Find the Best Airline Rewards Credit Card

Airline credit cards are a type of rewards credit card that differs from general travel credit cards like the Platinum Card from American Express. Airline cards are co-branded credit cards that align with specific air carriers.

These cards offer rewards and perks that apply towards that specific airline or their codeshare partners. Partners typically include affiliated airlines (known as an airline alliance, like Oneworld, SkyTeam, or Star Alliance), hotel partners, or other affiliates. Airline credit cards offer significant value for travelers who prefer to use one carrier or want the ability to use valuable rewards miles with specific airline partners.

Benefits with airline cards are specific to flights and airports. These can include a wide array of perks, including:

• Free checked bags
• Specific amount of miles per dollar spent (ex. “earn 2x miles per $1 spent”)
• Priority boarding
• Lounge access
• In-flight discounts
• Airport of in-flight Wi-Fi

Airline cards are like travel credit cards in that the best rewards and perks come from cards that charge an annual fee. Cards that charge an annual fee over $95 usually offer lounge access, as well as substantial signup bonuses. Like travel cards, however, there are still some great offers for no annual fee.