Frequent Flyer programs were introduced by airlines to give extra benefit to their loyal customers. Since then this concept of earning miles by enrolling in a Frequent Flyer program has come a long way and so have the options through which one can earn miles! Miles now can be earned from airline sponsored credit cards or bank sponsored credit cards. Airline sponsored credit cards are attached to a specific carrier while bank credit cards that offer miles can be used with various major airlines. Which option is best suited for you depends on the individual’s choice and needs.

For every dollar you spend on your credit card, you can get rewards for airlines, hotels or cars. But let’s just focus on the airline rewards. These are the credit cards that benefit you in getting airline tickets. Airline credit cards are beneficial for those who fly with a particular airline frequently. Also, if the airline has it’s hub close to your home, then you won’t have any issues with redeeming your miles as all the common destinations are easy to reserve.

So as you spend, you accrue reward points which can be converted to miles which can be used to get free airline tickets, first class upgrades, other perks related to air travel. Some perks include free companion ticket with membership, lost luggage insurance, travel accident insurance. These perks are often covered by airline credit cards only and not normal credit cards. Occasionally, bonus miles can be earned through various other transactions and promotional programs from time to time by the airlines or the credit cards associated with the airline. The points that you earn while spending money with your card is transferred to your Frequent Flyer account. The benefits from these points and the number of points that you earn vary from card to card. Other valuable benefits that are sometimes offered with these types of cards, inlcude purchase protection, extended warranties, auto rental insurance and fraud protection.

Now once you decide to apply for an airline credit card, here are a few things you should consider and check:

• Know your credit history and continue to pay your bills on time. If you fail to make payments on time then airline credit cards may charge up to 5-6% higher interest rate then other credit cards.
• Make sure the airline you are choosing covers most of your destinations. If the airline does not go to your usual destinations then you may not be able to redeem your miles.
• The penalty for not paying bills on time can have more than one consequence.
• Two things need to be checked - the interest rate on the airline credit card and the annual fee(s). If you have good credit, airline credit cards are a viable option, otherwise you should seek out a credit card with a lower interest rate.
• You can certainly have two cards - an airline card on which points are earned based on purchases and another credit card. By doing this, a large amount will not be accumulated on the airline credit card (which has the higher interest rate) for payment.
• Never forget to read the fine print and the credit card’s terms and conditions.

When searching on the internet, you will find many websites which provide a detailed comparison of all the credit cards. It is advisable that you do a comprehensive search before choosing a card. The selection of the card totally depends on your needs. But before selecting an airline card make sure that you can fly with the same airline almost everywhere!