One of the perks of owning a premium American Express charge card is the yearly Air Travel Credit. For those holding an American Express Personal or Business Platinum card, this means a $200 credit. While many see this as an easy way to offset the hefty annual fees, I’ve always been skeptical. As I’ve explained here, these credits aren’t exactly cash in your pocket.
In recent years, AMEX has tightened the reins on how these credits can be used. So, what exactly are they good for, and which airlines give you the best bang for your buck? Spoilers: It’s not necessarily the airlines you’d expect.
Eligible Airlines
You can use the credit with the following carriers:
- Alaska
- American
- Delta
- Hawaiian
- JetBlue
- Spirit
- Southwest
- United
You can only receive the fee credit for one airline. After your card approval, you must select your preferred airline. While AMEX allows you to change your choice once a year in January—either online or by calling the number on the back of your card—there’s a potential loophole. Some cardholders have reported success in switching airlines later in the year, but this isn’t an official policy. Whether or not it works depends entirely on the discretion of the customer service representative you speak with.
What Counts (and Doesn’t Count)?
AMEX offers a list of reimbursable fees, excluding certain expenses like tickets, upgrades, and gift cards (full details here). Eligible charges include:
- Ticket change fees
- Lounge day passes or memberships
- Checked bag fees (including overweight/oversized bags)
- Seat assignments
- In-flight purchases (food and drinks)
One key distinction to remember: seat selection fees are eligible, but seat upgrade fees are not. For example, if you pay to select a Comfort+ seat on Delta, that fee will count toward the Air Travel Credit. However, upgrading from Main Cabin to First Class won’t trigger the credit.
Best Airlines to Maximize the Credit
Now, here’s where it gets interesting. In my experience, the best options for utilizing the credit are JetBlue, Southwest, and Spirit.
Why? These airlines tend to charge more ancillary fees, such as checked bags or seat upgrades, making it easier to use your credit.
Examples of Smart Credit Usage:
Southwest extra legroom seat (with Upgraded Boarding)
- Southwest:
- JetBlue:
- Spirit:
Pro Tip
For the credit to apply, book your flight first, then add these services afterward.
It might seem counterintuitive to use premium card credits on low-cost carriers, but these airlines’ à la carte pricing structures provide ample opportunities to stretch your benefits.
Final Thoughts
If you have a card with an airline fee credit, remember that AMEX credits reset at the beginning of the year. You have until the end of January to select your airline for the year.
So, how do you use your AMEX Air Travel Credit? Share your strategies in the comments below!
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This post first appeared on Your Mileage May Vary
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