Top 5 Best Airline Credit Cards

Choosing the best airline credit card can make all the difference when it comes to earning miles, gaining travel perks, and maximizing your rewards.

With so many options, it’s important to know which cards stand out for offering the best value and benefits. Here’s a list of the Top 5 Best Airline Credit Cards to help you make the best decision for your travel needs.

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Why it’s great: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® is perfect for travelers who want flexible rewards. While it isn’t tied to a specific airline, you can transfer your points to more than 13 airline partners, including Southwest and United. This provides ultimate flexibility.

Key benefits:

• 2x points on travel and dining.
• 60,000 bonus points if you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Primary car rental insurance.

This card’s versatility and large bonus make it an excellent choice for frequent flyers and travelers looking for more flexibility with their miles.

2. The Platinum Card® from American Express

Why it’s great: The Platinum Card® is packed with premium perks, making it ideal for luxury travelers. While it’s a more expensive option with a high annual fee, the benefits—like access to airport lounges and elite status with certain airlines—are unmatched.

Key benefits:

• 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines.
• $200 airline fee credit.
• Access to American Express Centurion Lounges.
• 24/7 concierge service.

If you travel frequently and want the VIP treatment, the Platinum Card® delivers top-tier benefits.

3. Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

Why it’s great: The Delta SkyMiles® Gold card offers great value for loyal Delta flyers. With this card, you’ll earn miles that can be redeemed for flights, seat upgrades, and other perks with Delta and its partners.

Key benefits:

• 2x miles on Delta purchases.
• 1.5x miles on every other purchase.
• Free first checked bag on Delta flights.
• 20% savings on in-flight purchases.

This is one of the best airline credit cards for those who frequently fly with Delta.

4. American Airlines AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®

Why it’s great: American Airlines’ AAdvantage® Platinum Select® card is perfect for anyone who flies with American Airlines regularly. With this card, you’ll enjoy miles that can be redeemed for flights and upgrades, along with additional perks that improve your travel experience.

Key benefits:

• 2x miles on American Airlines purchases.
• 1x mile on other purchases.
• First checked bag free for you and up to 4 companions.
• 25% off in-flight purchases.

If you’re loyal to American Airlines, this card will help you earn miles and enjoy travel benefits quickly.

5. Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card

Why it’s great: Southwest’s Rapid Rewards® Priority card is the best choice for those who often fly with Southwest Airlines. With this card, you’ll earn rewards points for flights, hotel stays, and other travel expenses.

Key benefits:

• 2x points on Southwest purchases.
• 1x points on all other purchases.
• 7,500 anniversary points each year.
• $75 annual Southwest flight credit.

For Southwest travelers, the Rapid Rewards® Priority card delivers valuable benefits that enhance the travel experience.