Airline credit cards offer perks like free checked bags or airport lounge access while also making it easier to rack up points or miles and save money on flights. We analyzed 148 co-branded airline cards based on miles value, rewards rate, and other benefits to find the best cards for each major airline. Here are the best offers from our partners.
Airline credit cards offer perks like free checked bags or airport lounge access while also making it easier to rack up points or miles and save money on flights. We analyzed 148 co-branded airline cards based on miles value, rewards rate, and other benefits to find the best cards for each major airline. Here are the best offers from our partners.
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Earn unlimited 1.5x Miles for every dollar spent on all purchases - with no annual fee.
At A Glance
Intro Bonus
Discover Match®
Unlimited Bonus: Only Discover will automatically match all the Miles you've earned at the end of your first year. For example, if you earn 35,000 Miles, you get 70,000 Miles. There's no signing up, no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a Miles-for-Miles match.
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for each $1 spent at grocery stores, including grocery delivery services
2X
Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases
1X
Earn 1 AAdvantage® mile for every $1 spent on other purchases
At A Glance
Intro Bonus
10,000 miles
Earn 10,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles and receive a $50 statement credit after making $500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Earn 10x points on eligible purchases on your new Card at U.S. Gas Stations and U.S. Supermarkets, on up to $15,000 in combined purchases, during your first 6 months of Card Membership. That’s an additional 9 points on top of the 1 point you earn for these purchases.
5X
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel. Starting January 1, 2021, earn 5X points on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
5X
5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com.
At A Glance
Intro Bonus
75,000 points
Earn 75,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $5,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Annual Fee
$550
Regular APR
See Pay Over Time APR
You may earn up to a 125,000-point intro bonus offer if you use our CardMatch tool.
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Earn 5 points per $1 spent on Southwest® purchases. Earn between 12/1/2020 and 3/31/2021 on up to $2,000 spent per month.
2X
Earn 2 points per $1 spent on all other Southwest® purchases.
1X
1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
At A Glance
Intro Bonus
Up to 80,000 points
Earn up to 80,000 points. Earn 50,000 points after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months. Earn an additional 30,000 points after you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 9 months.
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire.
At A Glance
Intro Bonus
25,000 points
25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
Annual Fee
$0
Regular APR
14.99% - 22.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
CreditCards.com credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Earn 5 points per $1 spent on Southwest® purchases. Earn between 12/1/2020 and 3/31/2021 on up to $2,000 spent per month.
2X
Earn 2 points per $1 spent on all other Southwest® purchases.
1X
1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
At A Glance
Intro Bonus
Up to 80,000 points
Earn up to 80,000 points. Earn 50,000 points after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months. Earn an additional 30,000 points after you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 9 months.
Editorial disclosure: All reviews are prepared by CreditCards.com staff. Opinions expressed therein are solely those of the reviewer and have not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. The information, including card rates and fees, presented in the review is accurate as of the date of the review. Check the data at the top of this page and the bank's website for the most current information.
All information about the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card has been collected independently by CreditCards.com and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
Comparing the best airline credit card offers
Airline credit cards reward you for loyalty to a specific airline, and they can be more than worth your while. Earn rewards for airfare and in-flight purchases, and enjoy benefits such as free checked-in baggage.
It’s an unsettled world in terms of travel this fall, but card issuers are offering alternative categories and features to get your attention, as well as sign-up bonus extensions. Also, with travel picking up for some, there are ways to benefit from an airline card that rewards you for loyalty. We’ve compiled a list of the best airline credit cards for your needs, and this guide will walk you through how to select the right one for you.
Why it’s the best airline credit card for first year bonus
This is about as close as you can get to making your own bonus: Not only will you earn unlimited 1.5X miles on every purchase, Discover will match all the miles earned in your first year – no need to shell out thousands in the first few months just to score a big sign-up bonus. Even better, the card charges no annual fee.
Card overview
This card offers great flexibility in how you can redeem miles. In addition to airfare, you can opt for cash back, book hotel rooms and rental cars or pay for taxis and public transportation, all without sacrificing rewards value. You also get a 0% intro APR for 14 months on new purchases (11.99% – 22.99% variable thereafter), making it a solid choice for paying off large expenses over time. Unfortunately, though, you can’t transfer miles to a frequent flyer program.
Best airline perk
It’s not exactly an airline perk, but the card’s lack of a foreign transaction fee should come in handy if you plan to travel abroad. Many cards charge a foreign transaction fee of at least 3% per purchase made overseas. Discover card international acceptance can be limited, however, so be sure to check if your card will be accepted where you’re traveling.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Why it’s the best airline credit card for airline transfer partners
The card recently added JetBlue to its already long list of international airline transfer partners, which has broadened its appeal considerably for domestic travel.
Card overview
This card offers unlimited 2X miles on every purchase and a sign-up bonus of 60,000 miles if you spend $3,000 in your first 3 months (miles are currently valued at 1.4 cents per mile*). That means you can earn rewards on everyday purchases that you can use later in the year. Keep in mind, though, that Capital One’s airline transfer partners largely consist of international airlines rather than major U.S.-based carriers.
Best airline perk
While it’s not tied to a specific airline, the card could help you breeze through airport security thanks to its credit of up to $100 toward the cost of Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, a perk usually reserved for luxury travel cards.
American Airlines AAdvantage MileUp℠ Card
Why it’s the best airline credit card for American Airlines
The AAdvantage MileUp Card lacks some of the perks you’ll get with other American Airlines cards, but since it charges no annual fee and offers everyday value via its 2X rewards rate at grocery stores and on eligible American Airlines purchases, it’s a great place to start.
Card overview
This card’s sign-up bonus of 10,000 American Airlines AAdvantage miles and a $50 statement credit can be yours with just $500 in spend in the first 3 months. Plus, American Airlines offers one of the largest travel networks in the world, and AAdvantage miles (valued at 1.4 cents*) can be transferred to dozens of airline, hotel and car rental partners. That said, redeeming AAdvantage miles can be complicated.
Best airline perk
You’ll get a 25% discount on food and beverage purchases on American Airlines flights, which will come in handy when travel opportunities pick up again. Unfortunately, this doesn’t cover other in-flight purchases like Wi-Fi.
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card
Why it’s the best airline credit card for flat-rate travel rewards
Cardholders earn 1.25 miles per dollar on every purchase, every day. If you’re willing to put most of your spending on this card, you’ll see a steady stream of miles accrue.
Card overview
If you want to do some rewards-funded traveling, you’ve got a lot of options on the credit card market. But if you want to earn travel rewards for all of your purchases, not just travel purchases, your options are fewer. Earning a flat, 1.25 miles per dollar spent is a great deal, especially when you’re not paying an annual fee.
Best airline perk
One feature you shouldn’t overlook is the ease of redemption. The fact that there are no blackout dates, expiration dates, mile limits or minimum redemption thresholds makes this card an easy choice for those who value flexibility. Even better, you can transfer your miles to 10+ travel partners.
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Why it’s the best airline credit card for luxury travel benefits
Aside from the ongoing rewards, there are tons of additional perks and benefits for cardholders. Those who value comfort when traveling will appreciate the annual credits: up to $200 for Uber and up to $100 in hotel credits with the Hotel Collection. Plus, cardholders get a $100 credit for Global Entry or $85 for TSA PreCheck® every four years.
Card overview
With The Platinum Card, you’ll earn 5X points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel, or hotels booked with amextravel.com. Starting January 1, 2021, earn 5X points on up to $500,000 spent on these purchases per calendar year. With rewards rates like these, you shouldn’t have a problem making up the value of the $550 annual fee if you travel very often and will use the credits. This introductory bonus makes this especially easy in your first year, offering 75,000 points to those who spend $5,000 in the first six months.
Best airline perk
One of the most coveted features of this card is access to the American Express Global Lounge collection, which includes the lavish Centurion Lounges, which provide amenities like spa services and high-speed Wi-Fi.
United Gateway℠ Card
Why it’s the best airline credit card for grocery and gas
Cardholders earn 3 miles per dollar at grocery stores (on up to $1,500 in spending per month, through 9/30/2021), as well as 2 points per dollar at gas stations and on local transit and commuting.
Card overview
If you’re in the market for a United credit card, you can find a higher ongoing rewards rate among other cards. However, this is a good choice for those who only travel occasionally and want to avoid paying an annual fee. In addition, the sign-up bonus is decent and easy enough to attain: 10,000 bonus miles if you spend $1,000 in the first 3 months.
Best airline perk
There’s no limit to the number of miles you can earn. Plus, there are no blackout dates or fuel surcharges.
United℠ Explorer Card
Why it’s the best airline credit card for United Airlines
With the United Explorer Card, you can earn 40,000 bonus miles if you spend $2,000 in the first 3 months.
Card overview
Here is an airline card that you might think about getting: The United Explorer Card is more versatile than some airline cards, since you’ll not only earn 2X miles on tickets purchased directly with United, but also on hotel and restaurant purchases (miles are valued at 1.3 cents*). The card also comes with a credit of up to $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, which, if you fly frequently, should help lessen the blow of the card’s $95 annual fee (waived the first year).
Best airline perk
You get 2 one-time passes to the United Club lounge each year on your cardholder anniversary, allowing you to escape the chaos of the airport and enjoy free food and drinks, complimentary Wi-Fi and comfortable workspaces.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
Why it’s the best airline credit card for Southwest Airlines
It offers the same sign-up bonus as the Rapid Rewards Premier and Priority cards – 50,000 points after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months and an additional 30,000 points after you spend $10,000 in the first 9 months – while charging a lower annual fee of $69.
Card overview
Like the other Southwest cards, this is a great card to consider as travel opportunities return: Along with the 2X points you’ll earn on Southwest purchases and Rapid Rewards partner hotel and car rental purchases, this card offers 3,000 bonus points each year after your account anniversary (points are valued at 1.5 cents*). For a limited time you can earn 5X points on all Southwest purchases on up to $2,000 spent per month (ends 3/31/21).
Best airline perk
Earn 125,000 points or buy 100 qualifying one-way tickets and you’ll be eligible for a Companion Pass, which allows you to have a companion fly for free (plus taxes and fees) for up to 2 years on every Southwest flight you buy with points or cash.
Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card
Why it’s the best airline credit card for low APR
The ongoing APR is 14.99%-22.99% variable, which is competitive for a travel rewards card.
Card overview
With this card, travel rewards don’t have to be complicated. You earn a flat, unlimited 1.5 points per dollar on every purchase. Then, when it’s time to redeem your points, you won’t have to deal with restrictive policies that take away from the value. There are no blackout dates, points don’t expire, and you can redeem your points for any travel or dining purchase.
Best airline perk
You can redeem your points for a statement credit to cover any travel or dining purchase made within the last 12 months.
American Express® Gold Card
Why it’s the best airline credit card for dining rewards
Many travel credit cards offer rewards on dining, but the rate of 4 points per dollar offered by the American Express Gold Card is truly valuable for frequent restaurant-goers.
Card overview
Cardholders also earn four points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar), so you don’t miss out by eating at home. Also, flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com earn 3 points per dollar spent, which is also pretty great. The introductory bonus is worthy of some attention, too: 60,000 points if you spend $4,000 in the first six months.
Best airline perk
If you’re traveling more than 100 miles from home, the Global Assist® Hotline is available for 24/7 medical, legal, financial and other select emergency assistance and coordination services. So if you’re in a pinch and need medical or legal referrals, cash wires or missing luggage assistance, you get expert help for free.
Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card
Why it’s the best airline credit card for no annual fee
It’s a great fit if you want to earn rewards without breaking the bank. The card not only charges no annual fee – a rarity among airline cards – but also comes with a 10,000-mile welcome offer after you spend just $500 in the first 3 months.
Card overview
While it can’t compete with the value and travel perks offered by the Gold Delta SkyMiles card, the Delta SkyMiles Blue card still gets you 2X miles at restaurants worldwide, which can be helpful as you ease back into the wide world. Also, earn 2X miles on purchases made directly with Delta. SkyMiles are valued at 1.2 cents*.
Best airline perk
You’ll get 20% back in the form of a statement credit on eligible in-flight purchases of food, beverages and audio headsets on Delta flights.
Citi Premier® Card
Why it’s the best airline credit card for everyday purchases
Like any good travel card, the Citi Premier® Card offers rewards on flights and hotels. What makes this card special is the opportunity to earn points at a boosted rate for your everyday purchases, too: Earn 3X points on restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, air travel and hotels.
Card overview
Because of the unlimited rewards in several everyday purchase categories, this is a great card for long-term value. But you won’t have to wait long to reap your rewards– New cardholders can earn 60,000 ThankYou® points after spending $4,000 in the first three months.
Best airline perk
If you redeem your points for air travel through the ThankYou Travel Center, you get a 25% boost in value (valid through 4/10/21). Plus, there are no blackout dates, point limits or expiration dates.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
Why it’s the best airline credit card for annual travel credit
The card’s annual 7,500-point anniversary bonus is the largest offered by a Southwest Rapid Rewards consumer card. Plus, you can apply the $75 credit you get each year toward airfare. This is a huge perk, as most travel credits only count toward incidentals.
Card overview
While it shares the Rapid Rewards Plus card’s sign-up bonus and rewards rate, the Rapid Rewards Priority card’s annual bonus, travel credit and other perks should make up for its higher annual fee of $149. Also, already a strong domestic carrier, Southwest is increasingly adding flights abroad.
Best airline perk
Along with its annual credit and a chance to earn the coveted Southwest Companion Pass, the card gets you 4 upgraded boardings per year and a 20% discount on in-flight purchases, including drinks, Wi-Fi, messaging and movies.
Summary of the Best Airline Miles Credit Cards of 2021
Credit Card
Best For
Annual Fee
Intro Bonus
Required Spend For Intro Bonus
Discover it® Miles
First year bonus
$0
Matches the miles you earned at the end of the first year
N/A
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Airline transfer partners
$95
60,000 miles
$3,000 in the first 3 months
American Airlines AAdvantage MileUpSM Card
American Airlines
$0
10,000 AAdvantage® miles and a $50 statement credit
$500 in first 3 months
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card
Flat-rate travel rewards
$0
20,000 miles
$500 in the first 3 months
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Luxury travel benefits
$550
75,000 points
$5,000 in first 6 months
United GatewaySM
Grocery and gas
$0
10,000 bonus miles
$1,000 in first 3 months
UnitedSM Explorer Card
United and Global Entry/TSA PreCheck application credit
$95, waived first year
40,000 miles
$2,000 in the first 3 months
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
Southwest and overall value
$69
50,000 points
$2,000 in first 3 months
Plus earn an additional 30,000 points if you spend $10,000 in the first 9 months
Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card
Low APR
$0
25,000 points
$1,000 in the first 90 days
American Express® Gold Card
Dining rewards
$250
60,000 miles
$4,000 in the first 6 months
Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card
No annual fee
$0
10,000 miles
$500 in the first 3 months
Citi Premier® Card
Everyday purchases
$95
60,000 points
$4,000 in the first 3 months
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
Annual travel credits
$149
50,000 points
$2,000 in first 3 months
Plus earn an additional 30,000 points if you spend $10,000 in the first 9 months
Criteria used: Rewards rates, rewards categories, airline alliance partners, other transfer partners, sign-up bonus, point values, redemption options, redemption flexibility, elite status, annual fee, travel credits, airport lounge access, miscellaneous travel benefits, rates and fees, customer service, credit needed, upgrade and downgrade options
Multiple criteria influenced how we picked the best card for each airline. We recognize that the best things any airline card can do for you are to help you save on airfare with free flights and make the airport/flying experience more tolerable (and, with the right perks, even enjoyable). For a full list of criteria and more detail on our review scores, see our ratings process for airline cards.
What are airline credit cards and how do they work?
Airline credit cards are typically products that align with airlines to bring you rewards specific to that brand, although there has been a movement in the last year to offer boosted general rewards as well, which you’ll want to consider for the time being. Called co-branded cards, these products reward you for loyalty to that brand through in-flight purchases and tickets, as well as brand-specific benefits.
Keep in mind that you’ll want to pick a card partnering with an airline you’ll actually use, or there’s no point in earning all those miles. For example, American Airlines has a hub in Charlotte, while United has a hub in Houston, and Delta is based out of Atlanta. Where you live and go should factor into your decision.
In addition to co-branded cards, there are credit cards that solely present the bank brand but still partner with airlines for redeeming points or miles, such as Venture Rewards and Sapphire Preferred.
“Airline cards are especially valuable when you’re loyal to a particular carrier,” says Ted Rossman, CreditCards.com’s industry analyst. “The miles you earn through a sign-up bonus and your ongoing spending can quickly earn you a free trip. Plus, airline cards often offer additional perks such as free checked bags and priority boarding. Many of them charge annual fees, but they can be recouped quickly. For example, a $95 annual fee equals roughly three checked bags. A family could come out ahead after just one flight.”
Is an airline credit card right for you?
There are a few points that make an airline credit card a good option for you, and there are times when it’s not the best card for a consumer. Here are 5 things to look at.
You plan to regularly fly with the same airline – If you live near a hub of the airline partnering with the card you are eyeing, that might be a good card for you. Also, if you find yourself often turning to a specific airline for your travel needs, this card might be the right choice.
You will use the card’s perks – You’ll want to look at the travel features beyond just the miles offered. TSA PreCheck, free first checked bags, lounge access, cancellation insurance: These are a few of the features strong airline cards may offer.
The perks outweigh the annual fee – There’s often an annual fee with airline cards, so you’ll need to assess whether the rewards and the perks make the card worthwhile once the annual fee has been charged.
You can pay the full balance each month – If you get any type of rewards card, airline cards included, it’s important to make sure you can pay your balance in full each month, because otherwise, the point, miles or cash back are basically wasted. But keep in mind that if you are struggling right now due to COVID-19, many issuers are offering relief.
Is an airline credit card worth it?
Simply put, yes. Organized budgets and travel-happy cardholders will find airline credit cards pack plenty of value into their rewards programs, enough so to override the annual fee. That being said, other rewards cards such as general travel cards and cash back options have their own way of earning that may better suit your lifestyle.
General travel rewards cards require less loyalty than their airline counterparts, allowing cardholders to earn points or miles on everyday spending (or in select categories). Points and miles can be redeemed for vacation purchases, such as hotel stays, flights or cruises, but also can be used for gift cards and other premium offers that an airline card might not provide. The added flexibility might be attractive to those who don’t want to tie themselves too tightly to one airline, but are still looking to have their travel rewarded.
Cash back cards are typically the simplest of any rewards card: Spending in a fitting category will get you rewarded with a percentage of money back every time you swipe. Some cash back cards award for travel expenses, but these are traditionally more useful for widespread earning or to help you earn in other categories. For example, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express gives 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 annually, then it’s 1%) and select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and on transit expenses, and 1% cash back on all other purchases. And cardholders don’t need to worry about redemption options; no matter the category you earn in, your rewards come in cash or a cash statement.
Card comparison: Airline vs. travel vs. cash back
Before figuring out the right type of rewards card for you, take a look at the general advantages and disadvantages of each:
Airline credit cards
Pros:
Best value for redeeming flights
In-flight discounts
Airport perks (lounge access, TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, etc.)
Introductory offers/sign-up bonuses allow for expedited earning
Flexibility when redeeming points
Sometimes still feature travel perks (Airport lounge access, free checked bag, etc.)
Cons:
Most require a high credit score
Most valuable options feature hefty annual fees
Cash back credit cards
Pros:
Easy-to-track earnings. No need to keep watch on accumulating points/miles
Many feature no annual fee
Heightened rewards outside of travel purchases
Straightforward rewards value
Intro 0% APR offers and sign-up bonuses
Cons:
Limited total value compared to airline or travel rewards
High regular APRs
Possible potential caps on how much you can earn in a quarter/year
More lucrative cards require attention (rotating categories, quarterly enrollment, etc.)
The bottom line
While all options provide ways for cardholders to get rewarded for spending, making the best choice for you depends on your lifestyle and finances.
Those with a longstanding loyalty to an airline or an opportunity provided by proximity to an airline’s hub would find the most benefit out of airline cards. Although they’re limited in where they create value, there’s no better way to save for committed, consistent flyers. Frequent flyers who appreciate flexibility and want the freedom to book with multiple providers will want to look to a travel rewards card. Even once-in-a-while vacationers can benefit from a travel card; a variety of redemption options and earning outside of travel expenses make for well-rounded rewards.
Cash back cards are the best fit for those looking to earn across all purchases or those looking for simplicity in their rewards. While the easy-to-understand rewards make these a common choice for those early in their credit-building journey, the most valuable cash back cards with specialized categories can provide ways for you to earn extra at the grocery store, your favorite restaurant or streaming at home. They may not get you on a flight for less, but savvy strategizing with cash back cards can provide some serious value.
How to compare 2 different airline cards
With all those great choices, picking the right airline card can seem overwhelming. Well, we do the heavy lifting to help you make the right decision. Here are the factors you should consider when choosing between 2 airline credit cards. As an example, we’ll compare the AAdvantage MileUp card and the United Explorer card as we go.
Sign-up bonus
Consider which card’s sign up bonus is more lucrative and attainable. While the United Explorer card offers a larger bonus, it requires a larger amount of spending. The MileUp card, on the other hand, offers a smaller bonus, but only requires you to spend $500 in the first 3 months.
If two cards have the same required spend, the one with the higher bonus might be favorable, but you’ll also need to check point valuations, as one airline’s points or miles might be worth more than the other’s. In the case of the MileUp card versus the United Explorer, it’s close: AAdvantage miles are valued at 1.4 cents* while United MileagePlus miles are valued at 1.3 cents*.
Ongoing rewards
Some airline credit cards offer rewards outside of the realm of airline royalty, making them competitive with general-purpose travel cards. However, you’ll want to be sure a card’s bonus categories line up with your spending habits.
The United Explorer card, for example, offers 2X miles on hotel and restaurant purchases while the MileUp card offers a 2X rewards rate on grocery store purchases. If you plan to eat takeout often or plan to stay in hotels down the road, the United Explorer card is the obvious choice, but if you’re more of a home cook, you may get more long-term value out of the MileUp card, even though its sign-up bonus pales in comparison to that of the United Explorer.
Benefits
Airline cards can offer a number of useful perks that reduce the stress of flying, and if you make use of them they can really help justify a card’s higher annual fee. If you don’t do a ton of traveling, though, they may not be worth it. Ask yourself if you’ll make use of perks like airport lounge access and discounted in-flight purchases; if all you really care about is discounted airfare, you can likely save money with a lower annual fee card.
The United Explorer card, for example, charges a $95 fee annual fee (waived the first year), but gets you perks like lounge access, a free first checked bag, priority boarding and a credit of up to $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. In stark contrast, the no-annual-fee MileUp card’s best offering is a 25% discount on food and beverage purchases on American Airlines flights.
Annual Fee
Depending on the benefits a card offers and whether you’ll make use of them, it may be worth paying an annual fee. To decide, consider the net cost of the card along with the added value of the credits, benefits and rewards you receive. Keep in mind, too, that many airline cards, including the United Explorer card, offer to waive the fee for the first year. Others, such as the MileUp card, have no annual fee at all.
With no sign-up bonus in play in the second year, things level off considerably, so your choice will come down to your spending habits and the value you place on travel perks and other card benefits.
Card Value Comparison: Year 1
Note: Bonus category earnings in the tables below are based on average monthly household spending+. Total earned assumes rewards are redeemed for travel.
Card
Sign-up bonus
Bonus category spending
Other spending
Annual fee
Total earned at end of first year
United Explorer
40k miles (with $2k spend in 3 months)*1.3 cents=$520
2X*$288 (dining)*12 months=$90
1X*$500*12 months=$78
$95 (waived first year)
$688
AAdvantage MileUp
10k miles (with $500 spend in 3 months)*1.4 cents=$140
It may seem straightforward – spend on your card, get miles, redeem, rinse and repeat. But there’s more to it than you’d think. You’ll want to time your purchases, time which card you use, and more.
Time your purchases
This is a big one. You’ll want to make sure, for example, that you spend the required amount before the sign-up bonus deadline hits. Typically, you have 3 months to spend a set amount in order to receive the sign-up bonus. Also, you may consider making a big purchase (that you can pay back in full) before a planned trip to top off your points. For example, you might plan to earn miles that you can use once the situation with COVID-19 improves.
When do you get your miles?
Once you’ve earned your miles, you would think you would get them almost immediately, because you’ve met the requirements, but not necessarily so. For example, Chase says it will take 6-8 weeks before your sign-up bonus points are posted, but it can be less. That brings us back to making sure you time when you make your purchase, and ensuring that those miles will post before the big trip. Trying to earn miles to visit family in the next few months? Make sure you spend enough in time to get those rewards back in order to redeem them.
Choose what you redeem for carefully
Now that you’re on your way to earning points or miles, you may think the easy part is ahead. But not so fast.
Miles’ values vary not only between airlines but also between types of redemptions. For example, with the Delta SkyMiles, flights are valued at 1.2 cents, while upgrades are valued at an incredible 2.2 cents, while merchandise is only 0.4 cents. And programs such as AAdvantage allow you to redeem miles for everything from flights and upgrades to gift cards. But while the value of miles is strong for flight awards and upgrades (Business/First MileSAAver trades at a whopping 3.8 cents), that isn’t always the case for other redemptions.
Choose how often you redeem
You may be required to have a minimum before you can redeem, so check for that.
To maximize your redemption, you need a plan. And part of that plan is to redeem your miles as soon as you can while still reaching your goal. That’s because points can lose their value over time. For example, Qatar Airlines’ Qmiles were worth 1.1 cents in December 2017, according to our points valuation, and are now worth 0.8 cents. Also, the miles can even expire if you don’t pay attention to the rules.
Leverage your airline’s partners
Another note about paying attention to the rules: Played right, you can maximize the use of your miles. For example, British Airways is notorious for charging an incredibly high number of Avios (points) for redeeming seats in first and business class. Instead, you can check partners such as American Airlines to see if you can find a better deal.
You can do your own check to see how many miles you need from the airline’s website: Just look under the reservations page, and search for the section that mentions award flights. Most will offer a chart showing the regions to which they travel – usually broken down by continents – as well as a schedule showing how many miles it takes to get from one region to another.
Most popular airline rewards programs
Delta SkyMiles
While the SkyMiles program is forever moving the finish line with ever-changing point values and rules, there are no blackout dates and there are a number of redemption options.
The average point value is 1.2 cents, according to The Points Guy, and rewards don’t expire. There are more than 20 airline partners, so you can go pretty much anywhere in the world. It’s a good program for loyal Delta flyers and international travelers.
United MileagePlus
The United program award tickets are one-way, which actually opens up your options. You can have a different class each direction; or you can travel out with a Saver ticket when your plans are flexible, and with an Everyday ticket on the return with firmed up plans.
You can use miles to request upgrades to a premium cabin, which allows you to benefit from free alcoholic beverages, as well as priority check-in, security line access, boarding, and baggage handling.
Southwest Rapid Rewards
With this loyalty program of Southwest Airlines, flight options are primarily limited to domestic destinations, but the rewards are strong. This program is particularly great for families with loads of luggage. Booking is flexible and there aren’t a ton of hidden fees.
While there are no blackout dates and one-way trips are permitted, it’s not the largest of airlines, with only about 100 destinations, and only about 10 countries.
American Airlines AAdvantage
With about 350 destinations to more than 50 countries, American Airlines, with regional carrier American Eagle, is one of the largest airlines in the world, ideal for world travelers. The airline partners with OneWorld Alliance carriers as well as other partners.
While there’s the MileSAAver awards, which means you can book award flights at a low number of miles, there are downsides, such as some quirky rules and the need for flexibility when booking.
There is a feature called Reward Flight Savers, advertised as the best value reward flights, which is available on return flights in Europe and southern Africa. Like other loyalty programs, you can use Avios to upgrade, for a hotel stay or getting a rental car.
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
Flying to roughly a dozen countries, Virgin Atlantic is a 35-year-old British airline with a number of stops in the U.S. Flying Club, Virgin Atlantic’s loyalty program, offers dozens of partners, including Delta. You can redeem on Delta for as little at 20,000 miles for East Coast flights during the off-season.
Other partners include KLM, Air France and other international airlines, as well as hotels such as Hilton and IHG. The points valuation for this program is a generous 1.5 cents, according to TPG. You can also convert points into miles through some of the top card issuer programs, such as Citi ThankYou and Chase Ultimate Rewards.
Do airline miles expire?
When it comes to airline rewards, few things are more frustrating than seeing your hard-earned points and miles expire before you’ve had a chance to use them. Unfortunately, only a few airline rewards programs offer miles that never expire, with the vast majority requiring you to either earn or redeem miles within 1-2 years or risk forfeiting the miles in your account. In some cases, you can have expired miles restored to your account, but don’t be surprised if you’re asked to pay a reinstatement fee.
Here’s how airline point and mile expiration breaks down with some of the most popular airline rewards programs:
Airline / rewards program
Do miles expire?
How to keep miles from expiring
Alaska Airlines
Yes, after 24 months of no activity
Earn or redeem miles at least once every 24 months
American Airlines AAdvantage
Yes, after 18 months of no activity
Earn or redeem miles at least once every 18 months
British Airways / Avios
Yes, after 36 months of no activity
Earn or redeem Avios at least once every 36 months
Cathay Pacific / Asia Miles
Yes, after 36 months after earning
No way to keep from expiring
Delta
No
N/A
Etihad
Yes, after 24 months after earning
No way to keep from expiring
Air France / KLM (Flying Blue)
Yes, after 24 months of no activity
Earn or redeem miles at least once every 24 months
JetBlue
No
N/A
Qantas
Yes, after 18 months of no activity
Earn or redeem miles at least once every 18 months
Southwest Rapid Rewards
Yes, after 24 months with no earning activity
Earn points at least once every 24 months
United MileagePlus
No
N/A
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
Yes, after 36 months of no activity
Earn or redeem miles at least once every 36 months
Can you transfer miles between airlines?
A lot of people consider airline miles to be comparable to cash. However, airline miles are a little bit more like currency from different countries: Many places will not allow you to pay with money from another country.
Similarly, you can’t transfer points between frequent flyer programs in most cases, even if the airlines are partners. Partnerships such as OneWorld, Star Alliance, and SkyTeam typically allow you to earn miles when you fly on one airline, and redeem those miles you earn for flights on a carrier within the same network. However, most of those airlines won’t allow you to transfer miles directly from one carrier to another, because there is no financial benefit to them for doing so.
But there are some exceptions to the rule. British Airways and Iberia share the Avios frequent flyer program. So while your points in each program remain separate and distinct, you can transfer them freely between the two so long as both accounts are at least 3 months old.
Just because you can’t transfer points back and forth, however, doesn’t mean that you are stuck with a single carrier for life. Most airlines within the major alliances will allow you to use your mileage stash with that brand to book award flights on partner airlines.
For example, an American Airlines frequent flyer can use AAdvantage miles to book a flight on British Airways, and the cost of that ticket will be based on the American Airlines mileage award chart. So even though that traveler will physically fly on a British Airways flight, the passenger is subject to all of American’s ticketing rules; responsible for paying any change or redeposit fees to American; and must contact American – not British Airways – with any problems or issues that may arise before departure.
Related Travel and Rewards Card Categories:
If you’re interested in learning more about airline credit cards, check out our reviews section where we go into detail about our top picks and several others. Additionally, consider our top picks from the following categories to use on your air travel:
* All points and miles valuations have been provided by The Points Guy
Frequently Asked Questions
Airline credit cards are typically products that align with airlines to bring you rewards specific to that brand, although there has been a movement in the last year to offer boosted general rewards as well, which you’ll want to consider for the time being. Called co-branded cards, these products reward you for loyalty to that brand through in-flight purchases and tickets, as well as brand-specific benefits.
Keep in mind that you’ll want to pick a card partnering with an airline you’ll actually use, or there’s no point in earning all those miles. For example, American Airlines has a hub in Charlotte, while United has a hub in Houston, and Delta is based out of Atlanta. Where you live and go should factor into your decision.
There are a few points that make an airline credit card a good option for you, and there are times when it’s not the best card for a consumer. Here are 5 things to look at.
You plan to regularly fly with the same airline – If you live near a hub of the airline partnering with the card you are eyeing, that might be a good card for you. Also, if you find yourself often turning to a specific airline for your travel needs, this card might be the right choice.
You will use the card’s perks – You’ll want to look at the travel features beyond just the miles offered. TSA PreCheck, free first checked bags, lounge access, cancellation insurance: These are a few of the features strong airline cards may offer.
The perks outweigh the annual fee – There’s often an annual fee with airline cards, so you’ll need to assess whether the rewards and the perks make the card worthwhile once the annual fee has been charged.
You have the credit score for the card – Airline cards typically require good or excellent credit (a FICO score of at least 670). There’s no point in applying for a card if you don’t have the required credit score, because applying will temporarily impact your score even if you don’t get the card.
You can pay the full balance each month – If you get any type of rewards card, airline cards included, it’s important to make sure you can pay your balance in full each month, because otherwise, the point, miles or cash back are basically wasted.
When it comes to airline rewards, few things are more frustrating than seeing your hard-earned points and miles expire before you’ve had a chance to use them. Unfortunately, only a few airline rewards programs offer miles that never expire, with the vast majority requiring you to either earn or redeem miles within 1-2 years or risk forfeiting the miles in your account. In some cases, you can have expired miles restored to your account, but don’t be surprised if you’re asked to pay a reinstatement fee.
A lot of people consider airline miles to be comparable to cash. However, airline miles are a little bit more like currency from different countries: Many places will not allow you to pay with money from another country.
Similarly, you can’t transfer points between frequent flyer programs in most cases, even if the airlines are partners. Partnerships such as OneWorld, Star Alliance, and SkyTeam typically allow you to earn miles when you fly on one airline, and redeem those miles you earn for flights on a carrier within the same network. However, most of those airlines won’t allow you to transfer miles directly from one carrier to another, because there is no financial benefit to them for doing so.
But there are some exceptions to the rule. British Airways and Iberia share the Avios frequent flyer program. So while your points in each program remain separate and distinct, you can transfer them freely between the two so long as both accounts are at least 3 months old.
Typically a travel card requires good to excellent credit, and that includes airline and hotel credit cards. However, if you are opting toward road trips, there are gas cards that require fair credit, such as the Comdata Universal FleetCard MasterCard®. There are even rewards cards that accept bad credit, such as the Credit One Bank® Visa® Credit Card.
If you have your eye on an airline card, but don’t have the needed credit score, look into getting a card that’s more your speed and build your credit – it can take as little as a few months. You’ll find that such cards as the Southwest Rapid Rewards cards from Chase accept good credit, which starts with a 670 FICO Score.
About the Author
Laura Mohammad
CreditCards.com Senior Editor Laura Mohammad writes, edits and coaches extensively on all things credit cards and works to bring you the most up-to-date analysis and advice. In Laura's 20+ years as a financial and personal finance journalist, her work has appeared in such publications and websites as The New York Times, The Associated Press, StreetAuthority.com and American City Business Journals. You can reach Laura at laura.mohammad@creditcards.com.
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