The AAdvantage Aviator Business Mastercard: Aviator Ascent or Turbulent Travels?
When it comes to choosing a business credit card, there are countless options available in the market. One such option is the AAdvantage Aviator Business Mastercard, which offers a range of benefits and rewards for frequent travelers. However, before you decide to take off with this card, it's important to understand its features, benefits, and potential drawbacks. In this article, we will explore the Aviator Ascent and evaluate whether it can truly elevate your business travel experience or if it might encounter some turbulence along the way.
Introduction to the AAdvantage Aviator Business Mastercard
The AAdvantage Aviator Business Mastercard is a co-branded credit card offered by Barclays in partnership with American Airlines. It is specifically designed for small business owners and frequent travelers who want to earn rewards and enjoy travel-related benefits. The card comes with a range of features that make it an attractive option for those who frequently fly with American Airlines.
Benefits of the AAdvantage Aviator Business Mastercard
1. Generous Sign-Up Bonus: The Aviator Ascent offers a substantial sign-up bonus, typically in the form of AAdvantage miles. This bonus can be a significant boost to your travel rewards balance, allowing you to redeem them for flights, upgrades, or other travel-related expenses.
2. Earning AAdvantage Miles: With the Aviator Ascent, you can earn AAdvantage miles on every dollar spent on eligible purchases. This includes not only purchases with American Airlines but also everyday business expenses such as office supplies, telecommunications, and advertising. The ability to earn miles on non-travel expenses can be a major advantage for small business owners looking to maximize their rewards.
3. Travel Benefits: The Aviator Ascent provides a range of travel-related benefits, including priority boarding, free checked bags, and access to American Airlines Admirals Club lounges. These perks can enhance your travel experience and make your business trips more comfortable and convenient.
4. Companion Certificate: One of the standout features of the Aviator Ascent is the annual companion certificate. This certificate allows you to bring a companion on a domestic round-trip flight for a reduced fee. This benefit can be particularly valuable for business owners who frequently travel with a colleague or partner.
Potential Drawbacks of the AAdvantage Aviator Business Mastercard
1. Annual Fee: The Aviator Ascent comes with an annual fee, which can be a deterrent for some business owners, especially those who don't travel frequently or who may not fully utilize the card's benefits. It's important to carefully consider whether the benefits outweigh the cost of the annual fee before applying for the card.
2. Limited Redemption Options: While AAdvantage miles can be valuable for booking flights with American Airlines and its partner airlines, the redemption options may be limited compared to other travel rewards programs. If you prefer flexibility in how you use your rewards, it's worth considering whether the AAdvantage program aligns with your travel preferences.
3. Limited Acceptance: While American Airlines is a major carrier, it may not always be the most convenient option for every traveler. If you frequently fly with other airlines or prefer to have more flexibility in your travel choices, the Aviator Ascent may not be the best fit for you.
Case Study: John's Experience with the Aviator Ascent
To provide a real-life perspective on the Aviator Ascent, let's take a look at John, a small business owner who frequently travels for work. John decided to apply for the Aviator Ascent to take advantage of its travel benefits and rewards.
John found that the sign-up bonus provided a significant boost to his AAdvantage miles balance, allowing him to book a business class flight for an upcoming international trip. The priority boarding and free checked bags also made his travel experience more seamless and cost-effective.
However, John did encounter some limitations with the card. He found that the limited acceptance of American Airlines and its partner airlines sometimes made it challenging to find convenient flights for his travel needs. Additionally, he realized that the annual fee was not fully justified by the benefits he was able to utilize throughout the year.
Conclusion: Is the Aviator Ascent Worth It?
The AAdvantage Aviator Business Mastercard, specifically the Aviator Ascent, offers a range of benefits and rewards for frequent travelers. The generous sign-up bonus, ability to earn AAdvantage miles on everyday business expenses, and travel-related perks make it an attractive option for small business owners who frequently fly with American Airlines.
However, it's important to carefully consider the potential drawbacks, such as the annual fee and limited redemption options. If you don't travel frequently or prefer more flexibility in your travel choices, the Aviator Ascent may not be the best fit for you.
Ultimately, the decision to apply for the Aviator Ascent should be based on your individual travel habits, preferences, and business needs. By weighing the benefits and drawbacks, you can determine whether this card will truly elevate your business travel experience or if it might encounter some turbulence along the way.
