Are you ready to give the gift of travel, or perhaps treat yourself to a future adventure with American Airlines? Excellent choice! American Airlines gift cards are a fantastic and flexible way to make air travel more accessible. Let's embark on this journey together to understand exactly how you can acquire one.
The Ultimate Guide to Buying American Airlines Gift Cards
American Airlines gift cards are a popular choice for birthdays, holidays, graduations, or even as corporate incentives. They offer the recipient the flexibility to choose their destination and travel dates, making them an incredibly thoughtful and practical present. Best of all, American Airlines gift cards do not expire and do not carry activation fees or service charges, ensuring the full value goes towards the flight.
There are a few primary ways to purchase American Airlines gift cards, each with its own set of conveniences. We'll walk through them step-by-step.
Step 1: Decide on Your Gift Card Type – Virtual or Physical?
Before you even think about where to buy, consider what type of gift card you prefer. Each has distinct advantages:
Virtual Gift Cards (eGift Cards):
Instant Delivery: Perfect for last-minute gifts, as they are sent directly to the recipient's email address, often within minutes of purchase (though they may not be active for 72 hours).
Eco-Friendly: No plastic, no shipping.
Convenient: Easy to store in an email or digital wallet.
Customizable: You can usually add a personalized message and even choose a design for the e-card.
Physical Gift Cards:
Tangible Gift: Provides a more traditional gifting experience, great for wrapping or presenting in person.
Delivery by Mail: Shipped to you or the recipient via mail (shipping and handling fees may apply).
Personal Touch: Often have space for a handwritten message.
Think about the recipient's preference and the urgency of your gift when making this decision!
Step 2: Choose Your Purchase Method
Now that you've decided on the type, let's explore the various avenues for purchasing American Airlines gift cards.
Sub-heading: Option A: Buying Directly from the American Airlines Website (Recommended)
This is generally the most straightforward and reliable method.
Step 2.1: Navigate to the Official American Airlines Gift Card Page
Open your web browser and go to
giftcards.aa.com. This is the dedicated portal for purchasing American Airlines gift cards.Be cautious of unofficial websites claiming to sell gift cards at a discount, as they might be fraudulent. Always stick to the official American Airlines domain or known authorized resellers.
Step 2.2: Select Your Gift Card Type and Value
On the gift card portal, you'll typically see options for "Virtual Gift Cards" and "Plastic Gift Cards." Click on your preferred option.
You can select any value between $50 and $1,500 USD.
If purchasing multiple cards, you may be able to send them to different recipients with personalized messages.
Step 2.3: Provide Recipient and Delivery Details
If purchasing a virtual gift card, you'll need the recipient's email address. You can also send it to yourself and then forward it.
If purchasing a physical gift card, you'll need the recipient's mailing address. Be aware of the shipping and handling charges, which are typically around $4.95. Delivery usually takes 4-5 business days.
Step 2.4: Personalize Your Gift (Optional but Recommended)
Most online platforms allow you to add a custom message and choose a design theme for your gift card, especially for virtual ones. Take advantage of this to make your gift extra special!
Step 2.5: Review Your Order and Make Payment
Carefully review all the details: gift card type, value, recipient information, and delivery method.
Proceed to the payment section. You'll typically use a credit or debit card for the purchase. Ensure your billing address is in the U.S., Puerto Rico, or U.S. Virgin Islands, as American Airlines gift cards are for U.S. purchase and use only.
Step 2.6: Confirmation
Once your payment is processed, you'll receive an order confirmation via email. For virtual cards, the recipient will also receive an email with the gift card details, though it won't be active for use for 72 hours after purchase. Physical cards will be shipped and activated upon delivery.
Sub-heading: Option B: Buying from Authorized Third-Party Resellers
Several reputable online and in-store retailers are authorized to sell American Airlines gift cards. This can be a convenient option, especially if you're already shopping at these locations.
Online Resellers:
Websites like Gyft.com, Newegg.com, and sometimes GiftYa may offer American Airlines gift cards.
Always verify the legitimacy of the reseller before making a purchase. Check their reviews and ensure they are a well-known, reputable gift card provider.
In-Store Retailers:
Some major grocery stores, office supply stores (like Staples), and other retailers might carry physical American Airlines gift cards.
Availability can vary by location, so it's a good idea to call ahead to confirm if they have them in stock.
These are usually preloaded with specific denominations ($50, $100, $200, etc.).
Step 2.7: Locate a Retailer (for in-store purchases)
You can use the store locator tool on the American Airlines website (if available for gift cards) or simply search online for "American Airlines gift cards near me."
Visit the selected store and look for the gift card display.
Step 2.8: Select and Purchase
Choose the desired denomination and proceed to the checkout counter.
Pay for the gift card. Keep your receipt as proof of purchase.
Sub-heading: Option C: Bulk Purchases for Businesses
If you're a business looking to purchase a large quantity of American Airlines gift cards for employee incentives, client gifts, or promotions, American Airlines offers a bulk purchase option.
Step 2.9: Contact American Airlines Corporate Sales
Visit the American Airlines gift card website and look for information on corporate or bulk gift card programs, or contact their gift card support line directly.
They often provide volume discounts and customized delivery solutions.
Step 3: Understanding Important Terms & Conditions (Crucial!)
While American Airlines gift cards are generally flexible, there are some important terms to be aware of:
Redemption: Gift cards are primarily redeemable toward the initial electronic ticket purchase of air travel wholly on flights operated by American Airlines, American Eagle, and oneworld carriers for itineraries sold and originating in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands.
What They Cover: They can be used for the base airfare and directly associated taxes, fees, and charges collected as part of the fare calculation.
What They DON'T Cover: They cannot be used for upgrades, Admirals Club memberships or day passes, in-flight purchases, enhanced seat products, baggage fees, pet fees, unaccompanied minor fees, or ticketing fees for transactions processed through reservations (which must be paid separately).
Online/Phone Redemption: Gift cards can be redeemed online at
aa.comor by calling American Airlines Reservations. They cannot be redeemed at airport ticket counters or through travel agents.Multiple Cards: You can use up to eight gift cards in a single transaction or purchase.
Partial Use: If the ticket price is less than the gift card's value, the unused portion remains on the card until the balance is zero.
No Expiration: As mentioned, American Airlines gift cards do not expire and do not lose value over time.
Non-Refundable: Gift cards are non-refundable. Lost, stolen, or damaged gift cards will generally not be replaced.
Fraudulent Cards: American Airlines is not responsible for honoring invalid gift cards purchased from unauthorized vendors. Always buy from official or authorized sources.
By following these steps, you'll be well-equipped to purchase American Airlines gift cards with confidence, whether for yourself or as a thoughtful gift for someone else. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common "How to" questions about American Airlines gift cards, with quick answers:
How to check the balance of an American Airlines gift card?
To check your American Airlines gift card balance, visit the dedicated gift card section on aa.com or call American Airlines gift card support at 1-800-677-9555. You'll typically need your gift card number and PIN.
How to use an American Airlines gift card for booking a flight?
To use an American Airlines gift card, select "Gift Card" as your payment method during checkout on aa.com. Enter your 10-digit gift card number and 4-digit PIN. If the total exceeds the gift card value, you can pay the remainder with a credit/debit card.
How to combine multiple American Airlines gift cards?
You can use up to eight American Airlines gift cards for a single flight purchase on aa.com. During the payment process, simply enter the details for each card one by one.
How to buy an American Airlines gift card for international travel?
American Airlines gift cards are denominated in U.S. dollars and can only be redeemed on the U.S. version of aa.com for itineraries sold and originating in the U.S., Puerto Rico, or U.S. Virgin Islands. However, they can be used for international flights if the purchase is made according to these terms.
How to replace a lost or stolen American Airlines gift card?
Unfortunately, American Airlines states that lost, stolen, or damaged gift cards will generally not be replaced. It's crucial to treat them like cash.
How to buy American Airlines gift cards in bulk for my business?
To purchase American Airlines gift cards in bulk, contact American Airlines directly through their official gift card website or their corporate sales department. They often have special programs and discounts for large orders.
How to send an American Airlines virtual gift card as a last-minute gift?
When purchasing a virtual gift card on giftcards.aa.com, select email delivery and enter the recipient's email address. The gift card will be sent almost immediately, though it will be active for use after 72 hours.
How to use an American Airlines gift card for baggage fees or upgrades?
American Airlines gift cards cannot be used for baggage fees, upgrades, Admirals Club memberships, or other ancillary products and services sold separately from the airfare. They are primarily for the base airfare and directly associated taxes/fees.
How to know if an American Airlines gift card has expired?
American Airlines gift cards do not expire and do not lose value over time. This makes them a very flexible and long-lasting gift option.
How to get customer support for American Airlines gift card issues?
For questions or issues with American Airlines gift cards, you can email GiftCards@aa.com or call their support line at 1-800-677-9555. Agents are available Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM (Central Time).
