Rewards Plan
Welcome Bonus
Our Rating
0% Intro
N/A
Annual Fee
APR
- Free Checked Bag
- 10% Rewards Bonus
- Limited Redemption Options
- Limited route selection
Rewards Plan
Welcome Bonus
Our Rating
PROS
- Free Checked Bag
- 10% Rewards Bonus
CONS
- Limited Redemption Options
- Limited route selection
APR
20.74% - 28.74% variable
Annual Fee
$95
0% Intro
N/A
Credit Requirements
Good - Excellent
The Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card offers perks tailored for frequent flyers of Alaska Airlines, making it especially valuable for those who travel with the airline regularly.
The rewards structure includes unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases, 2X on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases and unlimited 1 mile for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
The standout feature is the annual Companion Fare, allowing cardholders to bring a travel companion for as low as $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after spending $6,000 or more within the prior year. This benefit alone can justify the $95 annual fee for those who frequently fly with Alaska Airlines.
Cardholders enjoy additional perks, such as a free checked bag for themselves and up to six companions, priority boarding, and a 20% discount on Alaska Airlines in-flight purchases.
However, The card's main drawbacks include a limited route network for Alaska Airlines, making it less attractive for those needing diverse travel options.
How can I earn the Famous Companion Fare with this credit card?
Spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year to qualify for Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ starting at $99.
Can I use the Famous Companion Fare on any Alaska Airlines flight?
Yes, the Famous Companion Fare is valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
What perks come with the Alaska Airlines Visa card besides the Companion Fare?
Cardholders enjoy a free checked bag, priority boarding, and a 20% discount on Alaska Airlines in-flight purchases.
How can I maximize the 10% rewards bonus on earned miles?
Maintain an eligible Bank of America account to receive a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases.
Can the Companion Fare be used for international flights?
Yes, the Famous Companion Fare can be used for both domestic and international flights on Alaska Airlines.
In this Review
Estimating Your Rewards: A Practical Simulation
Displayed in the table below is a rewards simulation that illustrates the advantages of utilizing the Alaska Airlines Credit Card. The table estimates the potential rewards that could be earned by utilizing the card for expenses in different categories.
| |
|---|---|
Spend Per Category | Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Credit Card |
$10,000 – U.S Supermarkets | 10,000 miles |
$3,000 – Restaurants
| 3,000 miles |
$5,000 – Airline | 15,000 miles |
$3,000 – Hotels | 3,000 miles |
$4,000 – Gas | 4,000 miles |
Estimated Annual Miles | 35,000 Miles |
Estimated Redemption Value | 1 point ~ 1.3 cents |
Estimated Annual Value | $455 |
Pros and Cons
While this card offers a number of benefits for frequent Alaska Airlines travelers, it's important to consider both the advantages and disadvantages before deciding if it's the right credit card for you.
Let's take a closer look at some of the key benefits and drawbacks of this card.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Higher Rewards Rate On Airline | Limited Redemption Options |
Companion Fare | $6,000 For Companion Fare |
Priority Boarding | Limited Route Selection |
Free Checked Bag |
- Higher Rewards Rate On Airline
Alaska credit card customers earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases, 2X on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases and unlimited 1 mile for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
Also, new cardholders are eligible for 70,000 Bonus Miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after you make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening..
- Companion Fare
Qualified Alaska Airlines credit cardholders who spend $6,000 or more on purchases during the previous year are eligible to receive a companion fare on their account anniversary. The base fare for this offer starts at $99, with taxes and fees beginning at $23, bringing the minimum fare to $122.
For example, if you book a flight that costs $1,000 per person (including taxes and fees), your travel companion can join you on the same reservation for just $122, saving you nearly $880.
- Free Checked Bag
With an Alaska Airlines credit card, you are entitled to a complimentary checked bag when traveling on Alaska Airlines flights. This perk extends to the primary cardholder as well as up to six passengers who are included on the same reservation.
- Priority Boarding
When you use your Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card to book a flight, you will receive priority boarding. This eliminates the need to search for room in the overhead compartment for your carry-on bags.
Priority boarding allows you to board the plane early and secure your bags before the rest of the passengers.
- $6,000 For Companion Fare
In order to be eligible for the discounted Companion Fare on your account anniversary, you need to have spent a minimum of $6,000 on purchases using your card within a year.
While this benefit can be advantageous for frequent travelers, it may not be feasible or economical for individuals who do not typically spend enough on their credit card to meet this spending threshold.
- Limited Redemption Options
While the Alaska Airlines credit card does offer rewards points and benefits, they are primarily geared towards Alaska Airlines and its partner airlines.
This means that cardholders may have limited options for redeeming their rewards, especially if they do not travel frequently.
- Limited Route Selection
One of the drawbacks is that it may not offer as many flights or destinations compared to some of its competitors.
While Alaska Airlines may be a great option for travellers in the Pacific Northwest, West Coast, or Alaska, it may not be the best choice for those who do not live in or frequently travel to those regions.
Top Offers
Top Offers From Our Partners
Top Offers
What Can I Do With Alaska Miles?
Alaska Airlines provides various redemption options for its Mileage Plan miles, allowing travelers to maximize the value of their accrued miles. Here are some key redemption options:
- Alaska Airlines Flights: Redeem miles for Alaska Airlines flights, including domestic and international destinations within the airline's network.
- Famous Companion Fare: Use miles to redeem Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™, allowing you to bring a companion for a reduced fare on eligible flights.
- Global Partner Airlines: Redeem miles for flights with Alaska's global partner airlines, which are part of the oneworld Alliance. This expands your options to numerous international destinations.
- Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade your seat class on Alaska Airlines flights, enhancing your travel experience.
- Hotel Stays: Convert miles into hotel stays through Alaska's hotel partners, providing flexibility in accommodation options.
- Car Rentals: Redeem miles for car rentals with participating partners, making it convenient to use your miles for ground transportation.
- In-Flight Wi-Fi: Redeem miles for in-flight Wi-Fi access, ensuring you stay connected during your journey.
- Airport Lounge Access: Exchange miles for access to Alaska Lounge or other participating airport lounges, enhancing your pre-flight experience.
Don't forget to check out any associated fees for each redemption option to make the most informed choices based on your preferences and travel needs.
Is It The Right Card For You?
The Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card is a great option for people who often fly with Alaska Airlines or its partners and want to earn rewards points while enjoying the card's perks.
If you travel regularly to Alaska Airlines destinations, you'll likely find the rewards program and added benefits, like complimentary checked baggage and priority boarding, especially valuable. These features can be a real bonus for frequent travelers.
However, if you do not travel regularly or are seeking a credit card with more flexible redemption options, the Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card may not be the most suitable choice for you. If you do travel but still want to check other airline cards, here are some:
Card | Rewards | Bonus | Annual Fee |
| Up to 4x miles
4x miles on United Airlines purchases, 2x miles on all other travel purchases, dining and eligible delivery services and 1x miles on all other purchases
| 90,000 miles
90,000 bonus miles after qualifying purchases
| $525 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1X – 2X
2X miles on delta purchases, at restaurants worldwide (including take-out and delivery in the U.S) and at U.S. supermarkets, and 1x miles on all other eligible purchases
| 50,000 Miles
Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new card in your first 6 months of card membership.
| $150, $0 intro first year (Rates & Fees) | |
| 1x – 2x
2X points on Southwest purchases, Southwesthotel and car rental partners, local transit and commuting (including ride-shares),internet, cable, phone and select streaming services, and 1X points on all other purchases
| 40,000 points
Earn a $400 statement credit and 40,000 bonus points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 4 months from account opening.
| $69 | |
| 1X – 2X
2 AAdvantage miles per dollar on grocery stores and eligible American Airlines purchases, and 1 mile per dollar on other purchases
| 15,000 miles
15,000 miles if you spend $500 in first 3 months
| $0 | |
| 1X – 6X
6X points on JetBlue purchases, 2X points at restaurants and grocery stores and 1X points on all other purchases
| 50,000 points
50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases and paying the annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days
| $99 | |
| 1X – 10X
5X total points on air travel and 10X total points on hotels, car rentals and dining when you purchase through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, immediately after earning your $300 annual travel credit. Also, earn 3x points on dining at restaurants and travel (after meeting the $300 travel credit), then 1x points per dollar spent on all other purchases.
| 60,000 points
60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
| $550 | |
| 1X – 5X
5X points on up to $500,000 spent on directly-booked airfare and flights and prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel (per calendar year), 2X points on prepaid car rentals through American Express Travel and 1X points on all other purchases
| 80,000 points
80,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership
| $695 (Rates & Fees) | |
| 1X – 2X
2x per $1 spent on United purchases, hotel accommodations, restaurants & eligible delivery services and 1x per $1 spent on all other purchases
| 50,000 miles
50,000 miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
| $95 ($0 first year) |
How To Get the Most Out of Your Card?
Here are some tips that will help you to maximize the benefits of Alaska Airlines card:
-
Redeem Great Deals With Miles
You must check the award chart before booking your trip in case you can get great deals on your trip.
According to the Alaska award chart, you can travel to any destination in Central America for just 17,500 miles one way. Business/first class awards are also available for a slightly higher cost.
Also, business-class awards to Central America on American Airlines require just 27,500 Mileage Plan miles, but you’ll need at least 30,000 miles to fly first class on Alaska Airlines.
-
Use Lounge Discount And Membership
If you enjoy airport luxury, you can take advantage of a special deal that provides a $100 discount on an annual membership to the Alaska Lounge+, from a price of $550 per year for elites and $650 per year for non-elites.
To enhance the travel experience of qualified cards, this premium lounge provides a variety of amenities such as comfy sitting, free snacks and drinks, and more.
-
Work On Your Elite Status
If you're a frequent Alaska Airlines flyer, you may be able to earn elite status, which comes with additional benefits such as free upgrades, lounge access, and priority boarding.
-
Stay At Partner Hotels
One of the most crucial aspects of your trip is booking accommodations.
By staying at hotel partners, Alaska Airlines credit cardholders can take full advantage of their perks, allowing them to earn Alaska Airlines miles that can be used towards various travel-related expenses.
-
Earn 20% back on Alaska Airlines Inflight Purchases
You can receive a benefit a 20% rebate on eligible in-flight purchases is available to Alaska Airlines credit cardholders when traveling on Alaska Airlines flights.
This perk can be used to receive discounts on various purchases made onboard the aircraft, For example food, beverages, and Wi-Fi.
How To Apply?
It's easy and quick to apply for the Alaska Card:
Step 1: Visit the Alaska Airlines Card page or you can access the Bank of America Alaska credit card page and click “Apply Now”.
Step 2: After you click on ‘apply now', it takes you to the next page, where you have to fill in your personal information, such as name, email, address, income, etc. With the information to be filled out, you will get the Terms & Conditions, which will include details on the rate, fee, and other cost information. At the end you have to tick right on accept terms and condition box and click save and continue.
Step 3: You will get a preview page to check whether the information you filled in is correct or not. Lastly, ensure that you read through the important disclosure page to know about your eligibility, fees, costs, rates, etc. Then, click on “submit” to complete the process.
FAQs
No, the credit card does not offer elite status, but you can earn elite status by flying with Alaska Airlines.
No, there are no blackout dates for using the annual Companion Fare.
The Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card provides several travel protection benefits through Visa Signature, such as lost luggage reimbursement, rental car insurance, and travel and emergency assistance services.
The number of miles needed for a free flight varies depending on the route and time of year, but generally ranges from 5,000 to 40,000 miles.
No, there are no foreign transaction fees for this card.
Compare Alaska Visa Signature Card
The Capital One Venture is a clear winner as it offers higher annual cashback value and better travel perks than the Alaska Visa Signature.
Alaska Visa Signature vs Capital One Venture: Side By Side Comparison
The Chase Sapphire Preferred is our winner due to its higher annual cashback value and various redemption options compared to Alaska card.
Chase Sapphire Preferred vs. Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Card: How They Compare?
While the Hawaiian World Elite Mastercard offers a higher miles rewards ratio, we think the Alaska card offers a bit better airline perks.
Hawaiian World Elite Mastercard vs. Alaska Visa Signature: How They Compare?
While the airline benefits are pretty similar, The JetBlue Plus Card is a clear winner due to much higher cashback rates than the Alaska card.
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature vs JetBlue Plus Card: Side By Side Comparison
Both Alaska and Southwest Premier have similar annual cashback values. While there is no clear winner, each card has its own unique perks.
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature vs Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier: Comparison
While Alaska Visa Signature card offers higher miles rewards ratio on airline, the Delta SkyMiles Gold is our winner. Here's why.
Alaska Visa Signature vs Delta SkyMiles Gold: Side By Side Comparison
The Alaska Visa offers higher annual cashback value than United Explorer, but the latter takes the lead when it comes to airline perks.
Alaska Visa Signature vs United Explorer: Side By Side Comparison
Sign Up for
Our Newsletter
and special member-only perks.
Sign Up for
Our Newsletter
and special member-only perks.
