For frequent travelers and aviation enthusiasts, combining air miles with everyday spending is a smart move. The British Airways American Express credit card offers exactly that — a way to turn your daily purchases into exciting travel opportunities. Whether you’re planning a holiday or flying for business, this card can significantly enhance your British Airways experience.
The British Airways American Express card is a co-branded credit card offered in partnership between British Airways and American Express. It allows cardholders to earn Avios points—the British Airways rewards currency—on every purchase. These points can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, hotel stays, car rentals, and more.
There are two main versions of the card:
Annual Fee: £0
Avios Earn Rate: 1 Avios per £1 spent
Welcome Bonus: Often includes 5,000 Avios when you spend a certain amount in the first few months
Travel Benefits: Companion Voucher when you spend £12,000 annually, which lets you bring a travel partner on a reward flight for just the Avios cost (taxes and fees still apply)
Annual Fee: £250
Avios Earn Rate: 1.5 Avios per £1 spent (3 Avios per £1 on British Airways flights)
Welcome Bonus: Higher, often 25,000+ Avios with a qualifying spend
Travel Benefits: Companion Voucher after spending £10,000 per year, with greater flexibility and access to business and first-class cabins
You accumulate Avios points with everyday spending, making it easy to grow your travel rewards fund without changing your lifestyle.
Earn a Companion Voucher each year by meeting the annual spending threshold. This allows you to book a second ticket on a reward flight for a travel companion — a major perk for couples and families.
American Express includes travel accident insurance, fraud protection, and access to exclusive travel experiences and deals.
Cardholders often get early access to BA flight sales, Amex Experiences, and other partner promotions.
The Premium Plus Card comes with a fee, so it’s best suited for regular travelers who can make the most of the added rewards.
The standard card is great for beginners looking to dip their toes into the world of travel rewards.
American Express is not accepted everywhere in the UK, so it’s smart to carry a backup card.
This card is ideal if:
You regularly fly with British Airways or on oneworld alliance airlines.
You’re looking to maximize travel rewards through your everyday spending.
You want to take advantage of Companion Vouchers for discounted travel.
The British Airways American Express card is one of the top travel credit cards in the UK, especially for those loyal to British Airways. With the ability to earn valuable Avios points, enjoy travel perks, and access exclusive experiences, it’s a powerful tool for those who want to make the most of their spending and their journeys.
If you’re dreaming of your next getaway, the journey might just start with your next purchase.