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How to Use the American Express Airline Credit

After spending seven years in the U.S. Air Force as an Arabic linguist, Carissa is now a freelance writer using points and miles to fund a four-year (and counting!) adventure. She previously worked as a reporter for The Points Guy. Her writing has since been featured in numerous publications, including Forbes, Business Insider, and The Balance. When she's not flying, you'll usually find her in a Priority Pass lounge somewhere, sipping tea and cursing slow Wi-Fi.

Megan Lee joined the travel rewards team at NerdWallet with over 12 years of SEO, writing and content development experience, primarily in international education and nonprofit work. She has been published in U.S. News & World Report, USA Today and elsewhere, and has spoken at conferences like that of NAFSA: Association of International Educators. Megan has built and directed remote content teams and editorial strategies for websites like GoAbroad and Go Overseas. When not traveling, Megan adventures around her Midwest home base where she likes to attend theme parties, ride her bike and cook Asian food.

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Table of Contents

Steps to use the American Express airline credit

Eligible expenses for the american express airline credit, if you want to use the american express airline credit.

American Express is a powerhouse in travel — and for a good reason. With various co-branded credit and charge cards from which to choose, finding an AmEx card that suits your needs is easy.

Some of these cards also offer an airline fee credit, which will reimburse you for certain purchases made while flying. Even if you’re not a frequent traveler, this credit can come in handy on the road.

Let’s look at which cards provide this benefit, how to use the American Express airline credit and the different types of eligible expenses.

1. Choose your AmEx card

The first step in using the AmEx airline credit comes in having a card that offers this credit, as not all cards do. These are a few that provide the benefit:

The Platinum Card® from American Express .

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express .

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card .

The value of the credit you’ll receive will depend on which card you hold: The Platinum Card® from American Express and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express both provide a $200 annual airline fee credit. The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card , meanwhile, provides a $250 annual credit. Terms apply.

» Learn more: AmEx Membership Rewards: How to earn and use them

2. Select your preferred airline

The American Express airline credit isn’t automatic and doesn’t apply to all airlines. Instead, if you’re looking to use the credit for eligible purchases, you’ll first need to select a specific airline for which the credit will be redeemed. These include:

Alaska Airlines .

American Airlines .

Delta Air Lines .

Frontier Airlines .

Hawaiian Airlines .

JetBlue Airways .

Spirit Airlines .

Southwest Airlines .

United Airlines .

You can select the airline with which you’d like to use the credit once per year, in January. Once the choice is made, you’ll only be able to use the airline credit from The Platinum Card® from American Express towards purchases on your chosen airline.

Those with The Business Platinum Card® from American Express will also receive a 35% rebate on points redeemed towards flights on their chosen airline.

You’ll notice that there aren’t any foreign airlines on the list; if you’ve booked a flight with a codeshare partner, you likely won’t be able to use the credit unless the purchase is made directly through one of these airlines.

Finally, you’ll want to be picky about which airline you select. If you typically only fly with one carrier, choosing that one will likely make the most sense. If you’re unsure which airline to choose, keep in mind that low-cost carriers with many fees, like Spirit and Frontier, may offer more opportunities to redeem your credits than others.

Terms apply.

» Learn more: Frontier vs. Spirit — The battle of the budget airlines

3. Make your purchase

After you’ve selected the airline for which you’d like the airline credit from The Platinum Card® from American Express to apply, redeeming the credit is easy. You’ll simply need to make an eligible purchase with your card and the credit will be automatically reimbursed to your account within two to four weeks.

Not all expenses are eligible for this credit, and AmEx’s wording on this front is vague, specifying only “incidental fees.” It does, however, outline several types of purchases that are not eligible for credit:

Airline or award tickets.

Mileage points purchases and transfer fees.

Gift cards.

Duty-free purchases.

» Learn more: Making the most of American Express Platinum

Not all expenses are eligible for reimbursement by the airline credit AmEx offers. There also isn’t a single decisive list that AmEx maintains for this credit, though it does mention both checked bag fees and in-flight refreshments as examples for use.

Here are a few other ways to use the American Express airline credit.

Other credit cards such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® offer a much more flexible annual travel credit which is applicable toward hotels, flights, toll roads and more.

Seat selection fees

Although you may score a complimentary seat assignment by having airline elite status or an eligible economy class ticket, the AmEx airline credit also reimburses these fees on your selected airline.

Happily for travelers, the AmEx airline fee credit doesn’t just apply to standard economy seat assignments. So if you’re looking for a little more legroom, fees for seat selections that put you in economy plus or main cabin extra can also be reimbursed.

However, keep in mind that AmEx explicitly excludes upgrades from this credit — that means if you want to pay for a move from economy to first class, you won’t be able to redeem this credit towards your purchase.

» Learn more: AmEx points vs. Chase points

Lounge access and membership

Although each of these AmEx cards comes with a Priority Pass Select membership, you may find yourself in a situation where you’re still paying for lounge access. Perhaps you’re paying for a guest, or you’ve finally decided to bite on an annual lounge membership from a specific airline.

In any case, both lounge membership and lounge access fees can be reimbursed using the American Express airline credit. However, remember that the lounge you’re trying to access must be affiliated with the same airline you selected for your credit.

Baggage fees

Plenty of co-branded credit cards offer the ability to check your baggage for free, but if you don’t have (or want) one, you can also use the AmEx airline credit towards these fees. This applies both toward checked bag costs and overweight/excess baggage charges.

» Learn more: The airlines with the best (and worst) fees

In-flight refreshments

Airlines may still provide some light refreshments during flights, but unless you’re flying internationally, the odds are that a complimentary meal is not on offer.

If you’re peckish midway through your flight, you can order food and drinks and have these covered by the credit. Just be sure you’ve already selected your airline to receive the reimbursement.

One of the best uses of the American Express Platinum airline credit for Southwest flyers and many other airlines is that pet fees can also be reimbursed entirely by the credit.

» Learn more: AmEx Platinum vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve — Reserve has more mass appeal

So what is the AmEx airline fee credit? In short: it’s a way to help lessen air travel costs through reimbursement for various charges, including checked bags, seat selection and lounge access.

There are a total of three credit cards that offer this benefit, including The Platinum Card® from American Express , The Business Platinum Card® from American Express and the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card . Before making any purchases you’d like to be reimbursed, be sure to select your airline, and then enjoy the fact that your trip is just a bit less expensive — and more comfortable.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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All You Need To Know About the Amex Platinum $200 Airline Fee Credit

Reviewed by Ryan Smith

AwardWallet receives compensation from advertising partners for links on the blog. Terms Apply to the offers listed on this page. The opinions expressed here are our own and have not been reviewed, provided, or approved by any bank advertiser. Here's our complete list of Advertisers .

Offers for the American Express Platinum Card ® by Charles Schwab, Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, The American Express Corporate Platinum Card ® , The Platinum Card ® from American Express Exclusively for Morgan Stanley and The American Express Corporate Platinum Card ® are not available through this site. All information has been independently collected by AwardWallet and has not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. Some offers may have expired. Please see our card marketplace for available offers.

All information about American Express Platinum Card ® by Charles Schwab, The American Express Corporate Platinum Card ® , The Platinum Card ® from American Express Exclusively for Morgan Stanley, and Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card has been collected independently by AwardWallet

The Platinum Card ® from American Express has a hefty annual fee. That much is for sure. But baked into that annual fee is a lot of value — think hundreds of dollars worth of credits and other perks that can easily offset the card's steep price tag if you maximize them. One of those perks that helps justify the annual fee is the Amex Platinum‘s $200 airline fee credit.

Here's what you need to know about the airline fee credit — what it covers and what it doesn't — plus how to get full value from it every year.

• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.
• Rates & Fees
• Earn 5X points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (up to $500,000 in purchases per calendar year).
• Earn 5X points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.

Page Contents

Amex Platinum Airline Fee Credit Overview

Can you use the credit on partner airlines, when will you receive your credit, what isn't covered by the amex airline fee credit, claim the amex airline fee credit twice in the first year, all the amex cards that offer airline fee credits, final thoughts.

The Amex Platinum airline fee credit is what it sounds like. It provides up to a $200 credit towards incidental airline fees that you, as the cardholder, can use every year to offset the cost of travel. It's available to you starting January 1 and will expire on December 31 if unused; it's a use-it-or-lose-it type of benefit.

You'll want to be aware of certain restrictions, though. The airline fee credit doesn't cover everything, and you can't use it on every airline.

And before we go further, note that enrollment is required to enjoy the credit. If you don't enroll and select an eligible airline, you won't receive any statement credits to offset what you'll pay for incidentals.

Related: All About The Platinum Card ® from American Express

Which Airline Should You Choose?

When you receive your new Amex Platinum in the mail, one of the first things you should do is select an eligible airline . Or, if you already have the Amex Platinum, this is a step you'll need to take each January — by the 31st at the latest — if you want to change to a different airline this year.

The airline you select is the one you'll receive credit for on eligible incidental purchases. You can choose from the following air carriers:

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Hawaiian Airlines
• JetBlue Airways
• Southwest Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• United Airlines

Whichever airline you fly the most likely isn't the best choice. In other words, if you have status with that airline or a co-branded credit card, there's a low chance you'll incur at least $200 in fees with that airline.

Thus, a better option is choosing a separate airline you might not fly as much. For instance, American Airlines is my airline of choice; I have AAdvantage ® elite status and a co-branded credit card , so I don't have to pay for checked luggage. I fly Delta a few times a year and don't have a free checked bag benefit. But with the Amex Platinum airline fee credit, up to $200 of my checked bag expenses are covered when I charge the cost of the bag to the card.

Spirit Airlines is another fair choice if you fly the airline a few times annually. There's very little Spirit doesn't charge for, and the Amex airline fee credit can help offset the cost of adding à la carte items, such as seat selection fees.

Thus, you'll want to be strategic with your choice. It's the best way to ensure you get the full $200 worth of value out of your credit.

Suppose you choose Delta as your airline for the Amex airline fee credit. But what if you book a ticket through Delta for a flight operated by its partner airline, Air France? Will purchases you make on your trip count? The answer is likely no. Thus, you shouldn't expect to use your Amex Platinum to pay for checked luggage at Air France's ticket counter and receive part of your annual fee credit.

What Is Covered by the Amex Airline Fee Credit?

The Amex Platinum airline fee credit covers a lot but doesn't cover everything you may pay for before or during your trip. The key word to remember is “incidental.” Incidental purchases charged to your card separately from the airline ticket itself count — most of the time. For example, eligible charges could include:

• Airport lounge day passes and annual memberships (provided the airline doesn't code this purchase as airfare)
• Change fees
• Checked baggage fees (including oversized baggage charges)
• Inflight food and beverage purchases
• Inflight entertainment purchases (charged by the airline and not a third-party provider)
• Phone booking fees
• Seat selection fees

This isn't an all-encompassing list. Amex Platinum cardholders routinely share data points of things covered but not on the official list of inclusions. Thus, while your mileage may vary, be sure to read the section on what isn't covered before making a purchase you're convinced will count. And pay attention to that inflight Wi-Fi purchase; it's often billed by a third-party provider, meaning it won't trigger the credit.

You should receive a statement credit for incidental purchases charged to your Amex Platinum within eight weeks of purchase. Purchases made by additional card members on the enrolled account count, too.

And remember, you won't receive the full $200 at once unless you purchase something that size. You'll receive the equivalent of what you spent on incidentals — up to $200 annually.

The “what's not included” list might make you think the Amex Platinum fee credit is restrictive. Compared to airline fee credits or travel credits you'll find on other premium rewards cards , we could see why you'd say that, but it's still easy to earn in full every year if you play your cards right (pun intended).

So, what's not covered? Here's a look:

• Airline tickets
• Award taxes and fees
• Duty-free purchases
• Gift card purchase
• Inflight Wi-Fi (when charged by providers like Gogo or Viasat and not the airline)
• Paid upgrades
• Points and miles purchases or transfer fees

Sometimes, you'll get lucky, purchasing something on the forbidden list that counts towards your airline fee credit. Great for you. However, those are rare exceptions to the rule (possibly errors) that could change at any time. Moreover, remember that only purchases with the airline you selected at enrollment will trigger the airline fee credit.

One of the big benefits of the Amex airline fee credit is that it can be claimed twice in the first cardholder year. This is because the credit resets at the start of every calendar year (January 1), rather than the Card Member year.

If you time your application right, the airline credit can be claimed once during the first calendar year as a card member. Then, you can claim it again before the annual fee is due on your account anniversary.

The Platinum Card ® from American Express is one of many Amex products that offer an airline fee credit. You'll find an identical airline fee credit on other flavors of Platinum cards, such as:

• Note that you can only use the Pay With Points perk on the airline you select for the fee credit.
• The Platinum Card ® from American Express for Goldman Sachs
• The Platinum Card ® from American Express Exclusively for Morgan Stanley
• American Express Platinum Card ® by Charles Schwab
• The American Express Corporate Platinum Card ®

But that's not all. The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card also offers up to $200 worth of reimbursement for eligible purchases, dubbed a “flight credit.” You'll receive up to $50 worth of credits quarterly.

The Amex Platinum airline fee credit is a valuable perk that helps offset the card's $695 annual fee ( Rates & Fees ), so remember to use it!

For most travelers, maximizing the credit is easy to do. Just select an airline with which you'll incur at least $200 in incidental fees and charge the purchases to your Amex Platinum. Soon enough, you'll get some money back as a statement credit. It's that simple.

For rates and fees of the cards mentioned in this post, please visit the following links: The Platinum Card ® from American Express ( Rates & Fees )

The comments on this page are not provided, reviewed, or otherwise approved by the bank advertiser. It is not the bank advertiser's responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.

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Buying United TravelBank will trigger AMEX Airline Fee. There are occasional bonus from United also. AMEX would change the airline designation for you, providing no credit has been redeemed.

I recently received part of my airline credit unexpectedly, because I actually received it just for purchasing airline tickets. I purchased a $240 round trip ticket on Delta (my Amex Platinum preferred airline) and used a $100 Delta voucher for part of the payment. When the remaining $140 charge posted to my Amex card, I received a $140 Airline Fee Reimbursement the following day. I would assume using the voucher somehow caused the remaining amount to be coded differently, or perhaps it was just a mistake – either way I’m not complaining…

interesting data point. Thanks for sharing!

It’s awesome that it will credit automatically! That makes everything so much easier!

I did not know that you could claim the travel credit twice in the first 12 months, thanks for the information.

I was considering the gold card last night with a 50K bonus then this morning it became 25K. Bummer.

I use this to reimburse me for travel fees for associated with award ticketsfrom AA. Anything remaining I buy a gift card with AA

Any sense of whether United gift registry / TravelBank will trigger the credit?

if only amex made it easy there wouldn’t be a need to read up on how to use it.

lots of nice perks here to dream about

Amex also has the offers you can add to your card. While they vary for different cardholders, I find useful things that has given me hundreds of dollars in statement credits. You just have to check the bottom of the page when checking your account online and activate them. Occasionally they are things like cashback on any mobile phone carrier, cable carrier or supermarkets.

Amex offers are great: https://awardwallet.com/blog/beginners-guide-to-saving-with-amex-offers/

I wonder if Amex will be changing the terms to better align with others to make the card more lucrative. I know others who have the card for mostly their other benefits rather than this benefit and just chalk it up to an added on surprise.

I doubt it. Amex isn’t one to follow what others are doing (based on my experience)

I believe the travel credit for the Hilton Aspire works the same way.

Yes, exactly!

Hm – these CC’s should be available in Europe too!

We both know that isn’t going to happen! 🙁

The signup bonus is just great. Will get a return tic to Hawaii.

Competition among the banks is a good thing. So many tempting products out there and I’m of the school that says I should try as many as I can and see what I like long term.

And, the final step there is to report back here with your experiences!

Canadian AMEX Gold version needs a Travel Credit too.

I like my Amex Platinum however, it is kind of a pain to jump through the hoops. Buy the AA gift card then remember to use it for flights. I tend to do this every January so I don’t forget it!

Seems a good advantage to people who travel a lot. I don’t travel for work and usually take only cabin luggage so this offer is not for me I think.

This is a solid perk, but AmEx needs to step up its game and offer a higher travel credit amount if it wants its card to stay competitive against Chase and Citi’s offerings.

This Travel-Bonus only comes with the us-based Card, am i right?

I can only assume yes as I don’t know the details on all the international offerings.

Used it for delta e-gift cards in $50 increments. Worked perfectly every time

can apply for 50$ gift card multiple times?

Between my wife and I we have 7 platinum cards and a gold. The extra 1500 dollars a year is incredibly lucrative.

I forgot to select my airline before buying my gift cards, but luckily i remembered to do it before the charge posted, and got credited.

In my second calendar year with PRG and will definitely be taking advantage of this before assessing whether or not to keep the card for future years.

There are some really good other benefits to this card, but the airline travel credit is very restrictive.

Agree that gold is more productive and not the mighty annual fee to contend with. Great to see other options on board now to use credit.

Well yes but with the Platinum you get Uber Credits, Soulcycle Discounts, and the $200 Travel Credit. So to me really worth it. Depends for each person i guess

i was thinking of updating my amex gold to platinum, but as far as accumulating points, i think the gold is more productive.

glad you mentioned that citi was 250, I thought it was only 200

I was able to use the credit twice on Gold in the first year via AA gift certificates bought online. I think AXP is still allowing this even though it isn’t officially in the list above. My SO just got the CSR and agree that the credit is a lot easier to use.

To me the easiest way is buying airline GC.

Yes, but according to the terms these are not eligible — it just seems to work though 🙂

I heard you can only have 4 AMEX cards at once. True?

Definitely not true based on current data. This may have been the fact previously, but not the fact right now.

Absolutely true. I have 6 Amex Platinums, the Gold Card, Green Card, Ameriprise Financial Gold Card, Business Gold Card, and 5 credit cards. Total of 15 Amex Cards.

It posts in a few days time, in my experience with the Premier Rewards Gold card. A nice perk, especially in the first card member year, when it can,(and does!), work twice, as this blog points out. Might not carry the PRG card for additional years, as the Everyday cards are less expensive.

Finally thinking about giving up my AMEX Biz Plat due to getting the CSP. The travel credit is nice but $100 is $100.

Nice to read these kind of articles to know more in the less known matters.

It looks as if the competition in our beloved points/miles credit card programs is heating up. This is good for the consumer and for the banks and airlines.

Yes, and we must all continue to play the game to our benefit!

I am continuing. This year I am concentrating on picking up bank points.

It’s not a bad perc, but definitely the others have surpassed it over time, and the other cards also offer a broader range of what the travel reimbursement will cover, which is a big key if you’re not necessarily a weekend warrior.

Hopefully they’ll step up a notch with the Travel Credit to be more flexible like its competitors

one of the reasons I haven’t applied for this card is the difficulty associated with using its credits. They need to change that otherwise they will lose to their competitions.

I mean it is pretty flexible within a particular airline. Just look on Flyertalk to get some ideas

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The Amex Platinum Card: How To Best Use Your $200 Airline Credit [Every Year]

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Table of Contents

Amex platinum card – snapshot, what is the amex platinum card’s airline incidental credit, the best ways to use your airline incidental fee credit, what if my purchase isn’t automatically reimbursed, final thoughts.

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The Platinum Card ® from American Express is one of the top premium travel credit cards on the market, but also one of the most expensive.

The card’s annual fee is substantially higher than other cards. Still, it also comes with an extensive list of benefits like airport lounge access, Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy hotel elite status, major bonus earnings on flights booked with airlines, and much more.

While the card’s fee may seem like a shocker at first, it’s not so  bad when you take a look at the multiple statement credits offered, including an airline incidental credit of up to $200 (enrollment required).

Many travelers often aren’t sure how to take advantage of the airline incidental credit and what it can cover. After all, it doesn’t let you cover paid plane tickets but does let you cover other fees incurred from an airline — whether inflight or at the airport.

In this article, you’ll finally get clarity as to precisely what the Amex Platinum card’s airline incidental credit is and your best options for redeeming your card’s $200 annual credit. After all, what use is a benefit if you don’t know how to use it, right?

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with  no credit score impact.

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card ® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card  is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access , hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

• The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
• 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
• 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
• $695 annual fee ( rates and fees )
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts ® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card ® . The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card ® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection ® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card ® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card ® .
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $189 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: CLEAR ® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck ® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck ® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card ® . Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card ® . That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card ® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.
• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees:  None

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip:  Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 125k (or 150k) points with the Amex Platinum. The current public offer is 80,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

Both the Amex Platinum card and  The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express offer a $200 airline incidental fee credit upon enrollment.

According to American Express, this credit will be used to cover inflight expenses on your selected airline. Some of the items American Express lists as eligible for reimbursement include inflight refreshments and checked bag fees. Airline tickets, gift cards, and points or miles purchases aren’t eligible for reimbursement.

Here’s what the terms and conditions have to say:

“Incidental airline fees charged prior to selection of a qualifying airline are not eligible for statement credits. Airline tickets, upgrades, mileage points purchases, mileage points transfer fees, gift cards, duty free purchases, and award tickets are not deemed to be incidental fees. The airline must submit the charge under the appropriate merchant code, industry code, or required service or product identifier for the charge to be recognized as an incidental air travel fee.”

Once you’ve selected your airline, you can charge these expenses to your Amex Platinum card. You’ll automatically be reimbursed in the form of a statement credit within 6 to 8 weeks of the charge posting to your account.

If the statement credit has not posted after 8 weeks from the date of purchase, it is best to call the number on the back of the card.

Hot Tip:  You receive the airline incidental once per calendar year. The credit is dispersed on January 1st each year and doesn’t roll over.

Selecting an Airline for Your Airline Incidental Credit

Unlike the Chase Sapphire Reserve ® ‘s $300 travel credit, you’re limited to using your Amex Platinum card’s incidental fee credit on a single airline. You can select your airline when you receive your card and change it once per year in January. However, we at Upgraded Points have had luck changing the airline more than once when chatting (nicely) with an American Express representative.

You can pick from the following airlines:

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Hawaiian Airlines
• JetBlue Airways
• Spirit Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• United Airlines

You must select an airline before you can use the airline incidental credit. Charges made to your account before choosing an airline are  not eligible for reimbursement , so select your airline as soon as you receive your Amex Platinum card and have a trip booked.

Thankfully, selecting your Amex Platinum card airline choice is easy. Just head over to the American Express website , log in, and select your Amex Platinum card (should you have more than 1 American Express card).

Click on the Rewards & Benefits  tab on the bar at the top of the screen. And then click on the Benefits tab.

Here, you’ll see the balance of your Airline Fee Credit — how much you’ve used and how much you have left.

Scroll down the page for a list of benefits included with your Amex Platinum card . There will be an option labeled $200 Airline Fee Credit. Click on the Learn More button, and from there you can select your airline using the drop-down menu at the center of the screen.

As mentioned earlier, the Amex Platinum card’s airline incidental fee credit cannot be used toward plane tickets, points purchases, or gift cards.

Frustrating, yes. But, thankfully, there are still plenty of great ways that you can spend the credit over the year.

Here are our favorite ways of utilizing the flight credit. We’ve split this section into 2 parts: official and unofficial ways to redeem the incidental fee credit.

Official Ways To Redeem the Incidental Fee Credit

Airport Lounge Day Passes and Annual Memberships

While the Amex Platinum card includes extensive lounge access , it doesn’t include access to all  of the U.S. carrier’s lounges. You can use your Amex Platinum card’s credit to buy day passes to:

• Alaska Lounge
• American Airlines Admirals Club
• Delta Sky Club
• United Club

Just remember, you have to select the applicable airline for the lounge charge to be covered. So if you choose Delta as your preferred airline, your charges to the Admirals Club won’t be covered by your incidental fees.

United American and American Airlines both sell day passes, which could be an option if you don’t have access to a lounge on a long layover. You must be flying with the airline to have lounge access.

Hot Tip:  If you purchase an annual lounge membership with your Amex Platinum card that costs more than $200, you’ll be credited the entirety of the incidental fee credit at once. So, in this case, you can think of it as a $200 discount on your lounge membership of choice.

Further, note that Amex Platinum cardmembers do not receive complimentary guest access at Delta Sky Clubs . However, guest access can be purchased for $50 for a standard day pass. If you purchase Delta Sky Club guest access and Delta is selected as your Amex Platinum card’s airline, you will be reimbursed for your entry fee.

Change Fees

Changing a trip’s date can be expensive, but your Amex Platinum card’s incidental fee credit covers the itinerary change fee. Note that the incidental fee will not likely cover the airfare difference as this is often charged like a plane ticket.

Hot Tip: Want more information on airline change fees? Learn how to avoid airline change fees in our dedicated article. 

Checked Baggage Fees

So you planned on checking a bag, but it isn’t included with your ticket? Just charge it to your Amex Platinum card. This is especially helpful if you’ve selected a low-cost carrier, such as Spirit, as your airline, as these carriers generally charge more for baggage. Remember that the incidental fee credit only covers baggage fees on your selected airline.

Most airlines have a co-branded credit card that provides perks such as free checked baggage. If you carry an airline’s co-branded credit card , check if that card provides free checked baggage. This allows you to use your Amex airline incidental fee credit elsewhere.

Inflight Entertainment Fees

The incidental fee credit covers inflight entertainment fees including TV, movies, and tablet rentals charged directly by the airline. A good example of this is renting an Alaska Airlines entertainment tablet in flight. The airline charges a fee to rent these in economy class.

Unfortunately, this does  not cover inflight internet, as a third party generally bills this . However, we have heard of United inflight entertainment being reimbursed, as it is usually charged by United directly. Proceed with caution, though, as there’s no guarantee it will be refunded.

Inflight Amenities

Most other inflight purchases are covered, too. Think amenities like headphones, blankets on budget carriers, food, and drink. The airline almost always charges for these directly, and you’re automatically reimbursed for them by your Amex Platinum card’s incidental fee credit.

Seat Selection Fees

Seat selection fees are another great way to redeem your airline incidental fee credit. You can use this when flying low-cost carriers or on a basic economy fare that doesn’t include free seat selection. Note that this  does include things like Even More Space seating on JetBlue and Economy Plus on United Airlines.

Most airlines charge anywhere from $10 up to $50 for a seat assignment on domestic flights.

Pet Flight Fees

If you’re taking a furry companion with you , use your Amex Platinum card’s incidental credit to cover the pet fee. This can take out a nice chunk of your reimbursement, though — for example, JetBlue charges $125 per one-way flight.

Phone Booking Fees

You can usually avoid these by booking online, but there may be instances where you need to call to book an award ticket or a flight with special routing. If you can’t get the agent to waive this fee, your Amex Platinum card’s incidental fee credit should cover it.

Priority Boarding

Priority boarding purchases work on virtually all airlines. This can be especially valuable when flying Southwest Airlines, as it gives you first dibs on the best seats . Again, remember that the incidental fees only cover priority boarding fees on your selected airline.

Unofficial Ways To Redeem the Incidental Fee Credit

The methods below are ways our team members have either tried or seen work for other travelers. Proceed with caution . There’s no guarantee that these will work for you, too. While we try to keep this section as up-to-date as possible, these things can change on a dime, and we can’t be held liable for a charge not  being reimbursed.

Fill Your United TravelBank Account

This might be the easiest unofficial way to use your Amex incidental fee credit. United’s TravelBank allows you to fund the account with cash to use on future United flights. Any money you put in your TravelBank account does not expire for 5 years, provided there is account activity at least every 18 months.

You can fund your account in different increments up to $1,000. However, it is best to fund with how much you have available with your credit. You need to make sure United is selected as your preferred airline.

Admirals Club Food or Drink Purchases

A number of American Airlines Admirals Club locations have premium food and drink available for purchase. American Express has reimbursed these purchases, as they’re billed directly by American Airlines.

Unfortunately, we don’t have data for purchases at other lounges at this time. Again, proceed with caution.

Delta Airfare Purchased Partially With a Gift Card

There are reports of Delta tickets purchased partially with a gift card being reimbursed by American Express. This is because, when the purchase processes, it adds an “additional collection” to the transaction instead of listing an airline route, like most airfare purchases.

This means that American Express sees the transaction as if it were some sort of add-on or other inflight expense. However, this is not officially supported, and American Express may choose not to honor your incidental credit for this purchase.

Airfare of $99 or Below on Certain Airlines

We’ve seen reports of below-$99 fares on Delta, Southwest, and JetBlue being reimbursed by the incidental fee credit. But again, this is very much something you would try at your own risk, as the purchase  will code as airfare.

Spirit Saver$ Club Memberships

Spirit Airlines has a members-only discount club called Spirit Saver$ Club. It provides access to discounted tickets and includes other perks but has an annual fee.

We’ve seen reports of Spirit Saver$ Club memberships being reimbursed by American Express. Definitely keep this in mind if you’re a frequent flyer on this ultra-low-cost carrier, as it can save you a nice sum of money as you travel throughout the year.

$5.60 TSA Passenger Security Fee on Award Tickets

Our team has had the $5.60 TSA passenger security fee reimbursed on multiple award tickets in the past.

Purchases That Do Not Trigger the Airline Incidental Credit

Now that you have a full list of things that  do (or might) trigger the airline incidental fee credit, here’s a quick look at the things that don’t trigger this credit.

Award Taxes and Fees

Aside from the $5.60 TSA security fee mentioned above, our team has not had luck having other award fees reimbursed. This is likely because these purchases code as airfare when posted to your American Express card.

Airline Gift Card Purchases

Airline gift card purchases were a longtime favorite for redeeming the airline incidental fee credit. However, as of this summer, our team has had no luck getting these reimbursed.

Class of Service Upgrades

Cabin upgrades are not eligible for reimbursement .

Inflight Wi-Fi

As mentioned, inflight Wi-Fi generally does not trigger the incidental fee credit, as a third party like Gogo or Panasonic usually bills it. However, we’ve seen reports of United Airlines Wi-Fi purchases being reimbursed because United does bill Wi-Fi purchases on its own or if you purchase the service through the airline before your flight.

While American Express states that it will reimburse eligible charges within 4 weeks, some charges don’t make it through the system. If you’re not reimbursed for an eligible charge, you can call the number on the back of your card or use the American Express live chat service to request reimbursement.

While the Amex Platinum card’s airline incidental fee credit is limited compared to travel credits offered by other premium credit cards, it still provides a ton of value. It has gotten hard to use the credits, but there are still ways to get the total value.

When you use the methods listed above, you’ll save money and have a better travel experience with extra checked bags, lounge access, and more. Better yet, the airline incidental credit can help offset the hefty annual fee of the Amex Platinum card.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the american express airline fee credit.

The American Express airline incidental fee credit allows you to receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged to your account. You must select a qualifying airline before you can use the airline incidental credit.

Do authorized users get additional airline incidental fee credits?

No, the airline incidental fee credits are up to $200 per account per calendar year.

Can I use my airline incidental credit toward airfare?

Generally speaking, no. The terms and conditions prohibit this, and it has not worked in practice for a majority of Amex Platinum cardholders. However, there are reports of fares of $99 or below triggering the credit when you book on certain airlines.

Can I cash out my incidental fee credit if I don't use it?

No, you must use the entirety of the incidental fee credit before the end of a calendar year. Otherwise, the credit expires.

When does the airline incidental credit renew?

You receive $200 per year in incidental fee credit. The credit renews on January 1 of the new calendar year.

Will I earn points on purchases reimbursed by the incidental fee credit?

Yes, you will still earn points on reimbursed purchases.

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About Andrew Kunesh

Andrew was born and raised in the Chicago suburbs and now splits his time between Chicago and New York City.

He’s a lifelong traveler and took his first solo trip to San Francisco at the age of 16. Fast forward a few years, and Andrew now travels just over 100,000 miles a year, with over 25 countries, 10 business class products, and 2 airline statuses (United and Alaska) under his belt. Andrew formerly worked for The Points Guy and is now Senior Money Editor at CNN Underscored.

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The Best Airline Credit Cards for Both Loyal Fliers and Deal-Seekers

By Ramsey Qubein

Condé Nast Traveler has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Condé Nast Traveler and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. We don't review or include all companies, or all available products. Moreover, the editorial content on this page was not provided by any of the companies mentioned, and has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Opinions expressed here are entirely those of Condé Nast Traveler's editorial team.

Air travel is busier than ever these days. But when you look in your wallet, do you have any of the best airline credit cards—the ones that will maximize both your increased travel spending and your at-home buys? Or are you still using the first travel rewards credit card that caught your eye with minimal mileage-earning potential? If it’s the latter, you could be leaving free flights or a faster track to your favorite frequent flier program's elite status on the table.

When looking for the best airline credit cards, it’s also important to factor in the additional perks that come along with them ( airport lounge access , free checked bags, upgrade priority on award tickets) as well as how easy it is to redeem the miles you earn. Among the dozens of mileage-earning cards, these rule the pack.

Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card

United explorer card, capital one venture x card, chase aeroplan card, chase sapphire preferred card, the platinum card from american express, delta skymiles® platinum american express card, alaska airlines visa signature card, citi / aadvantage executive world elite mastercard, emirates skywards rewards premium world elite mastercard.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Why we love it: If you fly Southwest Airlines frequently, this is the card for you, as it builds up points for free flights even when you’re on the ground. For its low $99 annual fee, its bonus point–earning categories, two Early Bird Check-Ins each year (worth as much as $50), and a fast track to A-List and A-List Preferred status based on annual spending are impressive.

How it earns miles: You’ll earn three points per dollar spent on any Southwest purchases. That’s not to mention the two points per dollar spent on local transit, including rideshare services. There are double-point categories, too, for spending on internet, phone, cable, and select streaming services. Each year on your card’s account anniversary, you’ll also earn 6,000 Rapid Rewards bonus points just for having the card. The best part is that points you earn with this credit card get you closer to the airline’s most lucrative benefit: the Companion Pass, which allows you to bring someone along with you on flights for free.

Additional perks: The card comes with two annual Early Bird Check-Ins each year, 1,500 tier-qualifying points towards status for every $10,000 you spend, and 25 percent back on in-flight purchases. On Southwest, all bags fly free, but if yours gets lost or delayed, you’re protected. The card comes with $100 per day for up to three days if your bag is delayed more than six hours plus a bigger sum if it gets lost completely. Extended warranty and purchase protection against damage or theft are further perks.

Annual fee:  $99

Foreign transaction fees:  None

Current welcome bonus: Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 within the first three months from account opening.

How to spend the welcome bonus: A 50,000 bonus points can get you and a loved one round-trip tickets to Hawaii or most places in the United States mainland where Southwest flies.

Why we love it: This card packs a punch, offering perks that other airline cards do not include, such as access to more award ticket availability and space-available upgrades on award tickets for elite status fliers. Its low annual fee and long list of benefits make it a great value for United Airlines fliers.

How it earns miles: Cardholders score two miles per dollar spent at restaurants, hotels, and on United flights. All other purchases earn one mile per dollar spent. Those interested in United elite status can use the card for a head start to Premier status. After spending $12,000 within a calendar year (up to twice a year), the card delivers 500 elite Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) to edge you closer to status.

Additional perks: This card comes with priority boarding, a free checked bag, two United Club passes each year, and a 25 percent discount on in-flight food and beverage purchases. When redeeming miles, cardholders have greater access to award inventory, which makes it easier to use miles for a free flight. You’re also covered with trip delay or cancelation, lost luggage, and car rental insurance, and can get to $100 in credit to put toward Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS fees.

Annual fee:  $95 (waived the first year)

Current welcome bonus: After spending $3,000 within the first three months of account opening, you’ll earn 60,000 MileagePlus miles.

How to spend the welcome bonus: United and its Star Alliance partners fly all over the world. That batch of miles is a good start towards a business or first-class ticket, but it is also enough to cover a round-trip, domestic economy class ticket.

Why we love it: For free-spirit travelers that like earning flexible points usable across multiple airlines, this card can expedite your points earning. It’s easier to redeem for an expensive first- or business-class ticket since Capital One has more than a dozen airline transfer partners, many of which offer a higher value when redeeming points for seats at the front of the plane. The swath of benefits that come with the card can quickly tip the scales of the annual fee in your favor, too.

How it earns miles: Capital One Venture X cardholders earn the most miles when booking via Capital One Travel rather than directly with travel brands. The rewards include 10 miles per dollar spent on hotels and rental cars, and five miles per dollar on airfare. All other purchases earn two miles per dollar.

Additional perks: This is where things get more interesting. Cardholders receive a $100 statement credit toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry and a $300 credit toward anything travel-related. This shaves off the majority of the annual fee. Unlock airport lounge access for the cardholder and two guests via Priority Pass and its more than 1,300 global lounges—plus, you’ll get access to a fledgling list of soon-to-open Capital One–branded lounges. For now, there is only one in Dallas/Fort Worth, but lounges in Denver and Washington’s Dulles are on the horizon. Cardholders can add up to four authorized users, giving them access to Capital One lounges when they travel independently, too. Each year, a 10,000-mile anniversary bonus is a pleasant surprise, and you’re covered with trip delay or cancellation protection, lost luggage reimbursement and primary car rental insurance when you use the card to pay for travel. There are no foreign transaction fees either.

By Steph Koyfman

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By Caitlin Gunther

Annual fee: $395

Foreign transaction fees: None

Current welcome bonus: After spending $4,000 within the first three months of account opening, you’ll earn 75,000 miles, equal to about $750 in travel.

How to spend the welcome bonus: Capital One points can be redeemed at a rewards rate of a penny per mile. That’s decent, but the best way to use these points is to transfer them to an airline program (once you find a redemption flight with space available). Among the best options are Air Canada’s Aeroplan, Avianca LifeMiles, and Turkish Miles & Smiles programs, all of which charge minimal fees and generally price their award tickets lower than U.S. carriers. A coast-to-coast business-class ticket on United using Aeroplan's reward program could cost only 25,000 points (far less than United’s 50,000+ miles). You could also get a 45,000-mile, one-way, business-class ticket to Europe using Turkish miles, too. (United would charge at least 70,000 miles each way for that same flight.)

Why we love it: Surprisingly for US-based travelers, Air Canada’s Aeroplan is a superior program to most domestic frequent flier programs because, in many cases, it offers lower redemption rates for long-haul business and first-class tickets. Cardholders of the new Chase Aeroplan card automatically receive Air Canada’s entry-level elite status (Aeroplan 25K) for the first full calendar year of holding it, too. That status comes with free checked bags, priority boarding and seats, upgrade credits, and lounge passes.

How it earns miles: If you’re hungry for points, Aeroplan has lots of earning opportunities. You’ll earn three points per dollar spent at grocery stores and dining outlets. Air Canada purchases, like flights, also rake in three points per dollar. All other purchases earn one point per dollar. Unique to this card are spending bonuses that award 500 bonus points for every $2,000 spent (up to three times per month).

Additional perks: This card’s benefits are most valuable to those that fly Air Canada, but they can still be beneficial to other airline loyalists. For starters, cardholders will receive a $100 statement credit toward TSA PreCheck, Nexus, or Global Entry. Eco-conscious fliers will appreciate that Air Canada will cover carbon offsets for award redemptions for cardholders and their companions. Plus, using the card for travel purchases includes trip cancellation insurance, roadside assistance and bag delay coverage. Note that to keep Aeroplan 25K status after the first year, cardholders need to spend at least $15,000 within the calendar year—and spending $50,000 gives a boost to the next elite status tier. To incentivize more spending each year, Aeroplan offers half-off Priority award redemptions if you meet certain spend thresholds, starting at $100,000 per year.

Annual fee: $95

Current welcome bonus: New cardholders can earn up to 100,000 points—75,000 points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open, and an additional 25,000 points after spending $20,000 on purchases in the first 12 months.

How to spend the welcome bonus: Aeroplan uses a distance-based chart to determine the cost of an award flight. Still, it has plenty of sweet spots where you can spend fewer points for a business-class flight than through U.S.-based programs and their mood-swing-style pricing. For example, a one-way business-class flight from the East Coast to Portugal costs 60,000 points, while a one-way business-class flight from the East Coast to the Middle East is only 10,000 points more. This is excellent value, especially when compared to more expensive programs like United MileagePlus and Delta SkyMiles.

Why we love it: While you won’t be earning airline miles with this card , it deserves attention for its freestyle Ultimate Rewards points that can be transferred to various hotel and airline rewards programs. The flexibility that comes with being able to transfer to different programs or use points outright to pay for airfare makes this one of the top cards to have in your wallet, especially if you’re not loyal to any specific airline.

How it earns miles: Cardholders earn one Ultimate Rewards point for every dollar spent. Bonus categories are plentiful including five points per dollar spent on travel purchased through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal, three points per dollar spent on dining, and two points per dollar spent on other travel purchases.

Additional perks: With a low annual fee and a plethora of perks, this is one of the best travel credit cards for those that want value for money. You’ll be protected when traveling with trip cancellation, car rental and lost luggage insurance. An annual $50 hotel credit is available to those booking through Chase Ultimate Rewards. A free subscription to the DoorDash Dash Pass means you pay no fees on food delivery services, and through December 2023, cardholders can receive a $10 monthly statement credit from Gopuff.

Annual fee:  $95

Current welcome bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 within the first three months of card opening.

How to spend the welcome bonus: You can transfer 60,000 points to United MileagePlus, which is often enough to redeem for a roundtrip economy class ticket to Europe. For maximum flexibility, you can also redeem 60,000 points through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for $750 worth of travel. This means you can travel on any flight or book any hotel or vacation rental listed on the website, and use points to shave $750 off the total bill.

AmEx's Platinum card will get you access to Centurion lounges.

Why we love it: Like the Chase Ultimate Rewards, the flexibility of American Express Membership Rewards points and the long roster of general travel-related benefits make the Platinum Card a premium choice for frequent fliers. Rather than aligning with a particular airline, this card provides maximum flexibility when it comes to redeeming points for free flights.

How it earns miles: Cardholders earn five points per dollar spent on flights and prepaid hotel bookings purchased through the Membership Rewards portal, too.

Additional perks: Despite a high annual fee, the benefits more than outweigh the cost if you know how and when to use them. Access to Centurion lounges and studios in more than 40 airports is a huge perk for frequent travelers while complimentary Priority Pass Select membership picks up the slack in other terminals without a Centurion lounge. Instant Gold elite status with both Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy are additional perks, which means complimentary breakfast and premium internet. You’ll get a $200 hotel credit to use each year for Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection properties booked for two nights or more via American Express. Entertainment fans can take advantage of a $20 monthly credit to Disney+, Audible, SiriusXM, and The New York Times (enrollment required, terms apply). That’s in addition to $200 in annual Uber and airline credits valid for things like bag fees, onboard food and drinks or seat assignments. Cardholders also get a refund for Clear membership (expedited airport security valued at $189) and $25 per month to use at Equinox gyms. For all of these perks, enrollment is required and terms apply.

Annual fee:  $695 ( see rates and fees )

Current welcome bonus: After spending $8,000 within the first six months of card membership, you’ll earn 80,000 Membership Rewards points.

How to spend the welcome bonus: This hefty bonus is transferable to other airline and hotel loyalty programs (AmEx has a long list of partners including British Airways, Emirates, Hilton, Marriott, Qantas, Radisson and Virgin Atlantic among others) or can be used to directly purchase $1,000 worth of travel via the Membership Rewards portal.

Why we love it: We don’t love the low value of Delta SkyMiles, since you sometimes need double, triple, or quadruple the miles compared to what other airlines charge for mileage tickets. But, we do love the opportunity to earn Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) toward elite status by meeting certain spend thresholds. If it’s Delta elite status you’re after, this is a must-have for your wallet.

How it earns miles: You’ll earn three SkyMiles for every dollar you spend on Delta flights, two miles on dining and US supermarket purchases, and one mile on all other eligible purchases. After spending $25,000 on the card, you will earn 10,000 bonus MQMs, and another 10,000 MQMs after reaching $50,000 in annual spend. That’s helpful since it only takes 25,000 MQMs to reach entry-level Silver Medallion status.

Additional perks: A free checked bag when flying Delta is one of the perks, as is a statement credit to offset the cost of TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership (enrollment required, terms apply). Another popular benefit is a companion certificate that allows cardholders to bring along a fellow flier for free (plus tax).

Annual fee:  $250 ( see rates and fees )

Current welcome bonus: You can earn 50,000 SkyMiles after spending $3,000 within the first six months of opening the account (terms apply).

How to spend the welcome bonus: Delta prices its award tickets at sometimes exorbitant rates, but there are still some good deals from time to time. A recent award fare sale priced economy class tickets to Europe at 34,000 miles round-trip. Most of the year, however, the mileage cost of award flights on Delta and its partners can be rather inflated compared to other airlines, which means those 50,000 miles will definitely come in handy, no matter where you want to fly.

Look for award fare sales to get the most out of your Delta miles.

Why we love it: Alaska Airlines is the only major domestic airline to award miles based on distance flown rather than how much you spend on a ticket. This makes it easier to rack up Alaska miles, even on cheap tickets. Alaska is a member of the OneWorld alliance, but the carrier also has a long roster of other international airline partners where you can earn and redeem miles. This card's low annual fee and plethora of benefits deliver great value.

How it earns miles: The card awards three miles per dollar spent on Alaska flights and one mile on everything else.

Additional perks: Fliers can check their first bag free and save 20 percent on in-flight food and beverage purchases. For a little relaxation before a flight, a day pass to the Alaska Board Room lounge is half price for cardholders.

Current welcome bonus: After making $2,000 in purchases within the first 90 days of opening the card, cardholders earn 40,000 miles as well as an annual companion pass, which allows someone to travel with you for only $99 plus tax.

How to spend the welcome bonus: Alaska outpaces its competitors by still offering an award chart , which helps frequent fliers know how many miles they need for a free flight. For example, a one-way, first-class ticket to Hawaii from the U.S. mainland starts at 40,000 miles, according to the airline’s award chart.

Why we love it: If you’re an American Airlines flier, this card piles on the perks. Perhaps its biggest asset is Admirals Club lounge access for you and two guests (or your immediate family). American AAdvantage and its OneWorld partners offer a huge network of flights and some impressive premium cabins that can make flying a real treat. Qatar Airways, with its fully enclosed Qsuite business class seat, and Cathay Pacific, with its swanky first-class seats and lounge , are a great use of AAdvantage miles.

How it earns miles: Cardholders earn 10 miles per dollar on car rentals and hotels booked through AAdvantage Hotels , four miles per dollar on all American Airlines purchases, and one mile per dollar on all other purchases. Plus, earn a 10,000 Loyalty Point bonus after reaching 50,000 Loyalty Points in a status qualification year, and another 10,000 Loyalty Points after reaching 90,000 Loyalty Points in the same status qualification year.

Additional perks: The card comes with priority boarding and a first checked bag for free. Onboard, you’ll save 25 percent on food and beverage purchases. If you use the card to pay for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, you’ll receive a statement credit to cover the cost, too.

Annual fee:  $595

Current welcome bonus: New cardholders will earn 100,000 AAdvantage miles after spending $10,000 within the first three months of holding the card.

How to spend the welcome bonus: The current welcome bonus is enough for a roundtrip, domestic first-class ticket or roundtrip economy class to Hawaii. It will also get you most of the way to a one-way business class ticket in Qatar Airways’ Qsuite, which costs 70,000 miles each way to the Middle East, India, and Thailand, among other places.

Use your AAdvantage points to book onto partner airline Qatar.

Why we love it: This card is one of the easiest ways for US-based fliers to redeem miles for Emirates first class while also enjoying instant elite status. The Skywards program is a transfer partner with other travel credit card points programs, too, like American Express Membership Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards. That means you can top off your account easily without charging a fortune to this card.

How it earns miles: Earn three miles per dollar spent on Emirates or FlyDubai flights and double miles on other travel-related purchases including airfare, hotel, and car rental purchases. The card awards one mile per dollar on everything else. After spending $30,000 within a calendar year, you’ll earn a 10,000-mile bonus.

Additional perks: Unlike other cards, this one gives new cardholders instant Gold elite status on Emirates for the first year of holding the card. After the first year, cardholders can keep the same status tier after spending $40,000 per year. Gold status comes with business class lounge access, bonus miles on Emirates flights, and free seat selection. The card also comes with Priority Pass Select membership , which opens the door to more than 1,000 airport lounges. The card offers a statement credit when using it to pay for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.

Annual fee:  $499

Current welcome bonus: Earn 40,000 miles after spending $3,000 within the first 90 days of being approved for the card.

How to spend the welcome bonus: Mileage redemptions for Emirates first and business class flights are not cheap, but recently the carrier lowered the fees associated with them. A round-trip first class ticket between New York and Dubai costs 272,500 miles, but the signup bonus will have you well on your way.

See rates and fees for the American Express Platinum Card ; Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card.

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JetBlue baggage fees and how to avoid paying them

Editor's note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.

Similar to many other airlines, JetBlue recently raised its checked bag fees , but that doesn't mean you can't still travel with checked luggage for cheap.

Luckily, with the JetBlue baggage policy, there are still many ways to avoid paying baggage fees on your next flight depending on your JetBlue elite status , the fare class you booked or which credit card you're carrying.

JetBlue's baggage fees are also very simple and clearly stated, making it easy to understand the additional cost you'll incur on your next flight; let's take a closer look.

JetBlue carry-on guidelines

All passengers flying with JetBlue can bring along one personal item that fits under the seat in front. The personal item might be a backpack, purse, laptop bag or approved pet carrier (if you pay the pet fee ). It cannot be larger than 17 inches by 13 inches by 8 inches.

On top of the personal item, JetBlue passengers who booked a Blue, Blue Plus, Blue Extra or Mint fare are also allowed a carry-on bag that can fit into the overhead bin. There is no fee for this second bag, although the size can't exceed 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches. Note that these dimensions include wheels and handles.

Passengers who booked the lowest fare ticket — Blue Basic — are not allowed to bring a larger carry-on bag to store in the overhead bin. Blue Basic passengers who bring extra bags or a bag that is too large to fit beneath the seat in front will face JetBlue checked bag fees. JetBlue baggage policy currently lists this fee as $65 for the first or second checked bag and $180 for the third.

There are some exceptions to this policy. You can still bring a carry-on bag to place within the overhead bin when traveling on a Blue Basic fare if you fall into one of the following categories:

• Mosaic members (who get a carry-on bag and early boarding with all fares)
• If you're flying on a transatlantic flight (including connecting flights)
• Travelers combining a Blue Basic fare with an Even More Space seat (on all legs, if connecting)*
• Active U.S. military members
• Unaccompanied minors

*Note: If you're flying on a transatlantic flight, booking an Even More Space seat does not grant you any additional baggage other than those already included.

Related: How to change or cancel a JetBlue flight

JetBlue checked bag fees

All JetBlue passengers are allowed to check bags. Your fare type, JetBlue elite status and whether you have a JetBlue credit card will determine the checked bag fee you must pay.

JetBlue has two different checked bag fee charts — one for routes within the U.S., Latin America, the Caribbean and Canada, and one for transatlantic flights.

The chart below will allow you to determine your JetBlue checked bag fee for your first and second checked bag at the airport.

JetBlue baggage fees for flights within the US, Latin America, the Caribbean and Canada

*For flights purchased before Jan. 11, 2024, the first checked baggage fee will cost $30 to $35. For flights purchased between Jan. 11 and Jan. 31, 2024, the first checked baggage fee will cost $35 to $40. For flights purchased before July 25, 2023, second checked baggage fees cost $45.

Unless you book a Blue Plus fare or a Mint seat, are a Mosaic loyalty member, have the JetBlue Plus Card or have the JetBlue Business Card , you will pay $35 to $45 for the first checked bag and $50 to $60 for the second checked bag.

However, paying your checked baggage fees more than 24 hours before departure can secure the least expensive pricing ($35 for your first bag and $50 for your second bag). Remember that travelers with Blue Plus fares, JetBlue Plus cardmembers and JetBlue Business cardmembers only have one bag included, so you'll still have to pay for the second checked bag.

The information for the JetBlue Plus Card and JetBlue Business Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Per the JetBlue baggage policy, Mint passengers can check a bag up to 70 pounds. With the JetBlue baggage weight restrictions, all other passenger bags must be 50 pounds or less to avoid additional overweight charges. In my experience, Mosaic members can also check a bag up to 70 pounds, but this isn't formally included in the JetBlue baggage policy online.

If you want to travel with more than two checked bags, you'll need to pay $125 per bag for your third bag and $150 for each subsequent bag, regardless of your fare type or elite status. Note that on reservations made before July 25, 2023, the third checked bag fee is $150.

You may want to check the JetBlue baggage policy for yourself before your trip, though. After all, some destinations have limitations on luggage — specifically international destinations.

Related: JetBlue to 'evolve' TrueBlue frequent flyer program under new loyalty chief

JetBlue baggage fees for transatlantic flights

Although the fee to check a bag is significantly more expensive when traveling to Europe, most fare types include your first checked bag.

However, if you want to travel with more than two checked bags, you'll need to pay $200, 150 pounds or 185 euros per bag for your third bag and each subsequent bag regardless of your fare type or elite status.

Bags that don't incur JetBlue baggage fees

Some items won't count toward your carry-on or checked baggage limit, regardless of your destination. For example, if you are traveling with an assistive device — such as a stroller, car seat, crutches or wheelchair — you can bring it with you for free (although it is still subject to carry-on size and weight restrictions).

Additionally, with the JetBlue baggage policy, all U.S. military members on active military orders and dependents can check up to five bags at no additional cost (and up to 99 pounds each). Those traveling for leisure along with their dependents can check up to two bags at no additional cost.

Overweight and oversize baggage fees

JetBlue charges both an overweight and oversize fee, which can add up quickly if you exceed limits.

These additional fees are charged as follows:

• Overweight fee (up to 99 pounds): $150 per bag; $150/120 pounds/140 euros per bag for transatlantic flights (bags that exceed 70 pounds not accepted on transatlantic flights)
• Oversize fee (up to 80 inches, including wheels and handles): $150 per bag; $150/120 pounds/140 euros on transatlantic flights

Related: JetBlue cuts 20 routes, trims new Canada service to boost summer reliability

Sporting equipment fee

JetBlue allows you to check sporting equipment , but some items carry an excess fee.

Golf bags, fishing rods, skimboards, skis and snowboard bags all count as standard checked bags. The fee for these items will follow the same criteria as your first or second checked bag. As long as these particular items are within the weight limits, they will not incur an oversized bag fee.

You can find all the JetBlue fees associated with checking sporting equipment here .

How to avoid JetBlue checked bag fees

Fortunately, there are many ways to avoid JetBlue baggage fees.

Elite status allowances

All Mosaic loyalty members can check up to two bags at no cost. You can earn JetBlue Mosaic status by earning 50 Tiles.

Tiles can be earned in the following ways:

• Earn one Tile for every $100 spent on qualifying JetBlue purchases (including paid JetBlue flights, JetBlue Vacations packages and Paisly reservations).
• Earn one Tile for every $1,000 in qualifying spend on a JetBlue credit card.

Additionally, all eligible travel companions booked on the same reservation with a JetBlue Mosaic elite member can check up to two bags for no fee. For example, as long as one passenger in a family of four has Mosaic status, the group can check up to eight bags for no additional fee.

Related: What is JetBlue elite status worth?

Avoid checked baggage fees by holding the right credit cards

JetBlue offers three credit cards — two personal cards and one business card. However, only two cards offer a checked bag benefit. In particular, with the JetBlue Plus Card and JetBlue Business Card , you can check your first bag for free as long as you purchase the ticket with your card. This perk extends to three additional companions on the same reservation as the cardholder.

Both cards come with a $99 annual fee. So, even if you only check a bag on three flights each year, you'll break even.

Related: JetBlue Plus Card versus JetBlue Business Card

Book a premium cabin

When you book your ticket, there are many fare-class options — each one includes different benefits for your flight. If you aren't a Mosaic member and you don't have an eligible JetBlue credit card, then you might want to consider selecting the Blue Plus fare option. Doing so will allow you to check your first bag for free. However, this fare type is not an option on many routes, so don't be surprised if you don't see it listed.

JetBlue Mint seats also allow you to check up to two bags at no additional fee. And for flights within the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbean, you can check a bag up to 70 pounds without facing any overweight charges.

Related: You can now book JetBlue Mint to London with Emirates Miles — and it's a good deal

Use card travel credits to cover fees

If you have to pay baggage fees on your next JetBlue flight, know that many travel rewards cards offer annual statement credits . You can use these credits toward various travel purchases, including baggage fees.

For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers a $300 annual travel credit on anything that codes as "travel" on your credit card statement. You'll also find that many American Express cards , such as The Platinum Card® from American Express , offer annual airline fee credits . However, note that you'll need to enroll before using some of these benefits.

Bottom line

Although JetBlue charges a checked baggage fee for most customers, there are many ways to avoid this additional cost. For starters, if you can pack a smaller suitcase, you can bring your bag as a carry-on and store it in the airline's overhead bin (as long as you don't book a Blue Basic fare).

If you must check your luggage, your first bag will travel with you for free as long as you have a JetBlue credit card. While you might not want to have another credit card in your wallet, if you find yourself flying JetBlue often, an eligible JetBlue credit card is an easy way to avoid the JetBlue baggage fee.

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

JetBlue Plus Card versus JetBlue Business Card: Battle of the $99 cards

Editor's Note

JetBlue gives consumers three great cobranded credit card options to maximize their travel with the airline and everyday purchases. The no-fee JetBlue Card is a good product for those looking to earn JetBlue TrueBlue points steadily without committing to an expensive credit card.

However, for those willing to pay a $99 annual fee, both the JetBlue Plus Card and the JetBlue Business Card are great alternatives that rack up points quickly and offer impressive day-of-travel perks to boot.

As you might expect, many of the benefits of the JetBlue Plus and JetBlue Business overlap. We'll examine both cards in detail and see how they differ.

The information for the JetBlue, JetBlue Plus and JetBlue Business cards has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

JetBlue Plus Card vs. JetBlue Business Card comparison

Jetblue plus vs. jetblue business welcome offer.

Currently, the JetBlue Plus offers 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days of card opening and paying the annual fee in full. Although not the highest offer we have seen on this card, the sign-up bonus is still worth $675, based on TPG's June 2024 valuations .

On the other hand, the JetBlue Business offers a slightly higher sign-up bonus of 60,000 points — 50,000 after you spend $4,000 in the first 90 days, along with another 10,000 points when a purchase is made on an employee card during the first 90 days. According to TPG's valuations, the sign-up bonus is worth $810, giving it a lead over the JetBlue Plus.

Winner: JetBlue Business. The additional 10,000 bonus points give this card the edge.

Related: Earn JetBlue points at your favorite local restaurants with TrueBlue Dining

JetBlue Plus vs. JetBlue Business benefits

Both cards offer an impressive slate of benefits when traveling on the airline. Both the JetBlue Plus and JetBlue Business offer a free checked bag for the cardholder and up to three companions on the same reservation when they use their card to book a JetBlue-operated flight.

Cardmembers of both also enjoy 50% savings in the form of statement credits when making inflight purchases , a refund of 10% of redeemed points each year, 5,000 bonus points (worth $68 according to TPG's valuations) after the account anniversary and payment of the annual fee and up to $100 off a JetBlue Vacations package once per calendar year . Both cards also offer no foreign transaction fees, so you can use your card at international destinations served by Jetblue without racking up additional costs.

The two cards differ in that the JetBlue Plus allows cardholders to redeem points for a statement credit, up to $1,000 annually, through the Points Payback benefit. In contrast, cardholders of the JetBlue Business get Group A boarding on JetBlue-operated flights.

The JetBlue Plus includes a few other travel protections that the business version does not. It will cover trip delays up to $300 per trip twice per 12-month period if your flight is delayed more than six hours. Its baggage-delay coverage is up to $100 per day for three days, starting at 12 hours. It also offers trip cancellation and interruption protection up to $5,000 per trip or $10,000 per 12-month period.

As World Elite Mastercard holders, those with JetBlue Plus are eligible for a $5 Lyft credit once per month after taking three or more rides each month and receive cellphone protection against loss or damage. There is a $50 deductible per claim and a maximum benefit of $800 per claim or $1,000 per 12-month period.

For its part, the JetBlue Business offers purchase protection for damage or theft up to 90 days out and as much as $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account per 12-month period, so this is the card to make your big purchases with.

Winner: JetBlue Business. Group A boarding and comprehensive purchase protections give this card the lead.

Related: JetBlue Mosaic elite status: What it is and how to earn it

Earning points with the JetBlue Plus vs. JetBlue Business

The two cards have very similar earning structures, though their bonus categories vary.

Both cards earn 6 points per dollar on JetBlue purchases, 2 points per dollar at restaurants and 1 point per dollar on most other purchases .

Where they differ is that the JetBlue Plus earns 2 points per dollar spent at grocery stores , whereas the JetBlue Business earns 2 points per dollar spent at office supply stores.

Winner: Tie. Which card wins out will depend on whether you spend more on groceries or at office supply stores each year.

Redeeming points with the JetBlue Plus vs. JetBlue Business

Points earned on either credit card are accumulated in a member's TrueBlue account .

Points can be redeemed on JetBlue-operated flights, and although JetBlue has several airline partners you can earn points through, TrueBlue members can only redeem their points with Hawaiian Airlines, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways.

There are no blackout dates with the TrueBlue program; however, award ticket prices are dynamic, which means they vary from flight to flight and are relative to the cash price of a ticket.

After you redeem for and travel on a JetBlue-operated award flight, you'll receive 10% of your points back as a bonus.

Aside from redeeming points for flights, cardmembers can also redeem them for vacation getaways and merchandise. One of the best redemptions would be for JetBlue Mint business-class seats; however, prices vary based on route and dates.

Winner: Tie. Both cards offer the same redemption options.

Related: How to get upgraded on JetBlue Airways

Should I get the JetBlue Plus or JetBlue Business?

Consider whether you would get more value from a personal or business credit card. The JetBlue Business provides more value overall, but it doesn't make sense for someone who doesn't have their own employees. If the JetBlue Plus is your only option, you'll still get great value.

Bottom line

JetBlue offers a great flight network around the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean and select European destinations. Aside from the similar benefits found on each card, determine which card will better suit your spending and travel habits before deciding.

JetBlue cards are a great addition to any wallet, and the TrueBlue program offers valuable redemption deals, especially for Mint business-class seats.

To learn more, read our full reviews of the JetBlue Plus and Business cards.

Russia's VTB Bank Says US Sanctions Have Complicated Cross-Border Transactions

Russia's VTB Bank Says US Sanctions Have Complicated Cross-Border Transactions

FILE PHOTO: A view shows a board with the logo of VTB bank at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) in Saint Petersburg, Russia June 5, 2024. REUTERS/Anton Vaganov/File Photo

MOSCOW (Reuters) - U.S. sanctions imposed on Moscow this month have complicated the foreign trade operations of Russian banks, but they are gradually adapting to the new realities, the finance director of VTB, Russia's second-largest lender, said on Friday.

On June 12, the U.S. imposed Ukraine-related sanctions on the Moscow Exchange, which stopped trading in currency pairs with the dollar and euro.

The sanctions package also targeted China-based companies selling semiconductors to Moscow, and the U.S. Treasury said it was raising "the risk of secondary sanctions for foreign financial institutions that deal with Russia's war economy," effectively threatening them with losing access to the U.S. financial system.

VTB's branch in Shanghai, the only representative office of a Russian bank in China, fell under the sanctions.

VTB's Chinese branch "is (now) in a period of adaptation to the new realities," Dmitry Pyanov, VTB's finance director, said on Friday, adding that the bank "will be fine."

Pyanov said the entire Russian banking system - which faced complications when it came to international co-operation in cross-border payments - was having to adapt to the new realities.

A person familiar with the situation at Chinese banks operating in Russia told Reuters on June 13 that Russian affiliates of Chinese banks had stopped processing settlements for Russia-China trade in dollars and euros.

(Reporting by Elena Fabrichnaya; Editing by Andrew Osborn)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

Tags: Russia , United States , international trade , Europe

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