How can passengers earn AAdvantage miles?

Passengers can earn AAdvantage miles through various methods that extend beyond simply flying with American Airlines. The correct answer encompasses a wider range of activities that contribute to accumulation of miles.

Flying on American Airlines or its partner airlines is one significant way passengers can earn miles. American Airlines is part of the Oneworld alliance and has multiple partner airlines, which allows travelers to earn AAdvantage miles when they fly with these partners as well.

Additionally, using co-branded credit cards provides another avenue for earning miles. These credit cards often offer bonus miles for purchases made both with American Airlines and at everyday merchants, greatly increasing the potential for accumulating miles on regular spending.

Participating merchants who have agreements with American Airlines also contribute to miles accumulation, as purchases made at these stores can earn additional AAdvantage miles.

This comprehensive approach to earning AAdvantage miles reflects the program's design to provide flexibility and reward passengers not just for air travel, but also for their everyday purchases and partnerships, thus making it an attractive option for frequent travelers.