1
Best no-fee pick
Citi Custom Cash
No longer accepting applications5x if flights are your top eligible categoryThankYou Points
Best Credit Cards for Flights
Cards that earn the most on airfare — whether booked directly with the airline or through a travel portal.
Rates vary by booking method — direct airline vs. portal
The short answer
Top picks — no annual fee
Keep forever · $0/yrTop picks — with annual fee
Pays for itself if used right1
Best overall
AmEx Platinum
5x flights booked directly or via AmexTravelMembership Rewards$895/yr
2
Best value
Chase Sapphire Reserve
4x flightsUltimate Rewards$795/yr
3
Also good
AmEx Green / AmEx Gold
3x travel / 3x airfare booked directlyMembership Rewards$150–$325/yr
Honorable mentions
Annual fee
Reward type
No cards match these filters
No cards match these filters for Best Credit Cards for Flights.
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Take the quiz →Cards listed here are selected from our database based on category earn rates — not sponsored placements. Rotating-category cards (Discover It, Chase Freedom Flex) assume the relevant category is active. Terms and reward rates are subject to change at each issuer's discretion.