The British Airways American Express credit card allows you to collect Avios through your day-to-day spending, with the potential to earn a free companion voucher each year if you hit a minimum spend.
Key facts about the British Airways American Express credit card
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Best for: Those looking to earn a companion voucher without having to pay a high annual fee
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Introductory offer: 5,000 Avios when you spend £1,000 in the first six months
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Representative APR: 31.0% variable
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Fees: No annual fee
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Perks: Earn 1 Avios for every £1 spent on the card, a bonus 4,000 Avios per accepted referral (capped at 90,000 Avios) and a bonus 1,000 Avios when you add the first supplementary card. You can also earn a companion voucher when you spend £12,000 each membership year, though from 1st November 2024 you will need to spend £15,000 within each membership year. This means that if your anniversary date is 1st February 2024, you would need to either spend £12,000 by 31st October 2024 or spend £15,000 by 31 January 2025.
Pros of the British Airways American Express credit card
- It doesn't charge an annual fee, which is quite rare for air-miles credit cards that offer companion vouchers
- It has a competitive APR, although it is still preferable to pay the balance off in full each month to avoid having to pay interest on purchases
- As well as the ability to earn Avios, the card also offers travel accident insurance and Global Assist travel support
- Take advantage of Plan It – Amex's Buy Now, Pay Later scheme – to spread the cost of a purchase or part of your balance for a fixed monthly fee
Cons of the British Airways American Express credit card
- To earn the best rewards, including a companion voucher, you need to spend a significant sum on the card each year
- Although you can redeem Avios against flights and upgrades, you will still be liable to pay taxes and charges, so the flights won't be completely free
- American Express cards aren't as widely accepted as Mastercard and Visa, particularly with smaller retailers
How to manage your payments on the British Airways American Express credit card
You can manage your account online or on the Amex app.
How to find out which credit card is best for you
Money to the Masses uses Creditec*, an online comparison service that enables you to find credit card deals tailored to you without affecting your credit score. You will want to compare as many different options as possible before you get a new credit card, so it is a good idea to do a fast online comparison. With only a few basic details, the Creditec tool will build a personalised list of credit cards suited to your needs to help you navigate the huge number of options out there. You can then pick the result that suits you best. None of this will affect your credit score as the eligibility process uses a soft credit check. Click here to start your comparison*.
How to apply for the British Airways American Express credit card
The online eligibility checker will give you a good idea of whether you are likely to be accepted for the card, without leaving a footprint on your credit file.
Alternatives to the British Airways American Express credit card
For alternative credit cards that can earn you air miles, check out our article 'Which are the best air-miles credit cards - and should I get one?'. You can also get our take on other Amex offerings on our 'Which is the best American Express credit card?' page.
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