Citi’s AAdvantage Executive Card gets a major refresh, but the annual fee is rising to $695 | CNN Underscored

The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive Mastercard®, the top co-branded American Airlines credit card, is getting a huge overhaul that adds hundreds of dollars in new credits, more opportunities to earn Loyalty Points and new hotel and rental car benefits.

But those additions come at a cost. Beginning Aug. 23, 2026, the card’s annual fee will increase from $595 to $695. Citi and American Airlines are also eliminating two existing benefits, which means card holders will need to look beyond the advertised value and decide whether the refreshed package fits how they actually travel.

I carry the Citi AAdvantage Executive card myself and have long considered it one of the most valuable cards in my wallet. As an American Airlines Executive Platinum member, I regularly use Admirals Club lounges and value the card’s ability to help me earn Loyalty Points toward AAdvantage status.

The refresh strengthens both of those areas, but the card is becoming even more specialized. At $695 per year, it makes sense only for frequent American flyers who can consistently use the lounges, elite-status accelerators and new statement credits.

Here’s everything changing with the card, including the benefits that are disappearing.