Hyatt. Photo:Shutterstock Major shift in the world of loyalty clubs: The Hyatt hotel chain and American Airlines announced they have decided not to continue their expanded partnership between the World of Hyatt and AAdvantage clubs.
Alongside ending its partnership with American Airlines, Hyatt announced a new, long-term, exclusive strategic partnership with Delta Air Lines. The move will connect Delta SkyMiles and World of Hyatt to create an integrated loyalty experience throughout the traveler journey, from flight to hotel stay.
At the heart of the new partnership will be Dual Earn, which will allow elite members of both clubs to earn rewards simultaneously. Delta Medallion members will be able to earn miles on eligible spend at Hyatt hotels, in addition to certain World of Hyatt benefits. Meanwhile, World of Hyatt elite members will be able to earn points on eligible Delta fares, in addition to certain SkyMiles benefits.
The partnership is expected to launch in the coming months, with full details on eligibility, benefits and terms of participation to be announced later. Both companies note that in the future, exclusive experiences and benefits will also be offered to members registered with both clubs.
Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said that the partnership with Hyatt is designed to expand the premium experience beyond the plane seat and create a continuum between flight, hospitality, culinary and entertainment.
Hyatt Chairman and CEO Mark Hoplamazian noted that the partnership will connect two brands that share a similar approach to service and hospitality, and allow members to enjoy a more rewarding experience, from takeoff to check-out.
Hyatt currently operates 36 brands in 83 countries, while Delta flies more than 200 million passengers annually to more than 300 destinations on six continents.
According to the joint announcement, during the transition period there will be no immediate harm to the accrual, selection, or realization of benefits already obtained.
AAdvantage members who link their account to World of Hyatt by November 15 will be able to continue earning Hyatt benefits through Loyalty Point Rewards until February 28, 2027. World of Hyatt members who link their accounts by that date will be able to continue earning AAdvantage benefits through Milestone Rewards until December 31, 2026.
Even after the expanded partnership ends, AAdvantage members will be able to choose to earn 500 miles instead of World of Hyatt points for qualifying stays by providing their membership number at check-in.