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BEST CARDS · UPDATED MONTHLY

Best Credit Cards for Flights (August 2026)

Two kinds of cards compete here: general airline-category earners that work on any carrier, and airline co-brands with big multipliers that only apply to one airline. Co-brand rates are flagged — an 8.4% JetBlue-only rate is only worth it if you actually fly JetBlue.

By Frank · Updated Aug 18, 2026 · 47 cards ranked
1 6x → ≈ 8.4% back JetBlue flights only
Barclays JetBlue Business

Barclays JetBlue Business

Barclays
JetBlue
6x
Annual fee
$99
Benefits
8
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
JetBlue 6x 8.4%
Office Supply 2x 2.8%
Dining 2x 2.8%
Everything else 1x 1.4%
Benefits · $150/yr face value
Credits (4)
  • Anniversary Bonus $100 /yr
  • Inflight Purchase Savings $50 /yr
  • Points Redemption Bonus
  • Free First Checked Bag
Status & Elite Perks (1)
  • Group A Boarding
Other (3)
  • Points Payback
  • Employee Cards
  • Expense Management Tools

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 8 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

2 6x → ≈ 8.4% back JetBlue flights only
Barclays JetBlue Plus

Barclays JetBlue Plus

Barclays
JetBlue
6x
Annual fee
$99
Benefits
6
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
JetBlue 6x 8.4%
Dining 2x 2.8%
Groceries 2x 2.8%
Everything else 1x 1.4%
Benefits · $150/yr face value
Credits (4)
  • Anniversary Bonus $100 /yr
  • Inflight Purchase Savings $50 /yr
  • Points Redemption Bonus
  • Free First Checked Bag
Status & Elite Perks (1)
  • Group A Boarding
Other (1)
  • Points Payback

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 6 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

3 6x → ≈ 8.4% back JetBlue flights only
Barclays JetBlue Premier

Barclays JetBlue Premier

Barclays
JetBlue
6x
Annual fee
$499
Benefits
9
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
JetBlue 6x 8.4%
Dining 2x 2.8%
Groceries 2x 2.8%
Everything else 1x 1.4%
Benefits · $570/yr face value
Credits (6)
  • Paisly Statement Credits $300 /yr
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit $120 /yr
  • Anniversary Bonus $100 /yr
  • Inflight Purchase Savings $50 /yr
  • Points Redemption Bonus
  • Free First Checked Bag
Status & Elite Perks (2)
  • Priority Pass Select
  • Group A Boarding
Other (1)
  • Points Payback

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 9 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

4 5x → ≈ 7% back
Amex Morgan Stanley Platinum

Amex Morgan Stanley Platinum

American Express
Flights
5x
Annual fee
$895
Welcome bonus
Earn 125,000 Membership Rewards Points after spending $8,000 in the first 6 months
Benefits
18
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Flights 5x 7%
Everything else 1x 1.4%
Benefits · $4,989/yr face value
Credits (13)
  • $895 Annual Engagement Bonus $895 /yr
  • $600 Hotel Credit $600 /semi-annual
  • $400 Resy Credit $400 /quarterly
  • Delta Sky Club Access $390 /yr
  • $300 Equinox Credit $300 /yr
  • $300 Lululemon Credit $300 /quarterly
  • $25 Monthly Digital Entertainment Credit $300 /monthly
  • CLEAR Plus Credit $209 /yr
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit $200 /yr
  • $200 Oura Ring Credit $200 /yr
  • $15 Monthly Uber Credit $200 /monthly
  • $12.95 Monthly Walmart+ Credit $155 /monthly
  • $120 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit $120 /yr
Status & Elite Perks (5)
  • Centurion Lounge Access $500 /yr
  • $120 Uber One Membership $120 /yr
  • Hilton Honors Gold Status $50 /yr
  • Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status $50 /yr
  • Invest with Rewards

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 18 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

5 5x → ≈ 7% back

Amex Platinum

American Express
Flights
5x
Annual fee
$895
Welcome bonus
As high as 175,000 Membership Rewards Points
Benefits
25
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Flights 5x 7%
Everything else 1x 1.4%
Benefits · $4,094/yr face value
Credits (12)
  • $600 Hotel Credit $600 /semi-annual
  • $400 Resy Credit $400 /quarterly
  • Delta Sky Club Access $390 /yr
  • $25 Monthly Digital Entertainment Credit $300 /monthly
  • $300 Equinox Credit $300 /yr
  • $300 Lululemon Credit $300 /quarterly
  • CLEAR Plus Credit $209 /yr
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit $200 /yr
  • $15 Monthly Uber Credit $200 /monthly
  • $200 Oura Ring Credit $200 /yr
  • $12.95 Monthly Walmart+ Credit $155 /monthly
  • $120 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit $120
Status & Elite Perks (4)
  • Centurion Lounge Access $500 /yr
  • $120 Uber One Membership $120 /yr
  • Hilton Honors Gold Status $50 /yr
  • Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status $50 /yr
Protections (9)
  • Trip Delay Insurance
  • Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance
  • Baggage Insurance Plan
  • Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance
  • Purchase Protection
  • Extended Warranty
  • Return Protection
  • Cell Phone Protection
  • Premium Global Assist Hotline

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 25 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

6 5x → ≈ 6.5% back United flights only
Chase United Club

Chase United Club

Chase
United
5x
Annual fee
$695
Benefits
18
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
United 5x 6.5%
Travel 2x 2.6%
Dining 2x 2.6%
Everything else 1x 1.3%
Benefits · $2,299/yr face value
Credits (7)
  • $20 Monthly Instacart Credit $240 /monthly
  • $200 Renowned Hotels Statement Credit $200 /yr
  • $200 JSX Statement Credit $200 /yr
  • $12.50 Monthly Rideshare Credit $150 /monthly
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit $120
  • Up to $100 Avis/Budget Credits $100 /yr
  • 1,500 Card Bonus PQP
Status & Elite Perks (8)
  • United Club Membership $750 /yr
  • Free First and Second Checked Bags $440 /yr
  • Complimentary Instacart+ Membership $99 /yr
  • Premier Access Travel Services
  • Visa Infinite Concierge Services
  • IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite Status
  • Premier Upgrades on Award Tickets
  • Avis President's Club Status
Other (3)
  • 10% Off United Economy Saver Awards
  • 25% Back on United Inflight/Club Premium Purchases
  • 10,000-Mile Award Flight Discount

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 18 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

7 4x → ≈ 6% back

Chase Sapphire Reserve

Chase
Flights
4x
Annual fee
$795
Welcome bonus
100,000 Ultimate Rewards Points
Benefits
22
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Flights 4x 6%
Hotels 4x 6%
Dining 3x 4.5%
Everything else 1x 1.5%
Benefits · $3,698/yr face value
Credits (13)
  • $500 Annual The Edit Credit (2+ nights) $500 /yr
  • $500 Southwest Airlines Chase Travel Credit $500 /yr
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit $300 /yr
  • $25 Monthly DoorDash Credit $300 /monthly
  • $150 Semi-Annual Dining Credit(Opentable Only) $300 /semi-annual
  • $150 Semi-Annual StubHub Credit $300 /semi-annual
  • $250 The Shops at Chase Credit $250 /yr
  • $250 Select Chase Travel Hotel Credit(2+ nights) $250 /yr
  • $12.99 Monthly Apple TV Subscription $155.88 /monthly
  • $10.99 Monthly Apple Music Subscription $131.88 /monthly
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit $120 /yr
  • $10 Monthly Peloton Credit $120 /monthly
  • $10 Monthly Lyft Credit $120 /monthly
Status & Elite Perks (5)
  • Priority Pass Select $250 /yr
  • IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite Status $100 /yr
  • IHG One Rewards Diamond Elite Status
  • World of Hyatt Explorist Status
  • Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards A-List Status
Protections (4)
  • Auto Rental Coverage
  • Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance
  • Purchase Protection
  • Extended Warranty Protection

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 22 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

8 6% back
Chase Sapphire Reserve Business

Chase Sapphire Reserve Business

Chase
Flights
6%
Annual fee
$795
Benefits
16
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Lyft 5% 7.5%
Flights 4% 6%
Hotels 4% 6%
Advertising 3% 4.5%
Everything else 1% 1.5%
Benefits · $3,160/yr face value
Credits (10)
  • $500 Annual The Edit Credit (2+ nights) $500 /yr
  • $500 The Shops at Chase Credit $500 /yr
  • $500 Southwest Chase Travel Credit $500 /yr
  • $200 Semi-Annual ZipRecruiter Credit $400 /semi-annual
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit $300 /yr
  • $25 Monthly DoorDash Credit $300 /monthly
  • $200 Google Workspace Credit $200 /yr
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit $120 /yr
  • $10 Monthly Lyft Credit $120 /monthly
  • $50 Semi-Annual Gift Card Credit $100 /semi-annual
Status & Elite Perks (6)
  • $120 DashPass Membership $120 /yr
  • Chase Sapphire Lounge Access
  • Priority Pass Select
  • IHG Platinum Elite Status
  • IHG Diamond Elite Status
  • Southwest A-List Status

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 16 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

9 4x → ≈ 5.2% back Southwest flights only
Chase Southwest Performance Business

Chase Southwest Performance Business

Chase
Southwest
4x
Annual fee
$299
Benefits
16
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Southwest 4x 5.2%
Gas 2x 2.6%
Dining 2x 2.6%
Transit 2x 2.6%
Hotels 2x 2.6%
Everything else 1x 1.3%
Benefits · $677/yr face value
Credits (9)
  • 10,000 Companion Pass Qualifying Points Boost $130 /yr
  • $120 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit $120
  • $10 Monthly Instacart Credit $120 /monthly
  • $120 Complimentary DashPass $120 /yr
  • 9,000 Anniversary Points $117 /yr
  • $10 DoorDash Quarterly Credit $40 /quarterly
  • $30 Complimentary Instacart+ Membership $30 /yr
  • Inflight Purchase Discount
  • Tier Qualifying Points
Status & Elite Perks (2)
  • Free First Checked Bag
  • Preferred Seating & Priority Boarding
Protections (5)
  • Auto Rental Coverage
  • Purchase Protection
  • Extended Warranty Protection
  • Lost Luggage Reimbursement
  • Baggage Delay Insurance

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 16 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

10 4x → ≈ 5.2% back Southwest flights only
Chase Southwest Priority

Chase Southwest Priority

Chase
Southwest
4x
Annual fee
$229
Benefits
12
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Southwest 4x 5.2%
Gas 2x 2.6%
Dining 2x 2.6%
Everything else 1x 1.3%
Transit 1x 1.3%
Internet / Cable / Phone 1x 1.3%
Streaming 1x 1.3%
Benefits · $412/yr face value
Credits (6)
  • Complimentary DashPass $144 /yr
  • Companion Pass Qualifying Points Boost $130 /yr
  • Anniversary Points $97.50 /yr
  • DoorDash Quarterly Discount $40 /quarterly
  • Inflight Purchase Discount
  • Tier Qualifying Points
Status & Elite Perks (2)
  • Preferred Seating & Priority Boarding
  • Free First Checked Bag
Protections (4)
  • Lost Luggage Reimbursement
  • Baggage Delay Insurance
  • Extended Warranty Protection
  • Purchase Protection

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 12 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

Show all 47 cards ranked for flights · ranked #11–#47
11 4x → ≈ 5.2% back United flights only
Chase United Quest

Chase United Quest

Chase
United
4x
Annual fee
$350
Benefits
12
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
United 4x 5.2%
Dining 2x 2.6%
Travel 2x 2.6%
Streaming 2x 2.6%
Everything else 1x 1.3%
Benefits · $1,440/yr face value
Credits (10)
  • Free First and Second Checked Bags $360 /yr
  • $200 Annual United Travel Credit $200 /yr
  • $15 Monthly Instacart Credit $180 /monthly
  • $150 Renowned Hotels and Resorts Statement Credit $150 /yr
  • $150 JSX Statement Credit $150 /yr
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit $120 /yr
  • Annual 10,000-mile Award Flight Discount $100 /yr
  • $8 Monthly Rideshare Credit $100 /monthly
  • $80 Avis or Budget Travel Credit $80 /yr
  • 1,000 Card Bonus PQP
Status & Elite Perks (1)
  • Priority Boarding
Other (1)
  • 25% Back on United Inflight Purchases

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 12 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

12 5% back
Citi Prestige

Citi Prestige

Citi
Flights
5%
Annual fee
$495
Benefits
5
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Dining 5% 5%
Flights 5% 5%
Hotels 3% 3%
Cruise 3% 3%
Everything else 1% 1%
Benefits · $2,050/yr face value
Credits (3)
  • Fourth Night Free $800 /yr
  • $250 Annual Travel Credit $250 /yr
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit $100 /yr
Status & Elite Perks (1)
  • Priority Pass Select $100 /yr
Protections (1)
  • Cell Phone Protection $800 /yr

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 5 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

13 5% back
Discover it

Discover it

Discover
Flights
5%
Annual fee
$0
Benefits
6
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Flights 5% 5%
Gas 5% 5%
Drugstores 5% 5%
Transit 5% 5%
EV Charging 5% 5%
Everything else 1% 1%
Benefits · $0/yr face value
Credits (1)
  • Cashback Match
Protections (1)
  • $0 Fraud Liability Guarantee
Other (4)
  • Free FICO Credit Score
  • Freeze it Feature
  • Online Privacy Protection
  • Free Social Security Number Alerts

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 6 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

14 5% back

Discover it Student

Discover
Flights
5%
Annual fee
$0
Benefits
6
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Flights 5% 5%
Gas 5% 5%
Drugstores 5% 5%
Transit 5% 5%
EV Charging 5% 5%
Everything else 1% 1%
Benefits · $0/yr face value
Credits (1)
  • Cashback Match
Protections (1)
  • $0 Fraud Liability Guarantee
Other (4)
  • Free FICO Credit Score
  • Freeze it On/Off Switch
  • Online Privacy Protection
  • Free Social Security Number Alerts

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 6 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

15 5% back
Discover More

Discover More

Discover
Flights
5%
Annual fee
$0
Benefits
6
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Flights 5% 5%
Gas 5% 5%
Drugstores 5% 5%
Transit 5% 5%
EV Charging 5% 5%
Everything else 1% 1%
Benefits · $0/yr face value
Credits (1)
  • Cashback Match
Protections (1)
  • $0 Fraud Liability Guarantee
Other (4)
  • Free FICO Credit Score
  • Freeze it Feature
  • Online Privacy Protection
  • Free Social Security Number Alerts

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 6 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

16 5% back Frontier flights only
Frontier Airlines World Mastercard

Frontier Airlines World Mastercard

Barclays
Frontier
5%
Annual fee
$99
Welcome bonus
Up to 60,000 miles
Benefits
8
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Frontier 5% 5%
Dining 3% 3%
Everything else 1% 1%
Benefits · $430/yr face value
Credits (3)
  • $100 Flight Voucher $100 /yr
  • Award Redemption Fee Waiver $30 /yr
  • 0% Intro APR on Balance Transfers
Status & Elite Perks (1)
  • Elite Gold Status $100 /yr
Other (4)
  • Free Checked Bags $200 /yr
  • Zone 2 Priority Boarding
  • Elite Status Point Earning
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 8 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

17 3x → ≈ 4.5% back Alaska flights only
Atmos Rewards Ascent

Atmos Rewards Ascent

Bank of America
Alaska
3x
Annual fee
$95
Benefits
6
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Alaska 3x 4.5%
Hawaiian 3x 4.5%
Gas 2x 3%
EV Charging 2x 3%
Transit 2x 3%
Streaming 2x 3%
Internet / Cable / Phone 2x 3%
Everything else 1x 1.5%
Benefits · $350/yr face value
Credits (2)
  • Companion Fare $250 /yr
  • Alaska Lounge+ Membership Discount $100 /yr
Status & Elite Perks (4)
  • Priority Boarding
  • Elite Status Points Earning
  • Free First Checked Bag
  • 20% In-flight Savings

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 6 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

18 3x → ≈ 4.5% back Alaska flights only
Atmos Rewards Summit

Atmos Rewards Summit

Bank of America
Alaska
3x
Annual fee
$395
Benefits
13
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Alaska 3x 4.5%
Hawaiian 3x 4.5%
Dining 3x 4.5%
Foreign Transactions 3x 4.5%
Everything else 1x 1.5%
Benefits · $2,664/yr face value
Credits (6)
  • 100K Global Companion Award $1,600 /yr
  • Alaska Lounge Passes (8x) $520 /yr
  • 25K Global Companion Award $400 /yr
  • 8 Wi-Fi Passes $64 /yr
  • $50 Travel Delay Credit $50 /yr
  • TSA PreCheck/Global Entry Credit $30 /yr
Status & Elite Perks (6)
  • Free First Checked Bag
  • Waived Same-Day Change Fees
  • 20% In-flight Savings
  • Waived Partner Award Fees
  • Priority Boarding
  • 10K Annual Status Points
Protections (1)
  • Travel Insurance

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 13 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

19 3x → ≈ 4.5% back Alaska flights only
Atmos Rewards Visa Business

Atmos Rewards Visa Business

Bank of America
Alaska
3x
Annual fee
$95
Benefits
6
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Alaska 3x 4.5%
Hawaiian 3x 4.5%
Gas 2x 3%
EV Charging 2x 3%
Transit 2x 3%
Shipping 2x 3%
Everything else 1x 1.5%
Benefits · $350/yr face value
Credits (2)
  • Companion Fare $250 /yr
  • Alaska Lounge+ Membership Discount $100 /yr
Status & Elite Perks (4)
  • 20% In-flight Savings
  • Priority Boarding
  • Free First Checked Bag
  • Elite Status Points Earning

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 6 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

20 3x → ≈ 4.5% back
Chase British Airways Visa Signature

Chase British Airways Visa Signature

Chase
Flights
3x
Annual fee
$95
Welcome bonus
Earn 75,000 Avios
Benefits
9
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Flights 3x 4.5%
Hotels 2x 3%
Everything else 1x 1.5%
Benefits · $1,080/yr face value
Credits (2)
  • Travel Together Ticket $500 /yr
  • Reward Flight Statement Credit $300 /yr
Protections (6)
  • Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver $75 /yr
  • Purchase Protection $30 /yr
  • Lost Luggage Insurance $25 /yr
  • Travel Accident Insurance $20 /yr
  • Extended Warranty $15 /yr
  • Baggage Delay Insurance $15 /yr
Other (1)
  • 10% Off British Airways Flights $100 /yr

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 9 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

21 3x → ≈ 4.2% back
Amex Gold

Amex Gold

American Express
Flights
3x
Annual fee
$325
Welcome bonus
As high as 100,000 Membership Rewards Points
Benefits
7
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Dining 4x 5.6%
Groceries 4x 5.6%
Flights 3x 4.2%
Travel 2x 2.8%
Everything else 1x 1.4%
Benefits · $524/yr face value
Credits (5)
  • $10 Monthly Dining Credit $120 /monthly
  • $10 Monthly Uber Credit $120 /monthly
  • Hotel Collection $100 /yr
  • $100 Resy Credit $100 /semi-annual
  • $7 Monthly Dunkin Credit $84 /monthly
Status & Elite Perks (1)
  • Hertz Five Star Status
Protections (1)
  • Travel Insurance

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 7 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

22 3x → ≈ 4.2% back Hawaiian flights only
Barclays Hawaiian

Barclays Hawaiian

Barclays
Hawaiian
3x
Annual fee
$99
Benefits
5
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Hawaiian 3x 4.2%
Gas 2x 2.8%
Dining 2x 2.8%
Groceries 2x 2.8%
Everything else 1x 1.4%
Benefits · $420/yr face value
Credits (3)
  • One-time 50%-off Companion Discount $200
  • Two Free Checked Bags $120 /yr
  • $100 Annual Companion Discount $100 /yr
Other (2)
  • Share Miles
  • Miles Never Expire

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 5 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

23 3x → ≈ 4.2% back Hawaiian flights only
Barclays Hawaiian Business

Barclays Hawaiian Business

Barclays
Hawaiian
3x
Annual fee
$99
Benefits
5
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Hawaiian 3x 4.2%
Gas 2x 2.8%
Dining 2x 2.8%
Office Supply 2x 2.8%
Everything else 1x 1.4%
Benefits · $1,040/yr face value
Credits (3)
  • Anniversary Bonus Miles (40,000) $560 /yr
  • Anniversary Bonus Miles (20,000) $280 /yr
  • One-time 50%-off Companion Discount $200
Other (2)
  • Complimentary Employee Cards
  • Share Miles

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 5 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

24 3x → ≈ 4.2% back JetBlue flights only
Barclays JetBlue

Barclays JetBlue

Barclays
JetBlue
3x
Annual fee
$0
Benefits
5
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
JetBlue 3x 4.2%
Dining 2x 2.8%
Groceries 2x 2.8%
Everything else 1x 1.4%
Benefits · $50/yr face value
Credits (1)
  • 50% Inflight Purchase Savings $50 /yr
Status & Elite Perks (1)
  • Mosaic Status Acceleration
Other (3)
  • Points Payback
  • No Blackout Dates
  • Points Never Expire

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 5 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

25 2x → ≈ 4% back
Chase Hyatt

Chase Hyatt

Chase
Flights
2x
Annual fee
$95
Benefits
4
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Hyatt 4x 8%
Flights 2x 4%
Dining 2x 4%
Everything else 1x 2%
Transit 2x 0%
Gym 2x 0%
Benefits · $340/yr face value
Credits (2)
  • Tier Qualifying Nights $50 /yr
  • Complimentary DashPass $40 /quarterly
Status & Elite Perks (2)
  • Annual Free Night $150 /yr
  • Discoverist Status $100 /yr

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 4 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

26 2x → ≈ 4% back
Chase Hyatt Business

Chase Hyatt Business

Chase
Flights
2x
Annual fee
$199
Benefits
4
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Hyatt 4x 8%
Dining 2x 4%
Flights 2x 4%
Transit 2x 4%
Gas 2x 4%
Advertising 2x 4%
Shipping 2x 4%
Gym 2x 4%
Everything else 1x 2%
Benefits · $150/yr face value
Credits (1)
  • $100 Hyatt Credit $100 /semi-annual
Status & Elite Perks (1)
  • World of Hyatt Discoverist Status $50
Other (2)
  • 5 Tier-Qualifying Night Credits per $10k
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 4 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

27 4% back
Wells Fargo Autograph Journey

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey

Wells Fargo
Flights
4%
Annual fee
$95
Welcome bonus
60,000 bonus points
Benefits
1
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Hotels 5% 5%
Flights 4% 4%
Travel 3% 3%
Dining 3% 3%
Everything else 1% 1%
Benefits · $50/yr face value
Credits (1)
  • $50 Annual Airline Credit $50 /yr

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 1 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

28 3x → ≈ 3.9% back Southwest flights only
Chase Southwest Premier

Chase Southwest Premier

Chase
Southwest
3x
Annual fee
$149
Benefits
9
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Southwest 3x 3.9%
Groceries 2x 2.6%
Dining 2x 2.6%
Everything else 1x 1.3%
Transit 1x 1.3%
Streaming 1x 1.3%
Benefits · $392/yr face value
Credits (7)
  • Complimentary DashPass $144 /yr
  • 10,000 Companion Pass® Boost $130 /yr
  • 6,000 Anniversary Points $78 /yr
  • DoorDash Quarterly Discount $40 /quarterly
  • Inflight Purchase Discount
  • 15% Anniversary Promo Code
  • Tier Qualifying Points
Status & Elite Perks (2)
  • Preferred Seat Selection & Priority Boarding
  • Free First Checked Bag

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 9 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

29 3x → ≈ 3.9% back Southwest flights only
Chase Southwest Premier Business

Chase Southwest Premier Business

Chase
Southwest
3x
Annual fee
$149
Benefits
11
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Southwest 3x 3.9%
Gas 2x 2.6%
Dining 2x 2.6%
Everything else 1x 1.3%
Benefits · $208/yr face value
Credits (5)
  • 10,000 Companion Pass Qualifying Points Boost $130 /yr
  • 6,000 Anniversary Points $78 /yr
  • Tier Qualifying Points
  • Inflight Purchase Discount
  • 15% Anniversary Promo Code
Status & Elite Perks (2)
  • Free First Checked Bag
  • Preferred Seat Selection & Priority Boarding
Protections (4)
  • Purchase Protection
  • Extended Warranty Protection
  • Lost Luggage Reimbursement
  • Baggage Delay Insurance

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 11 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

30 3x → ≈ 3.9% back United flights only
Chase United Explorer

Chase United Explorer

Chase
United
3x
Annual fee
$150
Benefits
12
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
United 3x 3.9%
Dining 2x 2.6%
Hotels 2x 2.6%
Everything else 1x 1.3%
Benefits · $910/yr face value
Credits (7)
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit $120
  • $10 Monthly Instacart Credit $120 /monthly
  • Up to $100 United Hotels Credits $100 /yr
  • $100 United Travel Credit $100 /yr
  • Up to $100 JSX Credits $100 /yr
  • $5 Monthly Rideshare Credit $60 /monthly
  • Up to $50 Avis/Budget Credits $50 /yr
Status & Elite Perks (3)
  • Free First Checked Bag $160 /yr
  • 2 United Club One-Time Passes $100 /yr
  • United Priority Boarding
Other (2)
  • 25% Back on United Purchases
  • 10,000-Mile Award Flight Discount

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 12 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

31 3x → ≈ 3.9% back American flights only
Citi AAdvantage Globe

Citi AAdvantage Globe

Citi
American
3x
Annual fee
$350
Welcome bonus
Earn 60,000 AAdvantage bonus miles after $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months
Benefits
13
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
American 3x 3.9%
Transit 2x 2.6%
Everything else 1x 1.3%
Benefits · $1,390/yr face value
Credits (5)
  • Companion Certificate $300 /yr
  • $240 Turo Credit $240 /monthly
  • $120 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit $120 /yr
  • $100 Choice Credits $100 /yr
  • $100 Inflight Purchase Credit $100 /yr
Status & Elite Perks (1)
  • Admirals Club Globe Passes $200 /yr
Protections (6)
  • Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance $100 /yr
  • Trip Delay Insurance $50 /yr
  • Lost or Damaged Luggage Insurance $50 /yr
  • Extended Warranty Protection $25 /yr
  • Purchase Assurance Plus $25 /yr
  • MasterRental Coverage
Other (1)
  • First Checked Bag Free $80 /yr

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 13 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

32 3x → ≈ 3.6% back
Amex Delta Platinum

Amex Delta Platinum

American Express
Flights
3x
Annual fee
$350
Welcome bonus
100,000 Delta SkyMiles
Benefits
10
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Hotels 3x 3.6%
Flights 3x 3.6%
Dining 2x 2.4%
Groceries 2x 2.4%
Everything else 1x 1.2%
Benefits · $1,260/yr face value
Credits (6)
  • Annual Companion Certificate $400 /yr
  • $150 Delta Stays Credit $150 /yr
  • Free Checked Bag $140 /yr
  • $10 Monthly Rideshare Credit $120 /monthly
  • $10 Monthly Resy Credit $120 /monthly
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit $30
Status & Elite Perks (2)
  • Priority Boarding $50 /yr
  • MQD Headstart
Protections (1)
  • Cell Phone Protection $50 /yr
Other (1)
  • Award Travel Discount $200 /yr

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 10 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

33 3x → ≈ 3.6% back
Amex Delta Platinum Business

Amex Delta Platinum Business

American Express
Flights
3x
Annual fee
$350
Benefits
10
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Flights 3x 3.6%
Hotels 3x 3.6%
Transit 1.5x 1.8%
Shipping 1.5x 1.8%
Everything else 1x 1.2%
Benefits · $1,310/yr face value
Credits (5)
  • Annual Companion Certificate $400 /yr
  • $200 Delta Stays Credit $200 /yr
  • $10 Monthly Resy Credit $120 /monthly
  • $10 Monthly Rideshare Credit $120 /monthly
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit $30
Status & Elite Perks (3)
  • Free Checked Bag $140 /yr
  • Priority Boarding $50 /yr
  • MQD Headstart
Protections (1)
  • Cell Phone Protection $50 /yr
Other (1)
  • Award Travel Discount $200 /yr

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 10 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

34 3x → ≈ 3.6% back Delta flights only
Amex Delta Reserve Business

Amex Delta Reserve Business

American Express
Delta
3x
Annual fee
$650
Welcome bonus
125,000 Delta SkyMiles
Benefits
14
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Delta 3x 3.6%
Transit 1.5x 1.8%
Shipping 1.5x 1.8%
Office Supply 1.5x 1.8%
Everything else 1x 1.2%
Benefits · $3,885/yr face value
Credits (7)
  • Annual Companion Certificate $500 /yr
  • Delta Stays Hotel Credit $250 /yr
  • $20 Monthly Resy Dining Credit $240 /monthly
  • $10 Monthly Rideshare Credit $120 /monthly
  • Global Entry / TSA PreCheck Credit $120 /yr
  • Sky Club Guest Passes $50 /yr
  • Delta Sky Club Access $35 /yr
Status & Elite Perks (6)
  • MQD Headstart $2,500 /yr
  • Free First Checked Bag $70 /yr
  • Hertz President's Circle
  • Complimentary Upgrade Eligibility
  • Priority Boarding
  • Unlimited Sky Club (Spend $75k)
Other (1)
  • 15% Award Discount

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 14 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

35 3% back Alaska flights only
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature

Bank of America
Alaska
3%
Annual fee
$95
Benefits
3
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Alaska 3% 3%
Gas 2% 2%
Streaming 2% 2%
Transit 2% 2%
Everything else 1% 1%
Benefits · $300/yr face value
Credits (1)
  • Alaska Companion Fare $300 /yr
Status & Elite Perks (2)
  • First Checked Bag Free
  • Priority Boarding

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 3 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

36 2x → ≈ 3% back Delta flights only
Amex Delta Gold

Amex Delta Gold

American Express
Delta
2x
Annual fee
$150
Welcome bonus
90,000 Delta SkyMile Points
Benefits
6
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Delta 2x 3%
Dining 2x 3%
Groceries 2x 3%
Everything else 1x 1.5%
Benefits · $700/yr face value
Credits (4)
  • $200 Delta Flight Credit $200 /yr
  • $10 Monthly Rideshare Credit $120 /monthly
  • $100 Delta Stays Credit $100 /yr
  • 20% Back on In-Flight Purchases
Status & Elite Perks (1)
  • First & Second Checked Bag Free $280 /yr
Other (1)
  • TakeOff 15: 15% Off Award Travel

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 6 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

37 3% back
Citi Strata Premier

Citi Strata Premier

Citi
Flights
3%
Annual fee
$95
Benefits
5
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Flights 3% 3%
Hotels 3% 3%
Dining 3% 3%
Groceries 3% 3%
Gas 3% 3%
Everything else 1% 1%
EV Charging 3x 0%
Benefits · $2,600/yr face value
Credits (1)
  • Annual Hotel Benefit $100 /yr
Protections (4)
  • Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance $1,000 /yr
  • Lost or Damaged Luggage Insurance $1,000 /yr
  • Trip Delay Insurance $500 /yr
  • MasterRental Coverage

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 5 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

38 2x → ≈ 2.6% back American flights only
Barclays AAdvantage Red

Barclays AAdvantage Red

Barclays
American
2x
Annual fee
$99
Benefits
6
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
American 2x 2.6%
Everything else 1x 1.3%
Benefits · $565/yr face value
Credits (4)
  • Anniversary Companion Certificate $300 /yr
  • First Checked Bag Free $240 /yr
  • Inflight Wi-Fi Credit $25 /yr
  • Inflight Food & Beverage Discount
Status & Elite Perks (1)
  • Preferred Boarding
Protections (1)
  • Travel Insurance

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 6 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

39 2x → ≈ 2.6% back Southwest flights only
Chase Southwest Plus

Chase Southwest Plus

Chase
Southwest
2x
Annual fee
$99
Benefits
12
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Southwest 2x 2.6%
Gas 2x 2.6%
Groceries 2x 2.6%
Everything else 1x 1.3%
Benefits · $353/yr face value
Credits (6)
  • Complimentary DashPass $144 /yr
  • Companion Pass Qualifying Points Boost $130 /yr
  • DoorDash Quarterly Discount $40 /quarterly
  • Anniversary Points $39 /yr
  • 10% Anniversary Promo Code
  • Inflight Purchase Discount
Status & Elite Perks (2)
  • Free First Checked Bag
  • Standard Seat Selection & Priority Boarding
Protections (4)
  • Extended Warranty Protection
  • Lost Luggage Reimbursement
  • Baggage Delay Insurance
  • Purchase Protection

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 12 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

40 2.6% back United flights only
Chase United Business

Chase United Business

Chase
United
2.6%
Annual fee
$150
Benefits
12
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
United 2% 2.6%
Dining 2% 2.6%
Gas 2% 2.6%
Office Supply 2% 2.6%
Transit 2% 2.6%
Everything else 1% 1.3%
Benefits · $715/yr face value
Credits (7)
  • $125 United TravelBank Cash $125 /yr
  • $10 Monthly Instacart Credit $120 /monthly
  • $100 United Hotels Credits $100 /yr
  • $8 Monthly Ride-Hailing Credit $100 /monthly
  • $50 Avis/Budget Credits $50 /yr
  • Instacart+ Membership (3 months) $30 /yr
  • $25 FareLock Credit $25 /yr
Status & Elite Perks (3)
  • 2 United Club One-Time Passes $50 /yr
  • Free First Checked Bag $50 /yr
  • Priority Boarding
Other (2)
  • 5,000-Mile Anniversary Bonus $65 /yr
  • 25% Back on United Purchases

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 12 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

41 2x → ≈ 2.6% back United flights only
Chase United Club Business

Chase United Club Business

Chase
United
2x
Annual fee
$695
Benefits
14
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
United 2x 2.6%
Everything else 1.5x 1.95%
Benefits · $2,041/yr face value
Credits (8)
  • $20 Monthly Instacart Credit $240 /monthly
  • $200 Renowned Hotels Credits $200 /yr
  • $200 JSX Credits $200 /yr
  • $12 Monthly Ride-Hailing Credit $150 /monthly
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit $120 /yr
  • $100 Avis/Budget Credits $100 /yr
  • DashPass Membership (1 year) $96 /yr
  • $50 FareLock Credit $50 /yr
Status & Elite Perks (4)
  • United Club Membership $750 /yr
  • Free First & Second Checked Bags $70 /yr
  • Avis President's Club Membership
  • Priority Boarding
Other (2)
  • 5,000-Mile Anniversary Bonus $65 /yr
  • 25% Back on United Purchases

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 14 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

42 2x → ≈ 2.6% back United flights only
Chase United Gateway

Chase United Gateway

Chase
United
2x
Annual fee
$0
Benefits
7
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
United 2x 2.6%
Gas 2x 2.6%
Transit 2x 2.6%
Everything else 1x 1.3%
Benefits · $0/yr face value
Status & Elite Perks (2)
  • 25% Back on United Inflight and Club Premium Drink Purchases
  • First 2 Checked Bags free
Protections (5)
  • Auto Rental Coverage
  • Extended Warranty Protection
  • Purchase Protection
  • Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance
  • Visa Concierge Service

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 7 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

43 2x → ≈ 2.6% back American flights only
Citi / AAdvantage Business World Elite Mastercard

Citi / AAdvantage Business World Elite Mastercard

Citi
American
2x
Annual fee
$99
Welcome bonus
Earn 65,000 American Airlines AAdvantage bonus miles after spending $4,000 in purchases within the first 4 months of account opening.
Benefits
4
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
American 2x 2.6%
Gas 2x 2.6%
Car Rental 2x 2.6%
Internet / Cable / Phone 2x 2.6%
Everything else 1x 1.3%
Benefits · $405/yr face value
Credits (1)
  • Companion Certificate $300 /yr
Other (3)
  • First Checked Bag Free $80 /yr
  • 25% Inflight Savings $25 /yr
  • Preferred Boarding

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 4 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

44 2x → ≈ 2.4% back Delta flights only
Amex Delta Blue

Amex Delta Blue

American Express
Delta
2x
Annual fee
$0
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Delta 2x 2.4%
Dining 2x 2.4%
Everything else 1x 1.2%
45 2x → ≈ 2.4% back Delta flights only
Amex Delta Business Gold

Amex Delta Business Gold

American Express
Delta
2x
Annual fee
$150
Welcome bonus
90,000 Delta SkyMile Points
Benefits
6
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
Delta 2x 2.4%
Dining 2x 2.4%
Shipping 2x 2.4%
Advertising 2x 2.4%
Everything else 1x 1.2%
Benefits · $1,070/yr face value
Credits (4)
  • Welcome Bonus $480
  • $200 Delta Flight Credit $200 /yr
  • $150 Delta Stays Hotel Credit $150 /yr
  • $10 Monthly Rideshare Credit $120 /monthly
Status & Elite Perks (2)
  • First Checked Bag Free $120 /yr
  • Priority Boarding

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 6 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

46 2% back American flights only
AA AAdvantage MileUp

AA AAdvantage MileUp

Citi
American
2%
Annual fee
$0
Benefits
3
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
American 2% 2%
Groceries 2% 2%
Everything else 1% 1%
Benefits · $0/yr face value
Credits (2)
  • Inflight Food Beverage Discount
  • American Airlines Vacations Discount
Other (1)
  • Miles Redemption Discount

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 3 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

47 2% back American flights only
Citi AA Platinum Select

Citi AA Platinum Select

Citi
American
2%
Annual fee
$99
Benefits
5
All earn rates & benefits
Earn rates
CategoryRateTrue value
American 2% 2%
Dining 2% 2%
Gas 2% 2%
Everything else 1% 1%
Benefits · $245/yr face value
Credits (4)
  • American Airlines Flight Discount $125 /yr
  • First Checked Bag Free $120 /yr
  • Inflight Food Beverage Discount
  • American Airlines Vacations Discount
Status & Elite Perks (1)
  • Preferred Boarding

Redemption progress, reset dates and expiry alerts for all 5 benefits — track them automatically in the MaxWorth app →

How we rank

Rankings are generated from the MaxWorth database at build time. Point multipliers are converted to true cash-back value using program-level point valuations (a 4x rate in 1.4¢ points ranks as 5.6%). Issuer-portal-exclusive rates are excluded; single-brand rates are included but flagged. No card pays to be here. Content is not reviewed or endorsed by any issuer — full disclaimer.

FAQ

Should I get an airline co-brand card?

If one airline dominates your flying — usually because of a hub — a co-brand card adds checked bags, boarding priority and airline-specific perks on top of the earn rate. Otherwise, a general travel card is more flexible.