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This guide provides a detailed look at the best airline credit cards available in 2023, and an analysis of their rewards and benefits, to help you decide which is the best airline credit card for you.
American Airlines’ AAdvantage loyalty program is the largest frequent flyer program and one of the longest-standing programs still around. With so many members, card issuers Barclays and Citi designed several co-branded credit cards to meet the needs of a variety of American flyers.
You’ll find credit cards with lounge access offer free checked bags for you and your traveling companions, discounts on inflight purchases, and even the ability to earn elite qualifying miles for a faster path to elite status.
Here’s a look at some of the best credit cards American offers and each card’s related benefits.
Best American Airlines Credit Cards for Earning Miles and Flight Benefits
One of the most important aspects of an airline credit card is the ability to earn frequent flyer miles that can be redeemed for award flights.
All American Airlines cards listed below earn at least 2 miles on American. A few cards also have bonus spending categories.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
Status lovers will enjoy the variety of benefits that come with this card. From free bags to reduced-price inflight beverages, AA still flies in style.
Status lovers will enjoy the variety of benefits that come with this card. From free bags to reduced-price inflight beverages, AA still flies in style.
Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
50,000 miles
$700
$99, waived for first 12 months
21.24% - 29.99% Variable
Blue skies and fair winds make for a good day to fly! Choosing your airline can be difficult, since factors like location, time, and destination all go into whether or not you can fly somewhere.
An easy choice for many people is American Airlines, because they’re the largest airline in the world. If you’re an American, you’ve probably flown American Airlines at least once.
Frequent fliers tend to enjoy the treatment they can get, from boarding privileges to free bags to lounge access. There’s many reasons to fly with AA, and if so then getting a Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite™ Mastercard® could be for you.
Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent at gas stations and restaurants, and on eligible American Airlines purchases
Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases
Earn a $125 American Airlines Flight Discount after you spend $20,000 or more in purchases during your card membership year and renew your card
No Foreign Transaction Fees
First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to four companions traveling with you on the same reservation
Enjoy preferred boarding on American Airlines flights
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
Access to Admirals Clubs, tons of added benefits, and a way to spend towards elite status make this a great option for American Airlines loyalists.
Access to Admirals Clubs, tons of added benefits, and a way to spend towards elite status make this a great option for American Airlines loyalists.
Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first 3 months of account opening.
70,000 miles
$980
$595
21.24% - 29.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The Citi®/AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® is a go-to card thanks to its exclusive perks and benefits for people who love to fly American Airlines. With a complimentary Admirals Club membership, free checked bags, inflight discounts, and the ability to earn Loyalty Points for every $1 you spend, there is plenty to love about the card.
Pros
Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first 3 months of account opening.
Admirals Club® membership for you and access for up to two guests or immediate family members traveling with you
No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases
Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases
First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to 8 companions traveling with you on the same reservation
Cons
$595 annual fee
Doesn’t earn many miles on all other eligible purchases
Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first 3 months of account opening.
Admirals Club® membership for you and access for up to two guests or immediate family members traveling with you
No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases
Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases
First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to 8 companions traveling with you on the same reservation
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
Earn 2x miles per dollar spent on American Airlines flights and at grocery stores, all without needing to pay an annual fee.
Earn 2x miles per dollar spent on American Airlines flights and at grocery stores, all without needing to pay an annual fee.
Earn 10,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles and receive a $50 statement credit after making $500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
10,000 miles
$140
$0
21.24% - 29.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® is perfectly suited for those looking for a way to earn more American Airlines miles and earn Loyalty Points, all without needing to pay an annual fee.
Pros
2x mile per $1 on American Airlines and grocery store purchases
1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
25% savings on inflight food and beverage purchases
No annual fee
Cons
Other cards are more rewarding for frequent American Airlines flyers
Charges a 3% foreign transaction fee
Earn 10,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles and receive a $50 statement credit after making $500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
No Annual Fee
Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for each $1 spent at grocery stores, including grocery delivery services
Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases
Earn 1 AAdvantage® mile for every $1 spent on other purchases
Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases
Save 25% on inflight food and beverage purchases when you use your card on American Airlines flight
Best American Airlines Credit Cards for a Faster Path to Elite Status
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American Airlines Credit Card
Loyalty Points
AAdvantage® Aviator® Silver Mastercard®*
5,000 bonus Loyalty Points after spending $20,000 on the card, 5,000 additional bonus Loyalty Points after spending $40,000, and another 5,000 Loyalty Points after spending $50,000, for a total bonus of 15,000 Loyalty Points, by February 28, 2023
AAdvantage Executive World Elite card
10,000 bonus Loyalty Points after spending $40,000 on the card by February 28, 2023
*The AAdvantage Aviator Silver card is not available for new applications. However, the card is available as an upgrade to cardholders who have an eligible AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®.
All AAdvantage credit cardmembers earn 1 AAdvantage Loyalty Point for every dollar spent (plus bonus earnings) on Citi or Barclays American-branded credit cards.
Additional Benefits and Perks of American Airlines-branded Cards
American Airlines-branded cards issued by Barclays come with several useful shopping and travel protections including, but not limited to, car rental insurance, baggage insurance, purchase protection, and extended warranty.
The AAdvantage Aviator Red card and AAdvantage Aviator Silver card offer a $99 companion ticket benefit (plus taxes and fees) that is good for 1 companion after spending $20,000 each card anniversary year. The CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® Mastercard® and AAdvantage® Aviator® World Elite Business Mastercard® offer a $99 companion ticket benefit after spending $30,000 each card anniversary year.
Based on the number of miles earned when using their card, cardholders of the AAdvantage Aviator Business card can also earn a 5% AAdvantage mileage bonus each year after their account anniversary date.
Best Delta Credit Cards for Earning Miles and Flight Benefits
Each Delta Air Lines credit card featured below earns at least 2 miles on the airline, at varying rates. Depending on the card, some cards offer bonus earnings on everyday spending.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
This card provides bonus SkyMiles on all purchases, along with a free bag, priority boarding, and discounted award flights.
This card provides bonus SkyMiles on all purchases, along with a free bag, priority boarding, and discounted award flights.
Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
40,000 miles
$480
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Frequent Delta flyers will love the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card. The card offers great benefits that will help save you money, effectively mimics low-level elite status with Delta SkyMiles, and helps you earn miles even faster, all for a low annual fee. Let’s dive into the benefits to see if the Delta Gold card is a good fit for your needs.
Pros
New: Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
Bonus earning on Delta purchases and U.S. supermarket and worldwide restaurant purchases
First checked bag free on Delta flights
20% back on inflight purchases
Cons
Moderate annual fee
Earn rate for Delta flights is relatively low compared to other travel cards
Earn 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Enjoy a $0 introductory Annual Fee for the first year, then $99.
Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.
Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
$100 Delta Flight Credit: After you spend $10,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, receive a Credit to use toward future travel.
Want even more flexibility? Take up to $50 off the cost of your flight for every 5,000 miles you redeem with Pay with Miles when you book on delta.com.
Receive a 20% savings in the form of a statement credit on eligible Delta in-flight purchases after using your Card.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
With Send & Split®, you can send money and split your Card purchases with any other Venmo or PayPal user, directly from the Amex App. Enroll today.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
Frequent Delta travelers will enjoy this card's bonus categories, benefits, and ability to reach higher levels of elite status.
Frequent Delta travelers will enjoy this card's bonus categories, benefits, and ability to reach higher levels of elite status.
Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
50,000 bonus miles
$600
$250
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card can be a great option for those seeking additional ways to obtain a higher level of status — or to maintain their current status — with the airline.
A key feature of this card is the ability to earn bonus Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) that are essential for earning Delta status. This could help you get closer to earning free flights and other valuable rewards.
Pros
New: Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on Delta purchases
3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on purchases made directly with hotels
2x SkyMiles per $1 spent at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets
1x SkyMile per $1 spent on all other purchases
Annual companion certificate
Complimentary checked bags
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee statement credit
20% back on inflight purchases
Delta Status Boost
Discount on Delta Sky Club visits (Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available)
Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Receive a Domestic Main Cabin round-trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your Card. Payment of the government imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments) is required. Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights. Plus enjoy Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding and settle into your seat sooner.
Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets.
Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
Get access to Delta Sky Club® at a rate of $50 per person per visit for you and up to two guests or immediate family when traveling on a Delta flight from now until 12/31/23. Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available.
Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® after you apply through any Official Enrollment Provider. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
Earn 10,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $25,000 in purchases on your Delta Platinum Card, up to two times through 12/31/23. Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available, and there will be a new way to earn toward Medallion Status with the Card. Learn more at delta.com/skymilesprogramchanges.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.
Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.
Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
60,000 miles
$720
$550
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is a stellar option for frequent travelers who always fly with Delta thanks to its lounge access, status boost, annual companion certificate, and many other great benefits.
Here is a full look at everything the Delta Reserve card can offer to you to help you decide whether the card deserves a place in your wallet.
Pros
New: Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
3x SkyMiles per $1 on Delta purchases
1x SkyMile per $1 on all other purchases
Complimentary Delta Sky Club and Amex Centurion Lounge access when flying Delta. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
Delta Status Boost
Medallion Qualification Dollar (MQD) Waiver
Annual Companion Certificate
Access to Complimentary Upgrades and Upgrade Priority
Free checked bags
20% back on inflight purchases
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee statement credit
Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
Enter Delta Sky Club® at no cost and bring up to two guests or immediate family at a rate of $50 per person per visit. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
With Status Boost®, earn 15,000 Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $30,000 in purchases on your Card through 12/31/23, up to four times per year getting you closer to Medallion Status. MQMs are used to determine Medallion Status and are different from the miles you earn towards flights. Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available, and there will be a new way to earn toward Medallion Status with the Card. Learn more at delta.com/skymilesprogramchanges.
Eligible Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
Receive a domestic First Class, Delta Comfort+® or domestic Main Cabin round trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your Card. Payment of the government imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments) is required. Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® after you apply through any Official Enrollment Provider. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
Bottom Line: Having a Delta-branded credit card can add value by saving you money with a free checked bag for the cardholder and up to 8 traveling companions. Priority boarding and discounted or complimentary lounge access can make your trip more comfortable. Add in the ability to use frequent flyer miles to offset the cost of your ticket and you’ll find plenty of flight-related benefits that make a Delta credit card worthwhile.
Best Delta Air Lines Credit Cards for a Faster Path to Elite Status
Delta Medallion Elite status requires flying a specific number of miles or flight segments each calendar year, spending Medallion Qualifying Dollars (MQD) on Delta flights, and/or spending on a Delta credit card to waive the MQD requirement.
All of the Delta credit cards featured in this article allow you to waive the MQD requirement for elite levels up to Platinum Medallion by spending $25,000 each calendar year. You can waive the Diamond MQD requirement by spending $250,000 in a calendar year.
Additional Benefits and Perks of Delta-branded Cards
The Delta Reserve card, the Delta Platinum card, and the business versions of each of these cards offer a buy-1-get-1 companion ticket benefit each year for travel within the lower 48 U.S. The cardholder pays only for the taxes and fees on the companion ticket.
The Pay with Miles benefit allows you to use SkyMiles to offset the cost of your paid ticket. Each 5,000 miles equals $50 in credit towards the cost of your flight.
For a complete breakdown, explore our best credit cards for Delta flyers, including our flexible travel rewards card recommendations for Delta flyers.
United Airlines
Best United Credit Cards for Earning Miles and Flight Benefits
All of the United-branded credit cards featured here earn at least 2x miles on United purchases, and some cards have bonus earning categories that result in elevated earnings on specific purchases. Cards, unless otherwise specified, earn 1 mile for every dollar purchased.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
With priority boarding privileges, no foreign transaction fees and more, MileagePlus members will definitely enjoy their partnered card.
With priority boarding privileges, no foreign transaction fees and more, MileagePlus members will definitely enjoy their partnered card.
Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
60,000 bonus miles
$720
$95
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
You travel United all the time, but you have heard that there could be ways to make your travel experiences even better, including priority boarding, free bags, and more miles.
You should consider the United℠ Explorer Card, because this card does all that and more!
Pros
2x miles per $1 on United purchases, dining purchases (including delivery services), and hotel stays
1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
First checked bag free for you and up to 1 traveling companion
25% statement credit on United inflight purchases
Priority boarding
Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS statement credit
2 United Club 1-time passes each year
Premier upgrades on award tickets
Travel and purchase protections
Cons
$0 intro for the first year, then $95 annual fee
Does not earn transferable rewards
Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95.
Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, hotel stays, and United® purchases
Up to $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit
25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Explorer Card
Free first checked bag - a savings of up to $140 per roundtrip. Terms Apply.
Enjoy priority boarding privileges and visit the United ClubSM with 2 one-time passes each year
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.
Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.
Earn 90,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
90,000 miles
$1,080
$525
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent (740-850)
The United Club℠ Infinite Card is a premium card designed for the most dedicated of United frequent flyers who are looking for a card that provides the opportunity to earn extra United MileagePlus miles and receive lounge access via a yearly United Club membership.
United frequent flyers will find that the United Club Infinite card provides an enhanced experience on their United flights thanks to the money saved on each flight and the conveniences it provides.
Pros
4x miles per $1 on United purchases
2x miles per $1 on travel and dining purchases
Complimentary United Club membership
Free first and second checked bag for you and 1 traveling companion
United Premier Access
25% back on United inflight purchases
Complimentary Premier Upgrades on United-operated award tickets (when available)
Expanded award availability
Up to 8,000 Premier Qualifying Points
$100 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck/NEXUS credit
Trip protections like trip delay insurance, lost and delayed luggage insurance, and rental car insurance
Shopping protections like return protection, purchase protection, and extended warranty protection
$70 discount on CLEAR membership, plus 10,000 bonus miles
IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status and a $75 annual credit
Avis President’s Club elite status
10% discount on United Economy Saver Awards within the continental U.S. and Canada
Cons
$525 annual fee
Does not earn transferable rewards
Earn 90,000 bonus miles after qualifying purchases
Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases
Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel and dining
Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $320 per roundtrip (terms apply) - and Premier Access® travel services
10% United Economy Saver Award discount within the continental U.S. and Canada
Earn up to 8,000 Premier qualifying points (500 PQP for every $12K you spend on purchases)
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
The United Quest card is a fantastic option for United flyers looking to earn more miles and enhance their flights.
The United Quest card is a fantastic option for United flyers looking to earn more miles and enhance their flights.
Earn 70,000 bonus miles and 500 Premier qualifying points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
70,000 miles
$840
$250
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The newest addition to United’s lineup of cards is the United Quest℠ Card. With it, you can bolster your United MileagePlus miles, thanks to the bonus categories, while enjoying the card’s many perks designed to help save you money on each United flight.
2x miles per $1 spent on travel, dining, and select streaming services
$125 annual United credit
2 5,000-mile anniversary award flight credits
Free first and second checked bag for you and 1 traveling companion
Priority boarding
25% back on United inflight purchases
Complimentary Premier Upgrades on United-operated award tickets (when available)
Expanded award availability
Up to 3,000 Premier Qualifying Points
Up to $100 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck/NEXUS credit
Travel and shopping protections including trip delay insurance, lost/delayed luggage insurance, rental car insurance, purchase protection, and extended warranty protection
Cons
Does not earn transferable rewards
Does not offer airport lounge access
$250 annual fee
Earn 70,000 bonus miles and 500 PQP after qualifying purchases
Earn 3 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases
Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel, dining and select streaming services
Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $320 per roundtrip (terms apply) - and priority boarding
Up to a $125 United® purchase credit and up to 10,000 miles in award flight credits each year - terms apply
Earn up to 6,000 Premier qualifying points (500 PQP for every $12K you spend on purchases)
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
The United Gateway card is a great option for those looking to earn more United miles without paying an annual fee.
The United Gateway card is a great option for those looking to earn more United miles without paying an annual fee.
Earn 30,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. Learn more.
30,000 miles
$360
$0
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The United Gateway℠ Card is a great option for those looking to earn more United miles without wanting to pay a credit card annual fee. Plus, the card offers other solid benefits like a 25% back on United inflight purchases, purchase protection, and rental car insurance.
Pros
2x miles per $1 on United purchases
2x miles per $1 at gas stations and on local transit and commuting, including rideshare services, taxicabs, train tickets, tolls, and mass transit
1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
No annual fee
25% back on inflight purchases
No foreign transaction fees
Trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance
Rental car insurance
Purchase protection
Extended warranty coverage
Cons
If you are a frequent United flyer, other cards offer more perks
It does not earn transferable rewards
Earn 30,000 bonus miles
No annual fee
Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, at gas stations and on local transit and commuting
Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases
Earn 2 miles per $1 spent at gas stations, on local transit and commuting
Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Gateway Card
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
The United Club Business card is a great option for frequent United flyers looking for United Club access.
The United Club Business card is a great option for frequent United flyers looking for United Club access.
Earn 75,000 bonus miles after $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open
75,000 miles
$900
$450
20.74%-27.74% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The United Club℠ Business Card is a premium card option for dedicated United loyalists seeking a card that offers complimentary United Club access, helps them earn and retain status, and doesn’t skip on the benefits.
From free checked bags to upgrades on award tickets and the ability to earn Premier qualifying points, there is plenty to the United Club Business card that United flyers are sure to love.
Pros
2x miles per $1 spent on United purchases
1.5x miles per $1 spent on all other purchases
Complimentary United Club membership
Free checked bags
Premier Access travel services
Discount on inflight purchases
Upgrades on award tickets
No foreign transaction fees
Employee cards at no additional cost
Travel and purchase protections
Cons
$450 annual fee
Earning rate for United purchases is poor compared to other United cards
Earn 75,000 bonus miles after $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open
Earn 2x miles on United purchases
Earn 1.5x miles on all other purchases
Employee cards at no additional cost
United Club membership — up to a $650 value per year. Relax in comfort while waiting for your flight with complimentary beverages, snacks, high-speed Wi-Fi, and more
Free first and second checked bags for you and a companion, save up to $320 per round-trip
Bottom Line: Having a United-branded credit card adds comfort and cost savings to your trip. You’ll receive free checked bags, priority boarding, and passes to the United Club airport lounge. Having access to enhanced award ticket availability means you’ll also use fewer miles to secure a United award ticket.
Best United Airlines Credit Cards for a Faster Path to Elite Status
Like American Airlines (EQD) and Delta Air Lines (MQD), United has a requirement that you must spend a certain amount of money each year on airline tickets to qualify for United elite status. United’s revenue requirement is referred to as Premier Qualifying Points (PQP).
However, each United card offers a way for you to spend your way to additional PQPs for the program year. Cardholders of the United Explorer card, United℠ Business Card, and the United Club℠ Business Card can earn 500 PQPs for every $12,000 in card spend, up to 1,000 PQPs in a calendar year. United Quest card and United Club Infinite cardholders can earn 500 PQPs for every $12,000 in card spend, up to 3,000 PQPs in a calendar year.
Alaska Airlines loyalists are passionate about flying their favorite airline. If you’re a frequent Alaska Airlines traveler, having a branded credit card can help you earn miles faster, plus save you money with free checked bags for you and up to 6 traveling companions and the $99 Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare. Our recommended Alaska-branded credit card is the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Credit Card.
The Alaska Signature card is issued by Bank of America and is a great card for frequent Alaska Airlines travelers.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
Provides the potential to earn plenty of miles to fly with Alaska Airlines or over a dozen partners. Plus, get an annual companion fare from just $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23)!
Provides the potential to earn plenty of miles to fly with Alaska Airlines or over a dozen partners. Plus, get an annual companion fare from just $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23)!
Get a $100 statement credit, 50,000 Bonus Miles and Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after you make $2,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening.
$100 statement credit + 50,000 bonus miles + Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™
$1,000
$95
18.24% - 26.24% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
With the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card in your wallet, you could get great perks and earn miles at the same time. This is a win-win if Alaska is the airline you prefer to fly with! Plus, its annual companion fare is a great benefit for traveling couples.
Pros
3x miles per $1 spent on Alaska purchases
2x miles per $1 spent on eligible gas, local transit (including rideshare), cable, and select streaming services
1x mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
Annual companion fare
Free checked bag for you and up to 6 traveling companions
20% back on Alaska inflight purchase
Cons
$95 annual fee
LIMITED TIME ONLINE OFFER — $100 statement credit, 50,000 bonus miles plus Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™!
Get a $100 statement credit, 50,000 Bonus Miles and Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after you make $2,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening.
Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™. Every year on your credit card account anniversary you’ll receive a companion fare which allows you to book a companion flight from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23). Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
Free checked bag for you and up to 6 guests on the same reservation – that’s a savings of $60 per person roundtrip!
Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases, 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, local transit (including rideshare), cable, and select streaming services, and unlimited 1 mile for every $1 spent on all other purchases. And, your miles don’t expire on active accounts.
10% reward bonus on all miles earned on card with an eligible Bank of America checking, savings, or investment account.
Priority boarding on Alaska Airlines when tickets are purchased with card.
With oneworld® Alliance member airlines and Alaska’s Global Partners, Alaska has expanded their global reach to over 1,000 destinations worldwide bringing more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem miles.
Flexibility with no blackout dates on Alaska Airlines flights when booking with miles or a companion fare.
Plus, no foreign transaction fees and a low $95 annual fee.
This online only offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
You’ll receive 3x miles for Alaska Airlines purchases, 2x miles on eligible gas, cable, streaming services and local transit purchases, and 1x miles on all other purchases.
Flight Benefits
A free checked bag for the cardholder and up to 6 traveling companions
Every year on your credit card account anniversary you’ll receive a companion fare which allows you to book a companion flight from $121 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $22). Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
This card focuses on the Southwest traveler with anniversary points, travel credit, upgrades, and money back on inflight purchases.
This card focuses on the Southwest traveler with anniversary points, travel credit, upgrades, and money back on inflight purchases.
Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
75,000 points
$975
$149
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Not only does the card offer multiple bonus categories to help you earn more Southwest Rapid Rewards points, but it is also loaded with benefits that are sure to offer quite a bit of value to Southwest flyers.
Here is a full overview of the card to help you decide if it is a good fit for your wallet.
Pros
3x points per $1 on Southwest purchases
2x points per $1 on local transit and commuting, including rideshare purchases
2x points per $1 on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming purchases
1x point per $1 on all other purchases
7,500 points each year on your cardmember anniversary
$75 annual Southwest travel credit
4 Upgraded Boardings per year
25% back on inflight purchases
1,500 tier qualifying points towards elite status for every $10,000 spent
Travel and purchase protection
Cons
$149 annual fee
Does not earn transferable points
Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
7,500 anniversary points each year.
Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases.
Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
Cardholders earn 3x points on Southwest purchases. You’ll also earn 2x points on local transit and commuting, internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming, plus 1x points on all other purchases. The card also gives you 7,500 bonus anniversary points each year.
Flight Benefits
Cardmembers can take advantage of the $75 Southwest annual travel credit, 4Upgraded Boardings per year, and 25% back on inflight purchases.
A Faster Path to Elite Status
Southwest has 3 tier levels of status: A-List, A-List Preferred, and Companion Pass. You can reach A-List by flying 25,000 miles per year or earning 35,000 tier qualifying points by spending on Southwest. A-List Preferred can be achieved by flying 50,000 miles annually or by earning 70,000 tier qualifying points. You will need 110,000 points in a calendar year to earn a Southwest Companion Pass.
You can earn tier qualifying points for all elite levels, including Companion Pass, by also spending on any Southwest Rapid Rewards credit cards.
British Airways
If you fly on British Airways or its partner Oneworld alliance airlines, such as American Airlines, Qantas, Japan Airlines, or Cathay Pacific, you’re sure to have use for its Avios frequent flyer points. While redeeming Avios for long-haul premium flights is a solid option, the redemption sweet spot can be realized on short flight redemptions. Flights of 650 miles or less start at just 4,000 Avios for an off-peak one-way flight.
Our recommended British Airways-branded card is the British Airways Visa Signature® Card. The British Airways Visa card doesn’t come with a lot of bells and whistles, but it does allow you to earn Avios, receive discounts on British Airways flights, and earn a valuable Travel Together Ticket potentially worth thousands of dollars.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
This card is great for British Airways frequent flyers, and traveling couples will find great value in the Travel Together Ticket.
This card is great for British Airways frequent flyers, and traveling couples will find great value in the Travel Together Ticket.
Earn 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.
75,000 Avios
$937
$95
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
The British Airways Visa Signature® Card is a stellar option for travelers who regularly travel with the airline. From all of the Avios the card helps you earn, to a 10% discount off cash tickets, and the award flight statement credits, you can get tons of value out of the card each year.
Pros
3x Avios per $1 on British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia, and LEVEL purchases
2x Avios per $1 on hotel accommodations purchased directly through hotels
1x Avios per $1 on all other purchases
10% off British Airways flights starting in the U.S. (when booking through the designated website)
Travel Together Ticket after $30,000 in card spend in a calendar year
Up to $600 in award flight statement credits each year
No foreign transaction fees
Baggage delay insurance
Lost luggage insurance
Purchase protection
Extended warranty protection
Cons
$95 annual fee
Does not earn transferable rewards
Earn 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.
Earn 3 Avios per $1 spent on purchases with British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia, and LEVEL.
Earn 2 Avios per $1 spent on hotel accommodations when purchased directly with the hotel. Plus earn 1 Avios per $1 spent on all other purchases.
10% off British Airways flights starting in the US when you book through the website provided in your welcome materials.
Every calendar year you make $30,000 in purchases on your British Airways Visa card, you’ll earn a Travel Together Ticket good for two years.
Pay no foreign transaction fees when you travel abroad.
Simply tap to pay with your contactless British Airways Visa Signature Card. Just look for the contactless symbol at checkout. It's fast, easy and secure!
Chase issues the British Airways Visa card that earns 3x Avios (miles) on British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia, and LEVEL. You can also earn 2x Avios on hotel accommodations, then all other purchases earn 1x Avios.
Flight Benefits
10% discount on British Airways flights from the U.S. to London when purchased with a code at a special URL with the card
Travel Together companion ticket after spending $30,000 per calendar year
If you travel on British Airways and/or its partner airlines, have use for a premium companion ticket, or want to have a stash of Avios on hand for booking short-haul flights, the card will bring you value.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
Earn major points to redeem for JetBlue flights and more! Earn up to 6x points in various categories and a yearly point bonus.
Earn major points to redeem for JetBlue flights and more! Earn up to 6x points in various categories and a yearly point bonus.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases and paying the annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days.
60,000 points
$99
15.99%, 19.99% or 24.99% variable
The information regarding the JetBlue Plus Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
You can’t complain about spending so much time with your head in the clouds when JetBlue makes it so easy! Whether booking flights for business or pleasure, they are your go-to airline every time.
Between free entertainment (DirectTV, SiriusXM), Wi-Fi, and unlimited snacks and (non-alcoholic) beverages, what’s not to love?
Now, you can earn and redeem points for those flights when you sign up for The JetBlue Plus Card. It allows you to earn free flights even faster than The JetBlue Card and comes with some pretty nice features too!
Limited-Time Offer: Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases and paying the annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days.
Earn 6X points on eligible JetBlue purchases 2X points at restaurants and eligible grocery stores and 1X points on all other purchases.
Earn 5,000 bonus points every year after your account anniversary
Enjoy Mosaic benefits if you spend $50,000 or more on purchases each calendar year with your card.
Enjoy an annual $100 statement credit after purchasing a JetBlue Vacations package of $100 or more with your JetBlue Plus Card.
50% inflight savings on cocktails and food purchases.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
The Aeroplan card is a great option for Air Canada flyers looking to earn more points and receive automatic elite status.
The Aeroplan card is a great option for Air Canada flyers looking to earn more points and receive automatic elite status.
Earn up to 100,000 bonus points – 75,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, 25,000 points after you spend $20,000 on purchases in the first 12 months.
Up to 100,000 points
$1,500
95
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent (670-850)
Flyers based in the U.S. may think they wouldn’t have a need for a card like the Aeroplan® Credit Card, it might be much better suited for you than you think.
Not only does Air Canada offer fantastic award redemptions, but adding the card to your wallet makes the program even more rewarding by offering elite status, more points, travel coverage, and more. Let’s take a closer look and see why the Aeroplan card might make a lot of sense for you.
Pros
3x points per $1 on Air Canada purchases, at grocery stores, and dining at restaurants (including takeout and eligible delivery services)
500 bonus points for every $2,000 you spend in a calendar month (up to a maximum of 1,500 bonus points)
Receive Aeroplan 25K status for the remainder of the calendar year, plus the following calendar year, and continue to extend it beyond that by spending $15,000 on the card per calendar year
Free first checked bag for you and up to 8 traveling companions
Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS fee credit
Preferred pricing on award tickets
No foreign transaction fees
Pay Yourself Back on travel expenses at 1.25 cents per point (through December 31, 2023)
Cons
$95 annual fee
Does not earn transferable rewards
Earn up to 100,000 bonus points
Earn 75,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
Plus, 25,000 points after you spend $20,000 on purchases in the first 12 months.
$95 Annual Fee
Redeem points for both international and domestic flights with the Aeroplan® Credit Card.
Fly to another continent and travel the world with the Aeroplan® Credit Card.
Earn 3X points for each dollar spent at grocery stores, on dining at restaurants, and Air Canada directly. Earn 1X point for each dollar spent on all other purchases.
500 bonus points for every $2,000 you spend in a calendar month - up to 1,500 points per month.
3x points on dining at restaurants including takeout and eligible delivery services
1x points on all other purchases
Plus, you’ll earn 500 bonus points for every $2,000 spent in a calendar month (up to a maximum of 1,500 points per calendar month).
Flight Benefits
Automatic Aeroplan 25K elite status for the first year you have the card (you can renew it by spending $15,000 on your card in a calendar year)
Receive a 1-level bump in elite status when you spend $50,000 on the card in a calendar year
Free checked bag for the cardholder and up to 8 traveling companions on Air Canada flights
What Is An Airline Credit Card?
An airline credit card is a credit card that earns points or miles with a specific airline, along with offering perks and benefits when flying with that airline.
What Are Airline Miles?
Airlines miles are the rewards currency you earn when participating in an airline’s frequent flyer program. You’ll earn them when flying with the airline, using the airlines co-branded credit card, and/or participating in other programs like the airlines shopping portal or dining program.
While many frequent flyer programs use the term miles to refer to their rewards currency, others use points instead, but they are functionally the same thing. For instance, American Airlines refers to its loyalty currency as AAdvantage Miles, and Delta uses the term SkyMiles. Alternatively, programs offered by Southwest Airlines and JetBlue, use the terms Rapid Rewards Points and TrueBlue points, respectively.
How Much Are Airline Miles Worth?
This is an age-old question, and it can be difficult to answer as deciding what the mile of any given program is “worth” can be quite subjective.
That said, some airline programs make it easier to decipher than others. Southwest is a good example here as its Rapid Rewards Points will almost always get you somewhere around ~1.3 cents per point toward the cash cost of your ticket.
For loyalty programs that set their pricing based on an award chart, or a dynamic pricing model, pinning down exactly what a mile is worth is a bit difficult.
Take American Airlines for instance, where you can redeem 70,000 miles to book a one-way ticket in Qatar QSuites between the U.S. and Doha, a ticket that can cost ~$10,000 if you were to pay with cash. On the other hand, a domestic economy ticket for you to fly home for the holidays might be priced at 40,000 miles, even if the cash fare is $500-$600.
Due to this variation, when we set our points and miles valuations at Upgraded Points, we do so based on what our redemption experience shows that one can reasonably expect to receive on a regular basis.
Do Airlines Miles Expire?
Whether or not your airline miles will expire comes down to the specific program. In some programs, your miles will expire in 12-24 months without any sort of qualifying activity to extend them. In other programs, your miles will never expire so long as your account remains open.
Hot Tip: For a program-by-program breakdown of milage expiration policies, read through our dedicated guide to learn if your frequent flyer miles expire.
How To Choose An Airline Credit Card
If you’re struggling to decide which is the best airline credit card for you, here are some tips to help you decide.
Which Airline Do You Fly With Most Often?
When deciding on an airline credit card, the key question to ask yourself is which airline do you fly with the most?
Put simply, it can make little sense to hold a co-branded airline card for an airline that you hardly ever fly with — especially if that card charges an annual fee.
In order to make the most of the airline miles you’ll be earning, and the perks that the card offers, you want to make sure you chose an airline card for the airline that you fly most often with.
How Often Do You Fly With That Airline?
Once you’ve settled on a chosen airline, the next thing to consider is how often you plan to fly with the airline. Will you fly the carrier a couple of times a year to go on vacation and visit family? Or do you travel for work which will have you flying significantly more?
Since some airlines offer multiple varieties of credit cards at annual fees that can range from $0 to $550, you’ll want to make sure you’re flying enough to justify whichever card you choose.
What Perks and Protections Are You Looking For?
As mentioned, some airlines carry 4 or more co-branded credit card options, so narrowing down what perks and protection you are looking for will help you decide which is the best fit for you.
For instance, do you need a card to include checked baggage benefits, priority boarding, airport lounge access, or even trip delay insurance? These are all things you’ll want to consider to help you get maximum value out of your new card.
How To Make the Most of Your Airline Credit Card
Use Your Card as Often as You Can — And Pay It Off
Naturally, one of the primary benefits of using an airline credit card is using it for as many purchases as you can, to earn as many miles as possible, so that you can then redeem them for your next award ticket.
That said, that does not mean that you should spend frivolously just for the sake of earning rewards, and you should also be certain to pay your balance off in full each month as paying interest on your purchases will negate the value of the miles you receive.
Use the Perks That Your Card Offers
Many airline credit cards include perks that can either save you money, or improve your experience flying the airline. These may include items like free checked bags, priority boarding, complimentary upgrades, airport lounge access, and more.
However, you want to be aware of the terms around these benefits to ensure you’re able to use them to their full potential. For instance, many airline credit cards require you to pay for your flight with your airline credit card in order to receive the checked baggage benefit.
Use Shopping Portals and Dining Programs
Most airlines offer a shopping portal and dining program that allows you to earn even more points for purchases you were planning to make anyway. Better yet, the points you earn through these programs are on top of the miles you earn when spending with your airline credit card.
Differences Between Airline and Travel Credit Cards
The primary difference between airline co-branded credit cards and general travel cards are that airline cards offer rewards and perks that are tied to a specific airline, while travel rewards cards usually earn flexible rewards that can be redeemed for a wide variety of travel purchases through its native travel portal, transferred to airline and hotel partners, and more.
Due to this, the rewards earned with a transferable travel rewards credit card are significantly more flexible, but might lack the level of perks with a specific airline that one might want if you are a frequent flyer of that airline.
Pros and Cons of Airline Credit Cards
Pros of Getting an Airline Credit Card
Airline credit cards speed up how quickly you earn miles. If you simply rely on flying with an airline in order to earn enough miles for an award ticket, that can take quite a while unless you fly fairly often. Airline credit cards allow you to earn extra miles for every $1 you spend, getting you that much closer to your next vacation.
Enhance your flight experience. Most airline credit cards offer perks that can significantly improve your travel experience. This might include items like priority airport screening, free checked bags, priority boarding, airport lounge access, discount on inflight purchases, or even seat upgrades.
Lucrative welcome bonuses. Like most travel credit cards, airline credit cards can offer a rather large influx of miles soon after opening a new card and meeting its minimum spend requirement. One welcome bonus alone can often get you at least a round-trip ticket to destinations all over the world.
Help you qualify for elite status. If you’re a frequent flyer with a certain airline, you likely are interested in earning elite status with that airline to receive even more benefits each time you fly. Fortunately, many of the best airline credit cards offer perks that can help you reach your elite status milestones even faster.
No foreign transaction fees. If you travel internationally often, it is imperative to hold a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, which can be up to 3%. Since many airline credit cards are travel-focused, you’ll find that the vast majority of them do not charge foreign transaction fees.
Cons of Getting an Airline Credit Card
Miles aren’t transferable. While you can redeem the miles earned with your airline credit card with that given airline and its partners, that flexibility pales in comparison to the redemption options of transferable travel rewards cards.
Airline credit cards often charge annual fees. While there are airline credit cards that do not charge an annual fee, many of the best airline credit cards with the top benefits and rewards charge annual fees that range from $95 to $550. Given that, it’s important to select a card that you know you can get more value from than the fee you pay.
Not ideal for those who don’t pay their balance off in full. Airline credit cards often carry interest rates that are significantly higher than other credit cards. This isn’t a problem for those who always pay their balance off in full, as you’ll never need to pay interest. However, if you find it difficult to pay your balance off in full each month then an airline credit card would not be the best option for you.
Final Thoughts
One benefit of airline credit cards is that they usually come with a generous welcome bonus you can earn when you initially secure the card and complete the minimum spending requirement. Welcome bonuses can be as much as 100,000 miles and provide enough rewards to book at least a business class flight.
Welcome bonus aside, however, the best airline credit card for you may not be an airline-branded credit card but a travel rewards-earning credit card. Or you may find that a combination of an airline-branded card and a travel rewards card will work for even greater earnings and elevated travel benefits.
The right card combination can give you the highest earnings on every airline you fly (including your preferred airline), flexible redemption options beyond your frequented airline, luxury travel benefits, and travel and shopping protections that add value.
The information regarding the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite™ Mastercard® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding AAdvantage® Aviator® Silver Mastercard® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding AAdvantage® Aviator® World Elite Business Mastercard® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the United Club℠ Business Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding The JetBlue Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding The JetBlue Plus Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding The JetBlue Business Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® Mastercard® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, click here. For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card, click here. For rates and fees of Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, click here.
The best airline credit card will likely be the one co-branded with the airline you fly on most frequently.
This is because you could receive benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding, the possibility of a faster path to elite status, and even airport lounge access.
Another good choice for an airline credit card will be one that has a large welcome bonus that you could subsequently use to redeem for award flights. This may be an airline-branded credit card that isn’t tied to your most frequented airline.
The best credit card for airline purchases, however, may not be branded by the airline. For example, the best card could be a flexible rewards-earning credit card that may offer up to 5x points on all flight purchases versus an airline co-branded card that just earns 2x miles on only its own flights.
Plus, with a flexible rewards-earning card, you will not be limited to redeeming your rewards on a specific airline or airline alliance.
Are airline credit cards worth it?
If you frequently fly (and sometimes even just a few times a year) with a specific airline, then yes, holding an airline credit card for that airline with likely be worth it.
This is because airline credit cards not only help you earn miles faster, but also offer perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, inflight discounts, and more.
Do airline miles expire?
That depends entirely on the airline. Some airline miles will never expire so long as your frequent flyer account remains open, while others will expire in a period between 12-24 months without any qualifying activity that extends them.
Do airline credit cards charge an annual fee?
Some airline credit cards do not charge an annual fee, but most of the best airline credit cards do charge an annual fee since they offer significantly more benefits and elevated mileage earnings.
Do airline credit cards get you free checked bags?
Yes, the majority of the best airline credit cards include free checked bags as a benefit. In fact, many also offer free checked bags for your traveling companions as well, which can amount to significant savings on each flight if you travel with your family.
Do I have to be a frequent flyer to have an airline credit card?
No, you do not have to be a frequent flyer to have an airline credit card. In fact, even if you only fly with an airline a few times a year you might still benefit from holding an airline credit card thanks to the perks they offer.
That said, if your airline credit card has an annual fee, you’ll want to make sure you are flying often enough to receive more value from the card than the fee you pay.
Boasting a portfolio of over 20 cards, Jarrod has been an expert in the points and miles space for over 6 years. He earns and redeems over 1 million points per year and his work has been featured in outlets like The New York Times.
This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.
