Earn up to 25,000 bonus miles when flying to Australia and New Zealand with American Airlines and Qantas

TL;DR

American Airlines’ AAdvantage program is offering a limited-time promotion where members can earn up to 25,000 bonus miles on eligible flights to Australia and New Zealand. The offer is valid for bookings made by May 31, 2026, with travel completed by March 31, 2027.

American Airlines’ AAdvantage program is offering eligible members the chance to earn up to 25,000 bonus miles on flights to Australia and New Zealand, with the promotion running until May 31, 2026. The offer applies to certain nonstop flights operated by American or Qantas, and aims to incentivize travel to the region amid ongoing recovery in international travel.

Eligible travelers must be members of the AAdvantage program and register for the promotion via the airline’s website. The bonus applies to nonstop flights from major U.S. hubs—such as Dallas Fort Worth, Los Angeles, JFK, and San Francisco—to destinations including Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, and Brisbane. The bonus is equal to 1 mile per mile flown, capped at 25,000 miles. For example, a round-trip flight earning 13,000 miles each way could yield nearly 25,000 bonus miles, significantly increasing the total miles earned for the trip.

Flights booked must have an American Airlines flight number, excluding basic economy fares and award redemptions. The promotion is valid for travel completed by March 31, 2027, and bookings must be made by May 31, 2026. The offer is only available for nonstop flights marketed by American Airlines, even if operated by Qantas.

Why It Matters

This promotion provides a valuable opportunity for travelers seeking to maximize their mileage earnings on trips to Australia and New Zealand, potentially reducing future travel costs or enabling upgrades. It also reflects ongoing efforts by airlines to stimulate international travel demand as global borders reopen and travel restrictions ease.

LIGHT FLIGHT Carry On Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved Suitcase,Royal Blue

LIGHT FLIGHT Carry On Luggage 22x14x9 Airline Approved Suitcase,Royal Blue

  • Airline-Approved Size: Meets overhead compartment requirements
  • Expandable Capacity: Increases from 33L to 41L
  • Lightweight and Durable: Hard shell construction for durability

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

Background

The promotion follows a period of increased marketing efforts by American Airlines and Qantas to boost international travel to Oceania. Historically, earning bonus miles on long-haul flights has been a key loyalty strategy, especially as airlines recover financially from pandemic-related downturns. This offer aligns with broader industry trends to incentivize travel to popular long-haul destinations.

“This limited-time offer is designed to reward our loyal customers and encourage travel to Australia and New Zealand, two of the most sought-after destinations in the region.”

— an American Airlines spokesperson

“This bonus miles deal could significantly boost travelers’ mileage balances, especially for those planning long-haul trips to Oceania.”

— Lyndsey Matthews, TPG’s managing editor of points and loyalty

napfun Neck Pillow for Traveling, Upgraded Travel Neck Pillow for Airplane 100% Pure Memory Foam Travel Pillow for Flight Headrest Sleep, Portable Plane Accessories, Light Grey

napfun Neck Pillow for Traveling, Upgraded Travel Neck Pillow for Airplane 100% Pure Memory Foam Travel Pillow for Flight Headrest Sleep, Portable Plane Accessories, Light Grey

  • Chin Support Design: Prevents head from falling forward
  • Versatile Travel Use: Suitable for airplane, car, train, bus
  • High-Quality Memory Foam: Comfortable, resilient, quick return technology

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

What Remains Unclear

It is not yet clear whether similar offers will be extended beyond the current promotion period or if additional routes and airlines will participate in future campaigns. Details about whether the bonus miles can be combined with other promotions are also still developing.

Lonely Planet Australia: Plan the Trip of a Lifetime | Detailed Itineraries & Maps | Insider Tips | Covers Sydney & New South Wales, Queensland, Melbourne & Victoria and more (Travel Guide)

Lonely Planet Australia: Plan the Trip of a Lifetime | Detailed Itineraries & Maps | Insider Tips | Covers Sydney & New South Wales, Queensland, Melbourne & Victoria and more (Travel Guide)

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

What’s Next

Travelers interested in this promotion should register before May 31, 2026, and book qualifying flights. The next steps include completing travel by March 31, 2027, and monitoring for any updates or extensions to the promotion from American Airlines or Qantas.

Ceptics Universal Travel Adapter, 45W International Power Adapter with PD & QC 3.0 Dual USB-C, 3 USB Travel Adapter Worldwide, Type I C G A Outlets - EU Euro US UK (11-KU)

Ceptics Universal Travel Adapter, 45W International Power Adapter with PD & QC 3.0 Dual USB-C, 3 USB Travel Adapter Worldwide, Type I C G A Outlets – EU Euro US UK (11-KU)

  • Trusted US Design: Designed in the USA for reliability
  • Charge 5 Devices Simultaneously: Includes USB-A and USB-C ports with fast charging
  • Universal Compatibility: Supports Type A, I, C, G outlets worldwide

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.

Key Questions

Which flights qualify for the bonus miles promotion?

The promotion applies to nonstop flights from U.S. hubs such as Dallas Fort Worth, Los Angeles, JFK, and San Francisco to destinations including Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, and Brisbane, operated by American Airlines or marketed by American with a flight number.

Can I earn bonus miles on award or basic economy tickets?

No, the promotion excludes award redemptions and basic economy tickets from earning bonus miles.

How many bonus miles can I earn with this promotion?

Up to 25,000 bonus miles, based on earning 1 mile per mile flown, with the cap at 25,000 miles.

When do I need to complete my travel to qualify?

Travel must be completed by March 31, 2027, to qualify for the bonus miles.

How do I register for the promotion?

Members must log into their AAdvantage account, find the promotion under the ‘Promotions’ tab, and click to register before booking their flights.

You May Also Like

45 Million Americans Planning Memorial Day Weekend Getaways

AAA projects a record 45 million Americans will travel for Memorial Day, with most driving and some flying, despite higher fuel prices.

How to Prioritize Pool Upgrades for Family Use First

Unlock the best pool upgrades for family safety and fun by prioritizing essential features—discover how to create a backyard oasis your family will love.

Blackstone Griddle Just $299 Delivered + FREE Tool Set on Lowes.com (Reg. $460)

Get the Blackstone 36″ Griddle with free stainless steel tool set for $299 at Lowes.com, down from $460. Limited-time deal, free delivery included.

The Whole World Is About to Get a Look at America’s Trains

U.S. railway infrastructure will be tested during the upcoming World Cup, with high fares and logistical challenges exposing longstanding weaknesses.