The 10 Best Credit Cards for American Airlines Flyers [Lounges, Upgrades, Priority Boarding & More]

Did you know the American Airlines AAdvantage frequent flyer program is the world’s oldest airline loyalty program? It’s been around since 1981 and is also the world’s largest frequent flyer program.

American Airlines credit cards also carry the AAdvantage brand, as the cards are closely aligned with the frequent flyer program.

Cardholders can expect perks that include lounge access, companion tickets, flight benefits, flight credits, elevated earnings, a faster path to AAdvantage elite status, and more.

If American Airlines is your chosen airline, having an AAdvantage-branded card should be a top consideration — especially if you’re interested in earning American Airlines elite status.

We’ll share our choices for some of the best American Airlines cards for American Airlines flyers and the reasons you’d want to have an AAdvantage-branded card in your wallet.

Hide SummaryShow Summary

Best Overall Cards for American Airlines Flyers

Here are our top overall picks for the best cards for flyers who frequent American Airlines:

• Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® World Elite Mastercard^® — Best Overall AA Personal Card
• Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Executive World Elite Mastercard^® — Best Card for Admirals Club, Earning on AA Purchases, AAdvantage Elite Status, AA Flight Benefits
• AAdvantage^® Aviator^® Silver World Elite Mastercard^® — Best for Earning on AA Purchases, AAdvantage Elite Status, AA Flight Benefits
• The Platinum Card^® from American Express — Best for Global Lounge Access, Earning on Flights, Redeeming Flexible Rewards for AA Flights
• Chase Sapphire Reserve^® — Best for Redeeming Flexible Rewards for AA Flights, Statement Credits for Travel Purchases, Travel Insurance Benefits
• CitiBusiness^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® Mastercard^® — Best AA Business Card

The 10 Best Cards for American Airlines Flyers — Overview

American Airlines has over a dozen cards from which to select. We’ll cover the details of our top picks and highlight the cards that can bring extra value to the American Airlines loyalist.

The 7 Best Personal Cards for American Airlines Flyers

AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Card — Best Overall AA Personal Card

Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® World Elite Mastercard^®

U.P. Rating 

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.

Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® World Elite Mastercard^®

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.

Welcome Offer

Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage^® bonus miles after $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.

50,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$700

Annual Fee

$99, waived for first 12 months

APR

20.49% to 29.49% Variable

Why We Like This Card

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.

Card Highlights

• Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage^® bonus miles after $2,500 in purchases within the first 4 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

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.49% to 29.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 0%

Rewards Center

American Airlines AAdvantage Program

The AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite card is a good choice for receiving American Airlines benefits without paying a high annual fee.

Miles will add up quickly with double miles on purchases with American Airlines, at gas stations, and restaurants.

Why We Like the Card for American Airlines Flyers

• 2x miles for every dollar spent on American Airlines purchases, gas stations, and restaurants
• Priority boarding, a free checked bag for the cardholder and up to 4 traveling companions
• $125 flight discount after spending $20,000 on the card each card anniversary year
• 25% discount on inflight food/beverages
• Generous welcome bonus after meeting minimum spending requirements
• Low annual fee that is waived the first year
• Elevated Loyalty Points earnings on AA hotel bookings

AAdvantage Executive World Elite Card — Best Card for Admirals Club, Earning on AA Purchases, AAdvantage Elite Status, AA Flight Benefits

Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Executive World Elite Mastercard^®

U.P. Rating 

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.

Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Executive World Elite Mastercard^®

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.

Welcome Offer

Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage^® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first 3 months of account opening.

70,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$980

Annual Fee

$595

APR

21.24% - 29.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

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)

Why We Like This Card

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 & Cons

Pros

• Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage^® bonus miles after spending $7,000 within the first 3 months of account opening
• Earn 10 miles per $1 spent on eligible car rentals booked through aa.com/cars
• Earn 10 miles per $1 spent on eligible hotels booked through aa.com/hotels

Cons

• $595 annual fee
• Doesn’t earn many miles on all other eligible purchases

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• 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

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.24% - 29.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 

Rewards Center

American Airlines AAdvantage Frequent Flyer Program

If you’re a frequent American Airlines flyer and lounge access is important, you’ll want to consider the AAdvantage Executive World Elite card.

Admirals Club memberships can cost up to $1,650 for an annual household membership (or 165,000 miles) and $850 for an annual single membership (or 85,000 miles).

Cardholders receive complimentary membership as long as they have the card. Plus, they can bring immediate family members or up to 2 guests. This means a family of 3, 4, or more could enjoy the club while traveling together without extra charges. Lounge benefits are also extended to partner lounges where American Airlines has a reciprocal agreement.

Authorized users added to the card ($175 fee for up to 3 users) also receive Admirals Club access.

Why We Like the Card for American Airlines Flyers

• Complimentary Admirals Club membership for cardholder; guest access for immediate family or up to 2 guests
• 4x miles on American Airlines and 10x miles on hotels/car rentals via aa.com
• Earn Loyalty Points toward AAdvantage elite status
• Free checked bag for cardholder and up to 8 travel companions on the same reservation
• Priority boarding, priority check-in, and priority TSA screening lines for cardholders and up to 8 companions
• Up to $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement statement credit, as of October 1, 2024
• 25% statement credit for inflight food and beverage purchases

Hot Tip:

The AAdvantage Executive World Elite card is the best American Airlines card for lounge access, earning on American Airlines purchases, and flight benefits. The card does come with a higher annual fee.

AAdvantage Aviator Silver Card — Best for Earning on AA Purchases, AAdvantage Elite Status, AA Flight Benefits

The AAdvantage Aviator Silver card is also a solid personal card for American Airlines flyers.

While the AAdvantage Aviator Silver card is not available for new applications, it can be secured as an upgrade from the AAdvantage Aviator Red card (which we’ll detail next).

Why We Like the Card for American Airlines Flyers

• 3x miles on American Airlines, hotels, and car rentals
• Bonus Loyalty Points toward AAdvantage elite status for spending on the card
• Flight Cents lets you round up your purchases to the nearest dollar to earn more miles
• A free checked bag for the cardholder and up to 8 traveling companions
• Preferred boarding 
• Up to $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit, as of October 1, 2024
• Up to $50 in statement credits annually for inflight Wi-Fi purchases
• $25 per day back as a statement credit for inflight food and beverage purchases made with the card
• $99 companion ticket after spending $20,000 on the card

AAdvantage Aviator Red Card — Best for Earning on AA Purchases, Free Checked Bags, Companion Ticket

Holding the AAdvantage Aviator Red card is a prerequisite for upgrading to the AAdvantage Aviator Silver card. The card provides a foundation for earning American Airlines miles, basic flight benefits, and qualifying for a discounted companion ticket after spending on the card.

Why We Like the Card for American Airlines Flyers

• Generous welcome bonus
• 2x miles on American Airlines purchases
• Flight Cents
• Free checked bag for the cardholder and up to 4 companions
• 25% statement credit for inflight food/beverage purchases
• $99 companion ticket after spending $20,000 on the card in a calendar year

AAdvantage MileUp Card — Best Card for Earning on AA Purchases with No Annual Fee

American Airlines AAdvantage^® MileUp^®

U.P. Rating 

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.

American Airlines AAdvantage^® MileUp^®

Earn 2x miles per dollar spent on American Airlines flights and at grocery stores, all without needing to pay an annual fee.

Welcome Offer

Earn 15,000 American Airlines AAdvantage^® bonus miles after $500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.

15,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$210

Annual Fee

$0

APR

20.49% to 29.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

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)

Why We Like This Card

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 & Cons

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

Cons

• Other cards are more rewarding for frequent American Airlines flyers
• Charges a 3% foreign transaction fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 15,000 American Airlines AAdvantage^® bonus miles after $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

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.49% to 29.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 3%

If you’re looking to earn American Airlines miles and want a card with no annual fee, the AAdvantage MileUp card may be a good option. You’ll still be earning 2x miles on AA purchases.

Why We Like the Card for American Airlines Flyers

• No annual fee
• 2x miles on American Airlines and grocery store purchases
• 25% rebate as a statement credit for inflight food and beverage purchases

Hot Tip:

In addition to the associated American Airlines benefits, Citi and Barclays-issued cards may come with car rental collision damage waiver; lost, stolen, damaged, or delayed baggage insurance; trip cancellation, trip interruption, or trip delay coverage; travel, emergency, and roadside assistance; no foreign transaction fees; and shopping protections, including purchase protection and extended warranty coverage. Coverage will vary by card issuer. Each card’s Guide to Benefits provides full coverage descriptions, terms, and conditions.

Amex Platinum Card — Best for Global Lounge Access, Earning on Flights, Redeeming Flexible Rewards for AA Flights

BEST LOUNGE ACCESS

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

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 Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

80,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,760

Annual Fee

$695

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

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)

Why We Like This Card

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card^® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
• 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
• 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com

Cons

• $695 annual fee (rates and fees)
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards^® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards^® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card^®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card^® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card^® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card^®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card^® Members can get out and about and explore their local area with $15 in Uber Cash for US rides each month, plus a bonus $20 in December. That can be up to $200 in annual Uber savings. Simply download the Uber app and add your Platinum Card^® to your Uber account to get started. Available to Basic Card Member only. Effective 11/8/2024, an Amex Card must be selected as the payment method for your Uber or Uber Eats transaction to redeem the Amex Uber Cash benefit.
• $199 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: CLEAR^® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck^® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card^®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card^®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card^® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.¤
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

The Amex Platinum card has all the key benefits of a premium travel rewards card. The card earns flexible rewards that are redeemable with a wide selection of Amex transfer partners versus the limited option of flights with just 1 airline alliance.

The card also comes with a long list of travel perks and protections.

Why We Like the Card for American Airlines Flyers

• 5x Membership Rewards points on flights purchased from American Airlines or from AmexTravel.com
• Complimentary access to over 1,400 lounges worldwide in the American Express Global Lounge Collection, including access to the prestigious Centurion Lounge network and Priority Pass Select membership upon enrollment
• Transfer Membership Rewards points earned on the card to Oneworld partners and redeem them for American Airlines flights
• Redeem points via AmexTravel.com for American Airlines flights
• Up to $200 airline incidental fee credit each year so long as you select American Airlines as your qualifying airline

Chase Sapphire Reserve Card — Best for Redeeming Flexible Rewards for AA Flights, Statement Credits for Travel Purchases, Travel Insurance Benefits

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

U.P. Rating 

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.

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

60,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,200

Annual Fee

$550

APR

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

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)

Why We Like This Card

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve^® is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
• 10x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
• 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025

Cons

• $550 annual fee
• Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck^®
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.99% - 28.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

One downside of an airline-branded credit card is that redeeming miles is limited to that airline or an alliance partner airline. With the Chase Sapphire Reserve card, you can redeem rewards for any airline or transfer points to travel partners for even greater potential value.

The card also provides the economic value of statement credits for travel purchases and valuable travel insurance benefits.

Why We Like the Card for American Airlines Flyers

• 3x Ultimate Rewards points on travel not purchased through Chase Travel, which includes American Airlines flights purchased directly with the airline
• The cardholder and 2 guests receive complimentary access to over 1,400 lounges worldwide with a Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required)
• Ultimate Rewards points earned on the card can be transferred to Oneworld partners and then redeemed for American Airlines flights
• Ultimate Rewards can be redeemed for 1.5 cents each to book American Airlines flights directly through Chase Travel
• A $300 annual travel credit that can be used for American Airlines flights
• The card comes with several premium travel insurance benefits

The 3 Best Business Cards for American Airlines Flyers

CitiBusiness Platinum Select Card — Best AA Business Card

CitiBusiness^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® Mastercard^®

U.P. Rating 

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.

A low annual fee, a free checked bag, and tons of perks and discounts make this card valuable for business owners who travel.

CitiBusiness^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® Mastercard^®

A low annual fee, a free checked bag, and tons of perks and discounts make this card valuable for business owners who travel.

Welcome Offer

For a limited time, earn 75,000 American Airlines AAdvantage^® bonus miles after $5,000 in purchases within the first 5 months of account opening.

75,000 miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,050

Annual Fee

$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $99

APR

20.49% to 29.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

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)

Why We Like This Card

With the CitiBusiness^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® Mastercard^®, you get a card that gives you perks like boarding privileges, free checked bags, and discounts on inflight purchases, while also earning more miles for your next award redemption.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 2x miles per $1 spent on American Airlines purchases
• 2x miles per $1 spent on cable and satellite providers, at gas stations, on car rentals, and on select telecommunications merchants
• 1x mile per $1 spent on all other purchases

Cons

• $99 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Designed for businesses
• For a limited time, earn 75,000 American Airlines AAdvantage^® bonus miles after $5,000 in purchases within the first 5 months of account opening.
• First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines itineraries to reduce travel costs and boost your bottom line.
• 25% savings on American Airlines inflight Wi-Fi when you use your card
• Enjoy preferred boarding on American Airlines flights
• Earn 2 AAdvantage^® miles per $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases, and on purchases at telecommunications merchants, cable and satellite providers, car rental merchants and at gas stations
• Earn 1 AAdvantage^® mile per $1 spent on other purchases
• Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage^® mile earned from purchases
• No Foreign Transaction Fees

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.49% to 29.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Airlines AAdvantage Frequent Flyer Program

If you’re a business owner and fly American Airlines, the CitiBusiness Platinum Select card could be a fit for earning American Airlines miles. Not only will you earn bonus miles on American Airlines purchases but also on select business purchases.

Business travel could also be more comfortable with preferred boarding, and you (and your travel companions) will receive free checked bag benefits, even during personal travel.

Why We Like the Card for American Airlines Flyers

• 2x miles on American Airlines and telecommunications, satellite and cable providers, car rentals, and gas stations
• Preferred boarding and free checked bag for the cardholder and up to 4 traveling companions
• 25% statement credit for inflight Wi-Fi purchases
• Companion ticket for $99 after spending $30,000 on the card in a calendar year

AAdvantage Aviator Business Card — Best for Earning on AA Purchases, Companion Flight Ticket, Earning on Select Business Purchases

Business owners may also consider the AAdvantage Aviator Business card. We like that the card earns 2 miles per dollar spent on American Airlines and select business purchases. Traveling business owners will also appreciate the savings of having free checked bags.

Why We Like the Card for American Airlines Flyers

• 2x miles on American Airlines purchases, telecommunications, office supply stores, and rental cars
• Free checked bag for cardholder and up to 4 companions
• Discounted $99 companion ticket after spending $30,000 on the card in a card member year
• 5% miles bonus on the total number of miles earned annually
• 25% statement credit for inflight food/beverage purchases
• Annual fee of $95 which is not waived the first year

Bottom Line:

While the American Airlines business credit cards are similar, the best card for earning miles will be the one that closely matches your spending mix. Beyond that, consider the welcome bonus, annual fee, and whether benefits match your preferences.

Amex Business Platinum Card — Best Business Card for Global Lounge Access, Earning on Flights, Redeeming Flexible Rewards for AA Flights

ELEVATED OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

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 ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Welcome Offer

Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.

150,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$3,300

Annual Fee

$695

APR

18.74% - 27.74% Variable

Credit Recommended

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)

Why We Like This Card

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card tailored toward business owners who are frequent travelers with a high number of annual expenses.

When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers like the best airport lounge access at over 1,400 lounges, along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card can is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels at Amex Travel
• Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• Get 50% more Membership Rewards points (1.5 points per $1) on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (cap applies)

Cons

• High annual fee of $695 (rates & fees)
• Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
• 5X Membership Rewards^® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
• Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
• Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card^®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card^®, here.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
• $199 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR^® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card^®.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
• $695 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 18.74% - 27.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Business owners who fly American Airlines should also consider the Amex Business Platinum card. Similar to the personal version, the card offers elevated earnings on flights and worldwide lounge access.

Additionally, you’ll find several statement credits for travel-related purchases.

Why We Like the Card for American Airlines Flyers

• 5x Membership Rewards points on American Airlines flights purchased from American or via AmexTravel.com
• Complimentary access to lounges in the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• Redeem rewards for premium American Airlines flights and receive a 35% point rebate
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement
• Up to $199 CLEAR Plus statement credit
• Up to $200 airline incidental fee credit each year that can be used on American Airlines so long as you select American Airlines as your qualifying airline

Bottom Line:

The best overall card for the American Airlines flyer may not be an AAdvantage branded credit card. Premium travel rewards credit cards can offer broader lounge access opportunities, greater rewards on travel purchases, flexible redemption options, and premium travel benefits.

Earning AAdvantage Elite Status with American Airlines Credit Cards

The benefits of airline elite status are many. Free checked bags, priority boarding, complimentary upgrades, and access to dedicated assistance, make elite status the goal of many American Airlines flyers.

Unfortunately, having an American Airlines credit card alone will not give you elite status. Fortunately, having an American Airlines credit card will help you achieve elite status.

First, let’s review the requirements for achieving American Airlines AAdvantage elite status:

• AAdvantage Gold — 40,000 Loyalty Points
• AAdvantage Platinum — 75,000 Loyalty Points
• AAdvantage Platinum Pro — 125,000 Loyalty Points
• AAdvantage Executive Platinum — 200,000 Loyalty Points

Achieving elite status requires earning these Loyalty Points during the status qualification year from March through February of the following year. You can earn Loyalty Points in the following ways:

• Flying on American Airlines and partner flights
• Spending on an AAdvantage-branded credit card
• AAdvantage Dining
• Shopping via the AAdvantage shopping portal or the SimplyMiles program
• Qualifying hotel bookings, vacation packages, rental cars, and cruises
• Paying utility bills with select vendors
• Miles for Opinions surveys

Hot Tip:

Did you know you can achieve American Airlines AAdvantage elite status without flying? To learn how to shortcut the process by earning Loyalty Points, you’ll find some great tips in our article on the topic.

Earn Bonus Loyalty Points by Spending on American Airlines Cards

While AAdvantage-branded American Airlines credit cards earn 1 Loyalty Point for every dollar spent on the card, these 2 American Airlines cards offer additional bonus Loyalty Point earnings:

• AAdvantage Executive World Elite Card — You’ll reach elite status faster as you’ll earn 10,000 additional Loyalty Points after reaching the 50,000 Loyalty Point level in your AAdvantage account. You’ll earn an additional 10,000 Loyalty Points when you reach 90,000 Loyalty Points.
• AAdvantage Aviator Silver Card — The card offers bonus Loyalty Points for spending on the card. You’ll receive 15,000 bonus Loyalty Points when you spend a total of $50,000 on the card during each status qualification period (March through February).

Bottom Line:

You’ll earn 1 Loyalty Point toward AAdvantage Elite status for every dollar you spend on an American Airlines credit card. The AAdvantage Executive World Elite card and AAdvantage Aviator Silver card each allow you to earn additional Loyalty Points when reaching designated Loyalty Point levels in your AAdvantage account or specific card spending levels.

Final Thoughts

The best American Airlines card will be the one that closely matches your priorities for earning American Airlines miles, the benefits you prefer, and your comfort level for paying an annual fee. The good news is that every type of American Airlines flyer can find the perfect American Airlines card.

Finally, if you have American Airlines elite status and an AAdvantage-branded card would duplicate some of those benefits, you may want to consider a premium travel rewards card. The Amex Platinum card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve card offer far more premium travel benefits and flexible redemption options, which can result in more potential value for your rewards.

The cards also include travel insurance benefits, shopping protections/benefits, and statement credits for select purchases.