American Airlines offers limited-time status match amid Southwest changes

For a limited time, Southwest A-List members can match to AAdvantage Platinum, while A-List Preferred members can match to AAdvantage Platinum Pro. This represents one status tier above American's standard offer for Southwest flyers (A-List members typically match to AAdvantage Gold, and A-List Preferred matches to AAdvantage Platinum).

To take advantage of this offer, submit your status match application by June 30. You'll need to provide your name, email, AAdvantage number, and proof of earned Southwest status.

If approved, you'll receive an Instant Status Pass with access to your new AAdvantage status -- either AAdvantage Platinum or AAdvantage Platinum Pro -- for four months. These statuses offer perks like priority boarding, complimentary Preferred or Main Cabin Extra seats at booking, and free checked bags for you and up to eight traveling companions on American Airlines flights.

During the four-month period of free status, there's an opportunity to extend it for another four months by meeting a Loyalty Point goal. Achieve this three times consecutively, and you'll qualify for status for the remainder of the membership year.

If you're considering switching loyalty programs, this is an opportunity to try out AAdvantage. However, be sure to consider your travel plans and time your application correctly to maximize the benefits of this status match offer.

American isn't the first carrier attempting to attract disenchanted Southwest flyers during this turbulent period; others may follow suit with similar offers.