Have you ever considered giving the gift of travel? Or perhaps you're planning your own adventure and looking for a convenient way to manage your flight expenses? Look no further than an American Airlines gift card! These versatile cards are a fantastic way to cover airfare for yourself or someone special, offering flexibility and the promise of exciting journeys. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of purchasing an American Airlines gift card, ensuring a smooth and successful transaction.
The Allure of American Airlines Gift Cards
Before we dive into the "how-to," let's briefly touch upon why American Airlines gift cards are such a popular choice:
Ultimate Flexibility: Recipients can choose their own destinations, dates, and even class of service (within the card's value), making it a truly personalized gift.
No Expiration Dates: That's right! American Airlines gift cards generally do not expire, giving recipients ample time to plan their perfect trip.
Easy to Use: Redemption is straightforward, whether online or by phone.
Great for Budgeting: If you're saving for a trip, purchasing gift cards over time can be a smart way to allocate funds specifically for airfare.
Let's get started on your journey to acquiring an American Airlines gift card!
Step 1: Decide on the Type of Gift Card – Physical vs. Virtual (eGift Card)
This is your first crucial decision! Do you want a tangible card to present in person, or do you prefer the instant gratification of an email delivery? Both have their advantages.
Sub-heading: Virtual (eGift) Cards: The Instant Option
Pros:
Speed: Delivered instantly to the recipient's email inbox (or yours, if you prefer to forward it later). Perfect for last-minute gifts!
Convenience: No shipping fees, no waiting for mail.
Customization: Often allows for personalized messages and themes for various occasions (birthday, graduation, holidays, etc.).
Cons:
No physical item to hand over, which some might prefer for a gift.
Sub-heading: Physical Gift Cards: The Tangible Touch
Pros:
Presentation: A physical card can feel more substantial and personal, especially for special occasions.
Gifting Experience: It can be wrapped and given as a traditional present.
Cons:
Shipping Fees: Typically incurs a small shipping and handling charge.
Delivery Time: Requires 4-5 business days for delivery, so plan ahead!
Not ideal for immediate gifting.
Think about who you're buying for and how quickly you need the card. This will guide your next steps.
Step 2: Choose Your Purchase Method – Online or In-Store
Once you've decided on the card type, it's time to figure out where you'll buy it. You have a couple of primary avenues: directly from American Airlines or through authorized retailers.
Sub-heading: Purchasing Online Directly from American Airlines
This is often the most straightforward and recommended method, especially for virtual gift cards.
Navigate to the Official American Airlines Gift Card Website: Open your web browser and go to giftcards.aa.com. This is the dedicated portal for purchasing American Airlines gift cards.
Select Your Gift Card Type: On the website, you'll see options for "Virtual Gift Cards" and "Plastic Gift Cards." Click on the one you chose in Step 1.
Customize Your Card:
For Virtual Gift Cards:
Choose a Theme: Select from various themes like "Birthday," "Thank You," "Congratulations," or seasonal options.
Select an Image: Some themes allow you to pick a specific image.
Enter Recipient Details: Input the recipient's name and email address. You can also send it to your own email address if you plan to forward it later.
Add a Personalized Message: Write a heartfelt message to the recipient.
Choose the Amount: Select the desired denomination. American Airlines gift cards are typically available in denominations ranging from $50 to $1,500 USD.
Verify Email Address: Double-check the recipient's email for accuracy!
For Physical Gift Cards:
Choose a Theme (if applicable).
Add a Personalized Message: There will be space for a brief message.
Choose the Amount: Again, denominations from $50 to $1,500 USD.
Enter Shipping Address: Provide the shipping address for the physical card. Remember, they cannot be delivered to P.O. Boxes or addresses outside the U.S. and U.S. Territories.
Review Your Order: Carefully check all the details: recipient information, message, card type, and denomination.
Proceed to Payment: Enter your payment information (credit or debit card). Be aware of any shipping fees for physical cards.
Confirm Your Purchase: Once the payment is processed, you'll receive a confirmation email. For virtual cards, the recipient will receive their eGift card immediately, though it generally won't be active for use until 72 hours after purchase for security reasons. Physical cards will be activated upon delivery within 4-5 business days.
Sub-heading: Purchasing In-Store at Authorized Retailers
If you prefer to buy a physical card in person, you can often find them at various major retailers.
Locate Participating Stores: American Airlines gift cards are commonly sold at:
Major grocery stores (e.g., Kroger, Safeway, Publix)
Pharmacies (e.g., Walgreens, CVS)
Office supply stores (e.g., Staples)
Other general merchandise retailers (e.g., Target, Walmart)
It's always a good idea to call ahead to your local store to confirm availability.
Find the Gift Card Display: Look for the gift card racks, usually near the checkout aisles or in a dedicated gift card section.
Select Your Denomination: In-store cards are typically preloaded with specific denominations (e.g., $50, $100, $200). Choose the one that best suits your needs.
Proceed to Checkout: Take the card to the cashier for activation and payment. The card will be activated at the time of purchase.
Sub-heading: Third-Party Online Marketplaces
While some third-party websites or e-gift card platforms might offer American Airlines gift cards, it's generally recommended to purchase directly from AA.com or well-known authorized retailers to ensure authenticity and avoid potential scams. If you choose this route, always verify the vendor's reputation and read reviews.
Step 3: Understand the Terms and Conditions
This step is crucial to avoid any surprises down the line. While American Airlines gift cards are generally straightforward, there are some important details to be aware of:
Redeemable Towards: Gift cards are primarily redeemable for the initial electronic ticket purchase of air travel for itineraries sold and originating in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands. This includes the base airfare and directly associated taxes, fees, and charges collected as part of the fare calculation.
What They Cannot Be Used For:
Upgrades
Admirals Club membership or day passes
In-flight purchases (food, drinks, Wi-Fi)
Baggage fees
Pet fees
Unaccompanied minor fees
Ticketing fees for transactions processed through reservations (if booked over the phone)
Eligible Flights: They can be used for travel on flights marketed by American Airlines, including those operated by American Eagle® and oneworld® airlines, and other codeshare partners with an American Airlines flight number. They cannot be used for travel on other airlines if they do not have an American Airlines flight number.
Redemption Channels: Gift cards are redeemable only online at aa.com or by calling American Airlines Reservations. They cannot be redeemed at airport ticket counters or through travel agents.
Combining Gift Cards: You can use up to eight gift cards in a single transaction or purchase on aa.com. This is incredibly useful if you've received multiple smaller gift cards.
Partial Redemption: If the ticket price is less than the gift card's value, the unused portion will remain on the gift card until its balance reaches zero.
Payment for Remaining Balance: If the ticket price exceeds the gift card value, the difference can be paid with a traditional credit or debit card with a billing address in the U.S., Puerto Rico, or U.S. Virgin Islands.
Non-Refundable: Gift cards are generally non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for cash, except where required by law.
Lost or Stolen Cards: American Airlines is generally not responsible for lost or stolen cards, so treat them like cash! Keep the gift card number and PIN in a safe place.
Step 4: After Purchase – What to Do Next
Congratulations! You've successfully purchased an American Airlines gift card. Now, here's what to keep in mind:
Sub-heading: Confirm Receipt (for Virtual Cards)
If you sent a virtual gift card directly to a recipient, you might want to confirm they received it. Sometimes emails can go to spam folders.
Remind them of the 72-hour activation period if applicable.
Sub-heading: Safeguard Your Card Information
For both physical and virtual cards, write down or take a picture of the gift card number and PIN. This is crucial in case the physical card is lost or damaged, or if you accidentally delete the email for a virtual card.
Treat it like cash!
Sub-heading: Check the Balance
It's always a good idea to know the exact balance on your gift card before you plan to use it.
You can typically check the balance on the American Airlines gift card website or by calling their dedicated gift card customer service number (usually found on the card itself or the website).
Step 5: How to Use Your American Airlines Gift Card
Now for the exciting part – booking a flight!
Visit AA.com: Go to the official American Airlines website (aa.com).
Search for Your Flight: Enter your departure and arrival cities, travel dates, and number of passengers as you normally would.
Select Your Flight(s): Choose the flights that best suit your itinerary and proceed to the payment section.
Apply Your Gift Card:
On the payment screen, look for an option or field labeled "Gift Card," "Voucher," or similar.
Enter the 10-digit gift card number and the 4-digit PIN exactly as they appear on the card or in the email.
If you're using multiple gift cards, you'll enter them one by one (up to eight per transaction).
Review and Pay Any Remaining Balance: The gift card amount will be applied to your total. If there's a remaining balance, you will be prompted to pay it using a credit or debit card.
Complete Your Booking: Confirm all details and finalize your flight reservation. You'll receive a confirmation email with your e-ticket.
Important Note: If you encounter any issues during the online redemption process, or if you prefer to book over the phone, you can call American Airlines Reservations. Be prepared to provide your gift card number and PIN to the agent. Remember, an additional ticketing charge may apply for reservations made over the phone and must be paid separately with a valid credit or debit card.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 10 common questions related to American Airlines gift cards, along with quick answers:
How to check the balance of an American Airlines gift card?
You can check your American Airlines gift card balance online at the American Airlines gift card website (giftcards.aa.com) or by calling their gift card customer service number, which is typically 1-800-677-9555.
How to use multiple American Airlines gift cards for one booking?
You can use up to eight American Airlines gift cards in a single transaction when booking a flight on aa.com. During the payment step, you'll enter each gift card number and PIN one by one.
How to redeem an American Airlines gift card if it's less than the flight cost?
If your gift card value is less than the total flight cost, you can pay the remaining balance using a credit or debit card with a billing address in the U.S., Puerto Rico, or U.S. Virgin Islands.
How to use an American Airlines gift card for baggage fees?
American Airlines gift cards cannot be directly used for baggage fees or other ancillary services like seat upgrades or in-flight purchases. They are primarily for the initial ticket purchase.
How to get a refund for an American Airlines gift card?
American Airlines gift cards are generally non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for cash, except where required by law.
How to replace a lost or stolen American Airlines gift card?
American Airlines is generally not responsible for lost or stolen gift cards. It's crucial to treat them like cash and keep the card number and PIN in a safe place.
How to buy an American Airlines gift card for international recipients?
While you can purchase a virtual gift card online and send it to an international email address, the gift card is only redeemable for itineraries sold and originating in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands. Physical cards cannot be shipped outside the U.S. and U.S. Territories.
How to use an American Airlines gift card for flights operated by partner airlines?
American Airlines gift cards can be used for flights marketed by American Airlines, including those operated by American Eagle® and oneworld® airlines, and other codeshare partners with an American Airlines flight number.
How to find the PIN on an American Airlines gift card?
For physical gift cards, the PIN is typically found on the back of the card, often under a scratch-off strip. For virtual gift cards, the PIN will be included in the email alongside the gift card number.
How to check the activation status of a virtual American Airlines gift card?
Virtual gift cards are generally activated and available for use 72 hours after purchase. You can check the balance using the methods mentioned above to confirm its active status.
