The British Airways American Express® Premium Plus Card is a premium credit card tailored for frequent travelers, particularly those who often fly with British Airways. Renowned for its generous Avios points rewards program, the card offers significant benefits, including a substantial welcome bonus, a high ongoing Avios earn-rate, and exclusive perks. This article will delve into the card’s features, benefits, costs, and considerations to help you determine if it’s the right fit for your financial and travel needs.

Features

• Welcome Bonus

The British Airways American Express® Premium Plus Card stands out in the UK market with its impressive welcome bonus. New cardholders can earn up to 30,000 Avios points after spending a set amount within the first three months of card ownership. This bonus can provide a significant boost to your Avios balance, helping you reach your travel goals more quickly, whether it’s for flights, upgrades, or other rewards.

• Ongoing Avios Earn-Rate

One of the card’s main attractions is its competitive earn-rate for Avios points on everyday spending. Cardholders earn 1.5 Avios points for every £1 spent on general purchases. Additionally, purchases made directly with British Airways earn 3 Avios points per £1 spent. This rate is one of the best available in the UK, making it an excellent choice for those who regularly use their credit card for expenses.

• Companion Voucher

A unique and highly valuable feature of this card is the Companion Voucher. Cardholders who spend £10,000 or more in a year are awarded this voucher, which allows them to book a second reward flight for a companion for the same Avios points as the first ticket. This voucher is especially beneficial for couples or families, offering significant savings on flights. However, it’s important to note that taxes, fees, and carrier charges still apply to the second ticket.

• American Express Experiences

Beyond travel rewards, the card also offers access to American Express Experiences. This includes exclusive presale tickets to concerts, theater performances, and other events. This perk enhances the card’s value, providing opportunities for unique experiences that cardholders might not otherwise have access to.

Benefits

• Flexible Redemption Options

Avios points can be redeemed for a variety of rewards, including flights, upgrades, hotel stays, and car rentals. This flexibility makes the British Airways American Express® Premium Plus Card a versatile option for earning and using travel rewards. Cardholders can also transfer Avios points to other loyalty programs, providing additional options for maximizing value.

• Travel Insurance

The card offers comprehensive travel insurance, including coverage for travel accidents, delays, lost baggage, and medical emergencies. This insurance can provide peace of mind for travelers, ensuring that they are protected in case of unforeseen events.

• Customer Service

American Express is known for its excellent customer service, and this card is no exception. Cardholders report positive experiences with the company’s support team, highlighting the ease of resolving issues and obtaining assistance when needed.

• Broad Eligibility

While the card does have eligibility requirements, including a good credit score and a stable income, American Express is known for being relatively inclusive. Applicants with lower credit scores may still be eligible, making it accessible to a broader range of individuals.

Costs and Considerations

• Annual Fee

The British Airways American Express® Premium Plus Card has a £300 annual fee. This fee is relatively high compared to some other credit cards, but it can be justified by the card’s robust rewards program and benefits. However, prospective cardholders should carefully consider whether they can fully utilize the card’s features to offset the annual cost.

• Interest Rates

The card’s standard purchase interest rate is higher than many other cards, which makes it less suitable for those who carry a balance from month to month. Interest charges can quickly outweigh the value of the rewards earned, so it is advisable to pay off the balance in full each month to maximize the benefits and avoid incurring unnecessary costs.

• Spending Requirements

To earn the welcome bonus and the Companion Voucher, cardholders must meet specific spending thresholds. This means that the card is most beneficial for individuals who can regularly use it for substantial purchases. Before applying, consider your typical spending habits to ensure that you can meet these requirements and take full advantage of the card’s offerings.

How to Apply

Applying for the British Airways American Express® Premium Plus Card is straightforward. Prospective applicants can use Finder’s eligibility checker to determine their likelihood of approval without impacting their credit score. If the results are positive, they can proceed to the American Express website to complete the application, which typically takes 10–15 minutes. The application process involves providing personal information, financial details, and agreeing to a credit check.

Conclusion

The British Airways American Express® Premium Plus Card offers a compelling package of rewards and benefits for frequent travelers, particularly those loyal to British Airways. Its generous welcome bonus, high Avios earn-rate, and valuable Companion Voucher make it a top choice for those looking to maximize their travel rewards. However, the card’s high annual fee and interest rates require careful consideration. It’s essential to assess whether the card’s benefits align with your spending habits and travel goals and whether you can consistently pay off your balance to avoid interest charges.

For those who can leverage the card’s features, the British Airways American Express® Premium Plus Card can be a powerful tool for enhancing travel experiences and earning significant rewards. Whether you’re looking to accumulate Avios for free flights, enjoy exclusive experiences, or benefit from comprehensive travel insurance, this card offers a range of perks that can provide substantial value. However, as with any financial product, it’s crucial to carefully evaluate your personal circumstances and needs before applying.

You will be redirected

Appreciated this article?

Share it with others so they can learn about the benefits of this credit card. Apply now!