ANA is Launching a New Credit Card in the U.S. — Should You Get It?

ANA (All Nippon Airways), the largest Japanese airline, is launching a co-brand credit card for U.S. customers.

Here is a full look at everything the card offers and some added analysis on why it is likely not a good fit for U.S. travelers.

New ANA Card — Details

The new card, which will be called ANA CARD U.S.A. Plus, is being offered through First Bank. Here is how the card will earn miles and what perks it offers:

It is clear that the card is being launched in order to compete with the recently announced Japan Airlines card for U.S. customers. Regrettably, both cards fall short of providing a competitive option in the U.S. market.

What Cards Should You Consider Instead?

If you’re looking to earn more ANA miles, you’d be far better off by adding an Amex credit card to your wallet that earns Amex Membership Rewards points.

Not only do Amex Membership Rewards points transfer at a 1:1 rate to ANA, but you can also transfer them to a wide variety of other Amex transfer partners like Air Canada Aeroplan, Delta SkyMiles, Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, and more.

Take the American Express^® Green Card*, for example. While the Amex Green card does charge a higher annual fee than the ANA card, it earns 3x points at restaurants worldwide, on all eligible travel purchases, and transit purchases, and 1x points on all other purchases.

Not only will it help you earn more points that can be transferred directly to ANA when booking ANA flights (3x vs. 2x), but you’ll also earn way more points on your daily purchases thanks to the restaurant and transit bonus categories.

Additionally, the card offers up to $199 in statement credits each calendar year after you purchase a CLEAR Plus membership with it, enabling you to enjoy priority screening at the airport during your travels.

*The information regarding the American Express^® Green Card* was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Final Thoughts

Usually, more competition in the credit card space is excellent news, as it forces other issues to innovate and offer more value.

Sadly, this card will not do that, as it simply is not a very competitive offering. U.S.-based travelers who travel to Japan often, or are looking to earn more ANA miles, would be far better off selecting one of the many American Express credit cards that earn Amex Membership Rewards instead.