Fast track to American Airlines AAdvantage elite status

American Airlines’ latest Instant Status Pass challenge is offering a unique way for travelers to enjoy top-tier perks and earn that long-coveted elite status.

The challenge is broken up into three 4-month periods. Once you accept the challenge, you’ll immediately gain elite status in the tier you signed up for (Gold, Platinum, Platinum Pro, Platinum Executive) and enjoy the included benefits. In order to retain this status, you’ll need to hit certain point thresholds during each 4-month window, earning you a full year of elite status if you complete the entire challenge.

The initial point thresholds for each AAdvantage status level are:

Gold: 10,000 Loyalty Points

Platinum: 25,000 Loyalty Points

Platinum Pro: 42,000 Loyalty Points

Executive Platinum: 67,000 Loyalty Points

Users can also aim for a higher status class in the first phase of the challenge. So if you’re initially offered the challenge under the ‘Gold’ tier but earn 25,000+ points, you can be bumped up to Platinum. However, failing to hit thresholds of higher status levels can also bump you down to the previous level throughout the challenge.

One of the best parts of the newly revamped AAdvantage program is that flyers can earn loyalty points not just on American flights, but also on codeshare flights with JetBlue, on co-branded cards, through shopping and dining portals, and more. All will count toward your elite status.

The Instant Pass challenge is currently available either under the ‘offers’ section of your AAdvantage account or by calling American Airlines and asking if you qualify. You won’t be able to choose your initial elite tier offered and will have a 30-day window to enroll once offered. Users may be offered a complimentary challenge or be charged a co-pay.