships: As American Airlines AAdvantage members, you are part of the Oneworld alliance, allowing you to earn and redeem miles across Oneworld airlines.

Strengths:

Massive Global Network: The Oneworld alliance opens up nearly 1,000 destinations worldwide for earning and burning miles.
Abundant Earning Opportunities: From flying to shopping online, there are countless ways to build your mileage balance.
Tiered Elite Status: Climbing the ranks from Gold to Executive Platinum unlocks a world of perks like complimentary upgrades, free checked bags, and priority services.

Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards

Don't let its newer name fool you; Atmos Rewards is the exciting evolution of Alaska's much-loved Mileage Plan, now supercharged by its merger with Hawaiian Airlines. This program has consistently been a fan favorite, praised for its straightforward, value-packed approach. Like AAdvantage, it's also part of the Oneworld alliance, but it sprinkles in some unique, non-alliance partnerships with airlines like Icelandair and Condor.

The recent integration with Hawaiian Airlines makes Atmos Rewards a powerhouse for travel to, from, and within Hawaii and across the Pacific. This creative fusion brings together the best of both worlds, offering an unparalleled experience for the West Coast of the United States and island hoppers.

Overview: Atmos Rewards is the combined frequent flyer program of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines.
Earning Points: Members earn points by flying Alaska, Hawaiian, or partner airlines, using co-branded credit cards, and booking vacation packages.
Redeeming Points: Points can be redeemed for award flights on Alaska, Hawaiian, and partner airlines.
Elite Status: Offers elite tiers with benefits like priority boarding, free checked bags, and bonus points.
Partnerships: Alaska Airlines is a member of the Oneworld alliance, allowing Atmos Rewards members to earn and redeem points with Oneworld airlines and other partners.

Strengths:

Stellar Value: Historically, Alaska's miles have been considered some of the most valuable, offering fantastic redemption rates, especially on partner airlines.
Unique Partnerships: Access to a quirky and wonderful mix of Oneworld and independent airline partners gives you more creative routing options.
Pacific Powerhouse: The Hawaiian Airlines merger provides unmatched access and benefits for travel to the Aloha State.

Both programs provide robust opportunities for earning and redeeming miles/points, with strong partnerships through the Oneworld alliance. Alaska Airlines' Atmos Rewards also integrates Hawaiian Airlines benefits, making it unique for travelers in the Pacific region.

Available Credit Cards for Both American Airlines and Alaska Airlines

Applying for a credit card from either airline can be beneficial. There are always perks added if you apply while you are in the air, during your flight. You could receive bonuses or pre-qualified offers if your credit score is high enough. Choose the airline that is best for you. Personally, I would not open up one for both airlines; you can see why below in the card comparisons. These can provide excellent value as long as you use them wisely. Remember, a new credit card will show up on your credit report.

American Airlines Credit Cards (AAdvantage)

American Airlines offers a variety of credit cards through Citi and Barclays Credit Card Company, catering to different needs:

Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®
Annual Fee: $99 (waived for the first year).
Welcome Bonus: Earn 80,000 AAdvantage® miles after spending $3,500 in the first 4 months.
Earning Rates: 2x miles on restaurants, gas stations, and American Airlines purchases; 1x on other purchases.
Perks: First checked bag free for you and up to 4 companions, preferred boarding, and 25% savings on in-flight food and beverages. This is a great card to have.

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
Annual Fee: $595.
Welcome Bonus: Earn 70,000 AAdvantage® miles after spending $7,000 in the first 3 months.
Earning Rates: 4x miles on American Airlines purchases; 1x on other purchases.
Perks: Admirals Club® membership, priority boarding, TSA PreCheck/Global Entry fee credit, and enhanced airport experience.

AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® (Barclays)
Annual Fee: $99.
Welcome Bonus: Earn 50,000 AAdvantage® miles after making your first purchase and paying the annual fee.
Earning Rates: 2x miles on American Airlines purchases; 1x on other purchases.
Perks: First checked bag free, preferred boarding, and in-flight savings.

Every American flight I have been on has passed out American Airlines flyers and applications while onboard to those that want to apply for a credit card. Review these financial products and general disclosures before you fully commit to filling out an application.

Alaska Airlines Credit Cards (Atmos Rewards)

Alaska Airlines offers three co-branded credit cards through Bank of America, FDIC Insured:

Atmos™ Rewards Ascent Visa Signature® Credit Card
Annual Fee: $95.
Welcome Bonus: Earn 80,000 Atmos points and a $99 Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees) after spending $4,000 in the first 120 days.
Earning Rates: 3x points on Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines purchases; 2x on gas, EV charging, cable, streaming, and transit; 1x on other purchases.
Perks: Free checked bag for you and up to 6 companions, 20% in-flight discount, and $100 discount on Alaska Lounge+ membership.

Atmos™ Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® Credit Card
Annual Fee: $395.
Welcome Bonus: Earn 100,000 Atmos points and a 25,000-point Global Companion Award after spending $6,000 in the first 90 days.
Earning Rates: 3x points on Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines purchases; 1x on other purchases.
Perks: 8 free Alaska Lounge day passes, TSA PreCheck/Global Entry fee credit, and a $50 voucher for flight delays or cancellations.

Atmos™ Rewards Visa Signature® Business Card
Annual Fee: $70 base fee + $25 per card.
Welcome Bonus: Earn 80,000 Atmos points and a $99 Companion Fare after spending $5,000 in the first 90 days.
Earning Rates: 3x points on Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines purchases; 2x on gas, EV charging, shipping, and transit; 1x on other purchases.
Perks: Free checked bag for you and up to 6 companions, 20% in-flight discount, and $100 discount on Alaska Lounge+ membership.

Key Differences

Annual Fees: Alaska Airlines cards have a wider range, with the Summit card being the most expensive at $395. American Airlines cards range from no annual fee (MileUp®) to $595 for the Executive card.
Welcome Bonuses: Alaska Airlines cards generally offer higher bonuses (up to 100,000 points) compared to American Airlines (up to 80,000 miles).
Companion Fare: Alaska Airlines cards provide a Companion Fare benefit, which can be highly valuable for frequent travelers.
Lounge Access: American Airlines’ Executive card includes Admirals Club membership, while Alaska’s Summit card offers 8 free lounge passes.
Earning Rates: Alaska Airlines cards have more diverse bonus categories (e.g., gas, streaming, transit), while American Airlines cards focus on travel-related spending.

Both airlines’ credit cards cater to different traveler needs. Alaska Airlines cards are more attractive for West Coast and Hawaii travelers, while American Airlines cards offer broader global benefits through the Oneworld alliance. Always review the financial institution's terms before signing up for a credit card. Whichever you choose, it will be beneficial for any of your travel experiences. One thing I look for is how everyday spending works with these airlines' credit cards.

The Price is Right: Fares and Fees

Let's talk money. While flight prices fluctuate wildly, we can spot some general trends between these two airlines.

Luggage and Seat Fees

Both airlines have embraced the à la carte model for economy fares. Expect to pay for checked bags unless you have elite status or an airline-branded credit card.

American Airlines: A standard domestic checked bag typically costs around $30-$40 for the first bag. Seat selection fees for preferred seats (more legroom, better location) are also common.
Alaska Airlines: Luggage fees are similar, generally starting around $30 for the first checked bag. Alaska is also known for its unique "Club 49" program for Alaska residents and "Huaka’i" program for Hawaii residents, which offer fantastic baggage benefits and discounts.

Economy Tickets vs. Upgrades

Your in-flight experience can change dramatically depending on your ticket.

American Airlines offers a spectrum of choices. Basic Economy is the no-frills option with restrictions on seat selection and boarding. Premium Economy seats are one step above. Main Cabin is the standard, while Main Cabin Extra provides more legroom for a fee. For a true upgrade, First Class on domestic routes offers spacious seating, complimentary meals, and drinks. On international flights, Flagship Business and Flagship First provide luxurious lie-flat seats and premium service.
Alaska Airlines also has a tiered system. Its version of basic economy is called Saver Fare, which comes with similar limitations. Main Cabin is the standard, and Premium Class is its extra legroom product, which also includes complimentary alcoholic beverages. Alaska's First Class is known for its comfortable recliner seats, friendly service, and regionally inspired meals, creating a wonderfully relaxed and upscale vibe.

The Fleet: What Planes Will You Fly?

The aircraft you fly on can make a big difference in your comfort. Both airlines operate modern fleets, but they have different philosophies.

American Airlines: As a global giant, American operates a vast and diverse fleet. You'll find everything from smaller regional jets for short hops to the massive Boeing 777 and 787 Dreamliner for long-haul international journeys. The backbone of its domestic fleet consists of Airbus A320 series and Boeing 737 aircraft.
Alaska Airlines: Alaska primarily flies Boeing 737 aircraft for its mainline routes, creating a streamlined and efficient operation. This focus allows for consistency in service and crew training. For regional routes, its partner Horizon Air operates the Embraer E175, a comfortable and modern regional jet.

Where in the World? Destinations and Routes

Your choice of airline might simply come down to where you want to go.

American Airlines: With major hubs in Dallas/Fort Worth, Charlotte, Chicago, and Miami, American offers a colossal domestic and international network. It connects hundreds of cities across the U.S. and provides extensive service to Europe, Latin America, and Asia. If you need to get almost anywhere on the globe from the U.S., American is a strong contender.
Alaska Airlines: Alaska's strength is its commanding presence on the U.S. Pacific Northwest Coast. With major hubs in Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, it dominates routes up and down the coast and into Alaska. The merger with Hawaiian Airlines has now made it the go-to carrier for Hawaii. While its own international network is smaller (focusing on Mexico, Central America, and Canada), its Oneworld and other partnerships fill in the gaps beautifully, allowing you to book travel worldwide, not just North America.

So, Which Airline Wins Your Heart?

Choosing between American and Alaska is about matching an airline's personality to your travel style.

Choose American Airlines if:

You need the most extensive global network possible.
You travel frequently to or from its major hubs in the central and eastern U.S.
You want the widest variety of international destinations on a single airline.

Choose Alaska Airlines if:

You live on or frequently travel along the West Coast; it tends to provide the most value.
Hawaii is your paradise, and you want the best-integrated travel experience.
You appreciate a high-value loyalty program with unique partner redemption options.
You love a more personal, fun-loving service vibe on your flights.

Ultimately, both are fantastic airlines that can take you on incredible journeys. American is the dependable, go-anywhere giant, while Alaska is the spirited, West Coast champion with a heart full of aloha. The best way to decide? Pick a destination, book a flight, and let your own adventure begin! American Airlines vs Alaska Airlines, which will you choose for your next adventure?

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