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Best Airline Credit Cards 2025: Complete Guide to Co-Branded Cards
Ayush Singh
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The Value of Airline Co-Branded Credit Cards for U.S. Travelers
Whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional vacationer, airline co-branded credit cards offer powerful benefits that can elevate your travel experience. From free checked bags to priority boarding and accelerated mileage earnings, these cards are more than just plastic—they're tools for smarter, smoother, and more rewarding travel.
What Is an Airline Co-Branded Credit Card?
An airline co-branded credit card is a credit card issued in partnership between a bank (like Chase, American Express, or Citi) and an airline (such as Delta, United, or American). These cards are designed to help loyal customers earn rewards faster with that specific airline, while also enjoying perks during their travel journey.
Why Are Airline Cards Valuable for Travelers?
Key Benefits That Make These Cards Worth Considering:
- Free Checked Bags: Many cards offer the first checked bag free for you and even companions on your itinerary
- Priority Boarding: Board early to secure overhead space and settle in faster
- Miles & Bonus Offers: Earn 2x–3x miles on purchases with the airline, and lucrative sign-up bonuses worth hundreds in travel
- In-Flight Discounts: Save 20–25% on inflight purchases like snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi
- Travel Protections: Some cards include trip delay, baggage delay, and rental car insurance
- Fast Track to Elite Status: Higher-tier cards sometimes offer elite-qualifying miles or spend-based paths to status
Best Co-Branded Airline Credit Cards by U.S. Airline
1
Delta Air Lines – Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
Annual Fee:
$0 intro for the first year, then $150
Key Perks:
First checked bag free, priority boarding, 2x miles on Delta and restaurants
Welcome Bonus:
Often ranges from 40,000–70,000 miles after qualifying spend
Ideal For:
Casual to frequent Delta flyers who want value without premium fees
2
United Airlines – United℠ Explorer Card
Annual Fee:
$0 intro for the first year, then $95
Key Perks:
Free first bag, priority boarding, 2 United Club passes annually, 2x miles on United, hotels, and dining
Welcome Bonus:
Typically 50,000–70,000 miles after meeting spend requirements
Ideal For:
Travelers who fly United at least 1–2 times a year and want lounge access once in a while
3
American Airlines – AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®
Annual Fee:
$99
Key Perks:
First bag checked free, preferred boarding, 25% off inflight purchases, earn 2x miles on American Airlines
Welcome Bonus:
Often 60,000+ miles after your first purchase and paying the annual fee
Ideal For:
Travelers who want a quick sign-up bonus with minimal initial spend
4
Southwest Airlines – Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
Annual Fee:
$149
Key Perks:
7,500 points every card anniversary, $75 Southwest travel credit, 4 upgraded boardings per year
Welcome Bonus:
Usually 50,000–75,000 points after qualifying spend
Ideal For:
Loyal Southwest flyers who want value and perks like upgraded boarding
5
JetBlue Airways – JetBlue Plus Card
Annual Fee:
$99
Key Perks:
6x points on JetBlue purchases, first bag free, 5,000-point anniversary bonus, 10% point redemption rebate
Welcome Bonus:
Often 40,000–60,000 points after qualifying spend
Ideal For:
East Coast and Caribbean travelers who fly JetBlue often and love TrueBlue perks
6
Alaska Airlines – Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card
Annual Fee:
$95
Key Perks:
Famous Companion Fare, free checked bag, 3x miles on Alaska purchases
Welcome Bonus:
Typically 60,000+ miles and a Companion Fare after meeting spend
Ideal For:
West Coast travelers and those flying to Hawaii, Mexico, or international with Alaska's partners
Tips for Choosing the Right Airline Card
- Stick to Your Airline: Only get an airline card if you fly that airline (or its partners) regularly
- Evaluate the Perks: Make sure you'll use the benefits (like checked bags or upgrades) enough to justify the fee
- Check for Partner Benefits: Cards like Delta and American offer value on SkyTeam and Oneworld airlines respectively
- Combine With General Travel Cards: Pair your airline card with a flexible points card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® or Amex Gold for broader redemption options
Are Airline Cards Worth It?
For most travelers who fly a few times a year with one airline, co-branded cards easily pay for themselves through free bags and priority boarding alone. Frequent flyers can maximize elite benefits, companion tickets, and bonus miles to unlock even greater value.
If you're loyal to a carrier, having their credit card is one of the easiest ways to save money, earn faster rewards, and enjoy a smoother flying experience every time you board. Read our other blogs "Best Travel Credit Cards 2025"
Disclaimer: Terms and sign-up offers mentioned are current as of July 2025 and may vary. Always verify details on the issuer's official website before applying.
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