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Ranked by effective value on flights spending. Effective rate accounts for the real-world value of each point or mile.
We rank the best flights credit cards by their effective return per dollar spent. Effective value accounts for the real worth of each point or mile, not just the headline multiplier. Rankings reflect standard earning rates — portal bonuses and rotating categories are excluded.
Effective value is calculated using our standardized cents-per-point values. Multiplier cards are valued at their points currency's transfer partner potential. Rankings reflect standard rates only — portal bonuses and rotating categories are excluded. View all cards →
Find the best card for every type of spending.
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American Express
Flights booked directly with airlines or via AmexTravel.com; $500,000/year combined cap with prepaid hotel 5x
We may earn referral bonus points if approved.
Citi
Automatically applied to your highest eligible spend category each billing cycle. Eligible categories: restaurants, gas, groceries, travel, transit, streaming, drugstores, home improvement, fitness, entertainment
Citi
American Airlines purchases after $150,000 in calendar year card spend; unlocks for remainder of calendar year
Bilt
Points Accelerator: costs $200 Bilt Cash to activate; up to 5 activations per year; expires when $5,000 cap hit or end of year