Top Picks: The Best Airline Miles Credit Cards of 2025
For frequent travelers, airline miles credit cards can be a savvy way to maximize your travel budget. With the right card, you can earn free flights, upgrades, and access to exclusive airport lounges. The key is finding the right rewards program that aligns with your travel habits. To help you make an informed choice, here’s our curated list of the best airline miles credit cards of 2025.
United Explorer Card
Best for: United Airlines flyers
Sign-up Bonus: Earn 60,000 miles after spending $5,000 in the first three months
Annual Fee: $125
Why we like it: United flyers can accumulate miles quickly to book award flights and even upgrade their experience. The card also offers up to 50% in flight discounts when booking award travel, and two free checked bags for the cardholder on United Airlines flights – a rare perk for any airline credit card.
Delta SkyMiles Gold Card
Best for: Occasional Delta flyers
Sign-up Bonus: Earn 50,000 miles after spends $1,000 in the first three months
Annual Fee: $0 for the first year, then $99
Why we like it: For those who occasionally fly with Delta but want a reasonably priced rewards option, this card delivers. The 60,000 welcome miles bonus is more than enough to book an award ticket, and the Medallion Qualification Miles you’ll earn along the way toward elite status are a nice bonus. Plus, Delta still participates in several airline alliances, letting you rack up awards on partner carriers.
American Airlines AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite Mastercard
Best for: Everyday spenders on American Airlines routes
Sign-up Bonus: Earn 60,000 miles after spending $1,500 in the first three months
Annual Fee: $99
Why we like it: If your work or social life means you’re flying American Airlines all the time, this card offers one of the best values out there. You’ll get two AAdvantage Loyalty Points per dollar spent on American Airlines purchases, and miles for all that spending on groceries, gas, and drugstore items. Best of all, this no-frills option has an accessible sign-up bonus and doesn’t require thousands of dollars in spending to earn.
JetBlue Plus Card
Best for: Bargain-conscious flyers
Sign-up Bonus: Earn 30,000 points after spending $1,000 in the first three months
Annual Fee: $99
Why we like it: JetBlue’s rewards program is known for its simplicity and great value, and this card is no exception. For a $99 annual fee, you’ll never pay baggage fees and get a 5,000-point bonus every account renewal – a whopping $2,500 worth of awards over five years. Factor in that 6X points on qualifying JetBlue purchases, and you’ll be earning toward award flights and seat upgrades quickly.
Remember: Always review the exact terms, fees, and rewards details before applying for any airline miles credit card, and only charge what you can pay off each month to avoid interest. While these picks represent some of the best options available, an airline miles card that works perfectly for one person’s travel habits might not be a fit for everyone. Carefully consider your own travel preferences, spending patterns, and desired rewards when making your choice. Happy flying!
