Is an Airline Credit Card Worth It? Pros, Cons, and When It Makes Sense
Airline credit cards can be incredibly valuable for frequent travelers—but they’re not for everyone. With Delta Air Lines and United Airlines currently offering increased sign-up bonuses, now is a smart time to evaluate whether an airline credit card fits your travel habits and budget.
Below, we break down why airline credit cards can be worth it, when they’re not, and what makes Delta and United cards stand out right now.
What Is an Airline Credit Card?
An airline credit card is a co-branded card issued by a bank in partnership with an airline. These cards typically earn miles with a specific airline and include travel-related perks such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and award flight discounts.
Pros of Having an Airline Credit Card
1. Free Checked Bags Can Save Real Money
One of the biggest perks of airline credit cards is free checked luggage.
- Many airline cards offer at least one free checked bag for the cardholder (and sometimes companions).
- With checked bag fees often costing $35–$40 each way, even one or two trips per year can offset the annual fee.
This is especially valuable for families or anyone who doesn’t travel light.
2. Priority or Faster Boarding
Most airline credit cards include priority boarding, allowing you to board earlier than general passengers. This can mean:
- Guaranteed overhead bin space
- Less stress during boarding
- A smoother airport experience overall
While not as flashy as lounge access, this perk is very practical.
3. Elevated Sign-Up Bonuses = Big Value
Airline cards are most valuable when sign-up bonuses are high—and both Delta and United currently have elevated offers.
These bonuses can be worth:
- One or more domestic round-trip flights
- Significant savings on international travel
- Thousands of dollars in potential value if redeemed strategically
If you’ve been considering an airline card, higher bonuses lower the risk and increase the upside.
4. Delta’s “TakeOff 15” Benefit (Delta Cards)
Delta credit cards offer a standout perk called TakeOff 15, which gives:
- 15% off many Delta award flights when booking with miles
This effectively stretches your SkyMiles further and makes Delta cards especially valuable for frequent award travelers.
5. Better Award Availability & Pricing (United Cards)
United Airlines credit cards provide:
- Access to expanded award flight availability
- Often lower mileage pricing on certain award tickets compared to non-cardholders
If you redeem miles often, this alone can justify holding a United credit card.
Cons of Airline Credit Cards
1. Annual Fees
Most airline credit cards come with annual fees, usually ranging from:
- $95 for entry-level cards
- $250+ for premium versions
If you don’t use the benefits regularly, the fee may outweigh the value.
2. Limited Flexibility
Airline miles are less flexible than transferable points:
- You’re tied to one airline and its award pricing
- Devaluations can reduce the value of your miles over time
If you prefer flexibility, general travel cards may be a better fit.
3. Not Ideal for Infrequent Flyers
If you:
- Fly once every few years
- Rarely check bags
- Don’t redeem miles often
Then an airline credit card may not make sense long-term after the bonus is earned.
When an Airline Credit Card Is Worth It
An airline credit card is usually worth having if you:
- Fly the same airline 1–3+ times per year
- Regularly check bags
- Redeem miles for award flights
- Can offset the annual fee with benefits alone
Final Thoughts: Is Now a Good Time to Get an Airline Credit Card?
With Delta and United increasing sign-up bonuses, now is an excellent time to evaluate whether an airline credit card belongs in your wallet.
For the right traveler, airline credit cards can deliver:
- Lower travel costs
- Better flight experiences
- Real, ongoing value year after year
For others, a flexible travel or cashback card may still be the smarter move. The key is matching the card to how you actually travel.
