The best airline credit cards provide an exceptional opportunity to earn rewards with your chosen airline every time you fly. With benefits such as free checked baggage, discounts on in-flight purchases, and priority boarding, these cards can enhance your travel experience. Furthermore, some cards offer additional privileges like discounted airport lounge access and companion fares. Below are some of the top airline credit cards available today, along with their unique benefits.

Alaska Airlines Visa Credit Card

If you frequently visit the Pacific Northwest or Alaska, the Alaska Airlines Visa credit card from Bank of America may be a great choice for you. With a $95 annual fee, cardholders can enjoy:

• 50,000 bonus miles after spending $2,000 in the first 90 days
• 3 miles per dollar on Alaska Airlines purchases, 2 miles per dollar on certain purchases, and 1 mile on all other purchases
• A companion fare certificate starting at $122 for flights after spending $2,000 in the first three months, then $6,000 annually thereafter
• One free checked bag and priority boarding for you and up to six guests
• 20% back on Alaska Airlines in-flight purchases
• $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ membership
• 10% reward bonus with an eligible Bank of America account
• No foreign transaction fees

Flight Tip

Before applying, ask if a friend can refer you; typically, both you and your friend receive a reward!

Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card

For those who want to benefit from additional perks, the Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card charges an annual fee of $250. This card is ideal for individuals who travel frequently with Delta Airlines, offering:

• 75,000 bonus miles and 10,000 qualifying miles after spending $3,000 in the first six months
• 3 miles per dollar on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels
• 10,000 Medallion Qualifying Miles toward elite status after spending $25,000 per calendar year
• 15% off Award Travel flights booked with miles
• Annual domestic Main Cabin round-trip companion certificate
• Application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, up to $100, every four-and-a-half years
• Discounted rate for Delta Sky Club visits
• One free checked bag for you and up to eight companions on your reservation
• 20% back on in-flight purchases
• Priority boarding
• No foreign transaction fees

If you’re looking for a Delta card with a lower fee, consider the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card. For complimentary lounge access, the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card is worth exploring.

United Explorer Credit Card

The United Explorer Credit Card from Chase is a great choice for travelers, offering no annual fee the first year, and $95 thereafter. Here’s what cardholders can look forward to:

• 50,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 in the first three months
• 2 miles per dollar on purchases with United and dining, including eligible delivery services
• 500 Premier Qualifying Points toward elite status for every $12,000 spent
• Application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, up to $100
• Two United Club lounge passes each year upon annual fee payment
• Complimentary premier upgrades on tickets when available
• One free checked bag for you and one other traveling companion
• 25% back on United in-flight purchases
• Priority boarding
• No foreign transaction fees

For additional benefits at a higher annual fee, consider the United Quest Card.

Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card

Chase Southwest cards distinguish themselves by not charging for checked bags, as the airline allows two free checked bags for all passengers. Although Southwest has limited international reach, it’s an excellent option for predominantly domestic travel. Here’s what the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card provides:

• 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first three months
• 3 points per dollar on Southwest purchases; 2 points per dollar on partner purchases; 1 point per dollar elsewhere
• 6,000 bonus points each year with the $99 annual fee
• Two EarlyBird Check-In passes annually
• 1,500 Tier Qualifying Points toward elite status for every $10,000 spent
• 25% back on in-flight purchases
• 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points bonus each year

Southwest also offers other variants such as the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card and the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card, catering to varied preferences and annual fees.

Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard

Owning a co-branded card with American Airlines has become increasingly valuable since elite status can now be earned through Loyalty Points. With the Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard, you’ll earn at least one AAdvantage mile and one Loyalty Point per dollar spent. With a $99 annual fee ($0 the first year), cardholders enjoy:

• 75,000 bonus miles after spending $3,500 in the first four months
• 2 points per dollar at restaurants, gas stations, and select American Airlines purchases
• Preferred boarding for all travelers
• Free checked bag for you and up to four companions
• $125 flight discount after spending $20,000 annually
• 25% back on in-flight food and beverage purchases
• No foreign transaction fees

For even more travel benefits, consider the Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard, featuring a $450 annual fee and perks like an Admirals Club membership.

JetBlue Plus Card

JetBlue Airways services the East Coast, the Caribbean, and northern South America, boasting a considerable domestic presence. Although it may not cater to all regions, JetBlue’s offer of free Wi-Fi and spacious legroom sets it apart. Here’s what the JetBlue Plus Card from Barclays provides:

• 60,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days (limited-time offer)
• 6 points per dollar on JetBlue purchases; 2 points at restaurants and eligible grocery stores; 1 point on all other purchases
• A bonus of 5,000 points annually on your card’s anniversary
• A $100 statement credit when booking JetBlue Vacation Packages worth $100+
• One free checked bag for up to three companions
• 50% savings on in-flight food and drinks
• 10% of points back on Award Travel flights
• No foreign transaction fees

How to Choose the Right Airline Credit Card for You

Ultimately, no single credit card is suitable for everyone, particularly airline credit cards that are usually affiliated with one airline. Evaluate which airlines dominate your local airports and whether you tend to travel domestically or abroad. Ensure your desired destinations align with the flights offered by the airlines at your nearby airports. It’s also crucial to examine each card’s annual fee and the accompanying benefits to gauge overall value. Thoroughly consider your travel aspirations and financial objectives to identify the card that will best support your needs.