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The Complete Guide to Airline Companion Pass Certificates [2024]

Jarrod West

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Table of Contents

Key takeaways, what are companion certificates, u.s. airlines with credit cards that offer companion certificates, international airlines with credit cards that offer companion certificates, final thoughts.

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• Airline companion passes allow a second passenger to fly for free or at a discount when traveling with the primary flyer.
• These passes are typically earned through spending on co-branded credit cards and may have restrictions on eligible fare classes and dates.
• Alaska Airlines cards, Delta Air Lines cards, Hawaiian Air Lines cards, and the Lufthansa card offer a companion certificate as an automatic card benefit.

Travel is best when it’s shared with those you love. While points and miles are a great way to subsidize your costs when traveling as a pair, another excellent option is taking advantage of a companion certificate offered with many popular co-branded airline credit cards.

In this guide, we outline what credit cards offer companion certificates, how they work, and how you can get great value by using them on your future trips!

If you’re unfamiliar, airline companion certificates are effectively buy one, get one free coupons for an airline. They typically allow you to purchase a ticket and then bring a companion along with you on the same flight for a reduced cost (you’ll usually still need to pay the taxes and fees for the second ticket).

Generally, these companion certificates are either offered as a benefit automatically for holding a certain credit card, earned after you spend a certain amount on a credit card, or earned after you fly a set amount with that airline.

While they might seem fairly straightforward, there are rules and restrictions you’ll want to be aware of when it comes to each companion certificate. With that, let’s jump into what credit cards offer these certificates and how they work.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature ® Credit Card

How To Earn the Companion Fare

Each year when you renew and pay the $95 annual fee on the Alaska Signature card, you’ll receive Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare . You might also receive one upon signing up for the card and completing the minimum spend requirement, depending on the card’s current welcome bonus.

With it, you’ll be able to book a companion fare flight from just $122 — a $99 fare plus taxes and fees starting from $23.

Companion Fare Rules

Alaska’s companion fare is valid for any round-trip economy ticket for anywhere that Alaska flies (including international destinations) purchased through the Alaska website.

To use your companion fare, sign in to your Alaska Mileage Plan account, then navigate to the Discount and companion fare codes  section. Then, simply click on the Shop  button next to your discount code.

Here are some other rules to be aware of:

• You must redeem your companion certificate by its expiration date, usually 12 months after issue, but your travel can take place up to 12 months from your booking date.
• The Mileage Plan member who owns the companion fare code must either be one of the travelers or the purchaser of the reservation.
• Companion fares cannot be used in conjunction with an award ticket.
• While the companion fare is only valid on economy bookings, you can upgrade your ticket using miles, elite upgrades, guest upgrades, or paid upgrades that may be offered at check-in.

Other Card Benefits

Provides the potential to earn plenty of miles to fly with Alaska Airlines or over a dozen partners. Plus, get an annual companion fare from just $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) when you spend at least $6,000 a year on the card!

With the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature ® credit card in your wallet, you could get great perks and earn miles at the same time. This is a win-win if Alaska is the airline you prefer to fly with! Plus, its annual companion fare is a great benefit for traveling couples.

• 3x miles per $1 spent on Alaska purchases
• 2x miles per $1 spent on eligible gas, local transit (including rideshare), cable, and select streaming services
• 1x mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
• $95 annual fee
• Get 60,000 bonus miles plus Alaska’s 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.
• Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™. Get a $99 Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year. Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
• Free checked bag. Any cardholder who purchases airfare with their card, and up to 6 additional guests traveling on the same reservation, may check their first bag free.
• Enjoy priority boarding so you can get to your seat quicker, when you pay for your flight with your card.
• Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases. Earn unlimited 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases. And earn unlimited 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. And, your miles don’t expire on active accounts.
• Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America ® account.
• A faster way to earn status with your Alaska Airlines credit card . Throughout 2024, for every $10,000 you spend on purchases, you’ll automatically earn 4,000 elite-qualifying miles (EQMs), up to 20,000 EQMs total.
• Enjoy 20% back on all Alaska Airlines inflight purchases and get $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ Membership when you pay with your new card.
• With oneworld ® Alliance member airlines and Alaska’s Global Partners, Alaska has expanded their global reach to over 1,000 destinations worldwide bringing more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem miles.
• Flexibility with no blackout dates on Alaska Airlines flights when booking with miles or a companion fare.
• Plus, no foreign transaction fees. †
• APR: 21.24% - 29.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees:  None

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan Frequent Flyer Program

Alaska Airlines Visa ® Business Credit Card

As the business variant of the Alaska Signature card, the Alaska Airlines Business card earns offers the companion fare in the exact same way as the personal card — when you renew and pay the card annual fee. Fortunately for cardholders, the annual fee of the Alaska Airlines Business card is just $70 — $25 cheaper than the personal version.

The companion fare for the Alaska Airlines Business card is identical to one offered on the personal card, and the rules of usage are the same as the ones outlined above.

The Alaska Airlines Business card offers the following benefits, which vary slightly from what is offered with the personal card:

• 2x miles per $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, shipping, and local transit (including rideshare) purchases
• A free checked bag for you and up to 6 guests on the same reservation
• 20% back on all Alaska Airlines inflight purchases

American Airlines

AAdvantage ® Aviator ® Red World Elite Mastercard ®

How To Earn the Companion Certificate

At each card anniversary, you will earn 1 domestic economy fare companion certificate if you spend $20,000 or more on eligible purchases on your card within your cardmember year and then renew your card and pay its annual fee.

The companion certificate is good for 1 guest at $99, plus the taxes and fees of the ticket.

Companion Certificate Rules

Your certificate is valid for a round-trip qualifying domestic economy fare ticket for a companion when an individual round-trip qualifying domestic economy fare ticket is purchased and redeemed through American Airlines. However, the certificate can only be used on a flight within the 48 contiguous U.S.

Here are the other terms you’ll want to know:

• It can take 1 to 2 weeks for your certificate to be added to your AAdvantage account.
• Your certificate is valid for 12 months from the date that you receive it.
• The certificate is only valid on flights marketed and operated by American Airlines and its subsidiaries, and not codeshare flights or partner flights operated by another airline.
• Cardholders can only earn 1 companion certificate per cardmember year.

Beyond the companion certificate, AAdvantage Aviator Red cardholders receive the following benefits:

• 2x miles per $1 on American Airlines purchases and 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
• First checked bag free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to 4 companions on the same reservation
• 25% back on American inflight purchases
• $25 each year in statement credits towards inflight Wi-Fi on American flights
• Preferred boarding for you and up to 4 traveling companions
• Travel coverage (travel accident insurance, trip cancellation and interruption coverage, baggage delay insurance, and auto rental collision damage waiver)

AAdvantage ® Aviator ® Silver Mastercard ®

Similar to the red variant of the card, you’ll earn the companion certificate with the AAdvantage Aviator Silver card after you spend $20,000 or more on your card within the cardmember year, and then renew your card and pay the annual fee.

However, this companion certificate is quite a bit better than what you receive with the AAdvantage Aviator Red card because it is valid for 2 guests at $99 each , plus the taxes and fees of each ticket.

All rules regarding the companion certificate for the AAdvantage Aviator Silver card are the same as they are for the AAdvantage Aviator Red card outlined above.

Fortunately for cardholders, the AAdvantage Aviator Silver card comes with a bevy of other benefits including:

• 3x miles per $1 on American Airlines purchases, 2x miles per $1 on hotels and car rentals, and 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
• $25 back a day as statement credits on inflight food and beverage purchases
• $50 back as statement credits on inflight Wi-Fi purchases every anniversary year
• First checked bag free on domestic American Airlines flights for you and up to 8 companions on the same reservation
• Preferred boarding for you and up to 8 traveling companions
• $120 Global Entry application fee credit (as of October 1, 2024)
• Earn up to 15,000 additional Loyalty Points after qualifying spend each year

Delta Air Lines

Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card

In order to receive the companion certificate with your Delta Platinum card, all you have to do is renew your card and pay its annual fee. Afterward, the certificate will be deposited into your account in your renewal month.

Unlike other certificates, there is no fare charged for your companion , you’ll just need to pay the government-imposed taxes and fees. In order to use your companion certificate, you must book through delta.com/redeem .

The certificate is valid for 1 round-trip Companion Certificate on Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights to select destinations each year after renewal

• Companion seats are only available in L, U, T, X, and V classes of service and may not be available on all flights or markets.
• Your certificate is valid for 1 year from its date of issue.
• You and your companion are eligible for Medallion Complimentary Upgrades, subject to availability based on the status of the higher-tiered member.
• The primary ticket and companion ticket must be purchased with your card.
• The certificate is eligible on Delta, Delta Connection carrier, and Delta Shuttle flights only.
• Stopovers, open jaws, and circle trips are not permitted.

Frequent Delta travelers will enjoy this card's bonus categories, benefits, and ability to reach higher levels of elite status.

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with  no credit score impact.

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card can be a great option for those seeking additional ways to obtain a higher level of status — or to maintain their current status — with the airline.

A key feature of this card is the ability to earn bonus Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) that are essential for earning Delta status. This could help you get closer to earning a handful of valuable benefits with the airline.

• 3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on Delta purchases
• 3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on purchases made directly with hotels
• 2x SkyMiles per $1 spent at restaurants (including takeout and delivery) and U.S. supermarkets
• $350 annual fee ( rates & fees )
• Does not earn transferable rewards
• Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Receive a Companion Certificate on a Main Cabin round-trip flight within the U.S. and to Mexico, the Caribbean, or Central America each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of the government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for round-trip domestic flights and no more than $250 for round-trip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
• Receive $2,500 Medallion ® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
• Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
• Earn $1 Medallion ® Qualification Dollar for each $20 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
• Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
• Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets.
• Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
• $120 Resy Credit: When you use your enrolled Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card for eligible purchases with U.S. Resy restaurants, you can earn up to $10 back each month in statement credits.
• $120 Rideshare Credit: earn up to $10 in statement credits each month after using your Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card on U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers. Enrollment required.
• You can check your first bag free on Delta flights, saving up to $70 on a round-trip Delta flight per person. For a family of four that's a potential savings of up to $280 per round-trip flight.
• Receive Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
• Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck ® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Reserve Card Members.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• $350 Annual Fee.
• Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
• Terms Apply.
• APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable

Delta Air Lines SkyMiles

In addition to the above benefits, your Delta Platinum card features the following perks, as well:

• 20% back on inflight Delta purchases
• Travel coverage (trip delay insurance, rental car insurance, and baggage delay insurance)

Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card

As with the personal version of the card, you’ll receive a companion certificate with your Delta Platinum Business card each year that you renew the card and pay your annual fee.

The certificate offered with the Delta Platinum Business card is identical to that offered on the personal version and has all of the same rules and guidelines that we’ve outlined above.

Between great perks and the potential to earn plenty of SkyMiles, this card is a must-have for frequent Delta travelers.

Small business owners and frequent Delta flyers can make the Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card your go-to credit card.

Cardholders earn 3x SkyMiles per dollar for purchases with Delta and access benefits, including no foreign transaction fees, priority boarding, and a free checked bag for each flight ( rates & fees ).

Plus, you can redeem your SkyMiles for travel on Delta and its partner airlines, saving you money. It’s a no-brainer!

• Save 15% on award travel With TakeOff 15. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees
• 3x SkyMiles per $1 spent on Delta and hotel purchases
• 1.5x SkyMiles per $1 spent on purchases of $5,000 or more, up to $100,000 per year
• $350 annual fee
• Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after spending $6,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Enjoy a Companion Certificate each year after renewal of your Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of the government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
• Earn 1.5X miles* on eligible transit and U.S. shipping purchases, plus single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more. Terms and miles cap apply. *If your purchase qualifies for a category that has a higher mileage accelerator, only the higher accelerator will apply.
• Get closer to elevated Status next Medallion ® Year with MQD Headstart and MQD Boost: receive $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $20 of purchases with your Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card.
• Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card Members save 15% when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
• With the $120 Resy Credit, earn up to $10 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
• Earn up to $10 back each month after using your enrolled Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers.
• Not a Medallion Member? Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Reserve Card Members.
• Elevate your travel experience with an annual statement credit of up to $200 after using your Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
• Terms and limitations apply.
• APR: 20.24% - 29.24% Variable

Delta Air Lines SkyMiles Frequent Flyer Program

Cardholders of the Delta Platinum Business card additionally receive these perks:

• Up to $120 Global Entry or up to $85 TSA PreCheck credit (as of October 1, 2024)

Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card

Similar to the other Delta cards, you’ll receive a companion certificate with the Delta Reserve card each year when you renew the card.

You can redeem the companion certificate for 1 Main Cabin round-trip flight within the U.S. and to Mexico, the Caribbean, or Central America each year after renewal of your Card.

Naturally, you’ll still need to pay the government-imposed taxes and fees for your ticket. With that, you’ll also need to adhere to the following rules:

• Tickets are only available in L, U, T, X, and V classes of service for Main Cabin travel . Given this, your certificate may not be useable on all flights.
• Both passengers must be booked on the same flights and dates, at the same time.

Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.

The Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card is a stellar option for frequent travelers who always fly with Delta thanks to its MQD Headstart towards status boost, lounge access, annual companion certificate, and many other great benefits.

Here is a full look at everything the Delta Reserve card can offer to you to help you decide whether the card deserves a place in your wallet.

• 3x SkyMiles per $1 on Delta purchases.
• 1x SkyMile per $1 on all other eligible purchases.
• Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights.
• $650 annual fee ( rates & fees )
• No bonus categories other than Delta purchases
• Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Enjoy complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club ® when you fly Delta. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter. Once all 15 Visits have been used, Eligible Card Members may purchase additional Delta Sky Club Visits at a per-Visit rate of $50 per person using the Card.
• Receive four Delta Sky Club ® One-Time Guest Passes each year when you fly Delta so you can share the experience with family and friends.
• Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion ® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
• Earn $1 Medallion ® Qualification Dollar for each $10 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving elevated Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
• $240 Resy Credit: When you use your Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card for eligible purchases with U.S. Resy restaurants, you can earn up to $20 each month in statement credits. Enrollment required.
• $120 Rideshare Credit: Earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month after you use your Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card to pay for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers. Enrollment required.
• Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
• With your Card receive upgrade priority over other Medallion Members within the same Medallion level and fare class.
• Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
• Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
• $650 Annual Fee.

Delta SkyMiles Airline Loyalty Program

In addition to the companion certificate and the above-mentioned benefits, the card offers these benefits:

• Upgrade priority (cardholders receive upgrade priority over members with the same Medallion level who aren’t cardholders)
• Complimentary upgrades (even if you don’t have Delta Medallion status)
• 20% back on inflight purchases
• Travel coverage (trip delay/cancellation insurance, rental car insurance, and baggage delay insurance)

Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card

The companion certificate from the Delta Reserve business card is earned each year when you renew your card and pay the annual fee, just the same as the others.

All certificate rules of the Delta Reserve Business card are the same as those previously outlines on the personal version of the card.

Receive priority boarding, complimentary access to Delta Sky Club and Centurion Lounges, concierge support, and an annual companion certificate.

The Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card is a premium card option for small business owners who are both frequent travelers and Delta loyalists.

While the annual fee may be steep, the card comes loaded with perks and benefits that all frequent Delta flyers are sure to love. Let’s take a look at what makes the card unique, and why it may be a great fit for your wallet.

• 3x miles per dollar on Delta purchases
• 1.5x miles per dollar on eligible transit, U.S. shipping and office supply stores, plus all eligible purchases after you spend $150,000 in a year
• Save 15% On Award Travel With TakeOff 15. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
• High annual fee
• Does not earn many miles for purchases outside of Delta spend
• Welcome Offer: Earn 80,000 Bonus Miles after spending $10,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Enter Delta Sky Club ® at no cost. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
• Earn 3 miles per dollar on eligible Delta purchases.
• Get closer to elevated Status next Medallion ® Year with MQD Headstart and MQD Boost: receive $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $10 on purchases with your Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card.
• Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+ ® , or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
• With the $240 Resy Credit, earn up to $20 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
• Earn up to $10 back each month after using your enrolled Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers.
• Save 15% when booking Award Travel on Delta flights. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
• Not a Medallion Member? Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
• As a benefit of Card Membership, you can check your first bag free on Delta flights, saving up to $70 on a round-trip Delta flight per person. For a family of four that’s a potential savings of up to $280 per round-trip flight.
• When you purchase a Delta flight with your Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business Card, you will receive complimentary access to The Centurion ® Lounge or Escape Lounge – The Centurion ® Studio Partner.
• Elevate your travel experience with an annual statement credit of up to $250 after using your Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
• Enjoy travel without foreign transaction fees from American Express with your Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card.

Delta SkyMiles Frequent Flyer Program

If you’re a Delta Reserve Business cardholder, you’ll receive these additional benefits:

• Zone 5 priority boarding
• First checked bag free for you and up to 8 traveling companions
• A Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines ® World Elite Mastercard ®

The Hawaiian Airlines World Elite card offers 2 separate companion benefits, the first of which is a one-time 50% companion discount for a round-trip economy ticket between Hawaii and North America on Hawaiian Airlines. This benefit is valid for the first 13 months from your account open date and can only be used once.

Additionally, you’ll receive a $100 companion discount towards a round-trip economy ticket between Hawaii and North America on Hawaiian Airlines each year when you renew your card.

When it comes to the $100 annual companion discount, here are the rules to be aware of:

• The discount is valid on round-trip coach travel between Hawaii and North America booked directly with Hawaiian Airlines through the primary cardmember’s account.
• The discount does not include taxes, fees, or surcharges, with the purchase of 1 published full coach round-trip fare.
• Tickets must be purchased with your Hawaiian Airlines World Elite card, and the primary cardmember must be one of the passengers.
• Offer not valid first class tickets, open tickets, codeshare flights with partner airlines, or multi-city flights.
• Your $100 annual companion discount is valid for 12 months from its issue date, if it is not used by its expiration date no residual amount will roll over into the following year.

Companion discount aside, cardmembers can also enjoy these card perks:

• 3x miles per $1 on Hawaiian Airlines purchases, 2x miles per $1 on gas, dining, and grocery store purchases, and 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
• First checked bag free on flights between North America and Hawaii, or flights between the Hawaiian Islands
• Discounted Hawaiian Airlines award flights
• Pool points with friends and family for free

Hawaiian Airlines ® Business Mastercard ®

As with the personal card, the Hawaiian Airlines Business card offers a one-time 50% off companion discount , and a $100 companion discount each year when you renew the card.

The rules of the $100 companion discount offered on the Hawaiian Airlines Business card are the same as the personal version detailed previously.

With the Hawaiian Airlines Business card, you’ll receive these perks:

• 3x miles per $1 on Hawaiian Airlines purchases, 2x miles per $1 on gas, dining, and office supply store purchases, and 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
• Annual mileage bonus (20,000 bonus miles with $50,000 spent in each cardmember year, and 40,000 bonus miles with $100,000 spent)
• Complimentary employee cards
• Pool points for free

Southwest Airlines

How To Earn the Southwest Companion Pass

The Southwest Companion Pass is easily the most valuable companion perk we will discuss in this post. However, it is a bit different than the entries thus far, or those that will follow it. This is because the Southwest Companion Pass is not offered an automatic benefit of a Southwest credit card, and while you technically can spend your way to it, that would require significantly more spending than the $20,000 to $30,000 thresholds offered on other cards.

Fortunately, there is a better way.

You see, in order to earn the Southwest Companion Pass, you must earn 135,000 qualifying points in 1 calendar year. But the kicker is that the welcome bonuses from each of the co-branded Southwest credit cards count towards your 135,000 point total.

Given that the welcome bonus on these cards regularly ranges between 40,000 to 100,000 points, you can quickly get close to the goal of 135,000. Here are the cards that we are referring to:

This card focuses on the Southwest traveler with anniversary points, travel credit, upgrades, and money back on inflight purchases.

The Southwest Rapid Rewards ® Priority Credit Card is the most premium personal Southwest card offering from Chase. When you peel back the curtain, it is easy to see why.

Not only does the card offer multiple bonus categories to help you earn more Southwest Rapid Rewards points, but it is also loaded with benefits that are sure to offer quite a bit of value to Southwest flyers.

Here is a full overview of the card to help you decide if it is a good fit for your wallet.

• 3x points per $1 on Southwest purchases
• 2x points per $1 on local transit and commuting, including rideshare purchases
• 2x points per $1 on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming purchases
• $149 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable points
• Earn a $400 statement credit and 40,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 4 months from account opening.
• 7,500 anniversary points each year.
• Earn 3X points on Southwest ® purchases.
• Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
• Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
• $75 Southwest ® travel credit each year.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Member FDIC
• APR: 20.99% - 27.99% Variable

Southwest Rapid Rewards Frequent Flyer Program

Earn Southwest points on every purchase, plus anniversary points, Tier Qualifying Points, and points toward the Companion Pass!

Another week, another flight. Flying weekly can get tiring, but you know that every flight gets you closer to taking some great vacations with your significant other or your favorite travel buddy.

To save money on the flights, you like to use Southwest Airlines.

So why not get the Southwest Rapid Rewards ® Premier Credit Card to help you earn extra Rapid Rewards points?

• 2x points per $1 on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partners
• 2x points per $1 on local transit and commuting, including rideshares
• $99 annual fee
• 6,000 anniversary points each year.
• 2 EarlyBird Check-In ® each year.

This card makes it easy to earn unlimited points and qualify for the Southwest Companion Pass.

If you spend a lot of time in the air, it’s important to get a great deal on your plane tickets.

Southwest Airlines can help you get those deals.

One way to save is by using the Southwest Rapid Rewards ® Plus Credit Card . This card helps you earn points for all your spending, and earning more reward points is always a good thing for a busy traveler!

• 2x points per $1 on Southwest purchases
• 2x points per $1 on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming
• $69 annual fee
• 3,000 anniversary points each year.
• Earn 2X points on Southwest ® purchases.
• Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

Southwest frequent flyers will love the upgraded boarding positions, inflight Wi-Fi credits, and bonus points on each cardmember anniversary.

The Southwest ® Rapid Rewards ® Performance Business Credit Card  is a phenomenal option for business owners who are Southwest frequent flyers. It helps you earn more points on all of your business expenses, offers upgraded boarding certificates and Wi-Fi credits, and helps you reach higher levels of Southwest elite status. 

• 4x points per $1 spent on Southwest purchases
• 3x points per $1 spent on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases
• 2x points per $1 spent on social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, and phone services
• $199 annual fee
• Doesn’t earn transferable rewards
• Earn 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• 9,000 bonus points after your Cardmember anniversary.
• Earn 4X pts on Southwest ® purchases.
• Earn 3X points on Rapid Rewards ® hotel and car rental partners.
• Earn 2X points on rideshare.
• Earn 2X points on social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, and phone services and 1X points on all other purchases.
• 4 Upgraded Boardings per year when available.

Business owners who fly Southwest often can earn extra points for all of their spending and add employee cards at no additional cost.

The Southwest ® Rapid Rewards ® Premier Business Credit Card is designed for business owners who regularly fly with Southwest and want a card that helps them earn more points while providing benefits such as 25% back on inflight purchases and EarlyBird Check-In certificates.

• 2x points per $1 on Rapid Rewards hotel and rental car partners
• 2x points per $1 on local transit and commuting purchases, including ride-share, passenger trains, buses, taxis, tolls, and parking lots and garages
• Earn 60,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
• 6,000 bonus points after your Cardmember anniversary.
• Earn 3X points on Southwest Airlines ® purchases.
• Earn 2X points on Rapid Rewards ® hotel and car rental partners.
• 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

As you can see, you have 5 credit card options here. There is just 1 problem — Chase will not allow you to hold multiple personal Southwest cards or multiple business Southwest credit cards. However, you can easily hold 1 personal card and 1 business card.

By receiving the welcome bonus on both a personal Southwest credit card and a business Southwest credit card, most travelers are easily able to earn the 135,000 points needed after meeting the minimum spend requirement and can immediately start putting their new Companion Pass to good use!

Even better, when you have a Southwest credit card, you’ll get a 10,000 point boost to your Companion Pass qualification! Note that these points only count toward Companion Pass and aren’t redeemable Rapid Rewards points.

Southwest Companion Pass Certificate Rules

Why exactly is the Southwest Companion Pass so powerful? Well, unlike other companion certificate perks, instead of being good for one-time use, it is valid for every Southwest flight you take until its expiration date.

You might be wondering, “When does the Companion Pass expire, then?” Your Southwest Companion Pass is valid for the rest of the year in which you qualify for it, and all of the following year.

This means that if you were to qualify for the Companion Pass via Southwest card welcome bonuses at the beginning of the year, you’d then receive your Companion Pass benefits for nearly 2 full years!

Beyond that, it’s not only valid for cash tickets, but also award tickets. That’s right, if you purchase your own ticket with points, you can bring your companion along with no added charge other than the taxes and fees.

Here are the other rules to be aware of with the Southwest Companion Pass:

• Your Companion Pass is valid for anywhere that Southwest flies, including international destinations.
• You can only have 1 designated companion, and you can only change your designated companion 3 times in a single year.
• The main pass holder must be flying on the flight in order for the companion to travel.
• There is no limit to the number of flights you can take with your companion, and there are no limits regarding multi-city routing, stopovers, or layovers.
• You do not need to pay for your flight, or any taxes and fees, with a Southwest credit card in order to use your Companion Pass.
• Your companion will not earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points for their ticket.

While you might be less inclined to pay attention to international airline credit cards and the companion certificates they can offer, you should really think otherwise! Many cards offer some compelling companion benefits that can be especially useful on long-haul routes where the cash prices tend to be quite expensive.

Aer Lingus Visa Signature ® Card

Each year that you spend $30,000 on your Aer Lingus card in a calendar year, you’ll receive 1 economy Companion Ticket .

Fortunately, unlike other companion certificates, there is no added fare to the ticket, nor are there any taxes and fees applied to the ticket.

Here are the pertinent rules you’ll want to be aware of:

• The Companion Ticket will be in the form of a voucher that can be redeemed by a cardmember for an economy companion ticket with a paid economy flight.
• You’re eligible for only 1 voucher each calendar year.
• After meeting the $30,000 spend threshold, you’ll receive a voucher email 4 to 6 weeks later and must email Aer Lingus directly at [email protected] to book using the companion voucher.
• The Companion Ticket is valid for 12 months of the date of issue.
• You must book the companion voucher on or before 30 days before flying.
• The primary cardmember must fly with the companion.
• The voucher may only be used for flights that are operated by Aer Lingus.
• All travel must originate in and return to the U.S. and is only valid on flights between the U.S. and Ireland.

• 3x Avios on Aer Lingus, British Airways, and Iberia purchases
• 2x Avios on hotel accommodations booked directly with the hotel
• Priority boarding
• $95 annual fee
• Doesn’t offer many bonus categories
• Earn 85,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.
• Earn 3 Avios per $1 spent on purchases with Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, and LEVEL.
• Earn 2 Avios per $1 spent on hotel accommodations when purchased directly with the hotel.
• Every calendar year you make purchases of $30,000 on your Aer Lingus Visa Signature Card, you’ll receive a Commercial Companion Ticket good for 12 months
• You and any authorized users on your account are eligible for Priority Boarding on Aer Lingus flights departing from and returning to the US from Ireland, subject to availability.
• Pay no foreign transaction fees when you travel abroad.
• Simply tap to pay with your contactless Aer Lingus Visa Signature Card. Just look for the contactless symbol at checkout. It’s fast, easy and secure!

In addition to the Companion Ticket and the benefits above, the card also offers travel coverage (baggage delay insurance and lost luggage insurance).

British Airways

British Airways Visa Signature ® Card

The British Airways Travel Together Ticket is a fan favorite and requires you to spend $30,000 on the card in a calendar year in order to earn it.

Once you’ve done so, the Travel Together Ticket allows you to bring your companion on your flight when you make an Avios award booking — you just need to pay the carrier taxes and fees.

When it comes to the BA Travel Together Ticket, here are the rules you need to know:

• The ticket will be in the form of a voucher that can be redeemed by a cardmember for a ticket in the same cabin that the primary cardholder has purchased with their Avios — including first class .
• You’re eligible for only 1 Companion Ticket each calendar year.
• After meeting the $30,000 spend threshold, an e-voucher of the Companion Ticket will automatically be to your British Airways Executive Club account 4 to 6 weeks later.
• The Companion Ticket is valid for 2 years of the date of issue.
• While the primary ticket must be booked using your Avios, you will still be responsible for the taxes and fees on both tickets.
• All travel must originate in and return to the U.S.
• The Companion Ticket can only be used on flights that are operated by British Airways.

This card is great for British Airways frequent flyers, and traveling couples will find great value in the Travel Together Ticket.

The British Airways Visa Signature ® Card is a stellar option for travelers who regularly travel with the airline. From all of the Avios the card helps you earn, to a 10% discount off cash tickets, and the award flight statement credits, you can get tons of value out of the card each year.

• 3x Avios per $1 on British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia, and LEVEL purchases
• 2x Avios per $1 on hotel accommodations purchased directly through hotels
• 1x Avios per $1 on all other purchases
• Earn 3 Avios per $1 spent on purchases with British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia, and LEVEL.
• 10% off British Airways flights starting in the US when you book through the website provided in your welcome materials.
• Every calendar year you make $30,000 in purchases on your British Airways Visa card, you’ll earn a Travel Together Ticket good for two years.
• Simply tap to pay with your contactless British Airways Visa Signature Card. Just look for the contactless symbol at checkout. It’s fast, easy and secure!
• Foreign Transaction Fees:  $0

British Airways Executive Club

Aside from the Travel Together Ticket and the above-mentioned benefits, the British Airways Visa card offers some solid card perks:

• Get a $100 credit for economy and premium economy tickets and a $200 credit for business and first class tickets up to 3 times per year (maximum of $600) when you book an award flight to London with British Airways and pay the taxes and fees with your card
• Travel coverage (baggage delay insurance and lost luggage insurance)

Iberia Visa Signature ® Card

While it doesn’t offer a proper companion certificate, the Iberia Visa Signature card does offer a discount voucher of $1,000 to use toward 2 tickets on the same flight when you spend $30,000 on your card in a calendar year.

Of course, depending on how you might use another companion certificate, you might just find that you’d get more value out of the $1,000 voucher.

Since you receive what is effectively a cash voucher, and not a certificate, fortunately, there are fewer rules that you have to abide by when it comes to its use.

• The discount voucher will be in the form of a code that can be applied by the cardmember for a discount of $1,000 when purchasing 2 tickets, for the same flights in the same class of travel, which can be redeemed online at iberia.com/Chase10 .
• The voucher is valid for 12 months from the date of issue.
• The voucher may only be used for flights that are operated by Iberia.
• Each voucher can only be used once, and no residual value will roll over if you don’t use all $1,000 when booking your flights.
• The voucher can only be used on flights that are operated by Iberia.

The Iberia Visa Signature card is a great option for those who travel often with Iberia and its Avios partner airlines.

The Iberia Visa Signature ® Card can be a great option for those who are frequent flyers of the Spanish flag carrier thanks to its combination of benefits and discounts on flight tickets. Plus, your rewards can be redeemed with any of the family of Avios partners including Aer Lingus, British Airways, and Qatar Airways.

• 3x Avios per $1 on Iberia, British Airways, Aer Lingus, and LEVEL flight purchases
• 2x Avios per $1 on hotel accommodations booked directly with the hotel
• Earn 3 Avios per $1 spent on purchases with Iberia, British Airways, Aer Lingus, and LEVEL.
• Save 10% on Iberia flights purchased on iberia.com/Chase10
• Earn a discount voucher of $1,000 to use toward two tickets on the same flight for each calendar year you make purchases of $30,000 on your card
• Simply tap to pay with your contactless Iberia Visa Signature Card. Just look for the contactless symbol at checkout. It’s fast, easy and secure!

The Iberia Visa Signature card also includes travel coverage (baggage delay insurance and lost luggage insurance).

Miles & More ® World Elite Mastercard ®

With the Lufthansa Miles & More card, you’ll receive a companion certificate good for 1 round-trip economy ticket each year that you renew your card and pay the annual fee.

• Reservations must be made by calling the Miles & More companion ticket service at 866-461-5399.
• All taxes and fees must be paid for both the revenue ticket and the companion ticket.
• The paid economy class ticket must be for travel departing from the U.S. to Europe/Middle East/Africa and the Far East.
• Your ticket must be booked in either H, M, Y, or B class of service.
• The certificate is only valid on Lufthansa-operated flights.
• Your certificate is valid for 12 months from its issue date.

The other perks of the Lufthansa Miles & More card include:

• 2x miles per $1 on Miles & More partners (Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, SWISS, and more) and 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases
• Receive 2 complimentary Lufthansa business lounge vouchers after each account anniversary
• Convert Miles & More award miles into status miles at a ratio of 5:1 to help you achieve status faster
• 15% off Hotels & Cars by Points booking made at milesandmore.points.com

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic World Elite Mastercard ®

In order to earn the companion certificate with the Virgin Atlantic World Elite card, you’ll need to spend $25,000 on the card in your cardmember year.

The companion certificate on the Virgin Atlantic World Elite card is unique in that the level of value you can get from it is tied to your Flying Club elite status within the program at the time of booking.

Red Tier members may book a primary ticket in Economy Classic or Premium and receive 1 matching Economy Classic or Premium Companion Fare ticket. Red Tier members can also book a Companion Fare into Upper Class at a 50% points discount. However, those who are Silver Tier or Gold Tier can book a matching Companion Fare into any cabin class .

The other terms you’ll want to know prior to booking are:

• You’ll still be responsible for any applicable taxes, fees, charges, and carrier-imposed surcharges for the Companion Fare.
• Both travelers must be on the same flights and travel itinerary.
• Flights and routes are subject to availability.
• Your ticket must be purchased directly through Virgin Atlantic.
• Your companion certificate must be used within 2 years of its issue date.

Cardholders of the Virgin Atlantic World Elite card also enjoy these benefits:

• 3x points per $1 on Virgin Atlantic purchases, and 1.5x points per $1 on all other purchases
• 25 tier points towards Virgin Atlantic status per $2,500 in purchases (maximum 50 per month)
• 7,5000 bonus points each year that you spend $15,000 on your card, and a further 7,500 bonus points after you spend $25,000

Overall, deciding which companion certificate might be best for you will largely come down to your travel goals, the level of spending you can put on a given card, and what other card benefits you’re looking for.

As you can see, while they can vary quite a bit from card to card, companion certificates can be very valuable. Not only do they enhance the overall value of your airline credit card , but they also make for a very compelling option for traveling couples.

Regarding the Trip Delay Insurance and Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance of the Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card and Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.  Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Regarding the Baggage Insurance Plan of the Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card and Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.  Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. The information regarding the Virgin Atlantic World Elite Mastercard ® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

The information regarding the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature ® credit card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding Alaska Airlines Visa ® Business Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the AAdvantage ® Aviator ® Red World Elite Mastercard ® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.  The information regarding AAdvantage ® Aviator ® Silver Mastercard ® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Hawaiian Airlines Business Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Miles & More ® World Elite Mastercard ® was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Business American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees of Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees for the Delta SkyMiles ® Reserve Business American Express Card, click here .

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Companion Certificates

In-page links.

• Companion Certificate Eligibility , Go to footer note
• Find a Companion Certificate , Go to footer note
• Redeem a Companion Certificate , Go to footer note
• Modify a Companion Certificate Booking , Go to footer note
• Terms and Conditions , Go to footer note

As a Delta SkyMiles Reserve, Reserve Business, Platinum or Platinum Business Card Member, you will receive 1 Companion Certificate after each Card renewal. Depending on the type of Card you have, Companion Certificate cabin eligibility will vary:

Delta SkyMiles Reserve or Reserve Business American Express Card Members receive 1 Companion Certificate for a First Class, Delta Comfort+® or Main Cabin round-trip flight within the U.S. and to Mexico, the Caribbean or Central America each year after renewal of your Card*

Delta SkyMiles Platinum or Platinum Business American Express Card Members receive 1 Companion Certificate for a Main Cabin round-trip flight within the U.S. and to Mexico, the Caribbean or Central America each year after renewal of your Card*

*The Companion Ticket requires payment of the government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for round-trip domestic flights and no more than $250 for round-trip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.

Companion Certificates issued prior to February 1, 2024 are not eligible for the expanded destinations announced on February 1, 2024. Any Companion Certificates issued prior to February 1, 2024 are eligible for redemption on flights within the 48 contiguous United States. Residents of Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands must originate from those locations to the 48 contiguous United States.

Where Do I Find My Companion Certificate?

A Companion Certificate is automatically issued to your SkyMiles account each year following your Card renewal. You can find and redeem your Companion Certificate online in any of the following three ways:

• View in Your Profile , Go to footer note
• Look Up by SkyMiles Number , Go to footer note
• Look Up by Certificate Code , Go to footer note

View in Your Profile

• Log in at delta.com and navigate to your Profile
• Select the “Certificates, eCredits & Vouchers” on the left side of the screen
• Your Companion Certificate will be waiting for you under “Use Certificates and eCredits”
• Select the Certificate checkbox and click ‘Continue’

Look Up by SkyMiles Number

• Find your Companion Certificate at delta.com/redeem
• Click the link in the top right corner to log in to your SkyMiles account and view your Companion Certificate

Look Up by Certificate Code

• Once you receive your code via email go to delta.com/redeem
• Enter the 8 character Certificate Code from the email you received in “Certificate or eCredit #”
• Click “Look Up” to search
• Add your SkyMiles Number and password to validate

How Do I Redeem A Companion Certificate?

First, look up your certificate, select & review your flights.

Search for eligible flights and review your selections on the Trip Summary page. Please note you need to both book and complete your travel by the expiration date listed for your Companion Certificate.

Confirm Your Purchase

On the Trip Summary page, you can review your flights and enter payment information. The Trip Total calculator shows the Companion Certificate has been applied.

Modify a Companion Certificate Booking

We understand that plans can change, which is why we offer flexibility to reuse your Companion Certificate if a change is made or the trip gets canceled.

Companion Certificate Trip Changes

If either the unused primary ticket or companion ticket is changed, both tickets will be changed, and the companion ticket will automatically be applied to your new itinerary.

The unused primary ticket would be reissued and any difference in price or applicable fees would apply.

Please note, Companion Certificates and eCredits are valid for 1 year from the original date of issue.

Companion Certificate Trip Cancellation

If the unused primary ticket or the companion ticket is canceled, both tickets will be canceled, and the companion ticket will be reissued for use.

The unused primary ticket would become an eCredit minus any applicable fees.

Terms and Conditions

Delta Platinum Companion Certificate at Renewal

Eligibility:    Basic Card Members with a Delta SkyMiles Platinum or Platinum Business American Express Card will receive a Companion Certificate each year after Card Account renewal, eligible for use on Delta, Delta Connection carrier and Delta Shuttle flights only (excludes all other Delta-designated codeshare flights). Companion Certificate is valid for one roundtrip Main Cabin Companion ticket with the purchase of certain adult roundtrip fares on published routings originating within the United States, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) to the following destinations: the United States, Puerto Rico, USVI, Mexico, Antigua, Aruba, Bermuda, Bonaire, Grand Cayman, Cuba, Jamaica, Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, Dominican Republic, Saint Kitts, St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Costa Rica, Belize, Guatemala, Panama, Honduras, and El Salvador. Qualifying tickets must be operated by Delta or its Delta Connection carriers and are limited to Delta-served airports; routes, frequencies and destinations offered by Delta are subject to change at any time in Delta’s sole discretion without prior notice. It is the responsibility of the passenger to be in possession of all necessary documentation (e.g., valid passport, visa where applicable) at the time and place of departure. Travel to Cuba is subject to compliance with applicable law. Each year, the Companion Certificate will be made available for redemption on  delta.com  in your Card Account renewal month. If the Basic Card Member’s Account anniversary month changes (for example, due to a Card replacement), the Companion Certificate will be awarded annually within the new Card Account renewal month. Reservations are only available at  delta.com . Companion Certificate terms and conditions may vary each year of Card Membership. Additional restrictions apply.  

Taxes/Fees:    A Companion ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments), and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights to the eligible destinations (for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Taxes and fees depend on the itinerary. Checked bag fees apply. These allowances are subject to size/weight limits. Contact a Delta agent or visit  delta.com  for details. Taxes and fees are subject to change, are the responsibility of the passenger and must be paid at the time the Primary ticket is purchased and the Companion ticket is issued.  

Restrictions:    Redemption is available only on  delta.com/redeem . Companion Certificate and Delta eCredits can be combined in the same transaction. Delta eCredits can be applied as payment toward cost of the Primary ticket, Companion ticket, and any government-imposed taxes and fees. The eCredit must match the name of the traveler whose ticket is being purchased. The certificate cannot be combined with another offer or discount including, but not limited to, web fares, sale fares and eCoupons. Both passengers must be booked at the same time, in the same class of service and in the same record. Tickets are only available in L, U, T, X, and V classes of service for Main Cabin travel. Tickets may not be available on all flights or markets. Companion Certificates are eligible for Complimentary Upgrades, subject to availability on flights where Complimentary Upgrades are made available to Medallion Members, SkyMiles Program Rules, and Medallion Benefit terms and policies in effect at the time of travel. Most fares require an advance purchase of up to 14 days, a 3-night minimum stay and a 30-day maximum stay. All fare rules, restrictions, advance purchase requirements, and availability are per rule of Primary ticket fare purchased. Companion tickets are not transferable. Primary ticket and Companion ticket must be purchased with your Delta SkyMiles Platinum or Platinum Business Card and/or eCredits. Additional restrictions apply. Visit  delta.com/eCredits  for more information. Both passengers must be booked on the same flights and dates, at the same time. Travel for Companion Certificate must be booked and completed (i.e., fully flown) by the date on the front of certificate. Validity is not based on calendar year. Primary ticket will accrue miles. Companion ticket will not accrue miles. Tickets are eligible for Global or Regional Upgrade Certificates but not eligible for mileage upgrades. Companion Certificate is void if reproduced, altered, counterfeited, obtained or used improperly, or where prohibited by law. Companion Certificate has no value except when redeemed in accordance with all terms and conditions of this offer. Companion Certificate is for new purchases only and cannot be applied to the cost of miscellaneous charge orders or previously issued tickets. Companion Certificate is the property of Delta Air Lines and must be surrendered or returned upon request. Delta reserves the right to cancel, rescind, or void any Companion Certificate if the Card is cancelled or downgraded within 60 days of the date that the Annual Fee is billed to the Card. Fares, fees, schedules, offers and rules are subject to change without notice. Terms and conditions of this offer are as written and cannot be altered, modified or waived unless authorized by a corporate officer of Delta Air Lines, Inc. All Delta SkyMiles program rules apply. To review the rules, please visit  delta.com/memberguide .  

Routing/Blackout Dates:   Stopovers, open jaws, and circle trips are not permitted. Blackout dates subject to the rules of the Primary ticket fare purchased. 

Cancellations/Ticket Changes/Reissuance:    If the Primary ticket or the Companion ticket is cancelled, both tickets will be cancelled. If a wholly unused Primary ticket and Companion ticket are cancelled on/after December 7, 2023, the Companion Certificate redeemed will be automatically reissued after the cancellation is processed and will retain its original expiration date. Subject to the fare rules of the Primary ticket, the value of the Primary ticket, less any fare difference, may be applied to future travel. Cancellations are subject to the rules of the fare purchased. If the Primary ticket and Companion ticket are changed after issuance, subject to the fare rules of the Primary ticket, there will be a charge for the fare difference of the Primary ticket. Changes are subject to the rules of the fare purchased and are subject to seat availability. After travel has commenced, rerouting is not permitted.

Transferability: The Companion Certificate is transferable. Primary ticket and Companion ticket are not transferable once issued. Companion Certificate may not be bartered or sold. Companion Certificates or Companion tickets acquired through prohibited sale/barter transactions are void and will not be honored for travel. In the event of flight irregularities and/or cancellations, alternative flights will be on Delta only. 

Delta Reserve Companion Certificate at Renewal

Eligibility:  Basic Card Members with a Delta SkyMiles Reserve or Reserve Business American Express Card will receive a Companion Certificate each year after Card Account renewal, eligible for use on Delta, Delta Connection carrier and Delta Shuttle flights only (excludes all other Delta-designated codeshare flights). Companion Certificate is valid for one roundtrip First Class, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+ ®  or Main Cabin Companion ticket with the purchase of certain adult roundtrip fares on published routings originating within the United States, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) to the following destinations: the United States, Puerto Rico, USVI, Mexico, Antigua, Aruba, Bermuda, Bonaire, Grand Cayman, Cuba, Jamaica, Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, Dominican Republic, Saint Kitts, St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Costa Rica, Belize, Guatemala, Panama, Honduras, and El Salvador. Qualifying tickets must be operated by Delta or its Delta Connection carriers and are limited to Delta-served airports; routes, frequencies and destinations offered by Delta are subject to change at any time in Delta's sole discretion without prior notice. It is the responsibility of the passenger to be in possession of all necessary documentation (e.g., valid passport, visa where applicable) at the time and place of departure. Travel to Cuba is subject to compliance with applicable law. Each year, the Companion Certificate will be made available for redemption on  delta.com  in your Card Account renewal month. If the Basic Card Member's Account anniversary month changes (for example, due to a Card replacement), the Companion Certificate will be awarded annually within the new Card Account renewal month. Reservations are only available at  delta.com . Companion Certificate terms and conditions may vary each year of Card Membership. Additional restrictions apply.

Taxes/Fees:  A Companion ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments), and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights to the eligible destinations (for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Taxes and fees depend on the itinerary. Checked bag fees apply. These allowances are subject to size/weight limits. Contact a Delta agent or visit  delta.com  for details. Taxes and fees are subject to change, are the responsibility of the passenger and must be paid at the time the Primary ticket is purchased and the Companion ticket is issued.

Restrictions:  Redemption is available only on  delta.com/redeem . Companion Certificate and Delta eCredits can be combined in the same transaction. Delta eCredits can be applied as payment toward cost of the Primary ticket, Companion ticket, and any government-imposed taxes and fees. The eCredit must match the name of the traveler whose ticket is being purchased. The certificate cannot be combined with another offer or discount including, but not limited to, web fares, sale fares and eCoupons. Both passengers must be booked at the same time, in the same class of service and in the same record. Tickets are only available in L, U, T, X, and V classes of services for Main Cabin travel. For Delta Comfort+ travel, tickets are available in W and S classes of service, but only when L, U, T, X, or V classes of service are available in the Main Cabin. For Delta Premium Select travel, tickets are available in A and G classes of service. For First Class travel, tickets are available in I and Z classes of service. Companion Certificates are not eligible to purchase Delta One ®  seats. Tickets may not be available on all flights or markets. Companion Certificates are eligible for Complimentary Upgrades, subject to availability on flights where Complimentary Upgrades are made available to Medallion Members, SkyMiles Program Rules, and Medallion Benefit terms and policies in effect at the time of travel. Most fares require an advance purchase of up to 14 days, a 3-night minimum stay and a 30-day maximum stay. All fare rules, restrictions, advance purchase requirements, and availability are per rule of Primary ticket fare purchased. Companion tickets are not transferable. Primary ticket and Companion ticket must be purchased with your Delta SkyMiles Reserve or Reserve Business Card and/or eCredits. Additional restrictions apply. Visit  delta.com/eCredits  for more information. Both passengers must be booked on the same flights and dates, at the same time. Travel for Companion Certificate must be booked and completed (i.e., fully flown) by the date on the front of certificate. Validity is not based on calendar year. Primary ticket will accrue miles. Companion ticket will not accrue miles. Tickets are eligible for Global or Regional Upgrade Certificates but not eligible for mileage upgrades. Companion Certificate is void if reproduced, altered, counterfeited, obtained or used improperly, or where prohibited by law. Companion Certificate has no value except when redeemed in accordance with all terms and conditions of this offer. Companion Certificate is for new purchases only and cannot be applied to the cost of miscellaneous charge orders or previously issued tickets. Companion Certificate is the property of Delta Air Lines and must be surrendered or returned upon request. Delta reserves the right to cancel, rescind, or void any Companion Certificate if the Card is cancelled or downgraded within 60 days of the date that the Annual Fee is billed to the Card. Fares, fees, schedules, offers and rules are subject to change without notice. Terms and conditions of this offer are as written and cannot be altered, modified or waived unless authorized by a corporate officer of Delta Air Lines, Inc. All Delta SkyMiles program rules apply. To review the rules, please visit  delta.com/memberguide .

Routing/Blackout Dates:  Stopovers, open jaws, and circle trips are not permitted. Blackout dates subject to the rules of the Primary ticket fare purchased.

Cancellations/Ticket Changes/Reissuance:  If the Primary ticket or the Companion ticket is cancelled, both tickets will be cancelled. If a wholly unused Primary ticket and Companion ticket are cancelled on/after December 7, 2023, the Companion Certificate redeemed will be automatically reissued after the cancellation is processed and will retain its original expiration date. Subject to the fare rules of the Primary ticket, the value of the Primary ticket, less any fare difference, may be applied to future travel. Cancellations are subject to the rules of the fare purchased. If the Primary ticket and Companion ticket are changed after issuance, subject to the fare rules of the Primary ticket, there will be a charge for the fare difference of the Primary ticket. Changes are subject to the rules of the fare purchased and are subject to seat availability. After travel has commenced, rerouting is not permitted.

Transferability:  The Companion Certificate is transferable. Primary ticket and Companion ticket are not transferable once issued. Companion Certificate may not be bartered or sold. Companion Certificates or Companion tickets acquired through prohibited sale/barter transactions are void and will not be honored for travel. In the event of flight irregularities and/or cancellations, alternative flights will be on Delta only.

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Table of contents

Southwest Airlines Companion Pass

American airlines companion certificate, british airways travel together, delta air lines companion certificate, hawaiian airlines companion discount, alaska airlines famous companion fare, lufthansa companion ticket, key takeaways.

• Several airline credit cards offer discounts on tickets for your traveling companions.
• Available discounts range from flat-rate fares to fully comped tickets (minus taxes and fees).
• Take note of your card’s eligibility requirements so you can maximize your companion discount benefits.

Save on your next vacation

Explore Bankrate’s picks of travel cards to help you earn points and miles for your next trip View all travel cards

How to earn the Companion Pass

• Completing 100 qualifying one-way Southwest flights within a year
• Earning 135,000 qualifying points through Southwest Rapid Rewards
• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card *
• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card

How to earn the companion certificate

• CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Mastercard® *
• AAdvantage® Aviator® World Elite Business Mastercard®*
• AAdvantage® Aviator® Silver Mastercard®* (with this card, you’ll earn a companion certificate for two guests at $99 each, plus taxes and fees)
• AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® *

How to earn the Travel Together Ticket

• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card (main cabin only)
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card (main cabin only)
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card (first-class eligible)
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card (first-class eligible)

How to earn the companion discount

• The Hawaiian Airlines® World Elite Mastercard® * (one-time 50% off and $100 yearly companion discount)
• Hawaiian Airlines® Bank of Hawaii World Elite Mastercard®* (one-time 50% off and $100 yearly companion discount)
• Hawaiian Airlines® Business Mastercard®* (one-time 50% off companion discount)

How to earn the companion fare

How to earn the companion ticket, the bottom line.

*The information on the cards indicated with an asterisk has been collected independently by Bankrate. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

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How to Score Companion Passes to Get Free Flights — and Which Airlines Offer Them

This tool is one of the best ways to score a free flight. Here's how to use it effectively.

If you're something of a frequent flier — or if you live in a Southwest Airlines hub — you've probably heard the term "companion pass" thrown around a few times. Ultimately, a companion pass is exactly what it sounds like: a certificate that allows you to bring a friend on a flight for (mostly) free. Of course, there's fine print involved that severely limits the power of a companion pass, so free long-haul business-class tickets are rare. But you can indeed get a free or heavily discounted plane ticket with a companion pass, usually in economy.

In a nutshell, companion passes are two-for-one deals, though their use is often restricted by fare class and route, and you'll still have to pay taxes and fees. You must also be on the same reservation as your companion.

The most well-known companion pass is, arguably, the Southwest Companion Pass , because it's the only one that's reusable for a minimum period of a year. The rest of the companion passes out there are one-time-use annual perks for airline co-branded credit cards ; their redemption value can often cover the card's annual fee.

Here's everything you need to know about the major airline companion passes.

Stephen M. Keller/Courtesy of Southwest Airlines

Southwest Companion Pass

The Southwest Companion Pass is the airline's top-tier status reserved for frequent fliers. Once the status is earned, the traveler can designate one person who can tag along with them on every flight for free, though they are still charged for taxes and fees, which start at $5.60. In order to earn the pass, you'll need to fly 100 flights on Southwest or earn 35,000 Rapid Rewards points in a calendar year — whenever you cross the threshold, you'll earn Companion Pass status for the remainder of the calendar year and the following year.

Rapid Rewards points can be earned on Southwest airfare, partner bookings for hotels and rental cars, using a Rapid Rewards co-branded credit card , shopping through the Rapid Rewards shopping portal , and dining at qualifying restaurants. Keep in mind that Rapid Rewards credit card sign-up bonuses count toward status, so that's one way to jumpstart your journey toward the Southwest Companion Pass.

Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare

This isn't a true companion pass, but rather a companion discount. Travelers with the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card or the Alaska Airlines Visa Business Credit Card receive a one-time code on each card anniversary that allows them to buy a round-trip economy ticket for a travel companion for $99 plus taxes and fees. Existing cardholders don't have a spend requirement to earn the companion fare, but new cardholders will have to spend at least $6,000 a year to earn it.

American Airlines Companion Certificate

Like Alaska's Famous Companion Fare, American Airlines' Companion Certificate is also a companion discount. Travelers who hold the following credit cards are eligible for the certificate after spending $20,000 or $30,000 in a calendar year, depending on the card: AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite Mastercard ; AAdvantage Aviator Silver Mastercard ; AAdvantage Aviator World Elite Business Mastercard ; or the CitiBusiness / AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard. The certificate can be redeemed for $99 plus taxes and fees on one round-trip economy-class ticket in the continental U.S. However, residents of Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands can use it on a round-trip flight from their home airport to a destination in the continental U.S. 

British Airways Travel Together Ticket

A true companion pass, this ticket can be earned by British Airways Visa Signature Credit Card holders who spend $30,000 in a calendar year. The ticket is valid in all classes — even business class — on round-trip flights originating in the United States. Like all companion passes, you must pay taxes and fees, as well as carrier chargers, and British Airways' fine print mentions how expensive that can get: "For a peak, return flight from Los Angeles to London, these can amount to $651.33 in economy (World Traveller) and $1,984.57 in business (Club World)." That said, you're still getting a heavy discount, since a standard plane ticket would also include those charges.

Delta Companion Certificate

Four credit cards issue Delta companion certificates on each card anniversary: Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express and Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express , plus their business counterparts. The Platinum companion certificate can be used on one round-trip journey within the continental U.S. in economy, while the Reserve companion certificate can also be used in Comfort+ and first class. While you'll still have to pay taxes and fees, Delta caps the total amount to $75. Availability can be limited, though, as the companion certificates can only be used in certain fare classes.

Hawaiian Airlines Companion Discount

Holders of the Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard or the Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Business Mastercard are given a one-time 50-percent-off companion discount code for a round-trip economy flight between Hawaii and North America during their first year of card membership. On each card anniversary after that, cardholders receive $100 off one companion flight per year between Hawaii and the continental U.S. in economy.

Lufthansa Companion Ticket

After making a single purchase with their card in the first year they have it, Miles & More® World Elite Mastercard cardholders are given an economy-class companion pass for a round-trip flight from the U.S. to Europe, Africa, the Middle East, or Asia on Lufthansa. It can only be used in certain fare classes, and travelers are still responsible for paying taxes and fees. After that, on each card anniversary, cardholders receive another companion ticket.

Related Articles

Rapid Rewards

Companion Pass ®

Traveling is more fun with a plus-one. Take a friend or Family Member with you on your next Southwest ® flight when you earn a Companion Pass.

Friends fly when you do.

Companion Pass is the benefit that allows you to choose one person to fly with you, free of airline charges (does not include taxes and fees from $5.60 one-way) unlimited times whenever you purchase or redeem points for a flight.

To qualify, simply fly 100 qualifying one-way flights or earn 135,000 qualifying points 1,3 in a calendar year. You’ll earn a Companion Pass for the following full calendar year, plus the remainder of the year in which you earned it. For even more flexibility, Companion Pass Members can change their designated Companion up to three times each calendar year.

How to earn Companion Pass

Earn Companion Pass qualifying points every time you use your card.

Wanna get more with your Rapid Rewards ® Credit Card?

Earn Companion Pass ® qualifying points when you use your Rapid Rewards Credit Card 1

Shop and dine

Get more points when you shop at our online retailers or dine with our participating restaurants.

Fly 100 one-way qualifying flights in a calendar year and earn qualifying points 3 for every dollar you spend on a qualifying flight. You can also earn qualifying points by booking a hotel or renting a car through one of our partners. 1

Home and lifestyle

Purchases you already make also get you points. Who doesn’t love that?

Companion Pass tips

Companion Pass holders can now board together with their Companions. 2 Already a Companion Pass Member? See how you can maximize your membership with these helpful tips!

Designate your Companion

• Log in to your Rapid Rewards account at  Southwest.com ® .
• On your Snapshot tab, locate  Choose Your Companion , click  Enter Companion Info , and follow the posted instructions.
• Or if you’d prefer, give us a call at  1-800-435-9792 .

Tips on traveling with your Companion

• Reservations are required for all Companion Pass travel. You must book your flight prior to booking your designated Companion’s flight. 
• After booking your flight, visit the  My Trips  section of your account. Find your flight in the Upcoming Trips section and click the  Add Companion link. Click  Continue  to proceed to the purchase screen and review your Companion information. Click Purchase  to complete your Companion’s flight reservation. A Companion’s reservation is not considered a purchased flight, and therefore, another Companion Pass reservation cannot be booked from it.
• If you would like to book through a Customer Representative, call  1-800-248-4377  and notify him/her that a Companion Pass will be used.

Who can get a Companion Pass?

A Member who flies 100 qualifying one-way flight segments booked through Southwest or earns 135,000 tier qualifying points 1,3 per calendar year will qualify for Companion Pass.

Companion Pass qualifying points can be earned when you use your Rapid Rewards® Credit Card. 1

Southwest Rapid Rewards ™ Cardmembers will earn one boost of 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points each calendar year. 1

Companion Pass

Fly 100 qualifying flights or earn 135,000 Companion Pass qualifying points 1

Important information

1 Companion Pass® qualifying points are earned from revenue flights booked through Southwest®, points earned on Rapid Rewards® Credit Cards, and base points earned from Rapid Rewards partners. The following do not count as Companion Pass qualifying points: purchased points; points transferred between Members; points converted from hotel and car loyalty programs, e-Rewards®, Valued Opinions, and Diners Club®; points earned from Rapid Rewards program enrollment, tier bonus points; flight bonus points; and partner bonus points (with the exception of the Rapid Rewards Credit Cards from Chase). No points nor tier or Companion Pass qualifying points will be awarded for flights taken by the Companion when flying on a Companion Pass reservation. Cash + Points bookings will not earn Rapid Rewards  points, tier qualifying points for A-List or A-List Preferred status or  Companion Pass qualifying points. Points earned during a billing cycle on a Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Credit Card from Chase are not available for redemption or qualification for Companion Pass status until they are posted on your billing statement and posted to your Rapid Rewards account. Only points posted on your billing statements and posted to your Rapid Rewards account during the same calendar year are available for qualification for Companion Pass status. For example, if you make a purchase after your December billing statement cycle date, the points on those purchases will not count toward Companion Pass status in the year the purchase was made; they will appear on your January billing statement and post to your Rapid Rewards account in January.

Companion Pass Qualifying Points Boost: As a Southwest Rapid Rewards Cardmember, you will earn one boost of 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points each calendar year. The boost will be deposited into your eligible Rapid Rewards account by January 31st each calendar year or up to 30 days after account opening. To receive Companion Pass qualifying points boost your credit card account must be open and not in default at the time of fulfillment. Only one credit card account per Southwest Rapid Rewards Member (Rapid Rewards Member must be the primary Cardmember on that account), is eligible for one boost of 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points per calendar year. JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. is not responsible for the provision of, or failure to provide, the stated benefits and services.

2 Upon check in, you and your Companion will receive sequential boarding positions except if you purchased a Business Select® fare or added the Companion after you had been assigned a boarding position. For Business Select fares, only the purchaser will receive an A1-A15 boarding position and the Companion will receive a boarding position based on whichever is applicable—time of check-in, A-List or A-List Preferred status, or EarlyBird Check-In®. If you purchased a Wanna Get Away®, Wanna Get Away Plus or an Anytime fare and either you or your Companion is an A-List or A-List Preferred Member, you will both receive reserved boarding positions.

3 Qualifying flights include flights booked and flown through Southwest and flights paid entirely with dollars, Southwest LUV Vouchers, gift cards or travel funds, and with no portion of the purchase price paid for with Rapid Rewards points. Cash + Points bookings will not earn Rapid Rewards  points, tier qualifying points for A-List or A-List Preferred status or  Companion Pass qualifying points.

Rapid Rewards terms and conditions apply. Review the full terms here .

Southwest Rapid Rewards™ Credit Cards are issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.

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Guide to the best airline companion passes

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With Southwest’s current credit card offers  making it abnormally easy to earn the amazing Southwest Companion Pass , it’s a good time to review the best airline companion passes on the market. Many of the best airline credit cards come with the ability to earn a certific

ate that allows you to bring a travel buddy with you for extremely cheap — sometimes practically free!

Earning the companion fare varies greatly, from meeting spending requirements to earning a certain amount of points to earning a welcome bonus. Here are the companion fares we’ll cover:

Southwest Companion Pass :

• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
• Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
• Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card

Delta Companion Certificate :

• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card

Alaska Airlines Companion Fare :

• Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card
• Alaska Airlines Visa® Business credit card

American Airlines Companion Certificate:

• CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® Mastercard®
• AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®
• AAdvantage® Aviator® Business Mastercard®

British Airways Travel Together Ticket :

• British Airways Visa Signature® Card

The information for the Barclaycard AAdvantage Aviator Red, AAdvantage Aviator Business, British Airways Visa Signature Card, CitiBusiness AAdvantage Platinum card has been collected independently by Million Mile Secrets. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Best airline credit card companion passes

More cards than just the following offer a companion pass of sorts, but these are by far the most popular.

Southwest Companion Pass

You can earn a Southwest Companion Pass with the following cards:

• Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card
• Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card

Everyone on the MMS team considers the Southwest Companion Pass to be the best deal in travel. That’s because it lets a friend or family member travel with you for just the cost of taxes and fees whenever you travel on Southwest — even if you were to book multiple flights every single day!! It doesn’t matter your origin or destination, or if your flight is booked with points or paid for with cash – your companion will fly for just the cost of taxes & fees.

For example, if you’re looking to fly from Cincinnati to Aruba, you’ll pay as little as:

• ~14,000 Southwest points
• ~$16 in taxes & fees

That means you and a travel buddy can go to Aruba for 13,000 Southwest points and $32 in taxes & fees.

To earn a Southwest Companion Pass, you’ll need to earn 125,000 qualifying Southwest points in a calendar year. You wouldn’t believe how easy that is to achieve. That’s because Southwest credit card bonuses qualify towards the Companion Pass. Also, currently, with all three Southwest personal credit cards you can earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.

If you then earn a Southwest small business card, this can help to qualify for the Companion Pass:

• Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card – 60,000 Southwest points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening
• Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card – 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.

This is far and away the most generous Companion Pass available. You can read a full guide to the Southwest Companion Pass here .

Delta Companion Certificate

You can earn a Delta Companion Certificate with the following cards:

If you hold any of the above cards, you’ll receive a companion certificate each year when you renew the card. The companion certificate allows you to add one passenger to a domestic round-trip flight reservation for just the cost of taxes and fees of no more than $75. It also comes with the following fine print in the  eligibility terms :

• Redemption is only available on  delta.com , and both passengers must be booked at the same time, in the same class of service and in the same record
• Most fares require an advance purchase of up to 14 days, a three-night minimum stay and a 30-day maximum stay
• You must pay for your tickets with the card that provides the Companion Certificate you’re using
• Only eligible on Delta, Delta Connection carrier and Delta Shuttle flights within the 48 contiguous United States
• Residents of Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands must originate from there to the 48 contiguous United States and have an address on their SkyMiles account in Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands
• Seats are only available in L, U, T, X, V classes of service
• You’ll earn miles on the paid ticket, but not the companion ticket

The companion certificate will be made available for redemption on  delta.com  starting in your renewal month. To redeem your certificate, you can follow these steps:

• Log on to  Delta.com
• Go to My Delta
• Click on “Credits and Certificates” in the “My Wallet” box
• Select the available certificate
• Search for eligible flights and book your trip

How valuable can the companion certificate be?

The companion certificate can be worth upwards of $500 or more, depending on when and where you fly. Even with the restrictions on using the companion certificate, many people in online forums have confirmed they had little to no trouble finding an eligible flight.

To give you an idea of how valuable the certificate can be, I looked at a flight from Chicago to New York in November 2019. If you were to pay cash for these flights, you’d be out of pocket a grand total of $733.20. But by redeeming the companion certificate, you’d pay just $418.78 — a savings of over $300.

Just note that this is a once-per-year certificate — you can’t use it as often as you want, like the  Southwest Companion Pass .

Alaska Airlines Famous Companion Fare

You can earn an Alaska Airlines Famous Companion Fare with the following cards:

Both cards come with a welcome bonus of 40,000 Alaska Airlines miles, plus Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare when you spend $2,000 or more within the first 90 days of account opening.

The  Alaska Airlines  Companion Fare is a promotional code you can use to bring a companion along on an Alaska Airlines flight for as little as $121 ($99 fare, plus taxes and fees from $22). You can use it on any Alaska Airlines round-trip coach flight, but there are a few booking restrictions (more on that in a bit).

That’s a killer deal — and one of the best parts is that you’ll still  earn Alaska Airlines miles  on the flight.  Alaska Airlines miles  are awarded based on the distance you fly, so there is potential to get outsized value if you can find a cheap longer-distance flight. Some of the  best ways to redeem Alaska miles  include flights to Asia or Australia on partner airlines like Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines and Qantas. When you  use Alaska Airlines miles  to book award flights you also can add in a stopover for free, even on one-way tickets.

Things to remember about the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare

As mentioned before, the Companion Fare is actually a unique promotional code that you apply when searching for fares on the Alaska Airlines website. There’s no physical certificate (thank goodness, since I always lose those), and the code will be automatically stored in your Alaska Airlines loyalty account. To see if you already have an available Companion Fare, navigate to “Discount and Companion Fare Codes” in your account.

Here are some rules and restrictions you should know about the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare:

• Can only be used for coach travel on Alaska Airlines operated flights
• Both tickets must be booked into the same fare class, at the same time
• Companion Fare codes expire one year after they are issued, and must be booked by the expiration date (though travel can occur any time in the future)

Those are the rules, but here are some of the benefits which make the companion fare particularly exciting:

• Although travel must be booked in coach, you can use Gold guest upgrades to upgrade your flights to first class. If you have  Alaska Airlines elite status , both passengers are upgrade eligible.
• Both passengers earn miles (both redeemable miles and elite qualifying miles) for the flights.
• There are no blackout dates. So those peak travel times (like the day before Thanksgiving, or the week after Christmas) are Companion Fare eligible.

For a full rundown of the rules and restrictions, check out the  Alaska Airlines FAQ page .

Best uses of the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare

There are good ways to use the Companion Fare — and then some killer ways. Generally speaking, cross-country flights and trips around peak travel dates are the most strategic for saving on your second passenger’s airfare. You can also use the companion ticket for open-jaw tickets, or tickets with stopovers, to extend your adventures.

For example, you could fly from New York to Seattle and stop for a weekend, on to Los Angeles for a week, then return to Washington, and use a Companion Fare to bring a friend along. As long as the general travel direction is consistent, you can make multiple stops to get tons of value from your companion fare.

Last summer, team member Jake and his wife I traveled from Washington to Maui for a family reunion during peak vacation season. That round-trip fare (routing through Portland) was in the range of $1,000 per person in coach. Prices were similar regardless of airline, and saver-level award flights were impossible to find. So I turned to Alaska Airlines, armed with my newly earned Companion Fare.

Fortunately, the itinerary he wanted was available for two passengers in the same booking class. He had a Companion Fare, easily applied it, selected the flights, and made out like a bandit paying ~$1,100 for two round-trip flights instead of $2,000+.

You can even do better than that, although the Companion Fare’s terms specifically exclude multiple stopovers, I was able to easily find an itinerary with two stopovers and an open-jaw. The flight below is for a three week vacation from Chicago to Kahului, with a four-day visit in Portland on the way, returning from Honolulu with a three-day stopover in Seattle.

This same itinerary would have cost $850+ more without the discount code and it was super easy to find. He plugged in random days and had his choice of just about any flight time available on the first search.

Companion fare tips and tricks

If you can’t make use of an expiring Companion Fare, you can use the benefit for any other two people traveling on the same itinerary, but you must pay for the tickets using the fare owner’s Bank of America Alaska Airlines card.

You can use MVP Gold elite status guest upgrades, or Alaska Airlines miles, to upgrade flights booked with the companion fare. When Jake booked last year’s Maui trip, he used four Gold guest upgrade certificates to upgrade the flights. Those four upgrade certificates in conjunction with the companion discount meant that he flew round-trip, 10-12 hours each way, in first class for about $500 per person.

American Airlines Companion Certificate

You can earn an American Airlines Companion Certificate with the following cards:

This is a niche benefit for big spenders, but it could be useful for many.

If you have either of the above cards, you can earn a companion certificate every cardmember anniversary. With the Citibusiness AAdvantage Card and Barclaycard AAdvantage Aviator Business, you’ll need to spend $30,000 on purchases in a cardmember year to earn the certificate (account must be renewed and open for at least 45 days after account anniversary date for the CitiBusiness card). With the AAdvantage Aviator Red, you’ll need to spend $20,000 on purchases in a cardmember year.

The certificate allows a companion to fly with you for $99, plus taxes and fees (between $22 and $43, based on the itinerary). Your card must remain open for 45 days after your cardmember anniversary to qualify. It takes eight to 10 weeks to receive the certificate after meeting your spending requirement, and you’ll have one year to use the certificate once it’s issued.

To use the certificate, the primary cardholder must purchase a round-trip coach ticket on an American Airlines flight within the continental U.S. (you can’t use it for flights to Alaska or Hawaii). After purchasing qualifying airfare, you’ll pay a $99 companion ticket fee plus ~$22 to ~$43 in taxes and fees to add a friend or loved one to your flight. You’re only eligible to redeem the certificate one time, and you can’t redeem the certificate for travel on  oneworld  partners.

The terms & conditions also say there are blackout dates, which are provided when you receive the certificate. That’s inconvenient, but the benefit is still extremely valuable. For example, I found a round-trip, non-stop coach flight from Dallas to Aspen, which costs ~$1,556 if you pay cash. The primary cardholder could book this fare, and then, pay $99 plus ~$22 in taxes and fees, or ~$121 total to add a companion. This example would get you ~$1,435 in savings ($1,556 cost of flight – $121 in taxes and fees for companion ticket).

The information for the Barclaycard AAdvantage Aviator Red And Barclaycard AAdvantage Aviator Business have been collected independently by Million Mile Secrets. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

British Airways Travel Together Ticket

You can earn a British Airways Travel Together Ticket with the following cards :

The British Airways Travel Together Ticket allows you to bring a friend for just the cost and taxes of fees when:

• You redeem British Airways Avios points for an award flight for yourself
• Your award flight is operated by British Airways
• Your flight must be from the U.S. and returning to the U.S.

That effectively doubles the value of your points during that flight. What makes this voucher extra special is that you can use it even if you book a first class seat! Your travel companion will also get a first class seat for the cost of taxes & fees.

Even so, I’m not a fan of the Travel Together Ticket. Several aspects make it impractical for most of us:

• You must spend $30,000 in purchases on your card to earn the ticket
• The ticket is valid only when you use your British Airways Avios points to book an award flight, so you can’t bring a travel companion if you’re paying cash
• The ticket is only valid for British Airways flights that originate and return to the U.S., which usually comes with exorbitant fuel surcharges

If you know anything about redeeming British Airways Avios points for transatlantic flights, you know that the taxes and fees are insane — even $1,000+ depending on the cabin you’re flying.

The Travel Together Ticket is valid for two years after you earn it.

The information for the British Airways Visa card has been collected independently by Million Mile Secrets. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Bottom line

There are plenty of cards that offer discounted companion fares as a benefit with their credit cards — but all of them except the Southwest Companion Pass  are a once-per-year deal.

However, Southwest doesn’t fly to Europe or have fancy business and first class seats. If you’re looking for that, you might prefer the British Airways Travel Together Ticket (though beware its high fuel surcharges). Others may not live near an airport that Southwest serves, so they’d prefer the Delta Companion Certificate or Alaska Airlines Companion Fare.

I’d love to hear your favorite credit card companion pass. And  subscribe to our newsletter   for more miles and points comparisons.

Joseph Hostetler

Joseph Hostetler is a full-time writer for Million Mile Secrets, covering miles and points tips and tricks, as well as helpful travel-related news and deals. He has also authored and edited for The Points Guy.

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