The Complete Guide to Airline Companion Pass Certificates [2024]

Updated: April 9, 2024, 2:43pm CDT

Edited by:

The Complete Guide to Airline Companion Pass Certificates [2024]

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Travel is best when it’s shared with those you love. While points and miles are a great way to subsidize your costs when traveling as a pair, another excellent option is taking advantage of a companion certificate offered with many popular co-branded airline credit cards.

In this guide, we outline what credit cards offer companion certificates, how they work, and how you can get great value by using them on your future trips!

What Are Companion Certificates?

If you’re unfamiliar, airline companion certificates are effectively buy one, get one free coupons for an airline. They typically allow you to purchase a ticket and then bring a companion along with you on the same flight for a reduced cost (you’ll usually still need to pay the taxes and fees for the second ticket).

Generally, these companion certificates are either offered as a benefit automatically for holding a certain credit card, earned after you spend a certain amount on a credit card, or earned after you fly a set amount with that airline.

While they might seem fairly straightforward, there are rules and restrictions you’ll want to be aware of when it comes to each companion certificate. With that, let’s jump into what credit cards offer these certificates and how they work.

U.S. Airlines With Credit Cards That Offer Companion Certificates

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature^® Credit Card

How To Earn the Companion Fare

Each year when you renew and pay the $95 annual fee on the Alaska Signature card, you’ll receive Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare. You might also receive one upon signing up for the card and completing the minimum spend requirement, depending on the card’s current welcome bonus.

With it, you’ll be able to book a companion fare flight from just $122 — a $99 fare plus taxes and fees starting from $23.

Companion Fare Rules

Alaska’s companion fare is valid for any round-trip economy ticket for anywhere that Alaska flies (including international destinations) purchased through the Alaska website.

To use your companion fare, sign in to your Alaska Mileage Plan account, then navigate to the Discount and companion fare codes section. Then, simply click on the Shop button next to your discount code.

Here are some other rules to be aware of:

You must redeem your companion certificate by its expiration date, usually 12 months after issue, but your travel can take place up to 12 months from your booking date.
The Mileage Plan member who owns the companion fare code must either be one of the travelers or the purchaser of the reservation.
Companion fares cannot be used in conjunction with an award ticket.
While the companion fare is only valid on economy bookings, you can upgrade your ticket using miles, elite upgrades, guest upgrades, or paid upgrades that may be offered at check-in.

Other Card Benefits

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature^® credit card

U.P. Rating

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)!

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature^® credit card

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)!

Welcome OfferGet 70,000 Bonus Miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after you make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening.
70,000 bonus + Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$1,260

Annual Fee

$95

APR

18.24% - 26.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 — 70,000 bonus miles plus Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™!
Get 70,000 Bonus Miles plus Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after you make $3,000 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.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 18.24% - 26.24% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan Frequent Flyer Program

Alaska Airlines Visa^® Business Credit Card

How To Earn the Companion Fare

As the business variant of the Alaska Signature card, the Alaska Airlines Business card earns offers the companion fare in the exact same way as the personal card — when you renew and pay the card annual fee. Fortunately for cardholders, the annual fee of the Alaska Airlines Business card is just $70 — $25 cheaper than the personal version.

Companion Fare Rules

The companion fare for the Alaska Airlines Business card is identical to one offered on the personal card, and the rules of usage are the same as the ones outlined above.

Other Card Benefits

The Alaska Airlines Business card offers the following benefits, which vary slightly from what is offered with the personal card:

3x miles per $1 spent on Alaska purchases
2x miles per $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, shipping, and local transit (including rideshare) purchases
1x mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
A free checked bag for you and up to 6 guests on the same reservation
20% back on all Alaska Airlines inflight purchases

American Airlines

AAdvantage^® Aviator^® Red World Elite Mastercard^®

How To Earn the Companion Certificate

At each card anniversary, you will earn 1 domestic economy fare companion certificate if you spend $20,000 or more on eligible purchases on your card within your cardmember year and then renew your card and pay its annual fee.

The companion certificate is good for 1 guest at $99, plus the taxes and fees of the ticket.

Companion Certificate Rules

Your certificate is valid for a round-trip qualifying domestic economy fare ticket for a companion when an individual round-trip qualifying domestic economy fare ticket is purchased and redeemed through American Airlines. However, the certificate can only be used on a flight within the 48 contiguous U.S.

Here are the other terms you’ll want to know:

It can take 1 to 2 weeks for your certificate to be added to your AAdvantage account.
Your certificate is valid for 12 months from the date that you receive it.
The certificate is only valid on flights marketed and operated by American Airlines and its subsidiaries, and not codeshare flights or partner flights operated by another airline.
Cardholders can only earn 1 companion certificate per cardmember year.

Other Card Benefits

Beyond the companion certificate, AAdvantage Aviator Red cardholders receive the following benefits:

2x miles per $1 on American Airlines purchases and 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
First checked bag free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to 4 companions on the same reservation
25% back on American inflight purchases
$25 each year in statement credits towards inflight Wi-Fi on American flights
Preferred boarding for you and up to 4 traveling companions
Travel coverage (travel accident insurance, trip cancellation and interruption coverage, baggage delay insurance, and auto rental collision damage waiver)

AAdvantage^® Aviator^® Silver Mastercard^®

How To Earn the Companion Certificate

Similar to the red variant of the card, you’ll earn the companion certificate with the AAdvantage Aviator Silver card after you spend $20,000 or more on your card within the cardmember year, and then renew your card and pay the annual fee.

However, this companion certificate is quite a bit better than what you receive with the AAdvantage Aviator Red card because it is valid for 2 guests at $99 each, plus the taxes and fees of each ticket.

Companion Certificate Rules

All rules regarding the companion certificate for the AAdvantage Aviator Silver card are the same as they are for the AAdvantage Aviator Red card outlined above.

Other Card Benefits

Fortunately for cardholders, the AAdvantage Aviator Silver card comes with a bevy of other benefits including:

3x miles per $1 on American Airlines purchases, 2x miles per $1 on hotels and car rentals, and 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
$25 back a day as statement credits on inflight food and beverage purchases
$50 back as statement credits on inflight Wi-Fi purchases every anniversary year
First checked bag free on domestic American Airlines flights for you and up to 8 companions on the same reservation
Preferred boarding for you and up to 8 traveling companions
$100 Global Entry application fee credit
Earn up to 15,000 additional Loyalty Points after qualifying spend each year

Delta Air Lines

Delta One passengers talking — Some Delta credit cards offer companion certificates that are valid in Delta One/first class. Image Credit: Delta Air Lines

Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card

How To Earn the Companion Certificate

In order to receive the companion certificate with your Delta Platinum card, all you have to do is renew your card and pay its annual fee. Afterward, the certificate will be deposited into your account in your renewal month.

Unlike other certificates, there is no fare charged for your companion, you’ll just need to pay the government-imposed taxes and fees. In order to use your companion certificate, you must book through delta.com/redeem.

Companion Certificate Rules

The certificate is valid for 1 round-trip Companion Certificate on Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights to select destinations each year after renewal

Companion seats are only available in L, U, T, X, and V classes of service and may not be available on all flights or markets.
Your certificate is valid for 1 year from its date of issue.
You and your companion are eligible for Medallion Complimentary Upgrades, subject to availability based on the status of the higher-tiered member.
The primary ticket and companion ticket must be purchased with your card.
The certificate is eligible on Delta, Delta Connection carrier, and Delta Shuttle flights only.
Stopovers, open jaws, and circle trips are not permitted.

Other Card Benefits

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card

U.P. Rating

Frequent Delta travelers will enjoy this card's bonus categories, benefits, and ability to reach higher levels of elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card

Frequent Delta travelers will enjoy this card's bonus categories, benefits, and ability to reach higher levels of elite status.

Welcome OfferEarn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. 
50,000 Bonus Miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$600

Annual Fee

$350

APR

20.99%-29.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 Dollars (MQDs) that are essential for earning Delta status. This could help you get closer to earning a handful of valuable benefits with the airline.

Pros

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 (including takeout and delivery) and U.S. supermarkets
1x SkyMile per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
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 Companion Certificate on Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights to select destinations each year after renewal of your Card. Taxes and fees will apply.
Receive $2,500 MQDs each year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
Complimentary first checked bag
Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding
$120 Resy Credit: Earn up to $10 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases.
$120 Rideshare Credit: Earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month on U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers upon enrollment.
Application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
20% back on inflight purchases
$150 Delta Stays Credit: Earn up to $150 back annually on eligible prepaid Delta Stays bookings on delta.com.

Cons

$350 annual fee (rates & fees)
Does not earn transferable rewards

Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Receive a Companion Certificate on Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
Receive $2,500 Medallion^® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express 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 $1 Medallion^® Qualification Dollar for each $20 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
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 and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
$120 Resy Credit: With the Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card Resy Credit, earn up to $10 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
$120 Rideshare Credit: You can earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month on U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers after you pay with your Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card. Enrollment Required.
Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
Receive Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®: Receive $100 back for Global Entry or up to $85 back for 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.
Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Reserve Card Members.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
$350 Annual Fee.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Delta Air Lines SkyMiles

In addition to the above benefits, your Delta Platinum card features the following perks, as well:

20% back on inflight Delta purchases
Travel coverage (trip delay insurance, rental car insurance, and baggage delay insurance)

Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card

How To Earn the Companion Certificate

As with the personal version of the card, you’ll receive a companion certificate with your Delta Platinum Business card each year that you renew the card and pay your annual fee.

Companion Certificate Rules

The certificate offered with the Delta Platinum Business card is identical to that offered on the personal version and has all of the same rules and guidelines that we’ve outlined above.

Other Card Benefits

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card

U.P. Rating

Between great perks and the potential to earn plenty of SkyMiles, this card is a must-have for frequent Delta travelers.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card

Between great perks and the potential to earn plenty of SkyMiles, this card is a must-have for frequent Delta travelers.

Welcome OfferWelcome Offer: Earn 65,000 Bonus Miles after spending $6,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
65,000 Bonus Miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$780

Annual Fee

$350

APR

20.99% - 29.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

As a small business owner and frequent Delta flyer, the Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card is your go-to credit card.

You like knowing you’re earning 3x SkyMiles per dollar for purchases with Delta; benefits like no foreign transaction fees, priority boarding, and a free checked bag for each flight only sweeten the deal (rates & fees).

Plus, you can redeem your SkyMiles for travel on Delta and its partner airlines, saving you money. It’s a no-brainer!

Pros

Save 15% On Award Travel With TakeOff 15. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on Delta and hotel purchases
1.5x SkyMiles per $1 spent on purchases of $5,000 or more, up to 50,000 additional SkyMiles per calendar year
1x SkyMile per $1 on all other purchases
Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding
Get closer to elevated Status next Medallion® Year with MQD Headstart and MQD Boost: receive $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $20 of purchases with your Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card.
First checked bag free
Annual companion certificate
20% discount on inflight purchases
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee statement credit
Trip delay insurance
Baggage insurance
Rental car insurance
Purchase protection and extended warranty coverage
$120 Resy Credit (up to $10 per month in statement credits) on eligible purchases with your card
Earn up to $10 back each month after using your enrolled Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers.
Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Reserve Card Members. Ticket must be purchased on or after February 1, 2024, to be eligible to receive a complimentary upgrade.
Annual statement credit of up to $200 after using your card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.

Cons

$350 annual fee (rates & fees)
Does not earn transferable rewards

Welcome Offer: Earn 65,000 Bonus Miles after spending $6,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Enjoy a Companion Certificate each year after renewal of your Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
Earn 1.5X miles* on eligible transit and U.S. shipping purchases, plus single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more. Terms and miles cap apply. *If your purchase qualifies for a category that has a higher mileage accelerator, only the higher accelerator will apply.
Get closer to elevated Status next Medallion^® Year with MQD Headstart and MQD Boost: receive $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $20 of purchases with your Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card.
Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card Members save 15% 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.
With the $120 Resy Credit, earn up to $10 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
Earn up to $10 back each month after using your enrolled Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers.
Not a Medallion Member? Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Reserve Card Members. Ticket must be purchased on or after February 1, 2024 to be eligible to receive a complimentary upgrade.
Receive Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
Elevate your travel experience with an annual statement credit of up to $200 after using your Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
Terms and limitations apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 20.99% - 29.99% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Delta Air Lines SkyMiles Frequent Flyer Program

Cardholders of the Delta Platinum Business card additionally receive these perks:

20% back on inflight Delta purchases
Travel coverage (trip delay insurance, rental car insurance, and baggage delay insurance)
Up to $100 Global Entry or up to $85 TSA PreCheck credit

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card

How To Earn the Companion Certificate

Similar to the other Delta cards, you’ll receive a companion certificate with the Delta Reserve card each year when you renew the card. However, since the annual fee for the card is significantly higher, you’ll notice that you have the ability to extract more value out of the certificate.

Instead of being limited to a Main Cabin economy redemption, you can redeem the companion certificate for 1 round-trip Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights to select destinations each year after renewal

Companion Certificate Rules

Naturally, you’ll still need to pay the government-imposed taxes and fees for your ticket — even if you’re booking a first class ticket. With that, you’ll also need to adhere to the following rules:

Tickets are only available in I and Z classes of service for first class travel, and only available in L, U, T, X, and V classes of service for Main Cabin travel. For Delta Comfort+ travel, tickets are available in W and S classes of service, but only when L, U, T, X, or V classes of service are available in the Main Cabin. Given this, your certificate may not be useable on all flights.
You and your companion are eligible for Medallion Complimentary Upgrades, subject to availability based on the status of the higher-tiered member.
Your certificate is valid for 1 year from its date of issue.
Both passengers must be booked on the same flights and dates, at the same time.
The primary ticket and companion ticket must be purchased with your card.
The certificate is eligible on Delta, Delta Connection carrier, and Delta Shuttle flights only.
Stopovers, open jaws, and circle trips are not permitted.

Other Card Benefits

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card

U.P. Rating

Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card

Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.

Welcome OfferEarn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
60,000 Bonus Miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$720

Annual Fee

$650

APR

20.99%-29.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 MQD Headstart towards status boost, lounge access, 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

3x SkyMiles per $1 on Delta purchases
1x SkyMile per $1 on all other eligible purchases
Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights.
Receive $2,500 MQM each year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+^®, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights to select destinations each year after renewal.
$240 Resy Credit: Earn up to $20 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases upon enrollment.
$120 Rideshare Credit: Earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month on U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers upon enrollment.
Application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
$200 Delta Stays Statement Credit: Earn up to $200 back in the form of a statement credit annually on eligible prepaid Delta Stays bookings on delta.com.
Access to Complimentary Upgrades and Upgrade Priority
Free checked bag
20% back on inflight purchases

Cons

$650 annual fee (rates & fees)
No bonus categories other than Delta purchases

Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Enjoy complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club^® and bring up to two guests or immediate family members at a rate of $50 per person per visit 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.
Receive four Delta Sky Club^® One-Time Guest Passes each year when you fly together on Delta. After that, you may bring up to two guests at a per-visit rate of $50 per person, per location.
Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion^® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
Receive $2,500 Medallion^® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
Earn $1 Medallion^® Qualification Dollar for each $10 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving elevated Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+^®, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
$240 Resy Credit: With the Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card Resy Credit, earn up to $20 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
$120 Rideshare Credit: You can earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month on U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers after you pay with your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card. Enrollment Required.
Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express 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.
With your Card receive upgrade priority over other Medallion Members within the same Medallion level and fare class.
Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
$650 Annual Fee.
Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Delta SkyMiles Airline Loyalty Program

In addition to the companion certificate and the above-mentioned benefits, the card offers these benefits:

Upgrade priority (cardholders receive upgrade priority over members with the same Medallion level who aren’t cardholders)
Complimentary upgrades (even if you don’t have Delta Medallion status)
20% back on inflight purchases
Travel coverage (trip delay/cancellation insurance, rental car insurance, and baggage delay insurance)

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card

How To Earn the Companion Certificate

The companion certificate from the Delta Reserve business card is earned each year when you renew your card and pay the annual fee, just the same as the others.

Companion Certificate Rules

All certificate rules of the Delta Reserve Business card are the same as those previously outlines on the personal version of the card.

Other Card Benefits

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card

U.P. Rating

Receive priority boarding, complimentary access to Delta Sky Club and Centurion Lounges, concierge support, and an annual companion certificate.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card

Receive priority boarding, complimentary access to Delta Sky Club and Centurion Lounges, concierge support, and an annual companion certificate.

Welcome OfferWelcome Offer: Earn 75,000 Bonus Miles after spending $10,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
75,000 Bonus Miles

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$900

Annual Fee

$650

APR

20.99% - 29.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card is a premium card option for small business owners who are both frequent travelers and Delta loyalists.

While the annual fee may be steep, the card comes loaded with perks and benefits that all frequent Delta flyers are sure to love. Let’s take a look at what makes the card unique, and why it may be a great fit for your wallet.

Pros

3x miles per dollar on Delta purchases
1.5x miles per dollar on eligible transit, U.S. shipping and office supply stores, plus all eligible purchases after you spend $150,000 in a year
Save 15% On Award Travel With TakeOff 15. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
Complimentary Delta Sky Club® access 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.
Complimentary Amex Centurion Lounge access when flying Delta
MQD Headstart and MQD Boost: Receive $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $10 on purchases with your card
Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+®, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. See terms and conditions for details.
Access to complimentary flight upgrades and priority boarding (Main Cabin 1)
$240 Resy Credit: Earn up to $20 per month [in statement credits] on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled card.
Earn up to $10 back each month after using your enrolled card for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers.
Up to $250 annual statement credit after using your card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.

Cons

High annual fee
Does not earn many miles for purchases outside of Delta spend
Rewards are not transferable

Welcome Offer: Earn 75,000 Bonus Miles after spending $10,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Enter Delta Sky Club^® at no cost. 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.
Earn 3 miles per dollar on eligible Delta purchases.
Get closer to elevated Status next Medallion^® Year with MQD Headstart and MQD Boost: receive $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $10 on purchases with your Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card.
Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+^®, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
With the $240 Resy Credit, earn up to $20 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
Earn up to $10 back each month after using your enrolled Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers.
Save 15% when booking Award Travel on Delta flights. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
Not a Medallion Member? Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
As a benefit of Card Membership, you can check your first bag free on Delta flights, saving up to $60 on a round-trip Delta flight per person. For a family of four that’s a potential savings of up to $240 per round-trip flight. When you purchase a Delta flight with your Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business Card, you will receive complimentary access to The Centurion^® Lounge or Escape Lounge – The Centurion^® Studio Partner.
Receive Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
Elevate your travel experience with an annual statement credit of up to $250 after using your Delta Reserve Business American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
Pay no foreign transaction fees when you travel overseas.
Terms and limitations apply.

Financial Snapshot

APR: 20.99% - 29.99% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Delta SkyMiles Frequent Flyer Program

If you’re a Delta Reserve Business cardholder, you’ll receive these additional benefits:

Main Cabin 1 priority boarding
Complimentary upgrades (even if you don’t have Delta Medallion status)
First checked bag free for you and up to 8 traveling companions
Travel coverage (trip delay/cancellation insurance, rental car insurance, and baggage delay insurance)
A Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines^® World Elite Mastercard^®

How To Earn the Companion Certificate

The Hawaiian Airlines World Elite card offers 2 separate companion benefits, the first of which is a one-time 50% companion discount for a round-trip economy ticket between Hawaii and North America on Hawaiian Airlines. This benefit is valid for the first 13 months from your account open date and can only be used once.

Additionally, you’ll receive a $100 companion discount towards a round-trip economy ticket between Hawaii and North America on Hawaiian Airlines each year when you renew your card.

Companion Certificate Rules

When it comes to the $100 annual companion discount, here are the rules to be aware of:

The discount is valid on round-trip coach travel between Hawaii and North America booked directly with Hawaiian Airlines through the primary cardmember’s account.
The discount does not include taxes, fees, or surcharges, with the purchase of 1 published full coach round-trip fare.
Tickets must be purchased with your Hawaiian Airlines World Elite card, and the primary cardmember must be one of the passengers.
Offer not valid first class tickets, open tickets, codeshare flights with partner airlines, or multi-city flights.
Your $100 annual companion discount is valid for 12 months from its issue date, if it is not used by its expiration date no residual amount will roll over into the following year.

Other Card Benefits

Companion discount aside, cardmembers can also enjoy these card perks:

3x miles per $1 on Hawaiian Airlines purchases, 2x miles per $1 on gas, dining, and grocery store purchases, and 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
First checked bag free on flights between North America and Hawaii, or flights between the Hawaiian Islands
Discounted Hawaiian Airlines award flights
Pool points with friends and family for free

Hawaiian Airlines^® Business Mastercard^®

How To Earn the Companion Certificate

As with the personal card, the Hawaiian Airlines Business card offers a one-time 50% off companion discount, and a $100 companion discount each year when you renew the card.

Companion Certificate Rules

The rules of the $100 companion discount offered on the Hawaiian Airlines Business card are the same as the personal version detailed previously.

Other Card Benefits

With the Hawaiian Airlines Business card, you’ll receive these perks:

3x miles per $1 on Hawaiian Airlines purchases, 2x miles per $1 on gas, dining, and office supply store purchases, and 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
Annual mileage bonus (20,000 bonus miles with $50,000 spent in each cardmember year, and 40,000 bonus miles with $100,000 spent)
Complimentary employee cards
Pool points for free

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Upgraded Boarding — Image Credit: Southwest

How To Earn the Southwest Companion Pass

The Southwest Companion Pass is easily the most valuable companion perk we will discuss in this post. However, it is a bit different than the entries thus far, or those that will follow it. This is because the Southwest Companion Pass is not offered an automatic benefit of a Southwest credit card, and while you technically can spend your way to it, that would require significantly more spending than the $20,000 to $30,000 thresholds offered on other cards.

Fortunately, there is a better way.

You see, in order to earn the Southwest Companion Pass, you must earn 135,000 qualifying points in 1 calendar year. But the kicker is that the welcome bonuses from each of the co-branded Southwest credit cards count towards your 135,000 point total.

Given that the welcome bonus on these cards regularly ranges between 40,000 to 100,000 points, you can quickly get close to the goal of 135,000. Here are the cards that we are referring to:

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card

U.P. Rating

This card focuses on the Southwest traveler with anniversary points, travel credit, upgrades, and money back on inflight purchases.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card

This card focuses on the Southwest traveler with anniversary points, travel credit, upgrades, and money back on inflight purchases.

Welcome OfferEarn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Earn 50,000 points.

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$650

Annual Fee

$149

APR

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card is the most premium personal Southwest card offering from Chase. When you peel back the curtain, it is easy to see why.

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 $5,000 spent
Travel and purchase protection

Cons

$149 annual fee
Does not earn transferable points

Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 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.
$75 Southwest^® travel credit each year.
No foreign transaction fees.
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 21.49% - 28.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Southwest Rapid Rewards Frequent Flyer Program

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Premier Credit Card

U.P. Rating

Earn Southwest points on every purchase, plus anniversary points, Tier Qualifying Points, and points toward the Companion Pass!

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Premier Credit Card

Earn Southwest points on every purchase, plus anniversary points, Tier Qualifying Points, and points toward the Companion Pass!

Welcome OfferEarn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Earn 50,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$650

Annual Fee

$99

APR

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Another week, another flight. Flying weekly can get tiring, but you know that every flight gets you closer to taking some great vacations with your significant other or your favorite travel buddy.

To save money on the flights, you like to use Southwest Airlines.

So why not get the Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Premier Credit Card to help you earn extra Rapid Rewards points?

Pros

3x points per $1 on Southwest purchases
2x points per $1 on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partners
2x points per $1 on local transit and commuting, including rideshares
2x points per $1 on Internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming services
6,000 anniversary points each year on your card renewal
2 EarlyBird Check-In certificates per year
Earn Tier Qualifying Points for your spend
25% back on inflight purchases

Cons

$99 annual fee
Does not earn transferable rewards

Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
6,000 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.
2 EarlyBird Check-In^® each year.
No foreign transaction fees.
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 21.49% - 28.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: $0

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Southwest Rapid Rewards Frequent Flyer Program

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Plus Credit Card

U.P. Rating

This card makes it easy to earn unlimited points and qualify for the Southwest Companion Pass.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Plus Credit Card

This card makes it easy to earn unlimited points and qualify for the Southwest Companion Pass.

Welcome OfferEarn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Earn 50,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$650

Annual Fee

$69

APR

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

If you spend a lot of time in the air, it’s important to get a great deal on your plane tickets.

Southwest Airlines can help you get those deals.

One way to save is by using the Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Plus Credit Card. This card helps you earn points for all your spending, and earning more reward points is always a good thing for a busy traveler!

Pros

2x points per $1 on Southwest purchases
2x points per $1 on local transit and commuting, including rideshares
2x points per $1 on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming
3,000 anniversary points each year on your card renewal
2 EarlyBird Check-In certificates per year
25% back on inflight purchases

Cons

$69 annual fee
Does not earn transferable rewards

Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
3,000 anniversary points each year.
Earn 2X 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.
2 EarlyBird Check-In^® each year.
Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 21.49% - 28.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Southwest Rapid Rewards Frequent Flyer Program

Southwest^® Rapid Rewards^® Performance Business Credit Card

U.P. Rating

Southwest frequent flyers will love the upgraded boarding positions, inflight Wi-Fi credits, and bonus points on each cardmember anniversary.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Southwest^® Rapid Rewards^® Performance Business Credit Card

Southwest frequent flyers will love the upgraded boarding positions, inflight Wi-Fi credits, and bonus points on each cardmember anniversary.

Welcome OfferEarn 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.
80,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$1,040

Annual Fee

$199

APR

21.49%-28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Performance Business Credit Card is a phenomenal option for business owners who are Southwest frequent flyers. It helps you earn more points on all of your business expenses, offers upgraded boarding certificates and Wi-Fi credits, and helps you reach higher levels of Southwest elite status.

Pros

4x points per $1 spent on Southwest purchases
3x points per $1 spent on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases
2x points per $1 spent on social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, and phone services
2x points per $1 spent on local transit and commuting, including rideshare services
9,000 bonus points each year after your cardmember anniversary
Up to 365 inflight Wi-Fi credits per year
4 Upgraded Boarding certificates per year
Earn 1,500 tier qualifying points towards Southwest status for every $5,000 spent on the card
Up to a $500 fee credit for points transfers when you use your card to transfer points to another Southwest Rapid Rewards member
Employee cards at no additional cost
Global Entry/TSA PreCheck/NEXUS credit
No foreign transaction fees
Lost luggage reimbursement
Baggage delay insurance
Extended warranty protection
Purchase protection

Cons

$199 annual fee
Doesn’t earn transferable rewards

Earn 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
9,000 bonus points after your Cardmember anniversary.
Earn 4X pts on Southwest^® purchases.
Earn 3X points on Rapid Rewards^® hotel and car rental partners.
Earn 2X points on rideshare.
Earn 2X points on social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, and phone services and 1X points on all other purchases.
4 Upgraded Boardings per year when available.
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 21.49%-28.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Southwest^® Rapid Rewards^® Premier Business Credit Card

U.P. Rating

Business owners who fly Southwest often can earn extra points for all of their spending, and add employee cards at no additional cost.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Southwest^® Rapid Rewards^® Premier Business Credit Card

Business owners who fly Southwest often can earn extra points for all of their spending, and add employee cards at no additional cost.

Welcome OfferEarn 60,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
60,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$780

Annual Fee

$99

APR

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Premier Business Credit Card is built for business owners that regularly fly with Southwest and are looking for a card that helps them earn more points while providing benefits such as 25% back on inflight purchases and EarlyBird Check-In certificates.

Pros

3x points per $1 on Southwest purchases
2x points per $1 on Rapid Rewards hotel and rental car partners
2x points per $1 on local transit and commuting purchases, including rideshare, passenger trains, buses, taxis, tolls, and parking lots and garages
1x point per $1 on all other purchases
6,000 anniversary points
2 EarlyBird Check-In certificates per year
25% back on inflight purchases
$500 fee credit for points transfers per year
1,500 tier qualifying points (TQPs) toward A-List status for every $10,000 spent
Employee cards at no added cost
No foreign transaction fees
Lost luggage insurance
Baggage delay insurance
Purchase protection and extended warranty protection

Cons

$99 annual fee
Doesn’t earn transferable rewards

Earn 60,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
6,000 bonus points after your Cardmember anniversary.
Earn 3X points on Southwest Airlines^® purchases.
Earn 2X points on Rapid Rewards^® hotel and car rental partners.
Earn 2X points on rideshare.
1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
2 EarlyBird Check-In^® each year.
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 21.49% - 28.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

As you can see, you have 5 credit card options here. There is just 1 problem — Chase will not allow you to hold multiple personal Southwest cards or multiple business Southwest credit cards. However, you can easily hold 1 personal card and 1 business card.

By receiving the welcome bonus on both a personal Southwest credit card and a business Southwest credit card, most travelers are easily able to earn the 135,000 points needed after meeting the minimum spend requirement and can immediately start putting their new Companion Pass to good use!

Even better, when you have a Southwest credit card, you’ll get a 10,000 point boost to your Companion Pass qualification! Note that these points only count toward Companion Pass and aren’t redeemable Rapid Rewards points.

Southwest Companion Pass Certificate Rules

Why exactly is the Southwest Companion Pass so powerful? Well, unlike other companion certificate perks, instead of being good for one-time use, it is valid for every Southwest flight you take until its expiration date.

You might be wondering, “When does the Companion Pass expire, then?” Your Southwest Companion Pass is valid for the rest of the year in which you qualify for it, and all of the following year.

This means that if you were to qualify for the Companion Pass via Southwest card welcome bonuses at the beginning of the year, you’d then receive your Companion Pass benefits for nearly 2 full years!

Beyond that, it’s not only valid for cash tickets, but also award tickets. That’s right, if you purchase your own ticket with points, you can bring your companion along with no added charge other than the taxes and fees.

Here are the other rules to be aware of with the Southwest Companion Pass:

Your Companion Pass is valid for anywhere that Southwest flies, including international destinations.
You can only have 1 designated companion, and you can only change your designated companion 3 times in a single year.
The main pass holder must be flying on the flight in order for the companion to travel.
There is no limit to the number of flights you can take with your companion, and there are no limits regarding multi-city routing, stopovers, or layovers.
You do not need to pay for your flight, or any taxes and fees, with a Southwest credit card in order to use your Companion Pass.
Your companion will not earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points for their ticket.

International Airlines With Credit Cards That Offer Companion Certificates

While you might be less inclined to pay attention to international airline credit cards and the companion certificates they can offer, you should really think otherwise! Many cards offer some compelling companion benefits that can be especially useful on long-haul routes where the cash prices tend to be quite expensive.

Aer Lingus

Aer Lingus Visa Signature^® Card

How To Earn the Companion Certificate

Each year that you spend $30,000 on your Aer Lingus card in a calendar year, you’ll receive 1 economy Companion Ticket.

Fortunately, unlike other companion certificates, there is no added fare to the ticket, nor are there any taxes and fees applied to the ticket.

Companion Certificate Rules

Here are the pertinent rules you’ll want to be aware of:

The Companion Ticket will be in the form of a voucher that can be redeemed by a cardmember for an economy companion ticket with a paid economy flight.
You’re eligible for only 1 voucher each calendar year.
After meeting the $30,000 spend threshold, you’ll receive a voucher email 4 to 6 weeks later and must email Aer Lingus directly at chasecompanionticket@aerlingus.com to book using the companion voucher.
The Companion Ticket is valid for 12 months of the date of issue.
You must book the companion voucher on or before 30 days before flying.
The primary cardmember must fly with the companion.
The voucher may only be used for flights that are operated by Aer Lingus.
All travel must originate in and return to the U.S. and is only valid on flights between the U.S. and Ireland.

Other Card Benefits

LIMITED TIME OFFER!

Aer Lingus Visa Signature^® Card

U.P. Rating

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Aer Lingus Visa Signature^® Card

Welcome OfferLimited time offer! Earn 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening. Plus, 5x Avios on up to $10k in gas, grocery stores, and dining purchases!
75,000 Avios

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$937

Annual Fee

$95

APR

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Limited time offer! Earn 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening. Plus, 5x Avios on up to $10k in gas, grocery stores, and dining purchases!
Earn 3 Avios per $1 spent on purchases with Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, and LEVEL.
Earn 2 Avios per $1 spent on hotel accommodations when purchased directly with the hotel.
Every calendar year you make purchases of $30,000 on your Aer Lingus Visa Signature Card, you’ll receive a Commercial Companion Ticket good for 12 months
You and any authorized users on your account are eligible for Priority Boarding on Aer Lingus flights departing from and returning to the US from Ireland, subject to availability.
Pay no foreign transaction fees when you travel abroad.
Simply tap to pay with your contactless Aer Lingus Visa Signature Card. Just look for the contactless symbol at checkout. It’s fast, easy and secure!
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 21.49% - 28.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

In addition to the Companion Ticket and the benefits above, the card also offers travel coverage (baggage delay insurance and lost luggage insurance).

British Airways

British Airways Visa Signature^® Card

How To Earn the Companion Certificate

The British Airways Travel Together Ticket is a fan favorite and requires you to spend $30,000 on the card in a calendar year in order to earn it.

Once you’ve done so, the Travel Together Ticket allows you to bring your companion on your flight when you make an Avios award booking — you just need to pay the carrier taxes and fees.

Companion Certificate Rules

When it comes to the BA Travel Together Ticket, here are the rules you need to know:

The ticket will be in the form of a voucher that can be redeemed by a cardmember for a ticket in the same cabin that the primary cardholder has purchased with their Avios — including first class.
You’re eligible for only 1 Companion Ticket each calendar year.
After meeting the $30,000 spend threshold, an e-voucher of the Companion Ticket will automatically be to your British Airways Executive Club account 4 to 6 weeks later.
The Companion Ticket is valid for 2 years of the date of issue.
While the primary ticket must be booked using your Avios, you will still be responsible for the taxes and fees on both tickets.
The primary cardmember must fly with the companion.
All travel must originate in and return to the U.S.
The Companion Ticket can only be used on flights that are operated by British Airways.

Other Card Benefits

LIMITED TIME OFFER!

British Airways Visa Signature^® Card

U.P. Rating

This card is great for British Airways frequent flyers, and traveling couples will find great value in the Travel Together Ticket.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

British Airways Visa Signature^® Card

This card is great for British Airways frequent flyers, and traveling couples will find great value in the Travel Together Ticket.

Welcome OfferLimited time offer! Earn 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening. Plus, 5x Avios on up to $10k in gas, grocery stores, and dining purchases for first 12 months!
75,000 Avios

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$937

Annual Fee

$95

APR

21.49%-28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

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

Limited time offer! Earn 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening. Plus, 5x Avios on up to $10k in gas, grocery stores, and dining purchases for first 12 months!
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.
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!
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 21.49%-28.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

Rewards Center

British Airways Executive Club

Aside from the Travel Together Ticket and the above-mentioned benefits, the British Airways Visa card offers some solid card perks:

Get a $100 credit for economy and premium economy tickets and a $200 credit for business and first class tickets up to 3 times per year (maximum of $600) when you book an award flight to London with British Airways and pay the taxes and fees with your card
Travel coverage (baggage delay insurance and lost luggage insurance)

Iberia

Iberia Visa Signature^® Card

How To Earn the Companion Certificate

While it doesn’t offer a proper companion certificate, the Iberia Visa Signature card does offer a discount voucher of $1,000 to use toward 2 tickets on the same flight when you spend $30,000 on your card in a calendar year.

Of course, depending on how you might use another companion certificate, you might just find that you’d get more value out of the $1,000 voucher.

Companion Certificate Rules

Since you receive what is effectively a cash voucher, and not a certificate, fortunately, there are fewer rules that you have to abide by when it comes to its use.

The discount voucher will be in the form of a code that can be applied by the cardmember for a discount of $1,000 when purchasing 2 tickets, for the same flights in the same class of travel, which can be redeemed online at iberia.com/Chase10.
The voucher is valid for 12 months from the date of issue.
The voucher may only be used for flights that are operated by Iberia.
Each voucher can only be used once, and no residual value will roll over if you don’t use all $1,000 when booking your flights.
The primary cardmember must fly with the companion.
The voucher can only be used on flights that are operated by Iberia.

Other Card Benefits

LIMITED TIME OFFER!

Iberia Visa Signature^® Card

U.P. Rating

The Iberia Visa Signature card is a great option for those who travel often with Iberia and its Avios partner airlines.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Iberia Visa Signature^® Card

The Iberia Visa Signature card is a great option for those who travel often with Iberia and its Avios partner airlines.

Welcome OfferLimited time offer! Earn 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening. Plus, 5x Avios on up to $10k in gas, grocery stores, and dining purchases for first 12 months.
75,000 Avios

UP's Bonus Valuation*:
$937

Annual Fee

$95

APR

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Good to Excellent (670-850)

The Iberia Visa Signature^® Card can be a great option for those who are frequent flyers of the Spanish flag carrier thanks to its combination of benefits and discounts on flight tickets. Plus, your rewards can be redeemed with any of the family of Avios partners including Aer Lingus, British Airways, and Qatar Airways.

Pros

3x Avios per $1 on Iberia, British Airways, Aer Lingus, and LEVEL flight purchases
2x Avios per $1 on hotel accommodations booked directly with the hotel
1x Avios per $1 on all other purchases
10% discount on Iberia tickets on qualifying flights
$1,000 airfare discount voucher each year you make purchases of $30,000 on your card
No foreign transaction fees
Travel and purchase coverage

Cons

$95 annual fee
Doesn’t earn transferable rewards

Limited time offer! Earn 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening. Plus, 5x Avios on up to $10k in gas, grocery stores, and dining purchases for first 12 months.
Earn 3 Avios per $1 spent on purchases with Iberia, British Airways, Aer Lingus, and LEVEL.
Earn 2 Avios per $1 spent on hotel accommodations when purchased directly with the hotel. 5x Avios on up to $10k in gas, grocery and dining purchases for your first 12 months.
Save 10% on Iberia flights purchased on iberia.com/Chase10
Earn a discount voucher of $1,000 to use toward two tickets on the same flight for each calendar year you make purchases of $30,000 on your card
Pay no foreign transaction fees when you travel abroad.
Simply tap to pay with your contactless Iberia Visa Signature Card. Just look for the contactless symbol at checkout. It’s fast, easy and secure!
Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

APR: 21.49% - 28.49% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Card Categories

The Iberia Visa Signature card also includes travel coverage (baggage delay insurance and lost luggage insurance).

Lufthansa

Miles & More^® World Elite Mastercard^®

How To Earn the Companion Certificate

With the Lufthansa Miles & More card, you’ll receive a companion certificate good for 1 round-trip economy ticket each year that you renew your card and pay the annual fee.

Companion Certificate Rules

Reservations must be made by calling the Miles & More companion ticket service at 866-461-5399.
All taxes and fees must be paid for both the revenue ticket and the companion ticket.
The paid economy class ticket must be for travel departing from the U.S. to Europe/Middle East/Africa and the Far East.
Your ticket must be booked in either H, M, Y, or B class of service.
The certificate is only valid on Lufthansa-operated flights.
The primary cardmember must fly with the companion.
Your certificate is valid for 12 months from its issue date.

Other Card Benefits

The other perks of the Lufthansa Miles & More card include:

2x miles per $1 on Miles & More partners (Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, SWISS, and more) and 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
Receive 2 complimentary Lufthansa business lounge vouchers after each account anniversary
Convert Miles & More award miles into status miles at a ratio of 5:1 to help you achieve status faster
15% off Hotels & Cars by Points booking made at milesandmore.points.com

Virgin Atlantic

The Booth A350 — Silver Tier and Gold Tier Flying Club members can book their Companion Fare in Upper Class and access The Booth on Virgin Atlantic’s newest A350s. Image Credit: Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic World Elite Mastercard^®

How To Earn the Companion Certificate

In order to earn the companion certificate with the Virgin Atlantic World Elite card, you’ll need to spend $25,000 on the card in your cardmember year.

Companion Certificate Rules

The companion certificate on the Virgin Atlantic World Elite card is unique in that the level of value you can get from it is tied to your Flying Club elite status within the program at the time of booking.

Red Tier members may book a primary ticket in Economy Classic or Premium and receive 1 matching Economy Classic or Premium Companion Fare ticket. Red Tier members can also book a Companion Fare into Upper Class at a 50% points discount. However, those who are Silver Tier or Gold Tier can book a matching Companion Fare into any cabin class.

The other terms you’ll want to know prior to booking are:

You’ll still be responsible for any applicable taxes, fees, charges, and carrier-imposed surcharges for the Companion Fare.
Both travelers must be on the same flights and travel itinerary.
Flights and routes are subject to availability.
Your ticket must be purchased directly through Virgin Atlantic.
Your companion certificate must be used within 2 years of its issue date.

Other Card Benefits

Cardholders of the Virgin Atlantic World Elite card also enjoy these benefits:

3x points per $1 on Virgin Atlantic purchases, and 1.5x points per $1 on all other purchases
25 tier points towards Virgin Atlantic status per $2,500 in purchases (maximum 50 per month)
7,5000 bonus points each year that you spend $15,000 on your card, and a further 7,500 bonus points after you spend $25,000

Final Thoughts

Overall, deciding which companion certificate might be best for you will largely come down to your travel goals, the level of spending you can put on a given card, and what other card benefits you’re looking for.

As you can see, while they can vary quite a bit from card to card, companion certificates can be very valuable. Not only do they enhance the overall value of your airline credit card, but they also make for a very compelling option for traveling couples.

Regarding the Trip Delay Insurance and Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance of the Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card and Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Regarding the Baggage Insurance Plan of the Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card and Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
The information regarding the Virgin Atlantic World Elite Mastercard^® 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.

For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum American Express Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles^® Platinum Business American Express Card, click here.
For rates and fees of Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card, click here.
For rates and fees for the Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card, click here.

Featured Image Credit: rh2010 via Adobe Stock

Frequently Asked Questions

Which airline are companion certificates are easiest to earn?

The airline companion certificates that are easiest to earn are ones that are offered as an automatic card benefit and don’t require a certain number of spend to earn it, such as those offered on the Alaska Airlines cards, Delta Air Lines cards, Hawaiian Air Lines cards, and the Lufthansa card.

Which airline companion certificate is the best?

It really comes down to what your travel goals are. Once you’ve decided those, you can narrow down a card that offers a certificate that will help you meet that goal.

With that said, if you primarily do domestic travel, or to the Caribbean and Latin America, then the Southwest Companion Pass might be tough to beat since it can be used an unlimited number of times on these flights until its expiration date.

Is it worth spending $20,000 to $30,000 on a card just for a companion certificate?

It depends! If you have a specific use in mind, and you know that use will far exceed the value you could get from putting that spend elsewhere, then it very well might be worth it to you!

Considering that the opportunity cost of putting $30,000 in spend on a 2% cash-back card is $600. Would it be worth it to put that spend on the British Airways Visa card to earn the Travel Together Ticket (plus 30,000 Avios)? Well, that is up to you!

Some would certainly prefer the cash, while others would jump at the opportunity of being able to get 2-for-1 business or first class tickets for pennies on the dollar.

Do airline companion certificates have blackout dates?

Some can, so you’ll want to check the specific rules and guidelines for that program regarding using your certificate. They also might have guidelines on what type of fare class you need to book in to be eligible to use your certificate.

Do companion certificates expire?

Yes, your companion certificate will usually expire anywhere from 1 to 2 years from the date it was issued to you.

Are companion certificates transferable?

No, in almost all circumstances you cannot transfer a companion certificate to someone else. Further, you generally must be one of the passengers on the itinerary in order for the certificate to be used.

Was this page helpful?

About Jarrod West

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.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE^™

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

The Complete Guide to Airline Companion Pass Certificates [2024]

What Are Companion Certificates?

U.S. Airlines With Credit Cards That Offer Companion Certificates

Alaska Airlines

Pros

Cons

Financial Snapshot

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Alaska Airlines Visa® Business Credit Card

American Airlines

AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®

AAdvantage® Aviator® Silver Mastercard®

Delta Air Lines

Pros

Cons

Financial Snapshot

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Pros

Cons

Financial Snapshot

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Pros

Cons

Financial Snapshot

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Pros

Cons

Financial Snapshot

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines® World Elite Mastercard®

Hawaiian Airlines® Business Mastercard®

Southwest Airlines

Pros

Cons

Financial Snapshot

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Pros

Cons

Financial Snapshot

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Pros

Cons

Financial Snapshot

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Pros

Cons

Financial Snapshot

Card Categories

Pros

Cons

Financial Snapshot

Card Categories

International Airlines With Credit Cards That Offer Companion Certificates

Aer Lingus

Financial Snapshot

Card Categories

British Airways

Pros

Cons

Financial Snapshot

Card Categories

Rewards Center

Iberia

Pros

Cons

Financial Snapshot

Card Categories

Lufthansa

Miles & More® World Elite Mastercard®

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic World Elite Mastercard®

Alaska Airlines Visa^® Business Credit Card

AAdvantage^® Aviator^® Red World Elite Mastercard^®

AAdvantage^® Aviator^® Silver Mastercard^®

Hawaiian Airlines^® World Elite Mastercard^®

Hawaiian Airlines^® Business Mastercard^®

Miles & More^® World Elite Mastercard^®

Virgin Atlantic World Elite Mastercard^®