Choosing the right airline credit card can make your travel experience smoother, more enjoyable, and even more rewarding. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or just enjoy the occasional getaway, having a card that aligns with your preferred airline and travel habits is essential. The key to finding the best airline card is knowing which airlines serve your community and which perks matter most to you—whether that’s free checked bags, airport lounge access, or flexible rewards.
Here’s a rundown of the best airline credit cards for 2024, designed to match various travel needs. From specific airline loyalty cards to general travel cards that offer flexibility, we’ve highlighted the top choices so you can find the best fit for your lifestyle.
How to choose the Best Airline Credit Card
Start by determining whether an airline-specific card makes sense for you. If you frequently fly with a particular airline, a branded card could offer benefits like free checked bags, priority boarding, and airport lounge access that make up for the annual fee. On the other hand, if you prefer to shop around for the best airfare deals or fly with multiple airlines, a general travel credit card with flexible rewards might be a better option.
- Consider your loyalty: If you always fly with the same airline, a branded card could save you money on checked bags and seat upgrades. However, if you prefer flexibility, opt for a card like Chase Sapphire Preferred® or Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠.
- Check for annual fees: Annual fees can be worth it if you’re taking full advantage of the perks. For instance, a card offering a free checked bag can save you hundreds on bag fees alone. But if you don’t fly often or don’t need these benefits, consider a no-annual-fee card instead.
Making the most of your Airline Credit Card
To maximize the benefits of your airline credit card:
- Link it to your frequent flyer account to ensure you’re getting free checked bags and other perks.
- Use your card for airline-related purchases like airfare and in-flight expenses, which often earn extra rewards.
- Explore all perks: Many cards offer perks like travel insurance or no foreign transaction fees, which can save you money when traveling abroad.
Top Airline Credit Cards for 2024
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
If Delta is your preferred airline, the Delta SkyMiles® Gold Amex card offers a range of perks that enhance your travel experience. You’ll earn bonus miles on Delta flights, restaurants worldwide, and U.S. supermarkets, making it versatile for everyday spending. The free first checked bag for you and up to eight others, along with priority boarding and an annual flight credit, adds even more value, making it a top choice for frequent Delta flyers.
- Best for: Delta Air Lines
- If you’re loyal to Delta, this card offers more than just airline perks. You’ll earn bonus rewards on Delta flights, restaurants worldwide, and U.S. supermarkets, making it a great option for everyday spending. Perks like a free first checked bag for you and up to eight others, priority boarding, and an annual flight credit make it a standout choice for Delta flyers.
- Annaul fee amount: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $150
- Terms Apply. See rates and fees.
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
Whenever I fly Delta, I want to make the experience as comfortable as possible, and the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Amex card helps me do just that. The access to both Delta Sky Clubs and Amex Centurion Lounges is a huge perk when I’m on the go, and the companion certificate—even in first class—is a great bonus. If you fly Delta as often as I do and love premium perks, this card is definitely worth it.
- Best for: Premium airline card
- If you want premium perks, this card offers access to both Delta Sky Clubs and American Express Centurion Lounges when flying Delta, plus an annual companion certificate that’s even valid in first class. It’s ideal for frequent Delta travelers who value comfort and convenience.
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Card offers premium travel perks at exceptional value. Earn 75,000 bonus miles (equal to $750 in travel) after spending $4,000 in the first three months. Get an annual $300 travel credit through Capital One Travel and 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100) every year on your card anniversary.
Earn rewards like:
- 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
- 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals.
- 2X miles on all other purchases.
Enjoy complimentary access to 1,300+ airport lounges, a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®, and a $100 experience credit for Premier Collection bookings. Flexible miles usage and exclusive perks make this card a top choice for travelers.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Best for frequent travelers who prefer straightforward miles.
The Capital One Venture Rewards card is a no-brainer for me when I want to keep things simple. Earning unlimited 2x miles on every purchase means I never have to think about categories or spending limits. Plus, I can redeem those miles for travel purchases or transfer them to over 15+ travel loyalty programs. It’s super straightforward, which is exactly what I need when I just want to book a hotel and get on with my trip. With an annual fee of $95, it’s a strong option for uncomplicated travel rewards.
- Earn unlimited 2x miles on every purchase, simplifying rewards.
- Redeem miles for travel purchases or transfer them to over 15+ travel loyalty programs.
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Best for luxury travelers seeking premium benefits and rewards.
When I’m in the mood for luxury, the Amex Platinum Card is my go-to. Earning 5x points on hotels booked through Amex Travel is great, but it’s the extra perks that really make a difference for me. With access to Centurion Lounges and automatic hotel elite status, I’m treated like a VIP at every step of my journey. The up to $200 airline fee credits are a nice touch, and the card’s premium benefits make it perfect for those indulgent getaways. Keep in mind the annual fee is $695, so it’s tailored for serious travelers who want the best.
- Earn 5x points for flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
- Access Centurion Lounges, enjoy hotel elite status, and receive up to $200 in airline fee credits.
- Terms Apply. See rates and fees.
American Express® Gold Card
Best for: Dining and Supermarket Spending
When I’m focused on turning everyday spending into travel rewards, the American Express® Gold Card is my top choice. With 4x Membership Rewards® Points at U.S. supermarkets and restaurants worldwide, it’s easy to rack up points fast. The $120 annual dining credit for services like Grubhub and The Cheesecake Factory is a sweet bonus, and the flexibility to transfer points to over 20 airline partners makes it perfect for turning dinner into a dream destination. The $250 annual fee is reasonable if you maximize these rewards and perks.
- Earn 4x points at restaurants, including takeout and delivery, and at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per year).
- Earn 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel.
- Terms Apply. See rates and fees.
Kurt’s key takeaway
Ultimately, the best airline credit card is the one that fits your travel habits, whether you’re loyal to a single carrier or enjoy the flexibility of flying with multiple airlines. The credit card I appreciate most allows me unlimited access into my airline’s lounge system. You will spend more on the annual fee, but never need to buy a separate lounge membership. You want to think about which airlines offer the most service from your most frequently used home airport My strategy is to build points and status using two separate credit cards. That gives me twice as many options when cashing in points for travel. Choose wisely and start earning rewards that can take your travel experience to new heights!
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