American Airlines revamps its frequent flier program

(AP) — American Airlines is changing its frequent flier program, becoming the latest carrier to have passengers earn miles based on how much they spend rather than how far they fly.

The move announced Tuesday follows similar changes by Delta Air Lines and United Airlines and benefits business travelers who purchase expensive, last-minute tickets.

The Fort Worth, Texas-based airline also tweaked its reward chart, effective for trips booked after March 22. A domestic roundtrip award ticket remains 25,000 miles but flights from the U.S. to Canada and Alaska will go up to 30,000 miles roundtrip. Off-peak flights to Hawaii also become more expensive at 40,000 miles instead of 35,000 miles but peak flights remain 45,000 miles. Some long-haul flights to South America, Europe and Asia are increasing, too.