Best Cards for Airfare

Our assessment of cards ranked by effective return percentage. We calculate points × redemption value to show you the estimated earning potential.

Rankings and valuations reflect PayWithThis’s own editorial methodology. PayWithThis is independent and not affiliated with any issuer. Verify current terms with the issuer before applying.

1
The Platinum Card® from American Express
$895/year•Membership Rewards

5x on flights booked direct

10.00%
effective return
DetailsLearn More
2
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
$795/year•Chase Ultimate Rewards

4x on flights booked direct

8.00%
effective return
DetailsLearn More
3
American Express® Green Card
$150/year•Membership Rewards
6.00%
effective return
DetailsLearn More
4
Citi Strata Premier℠ Card
$95/year•ThankYou Points
5.70%
effective return
DetailsLearn More
5
Discover it® Cash Back
No Annual Fee•Cash Back•$1,500 cap

This quarter (Q3 2026) · Flights · Activation required · $1,500 cap shared across all Q3 categories

Rotating (Quarterly)
5.00%
effective return
DetailsLearn More
6
Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card
$95/year•Wells Fargo Rewards
4.00%
effective return
DetailsLearn More
7
Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
No Annual Fee•Membership Rewards
4.00%
effective return
DetailsLearn More
8
Capital One Spark Miles for Business
$95/year•Capital One Miles
3.70%
effective return
DetailsLearn More
9
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
$395/year•Capital One Miles
3.70%
effective return
DetailsLearn More
10
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
$95/year•Capital One Miles
3.70%
effective return
DetailsLearn More

Our Methodology

We rank cards by effective return percentage, calculated as:

Effective Return = Category Multiplier × Base Point Valuation

This normalizes points, miles, and cash back into a single comparable metric.