Enroll in the American Airlines AAdvantage program online (see Resources). The enrollment process requires a valid email address, home address, and telephone number. After you register, you will receive your AAdvantage number, which will be used to track your flights and purchase activity.
Purchase tickets for flights on American Airlines and its partner airlines via the AAdvantage program website to obtain miles. The amount of miles acquired are dependent on the distance flown, the amount paid for the ticket, and if any special promotions are in effect. Purchasing a ticket requires a valid credit card. You can also purchase tickets over the phone and in person to receive AAdvantage miles. Your miles will not be awarded until after you have completed your flight.
Enroll in any of the AAdvantage partner programs (see Resources). AAdvantage partner programs include a wide variety of services, from online shopping markets to dinner clubs. Enrolling in one of these programs requires your AAdvantage number for registration. Points are awarded based on monthly specials and the amount purchased. Other programs include credit cards that award AAdvantage points based on overall purchases made on the card.