Best Airline Credit Cards of 2026
Earn miles, get free checked bags, and unlock priority boarding with the right airline card.
Top Airline Credit Cards
United℠ Explorer Card
Chase / United
Delta SkyMiles® Gold Card
Amex / Delta
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority
Chase / Southwest
AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite
Barclays / American Airlines
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature®
Bank of America / Alaska
Frequently Asked Questions
Are airline credit cards worth it?
If you fly the same airline 3+ times per year, an airline card is usually worth it. The free checked bag alone ($35-70 per round trip) can pay for the annual fee, and miles earned on everyday spending add up to free flights.
Which airline card has the best sign-up bonus?
The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature offers 70,000 miles plus a companion fare, making it one of the most valuable airline card bonuses. The United Explorer and AAdvantage Aviator Red also offer strong 60,000-mile bonuses.
Can I use airline miles on partner airlines?
Yes, most airline loyalty programs allow you to book flights on partner airlines. For example, United miles can be used on Star Alliance partners like Lufthansa and ANA, while Delta miles work on SkyTeam partners like Air France and KLM.
Should I get an airline card or a travel card?
If you are loyal to one airline, get their card for perks like free bags and priority boarding. If you fly multiple airlines or want flexibility, a general travel card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred offers more versatility with transferable points.
Ready to Earn Free Flights?
Take our quiz to find the airline card that matches your travel style.
Take the Quiz