Best Airline Rewards Credit Cards
Airline rewards credit cards are special types of credit cards designed to help frequent flyers earn points or miles whenever they spend. These points can be redeemed for free flights, upgrades, or other travel perks, making travel more affordable and enjoyable. Many cards also offer extra benefits like priority boarding, lounge access, and travel insurance, tailored to enhance your flying experience.
- Earn miles or points with everyday purchases
- Redeem rewards for flights, upgrades, and travel perks
- Access exclusive travel benefits like lounges and priority boarding
- Best Airline Rewards Credit Cards
- Top Airline Rewards Credit Cards List
- Eurowings Credit Card (Barclays Germany)
- Vueling Visa (CaixaBank, Spain)
- Flying Blue Gold Card (ING Netherlands)
- Miles & More Gold Credit Card (DKB, Germany)
- British Airways Visa Signature (CaixaBank Spain)
- Air France KLM American Express Gold (via Air France Finance, France)
- Miles & More Gold Credit Card (Commerzbank, Germany)
- British Airways American Express Credit Card (UK)
- Lufthansa Miles & More Credit Card (Germany)
- Air France KLM Flying Blue Credit Card (France)
- Ways to spend your air mile points
- Essential Tips for Airline Credit Cards
- 20 Airlines in Europe that partner with banks
- Your Top Airline Rewards Card FAQ
- Top Airline Rewards Credit Cards List
Top Airline Rewards Credit Cards List
Eurowings Credit Card (Barclays Germany)
| # | Bank | Account Info | Eligibility | Highlights | Rating | Visit |
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| 1 |
Eurowings Credit Card (Germany)
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87
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Pros
- Earn Miles & More points with daily spending
- Includes travel insurance on Premium plan
- No FX fees when abroad (Premium)
- Accepted globally with Visa
Cons
- Limited to residents of Germany
- Monthly fee on both plans
- Standard version lacks insurance and benefits
- Miles may expire without frequent use
About Eurowings Credit Card
Issued by Barclays Germany, the Eurowings Credit Card is tailored for those who fly regularly with the Lufthansa Group. With each euro you spend, you collect valuable miles redeemable for flights, upgrades, or travel perks. The Premium version offers strong extras like comprehensive travel insurance and no foreign transaction fees, making it an ideal companion for both business and leisure travel. While a monthly fee applies, the miles and peace of mind gained through travel protections make it a smart pick for frequent flyers based in Germany.
Vueling Visa (CaixaBank, Spain)
| # | Bank | Account Info | Eligibility | Highlights | Rating | Visit |
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| 2 |
Vueling Visa (Spain)
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84
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Pros
- Collect Avios on every spend
- Access to Vueling travel perks
- 1st year annual fee waived
- Well-integrated with CaixaBank app
Cons
- Only available in Spain
- No lounge access perks
- Travel insurance not included by default
- Avios value varies by redemption
About Vueling Visa
The Vueling Visa card, issued by CaixaBank, offers travel-savvy Spaniards an opportunity to accumulate Avios points with everyday purchases. These points can be redeemed for discounted flights, upgrades, or other Iberia Group benefits. Cardholders get exclusive deals with Vueling and enjoy perks like priority boarding. While it lacks premium travel insurance out of the box, its strong synergy with Vueling makes it an attractive entry-level airline rewards card for frequent domestic and EU travelers based in Spain.
Flying Blue Gold Card (ING Netherlands)
| # | Bank | Account Info | Eligibility | Highlights | Rating | Visit |
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| 3 |
![Flying Blue Gold Card Logo](/wp-content/uploads/logos/ing.png")
Flying Blue Gold Card (Netherlands)
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88
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Pros
- Double miles on KLM & Air France
- Strong travel insurance package
- Purchase protection on electronics
- Premium Mastercard support
Cons
- High annual fee
- Miles expire without activity
- Only for Dutch residents
- No lounge access included
About Flying Blue Gold Card
The Flying Blue Gold Card, issued by ING Netherlands in partnership with Air France and KLM, is a premium airline credit card designed for frequent flyers. Cardholders enjoy accelerated mileage accumulation on all purchases, especially with the SkyTeam network. The card includes useful travel insurance, extended warranty, and protection perks, making it a solid choice for travelers who prioritize rewards and safety. Although it comes with a steep annual fee, the value from Flying Blue Miles and travel benefits can far exceed the cost for frequent KLM flyers.
Miles & More Gold Credit Card (DKB, Germany)
| # | Bank | Account Info | Eligibility | Highlights | Rating | Visit |
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| 4 |
Miles & More Gold Card (Germany)
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90
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Pros
- High mile-earning potential
- No mile expiry with activity
- Wide Star Alliance compatibility
- Includes travel & rental insurance
Cons
- Limited to German residents
- Annual fee applies immediately
- No lounge access included
- Miles earning capped on some spending types
About Miles & More Gold Card
The Miles & More Gold Card, issued by DKB in Germany, is tailored for frequent flyers within the Lufthansa and Star Alliance networks. It allows users to collect valuable award miles on everyday purchases while providing added perks like travel insurance and car rental coverage. The card is a favorite for German residents who travel regularly and want a long-term way to preserve and redeem their miles effectively. With its solid welcome bonus and insurance protections, it combines rewards with practical travel benefits.
British Airways Visa Signature (CaixaBank Spain)
| # | Bank | Account Info | Eligibility | Highlights | Rating | Visit |
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| 5 |
British Airways Visa (Spain)
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87
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Pros
- Generous Avios earning on purchases
- 2-for-1 companion voucher option
- Well-integrated with Iberia/BA routes
- Includes travel protections
Cons
- Available only to Spain residents
- High spend needed for travel rewards
- No lounge access included
- Annual fee starts first year
About British Airways Visa (CaixaBank)
Offered through CaixaBank in Spain, the British Airways Visa Signature card allows travelers to collect Avios for flights with British Airways and Iberia. It’s particularly attractive to frequent flyers within Spain who travel often to the UK or across Europe. With built-in protections and a path to a valuable 2-for-1 voucher, this card balances loyalty rewards with practicality. It’s a solid choice for those who want to get more out of their daily spending and travel frequently within the OneWorld alliance network.
Air France KLM American Express Gold (via Air France Finance, France)
| # | Bank | Account Info | Eligibility | Highlights | Rating | Visit |
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| 6 |
AF-KLM Amex Gold (France)
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88
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Pros
- Excellent Flying Blue Mile earning rate
- XP Points accelerate elite status
- Strong travel & cancellation insurance
- Integrated with Air France/KLM ecosystem
Cons
- Annual fee higher than some competitors
- Limited use outside of Flying Blue program
- Only available in France
- American Express not accepted everywhere
About Air France KLM Amex Gold
The Air France KLM American Express Gold Card is the go-to loyalty companion for frequent flyers of Flying Blue. Issued in partnership with American Express and available exclusively in France, it offers a seamless way to earn both Miles and XP points with every euro spent. It also includes premium travel benefits like insurance and preferential airport services. This card is ideal for those flying regularly with Air France, KLM, and their SkyTeam partners, aiming to unlock elite status faster while getting rewarded on everyday purchases.
Miles & More Gold Credit Card (Commerzbank, Germany)
| # | Bank | Account Info | Eligibility | Highlights | Rating | Visit |
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| 7 |
Miles & More Gold (Germany)
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87
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Go To Site |
Pros
- Strong Miles earning rate
- Free lounge access vouchers
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Good welcome bonus
Cons
- Annual fee can be high for some
- Only for German residents
- Income verification required
- Limited airline partners outside Lufthansa group
About Miles & More Gold Credit Card
The Miles & More Gold Credit Card by Commerzbank is a top pick for frequent flyers in Germany aiming to rack up Lufthansa Miles quickly. Besides generous mile-earning on daily spends and flight bookings, the card offers valuable perks like lounge access and robust travel insurance. While the annual fee is on the higher side, the benefits and welcome bonus make it worthwhile for travelers loyal to the Miles & More program.
British Airways American Express Credit Card (UK)
| # | Bank | Account Info | Eligibility | Highlights | Rating | Visit |
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| 8 |
British Airways Amex (UK)
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88
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Go To Site |
Pros
- Generous Avios earning
- Companion voucher unlocks great value
- Strong travel insurance package
- Access to BA lounges
Cons
- High annual fee after first year
- Strict credit requirements
- Limited rewards outside British Airways
- UK residents only
About British Airways American Express Credit Card
The British Airways American Express Credit Card is a favourite among UK travelers looking to maximize Avios points. With an attractive welcome bonus, a companion voucher, and access to BA lounges, this card rewards loyalty to British Airways. While the annual fee kicks in after the first year, the perks and travel protections help justify the cost for frequent flyers.
Lufthansa Miles & More Credit Card (Germany)
| # | Bank | Account Info | Eligibility | Highlights | Rating | Visit |
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| 9 |
Lufthansa Miles & More Credit Card (DE)
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84
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Go To Site |
Pros
- Good miles earning on flights and purchases
- Bonus miles on Lufthansa flights
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Wide partner network for bonuses
Cons
- Annual fee applicable
- Mostly beneficial for Lufthansa flyers
- Limited to Germany residents
- No complimentary lounge access
About Lufthansa Miles & More Credit Card
The Lufthansa Miles & More Credit Card is designed for frequent Lufthansa travelers in Germany. It allows cardholders to earn miles on everyday purchases and offers bonus miles for Lufthansa flights. Though it carries an annual fee, the included travel accident insurance and partner perks provide solid value for loyal flyers.
Air France KLM Flying Blue Credit Card (France)
| # | Bank | Account Info | Eligibility | Highlights | Rating | Visit |
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| 10 |
Air France KLM Flying Blue Credit Card (FR)
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83
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Pros
- Generous miles earning on all spending
- Bonus miles on Air France & KLM flights
- Travel perks like baggage discounts
- Access to exclusive partner deals
Cons
- Annual fee varies by card tier
- Limited to French residents
- Requires proof of income
- No lounge access included
About Air France KLM Flying Blue Credit Card
The Air France KLM Flying Blue Credit Card is perfect for frequent flyers based in France, offering flexible tiers with varying annual fees. Cardholders earn miles on all purchases and enjoy bonus miles when flying with Air France or KLM. Additional perks include baggage fee discounts and special partner offers that add value for travelers loyal to these airlines.
Ways to spend your air mile points
You can use your air mile points primarily to book flights, often allowing you to save significantly on the cost of tickets. Many programs also let you redeem points for upgrades to premium cabins, making your travel more comfortable. Beyond flights, points can sometimes be spent on hotel stays, car rentals, or even shopping with partner retailers, giving you flexibility to enjoy your rewards in different ways. Just keep in mind that availability and options vary by airline and loyalty program.
Essential Tips for Airline Credit Cards
| Topic | Key Facts |
|---|---|
| Airline credit card basics | Only get an airline credit card if you can pay the full balance monthly. Interest fees can easily outweigh rewards. Always set a direct debit to avoid paying interest. |
| Spending requirement | These cards work best if you spend £10,000+ per year. Big spenders benefit from perks like companion tickets and large bonuses, often with an annual fee. |
| Companion ticket | A companion ticket lets someone fly free with you using points, usually paying taxes only. It often requires high annual spending and may come with fees. |
| Cash and borrowing | Never borrow or withdraw cash on airline cards – they charge high fees and interest. Use them like a debit card and pay off monthly for max rewards. |
| Maximize rewards | Use the card for everyday spending and work expenses if allowed. Always repay in full each month to earn points without extra cost. |
| Additional cardholders | You can add extra cardholders to combine spending for rewards. Remember, you’re responsible for all charges on your account. |
| Buying extra points | Many schemes let you buy points to top up balances. Part-paying flights with points plus cash can be cheaper than buying points outright. |
| Credit application timing | Apply for cards carefully if you plan other big loans like a mortgage soon, as multiple credit checks can hurt your credit score. |
| Taxes and fees on reward flights | Flights aren’t totally free – you still pay taxes and fees. Points reduce costs but expect to pay some charges when booking. |
| Reward flight availability | Reward seats are limited and require flexibility. Book about a year ahead and check regularly for released seats, especially for peak travel times. |
| Points transfer rules | Points usually can’t be transferred between different airline schemes but can sometimes be sent to others with restrictions and possible fees. |
20 Airlines in Europe that partner with banks
| # | Airline | Partner Bank(s) | Reward Type | Typical Perks | Annual Fee Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | British Airways | American Express UK | Avios Miles, Companion Voucher | Priority boarding, lounge access | £0 – £575 |
| 2 | Lufthansa | Barclays Germany, Miles & More Bank | Miles & More Points, Flight Upgrades | Free checked bags, priority boarding | €0 – €150 |
| 3 | Air France / KLM | BNP Paribas, American Express France | Flying Blue Miles, Cashback | Airport lounge access, travel insurance | €0 – €120 |
| 4 | Emirates | HSBC UK, Barclays UK | Skywards Miles, Cashback | Lounge access, bonus miles | £0 – £175 |
| 5 | Turkish Airlines | Garanti BBVA (Turkey), Akbank | Miles & Smiles Points, Cashback | Extra baggage, travel insurance | ₺0 – ₺400 (~€20 – €40) |
| 6 | easyJet | Barclays UK | Flight Discounts, Cashback | Discounted seats, cashback offers | £0 – £99 |
| 7 | Ryanair | Banks in Ireland (AIB), Mastercard Partners | Cashback, Flight Vouchers | Flight discounts, priority boarding | €0 – €75 |
| 8 | Virgin Atlantic | American Express UK | Flying Club Miles, Companion Voucher | Lounge access, bonus miles | £0 – £250 |
| 9 | Finnair | Nordea Bank | Finnair Plus Points, Cashback | Priority boarding, discounts | €0 – €120 |
| 10 | Swiss International Air Lines | UBS Bank | Miles & More Points, Flight Upgrades | Flight upgrades, lounge access | CHF 0 – 180 (~€180) |
| 11 | Iberia | Banco Santander | Avios Miles, Bonus Points | Priority check-in, lounge access | €0 – €120 |
| 12 | Air Europa | CaixaBank | Air Europa SUMA Points, Cashback | Flight discounts, travel insurance | €0 – €100 |
| 13 | Austrian Airlines | Erste Bank | Miles & More Points, Flight Benefits | Priority boarding, lounge access | €0 – €120 |
| 14 | Alitalia | UniCredit | Flying Blue Miles, Cashback | Flight upgrades, discounts | €0 – €150 |
| 15 | Norwegian Air | Nordea Bank | CashPoints, Cashback | Flight discounts, cashback | €0 – €100 |
| 16 | Wizz Air | OTP Bank (Hungary), Mastercard | Cashback, Wizz Discount | Flight discounts, cashback | €0 – €75 |
| 17 | Brussels Airlines | KBC Bank | Miles & More Points, Flight Benefits | Priority boarding, lounge access | €0 – €110 |
| 18 | LOT Polish Airlines | PKO Bank Polski | Miles & More Points, Cashback | Flight discounts, cashback | PLN 0 – 400 (~€85) |
| 19 | Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) | SEB Bank, Nordea | EuroBonus Points, Flight Perks | Lounge access, priority boarding | €0 – €150 |
| 20 | Qatar Airways | HSBC UK, Barclays UK | Privilege Club Miles, Cashback | Lounge access, bonus miles | £0 – £200 |
Your Top Airline Rewards Card FAQ
You earn points or miles on every purchase, which can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, or other travel perks. The cards often come with bonuses and special rewards to encourage spending.
Frequent flyers and those who spend heavily on their cards get the best value from rewards, especially if they use perks like companion tickets or priority boarding.
Watch for annual fees, high interest rates if you carry a balance, and charges for cash withdrawals or foreign transactions.
Generally, points can’t be combined across different airlines, but some programs allow transferring points between accounts or family members with certain limits.
Companion tickets let you bring a guest for free or reduced points when you book a flight, while bonus perks include priority boarding, lounge access, and extra baggage allowances.