Top Airline Credit Cards for Priority Boarding Perks

Airline credit cards can be a game-changer for frequent travelers, offering a range of enticing benefits that go beyond just earning miles. Among these perks, priority boarding stands out as a significant time-saver. It allows cardholders to board early, ensuring access to overhead bin space for carry-on luggage before the rush of other passengers. If you’re considering which airline credit card to choose based on priority boarding privileges, here’s a comprehensive overview of the best options available to travelers in the United States.

While many airline credit cards boast impressive features, not all of them include priority boarding as a benefit. Notably, cards from Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue, American Airlines, Delta, and United do not provide this perk. However, several other airlines offer valuable priority boarding benefits through their cobranded credit cards.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines employs a unique boarding process with seven groups, plus preboarding options. Cardholders of the Atmos Rewards Ascent Visa Signature Credit Card, Atmos Rewards Visa Signature Business Card, and Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite Credit Card can enjoy priority boarding in Group C, which is effectively the fourth group to board. Additionally, Atmos cardholders will also receive priority boarding on Hawaiian Airlines flights starting in the fall, making it a versatile choice for travelers flying between the islands.

American Airlines

American Airlines has a complex boarding system featuring nine groups, plus various preboarding options. If you hold one of the major AAdvantage credit cards, you can expect to board in Group 6 out of 11. However, the Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard offers an advantage, allowing holders to board in Group 5. This card comes with a higher annual fee of $595 but includes premium perks like Admirals Club access. Notably, you don’t need to purchase your ticket with the card to enjoy the boarding benefits.

Delta Air Lines

Delta’s boarding process consists of nine groups, including preboarding. With a cobranded Delta credit card, you can board in Group 5, which is the first group for economy passengers without elite status. Notably, all Delta credit cards provide the same boarding group privileges, meaning that even the premium Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex, which has a $650 annual fee, does not offer earlier boarding than the more affordable Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex.

Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines offers the Frontier Airlines World Mastercard, which allows cardholders to board in the fifth group during general boarding. This is comparable to many other airlines’ cards, although the actual boarding experience may vary based on how many passengers choose to carry on bags or purchase bundled fares.

JetBlue Airways

JetBlue’s boarding system is straightforward, with Group A being the first to board. Holders of the JetBlue Business Card and JetBlue Premier Card can enjoy this privilege on all JetBlue-operated flights. If you achieve Mosaic status through flying or spending, you’ll move up to the second boarding group, significantly increasing your chances of securing overhead space.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines has a unique boarding process that differs from traditional airlines. Passengers are grouped into three main categories, with boarding order determined by check-in times. However, holding a Southwest credit card can enhance your boarding experience. The Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority and Performance Business cards offer four upgraded boardings per year, allowing cardholders to board earlier based on availability. These upgraded boardings can be purchased through the Southwest app or website starting 24 hours before departure.

Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines offers the Free Spirit World Elite Mastercard, which provides priority boarding in Zone 2, effectively the third group out of six. While this may not guarantee overhead space, it does give cardholders an advantage over general passengers. For those who frequently fly with Spirit, this card can help streamline the boarding experience.

United Airlines

United Airlines has a boarding process that includes seven groups, each with its own set of rules. Cardholders of the United Club and United Club Business Cards, which come with annual fees of $695, can board in the same group as those with the basic United Gateway Card. However, basic economy passengers will always board in Group 6 unless they have elite status or are holders of specific United credit cards.

Conclusion

When selecting an airline credit card, priority boarding can be a significant factor for many travelers. While the benefits may vary across different airlines, having the right card can save you time and enhance your overall flying experience.

While priority boarding alone may not justify the cost of an airline credit card, combining it with other benefits like free checked bags, access to airport lounges, and companion tickets can maximize your travel experience. Before choosing a card, consider your travel habits and preferences to find the best fit for your needs.

In the ever-evolving world of air travel, leveraging the right credit card can transform your flying experience, making it smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning a special trip, understanding the perks associated with airline credit cards can help you make informed decisions that align with your travel goals.