9 Best Business Credit Cards With Airport Lounge Access in 2023
This article is part of a larger series on Best Small Business Credit Cards.
Editor’s note: This is a recurring post with regularly updated card details.
When searching for the best airport lounge access business credit card, consider benefits like complimentary or discounted access to lounges, travel rewards, zero foreign transaction fees, and free checked baggage. We reviewed several providers to come up with the top options, which include travel rewards business cards, co-branded airline cards, and personal travel credit cards.
Here are the nine best business cards with airport lounge access:
- American Express Business Platinum Card®: Best overall airport lounge access business credit card
- Hilton Honors American Express Business Card: Best for stays at Hilton properties with limited lounge access
- United ClubSM Business Card: Best for complimentary access to United Club locations
- Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business: Best for two complimentary visits to Capital One Lounge
- Citi/AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®: Best personal credit card for frequent American Airlines travelers
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best personal credit card with Priority PassTM Select lounge access
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card: Best for complimentary access to Delta Sky Club®
- Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card: Best for exclusive Delta Sky Club® per-visit rate
- SKYPASS Visa Signature® Business Card: Best for traveling with Korean Air
The COVID-19 pandemic may affect some of the services and benefits of these travel credit cards. Be sure to check the issuer’s website and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for the latest information on travel safety and requirements.
Best Business Credit Cards With Airport Lounge Access at a Glance
Best For | Annual Fee | Ongoing Rewards | Lounge Access | |
---|---|---|---|---|
American Express Business Platinum Card® | Best overall airport lounge access business credit card | $695 | Up to 5x points | American Express Global Lounge Collection access to more than 1,400 airport lounges |
Welcome offer: 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $15,000 in the first 3 months Credit needed: Good to excellent | ||||
Hilton Honors American Express Business Card | Stays at Hilton properties with limited lounge access | $95 | Up to 12x points | 10 complimentary visits to over 1,200 airport lounges each year after enrolling in Priority Pass™ Select Membership |
Welcome Offer: Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors Business Card within the first three months of Card Membership. Credit needed: Good to excellent | ||||
United ClubSM Business Card | Complimentary access to United Club locations | $450 | Up to 2x miles | Access to all United Club locations and participating Star Alliance™ affiliated lounges worldwide |
Welcome bonus: 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months Credit needed: Good to excellent | ||||
Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business | Two complimentary visits to Capital One Lounge | $0 intro for the first year, then $95 | Up to 5x miles | 2 free visits to the Capital One Lounge per year |
Welcome bonus: 50,000 miles bonus when you spend $4,500 in the first 3 months Credit needed: Good to excellent | ||||
Citi/AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® | Frequent American Airlines travelers | $450 | Up to 2x miles | Full membership access privileges to Admirals Club® lounges |
Welcome bonus: 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months Credit needed: Good to excellent | ||||
Chase Sapphire Reserve® | Access to Priority PassTM Select lounges | $550, plus $75 for each authorized user | Up to 10x points | Access to 1,300-plus airport lounges worldwide enrolling in Priority Pass™ Select |
Welcome bonus: 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months Credit needed: Excellent | ||||
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card | Complimentary access to Delta Sky Club® | $550 | Up to 3x points | Access to Delta Sky Clubs and The Centurion® Lounge‡ or Escape Lounge–The Centurion® Studio Partner |
Limited Time Offer: Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after spending $12,000 in purchases on your new Card. Plus, earn an additional 10,000 Bonus Miles after you make an eligible Delta purchase with your new Card within your first 6 months. Offer Ends 10/25/2023. Credit needed: Good to Excellent | ||||
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card | Exclusive Delta Sky Club® per-visit rate | $250 | Up to 3x points | You and up to two traveling companions can access the Delta Sky Club® for an exclusive rate of $50 per person per visit |
Limited Time Offer: Earn 90,000 Bonus Miles after spending $8,000 in purchases on your new Card. Plus, earn an additional 10,000 Bonus Miles after you make an eligible Delta purchase with your new Card within your first 6 months. Offer Ends 10/25/2023. Credit needed: Good to Excellent | ||||
SKYPASS Visa Signature® Business Card | Traveling with Korean Air | $95 | Up to 2x miles | Get two Korean Air Lounge coupons each year |
Welcome bonus: 30,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 within first 90 days Credit needed: Good to Excellent |
To see how these cards stack up against others we have reviewed on our site, click Add to Compare on a card below and select up to two additional cards for comparison.
American Express Business Platinum Card®: Best Overall Business Credit Card With Airport Lounge Access
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
BEST FOR:
Gaining access to unrivaled travel rewards and luxury travel perks like airport lounge access
- Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
- 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
- Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
- Unlock over $1,000 in annual statement credits on a curation of business purchases, including select purchases made with Dell Technologies, Indeed, Adobe, and U.S. wireless service providers.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for incidental fees charged by your one selected, qualifying airline to your Card.
- $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Business Platinum Card®.
- The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
- $695 Annual Fee.
- Terms Apply.
Pros
- Premium travel rewards
- Free access to more than 1,300 airport lounges worldwide
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- Balance is due in full monthly
- High annual fee
- American Express lounges: Free access to American Express’ network of Centurion lounges located in slightly less than a dozen United States airports.
- Other airport lounges: Priority Pass Select membership, which gets you free access to more than 1,300 lounges worldwide for you and two guests.
- Airport screening: Either a $100 statement credit for Global Entry every four years or an $85 statement credit for TSA PreCheck® once every 4 1/2 years.
- Travel credit: Up to $200 annual statement credit toward air travel expenses like baggage fees and inflight food and drink.
- Rental status: Elite status at a number of car rental agencies.
- Free Wi-Fi: 10 annual free Gogo inflight Wi-Fi passes.
- Rebate for redeemed points: 35% points rebate if you book a business or first-class flight, up to 500,000 bonus points per calendar year.
- Dell statement credit: Up to $400 in statement credits annually for Dell purchases.
- Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
- 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
- Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
- Unlock over $1,000 in annual statement credits on a curation of business purchases, including select purchases made with Dell Technologies, Indeed, Adobe, and U.S. wireless service providers.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for incidental fees charged by your one selected, qualifying airline to your Card.
- $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Business Platinum Card®.
- The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
- $695 Annual Fee.
- Terms Apply.
Pros
- Premium travel rewards
- Free access to more than 1,300 airport lounges worldwide
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- Balance is due in full monthly
- High annual fee
- American Express lounges: Free access to American Express’ network of Centurion lounges located in slightly less than a dozen United States airports.
- Other airport lounges: Priority Pass Select membership, which gets you free access to more than 1,300 lounges worldwide for you and two guests.
- Airport screening: Either a $100 statement credit for Global Entry every four years or an $85 statement credit for TSA PreCheck® once every 4 1/2 years.
- Travel credit: Up to $200 annual statement credit toward air travel expenses like baggage fees and inflight food and drink.
- Rental status: Elite status at a number of car rental agencies.
- Free Wi-Fi: 10 annual free Gogo inflight Wi-Fi passes.
- Rebate for redeemed points: 35% points rebate if you book a business or first-class flight, up to 500,000 bonus points per calendar year.
- Dell statement credit: Up to $400 in statement credits annually for Dell purchases.
Why we like it: The American Express Business Platinum Card® is our overall best airport lounge access business credit card because of the American Express Global Lounge Collection®, which grants free access to over 1,400 lounges in 140 countries. This includes:
- The Centurion Network of Lounges and Studios
- Airspace
- Priority Pass Select
- Escape Lounges – The Centurion® Studio Partner
- Plaza Premium
- Delta Sky Club
- Select Lufthansa Lounge
The luxury travel experience you’ll get from this card justifies the $695 annual fee. Please take note of the different access requirements and guest policies per lounge.
With it, you can earn 5x points in travel rewards on flights and hotel stays, 1.5x points on select business categories (including construction supplies, electronics, and software), and 1x points on all other purchases. You’ll also receive 1.5x points on purchases worth $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per calendar year.
Additionally, when you use your card to make at least $15,000 in purchases within the first three months of card ownership, you will receive 120,000 bonus points. Note that it requires you to pay your balance in full every month, but it offers a Pay Over Time option that allows eligible account holders to carry a balance with interest.
Other benefits:
- No foreign transaction fees on international purchases
- $200 airline fee credit per calendar year for baggage fees and other eligible incidental expenses with a qualifying airline you choose
- Annual statement credits when you pay for CLEAR®, Global Entry, or TSA PreCheck.
- Over $1,000 statement credit for qualifying subscriptions at Dell, Indeed, Adobe, and wireless telephone services
- 35% points back when redeemed for flights through Amex Travel—up to 1 million points back per calendar year
- Automatic upgrade to Marriott BonvoyTM Gold Elite Status and Hilton Honors Gold Status
If you need a high credit limit, this card may be right for you. Due to its lucrative sign-up bonus and travel perks, we named it one of the best high-limit business credit cards.
Hilton Honors American Express Business Card: Best for Stays at Hilton Properties With Limited Lounge Access
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card
BEST FOR:
Maximizing rewards on Hilton-related purchases
- Welcome Offer: Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors Business Card within the first three months of Card Membership.
- Earn Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your Card: 12X directly with hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio, 6X at U.S. gas stations, on U.S. purchases for shipping, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers, on flights booked directly with airlines or with Amex Travel, on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies, and at U.S. restaurants, 3X on all other eligible purchases.
- Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors™ Gold Status with your Hilton Honors Business Card.
- Earn a Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
- Earn another Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend an additional $45,000 in purchases on your Card in the same calendar year.
- Terms apply.
Pros
- Charges a low annual fee
- Doesn’t have foreign transaction fees
- Offers a sign-up bonus
Cons
- Has poor redemption options outside of hotel stays
- Lacks an interest-free financing option
- Complimentary Priority Pass Visits: Get 10 complimentary visits to more than 1,200 airport lounges every year with Priority Pass™ Select Membership.
- Upgrade to Diamond Status: Earn an upgrade to Hilton Honors Diamond Status through the end of the next calendar year after spending $40,000 on eligible purchases.
- Baggage insurance plan: Coverage is provided for cardholders for up to $1,250 for carry-on baggage and up to $500 for checked baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the covered carrier. For New York state residents, a $10,000 aggregate maximum limit is provided for all covered persons per covered trip.
- Extended warranty: Terms of the original manufacturer’s warranty can be extended up to one additional year. Applies to warranties of five years or less on covered purchases.
- Welcome Offer: Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors Business Card within the first three months of Card Membership.
- Earn Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your Card: 12X directly with hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio, 6X at U.S. gas stations, on U.S. purchases for shipping, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers, on flights booked directly with airlines or with Amex Travel, on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies, and at U.S. restaurants, 3X on all other eligible purchases.
- Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors™ Gold Status with your Hilton Honors Business Card.
- Earn a Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
- Earn another Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend an additional $45,000 in purchases on your Card in the same calendar year.
- Terms apply.
Pros
- Charges a low annual fee
- Doesn’t have foreign transaction fees
- Offers a sign-up bonus
Cons
- Has poor redemption options outside of hotel stays
- Lacks an interest-free financing option
- Complimentary Priority Pass Visits: Get 10 complimentary visits to more than 1,200 airport lounges every year with Priority Pass™ Select Membership.
- Upgrade to Diamond Status: Earn an upgrade to Hilton Honors Diamond Status through the end of the next calendar year after spending $40,000 on eligible purchases.
- Baggage insurance plan: Coverage is provided for cardholders for up to $1,250 for carry-on baggage and up to $500 for checked baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the covered carrier. For New York state residents, a $10,000 aggregate maximum limit is provided for all covered persons per covered trip.
- Extended warranty: Terms of the original manufacturer’s warranty can be extended up to one additional year. Applies to warranties of five years or less on covered purchases.
Why we like it: When your business travel schedule measures out to about five round trips per year and you prefer staying at Hilton properties, the Hilton Honors American Express Business Card may be the best choice for you. It gives you 10 complimentary lounge visits through Priority PassTM Select, which allows access to over 1,200 elite airport lounges around the world. What’s more, it comes with a low annual fee of $95 and generous travel rewards and benefits.
You’ll receive 12x points per dollar for purchases made directly with hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio and 6x points per dollar at United States gas stations and restaurants and on shipping, car rentals, and wireless telephone services purchases directly from US service providers. Then, you’ll earn 3x points per dollar on other purchases. You can also get 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors Business Card within the first three months of Card Membership.
Other benefits:
- No foreign transaction fees on purchases made outside of the US
- One free weekend night after spending $15,000 in a calendar year, and another free weekend night when you spend $60,000 in the same calendar year
- Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status
- Upgrade to Hilton Honors Diamond status when you spend $40,000 in a calendar year
It is one of our leading business credit cards with no foreign transaction fees because of its lucrative rewards on stays at Hilton and on international purchases.
United ClubSM Business Card: Best for Complimentary Access to United Club Locations
United Club℠ Business Card
BEST FOR:
United Airlines enthusiasts who use airport lounge access regularly
- 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within the first three months after account opening
- United ClubSM membership
- Two Premier Access® travel services
- First and second checked bag free
- Earn double miles on tickets purchased from United
- Earn 1.5 miles per $1 spent on all other purchases
- No foreign transaction fees
Pros
- Offers free first and second checked bags
- With sign-up bonus
- With lounge membership
Cons
- Charges high annual fee
- Has no 0% introductory APR
- Rewards have limited flexibility
- United Club membership: You and other eligible travel companions will receive free access to all United Club locations and participating Star Alliance™ affiliated lounges worldwide.
- Avis President’s Club®: Primary cardholders are invited to enroll in Avis President’s Club® and enjoy complimentary two-car class upgrades, guaranteed car availability, expedited rental services, and more.
- Free two checked bags: The primary cardholder and their companion traveling with the same reservation will each receive free checked bags (up to $35 value for the first checked bag and up to $45 value for the second checked bag, each way, per person).
- Lost luggage reimbursement: You and your immediate family member are covered up to $3,000 if you check or carry luggage damaged or lost by the carrier.
- Baggage delay insurance: If there’s a baggage delay of more than six hours, you can be reimbursed for essential purchases, such as toiletries and clothing, up to $100 a day for three days.
- 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within the first three months after account opening
- United ClubSM membership
- Two Premier Access® travel services
- First and second checked bag free
- Earn double miles on tickets purchased from United
- Earn 1.5 miles per $1 spent on all other purchases
- No foreign transaction fees
Pros
- Offers free first and second checked bags
- With sign-up bonus
- With lounge membership
Cons
- Charges high annual fee
- Has no 0% introductory APR
- Rewards have limited flexibility
- United Club membership: You and other eligible travel companions will receive free access to all United Club locations and participating Star Alliance™ affiliated lounges worldwide.
- Avis President’s Club®: Primary cardholders are invited to enroll in Avis President’s Club® and enjoy complimentary two-car class upgrades, guaranteed car availability, expedited rental services, and more.
- Free two checked bags: The primary cardholder and their companion traveling with the same reservation will each receive free checked bags (up to $35 value for the first checked bag and up to $45 value for the second checked bag, each way, per person).
- Lost luggage reimbursement: You and your immediate family member are covered up to $3,000 if you check or carry luggage damaged or lost by the carrier.
- Baggage delay insurance: If there’s a baggage delay of more than six hours, you can be reimbursed for essential purchases, such as toiletries and clothing, up to $100 a day for three days.
Why we like it: If you’re a loyal United Airlines customer, the United ClubSM Business Card makes you an automatic United ClubSM member, which grants you access to all United Club locations and participating Star AllianceTM-affiliated lounges worldwide. The membership is included in the $450 annual fee, which is regularly priced at $650 per year. Complimentary amenities include Wi-Fi, beverages and snacks, and personalized travel assistance. Access policies vary by airline, so check your airline’s lounge policy or the Star Alliance website.
It gives you 2x miles on purchases made with United Airlines, including tickets, inflight food, beverages, Wi-Fi, and other United charges. You will earn 1.5x miles on all other purchases. Plus, you’ll receive 75,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open.
Other benefits:
- First and second checked bags for you and one travel companion for free—save up to $320 per round trip
- Premier Access® travel services that offer priority check-in, security, boarding, and baggage handling
- 25% back on United in-flight purchases
- No foreign transaction fees on international purchases.
- Up to 1,000 Premier qualifying points when you meet the spending requirements
- Avis President’s Club® invitation and complimentary two-car class upgrades, guaranteed car availability, and expedited rental service
This card is also one of our best business credit cards for travel because of its travel perks and rewards.
Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business: Best for Two Complimentary Visits to Capital One Lounge
Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business
BEST FOR:
Unlimited 2x miles with every swipe
- Introductory reward worth $500 in travel after you spend $4,500 within the first three months
- 2x miles per $1 spent
- $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA Pre
- Issue employee cards for free
Pros
- No foreign transaction fees
- TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry application fee credit
Cons
- You’ll pay an annual fee after the first year
- Doesn’t offer interest-free financing
- Airport security screening reimbursement: Either a $100 statement credit for Global Entry or an $85 statement credit for TSA PreCheck® once every four years.
- Purchase assurance: Most purchases made entirely with your card are covered if damaged or stolen within 90 days from the date of purchase. Coverage is limited to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per cardholder account per 12-month period.
- Extended warranty coverage: Doubles the original warranty time period and duplicates the coverage of the original manufacturer’s warranty up to a maximum of 12 months on most items you purchase.
- Travel medical emergency assistance: Provide referrals to medical services if you have a medical emergency while traveling. You’re covered if you’re 100 or more miles away from home and from the day you leave until midnight of the 60th day of your trip, or the day you return to your city of residence, whichever is sooner.
- Introductory reward worth $500 in travel after you spend $4,500 within the first three months
- 2x miles per $1 spent
- $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA Pre
- Issue employee cards for free
Pros
- No foreign transaction fees
- TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry application fee credit
Cons
- You’ll pay an annual fee after the first year
- Doesn’t offer interest-free financing
- Airport security screening reimbursement: Either a $100 statement credit for Global Entry or an $85 statement credit for TSA PreCheck® once every four years.
- Purchase assurance: Most purchases made entirely with your card are covered if damaged or stolen within 90 days from the date of purchase. Coverage is limited to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per cardholder account per 12-month period.
- Extended warranty coverage: Doubles the original warranty time period and duplicates the coverage of the original manufacturer’s warranty up to a maximum of 12 months on most items you purchase.
- Travel medical emergency assistance: Provide referrals to medical services if you have a medical emergency while traveling. You’re covered if you’re 100 or more miles away from home and from the day you leave until midnight of the 60th day of your trip, or the day you return to your city of residence, whichever is sooner.
Why we like it: It offers two complimentary visits to any Capital One Lounge per year where you can enjoy luxurious amenities and local food and beverage options. It offers 5x miles when you book hotel and rental cars with Capital One and 2x miles on all other business purchases.
On top of that, you can earn 50,000 bonus miles, worth $500 toward travel, when you spend $4,500 within the first three months of card ownership. Redeem your miles for flights, hotels, and vacation packages, or transfer miles to more than 15 Capital One partners, including British Airways, Emirates Skywards, and Qantas.
Other benefits:
- Enjoy a low annual fee of $95, which is waived for the first year
- Use the card to make purchases outside of the country without having to pay international transaction fees
- Earn up to $100 statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® once every four years
It tops our list of the best business credit cards for miles because of its simple rewards program and other travel perks.
Citi / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®: Best Personal Credit Card for Frequent American Airlines Travelers
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite™ Mastercard®
BEST FOR:
American Airlines frequent flyers who want premium airport lounge access
- 2x miles for every dollar spent on eligible American Airlines purchases
- 1x mile for every dollar spent on all other purchases
Pros
- With sign-up bonus
- Offers comprehensive travel perks
- With Admirals Club® membership
Cons
- No interest-free financing option for both purchases and balance transfers
- With high annual fee
- Low mileage points earned as compared to other cobranded airline business credit cards
- First checked bag free: Offers a free first checked bag on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to eight travel companions on the same reservation.
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® application fee credit: You can receive one statement credit up to $100 per account every five years for either the Global Entry or the TSA PreCheck® program application fee
- Discount on inflight food and beverage: You’ll receive a 25% savings on inflight purchases of food and beverages on flights operated by American Airlines.
- Enhanced airport experience: Enjoy priority check-in, priority airport screening, and priority boarding privileges for you and up to eight travel companions on the same reservation.
- 2x miles for every dollar spent on eligible American Airlines purchases
- 1x mile for every dollar spent on all other purchases
Pros
- With sign-up bonus
- Offers comprehensive travel perks
- With Admirals Club® membership
Cons
- No interest-free financing option for both purchases and balance transfers
- With high annual fee
- Low mileage points earned as compared to other cobranded airline business credit cards
- First checked bag free: Offers a free first checked bag on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to eight travel companions on the same reservation.
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® application fee credit: You can receive one statement credit up to $100 per account every five years for either the Global Entry or the TSA PreCheck® program application fee
- Discount on inflight food and beverage: You’ll receive a 25% savings on inflight purchases of food and beverages on flights operated by American Airlines.
- Enhanced airport experience: Enjoy priority check-in, priority airport screening, and priority boarding privileges for you and up to eight travel companions on the same reservation.
Why we like it: If you frequently fly with American Airlines, the Citi / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® may be a suitable option. This personal credit card offers an Admirals Club® membership with access to more than 30 airport lounges―mostly in the US, with a few around the world. For an annual fee of $450, the membership is complimentary, with a value of up to $650.
You’ll earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles when you spend $5,000 in purchases within the first three months of card membership. Plus, earn 2x miles for every dollar spent on American Airlines purchases and 1x miles for every dollar spent on all other purchases. Get 10,000 additional Loyalty Points after you spend $40,000 in purchases during the qualifying status year.
Other benefits:
- Receive Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® application fee credit of up to $100 every 5 years
- Enjoy first checked bag for free on domestic American Airlines flights for you and up to eight travel companions on the same reservation—save up to $540 per round trip
- Take advantage of priority boarding on American Airlines flights
- Enjoy priority check-in and priority airport screening for you and up to eight travel companions
- Save 25% on in-flight food and beverage purchases on American Airlines flights
- Pay no foreign transaction fees
- Add authorized users on your card and earn miles on their purchases
Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best Personal Credit Card With Priority PassTM Select Lounge Access
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
BEST FOR:
Those wanting to receive exceptional travel rewards and benefits
- 60,000 bonus points (worth $900 in travel) after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months after opening an account
- 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® after the first $300 are spent on travel purchases annually
- 10x total points on Chase dining purchases with Ultimate Rewards® after making prepaid restaurant reservations, order takeout or joining virtual cooking events
- 5x total points on flights when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
- 3x points on other dining, including eligible delivery services, takeout and dining out
- 3x points on other travel worldwide after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
Pros
- With $300 annual travel credit
- Lucrative rewards at 50% more when redeemed through the Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- With complimentary airport lounge access
Cons
- With high annual fee
- No interest-free financing option
- Needs excellent credit
- Airport lounge access: Enjoy access to more than 1,300 priority pass lounges worldwide for free prior to airline travel
- Annual travel credit: You’ll receive a $300 annual travel credit that can be applied liberally toward your travel purchases.
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: Coverage is primary—meaning it replaces any coverage your personal insurance might offer—when renting for business purposes. It provides reimbursement up to the actual cash value of the vehicle for theft and collision damage for most cars in the U.S. and abroad.
- Trip delay insurance: If your travel is delayed more than 12 hours or you require an overnight stay as a result of a delay, you’re covered for unreimbursed expenses, such as meals and lodging, up to $500.
- Trip cancellation and interruption insurance: Covers up to $10,000 per trip for prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses if your trip is cut short or interrupted by sickness or bad weather.
- 60,000 bonus points (worth $900 in travel) after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months after opening an account
- 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® after the first $300 are spent on travel purchases annually
- 10x total points on Chase dining purchases with Ultimate Rewards® after making prepaid restaurant reservations, order takeout or joining virtual cooking events
- 5x total points on flights when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
- 3x points on other dining, including eligible delivery services, takeout and dining out
- 3x points on other travel worldwide after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
Pros
- With $300 annual travel credit
- Lucrative rewards at 50% more when redeemed through the Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- With complimentary airport lounge access
Cons
- With high annual fee
- No interest-free financing option
- Needs excellent credit
- Airport lounge access: Enjoy access to more than 1,300 priority pass lounges worldwide for free prior to airline travel
- Annual travel credit: You’ll receive a $300 annual travel credit that can be applied liberally toward your travel purchases.
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: Coverage is primary—meaning it replaces any coverage your personal insurance might offer—when renting for business purposes. It provides reimbursement up to the actual cash value of the vehicle for theft and collision damage for most cars in the U.S. and abroad.
- Trip delay insurance: If your travel is delayed more than 12 hours or you require an overnight stay as a result of a delay, you’re covered for unreimbursed expenses, such as meals and lodging, up to $500.
- Trip cancellation and interruption insurance: Covers up to $10,000 per trip for prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses if your trip is cut short or interrupted by sickness or bad weather.
Why we like it: The Chase Sapphire Reserve® card is a personal credit card that offers Priority PassTM Select, which is complimentary access to more than 1,300 lounges in 500 cities worldwide. You can bring a maximum of two accompanying guests, and pay $27 per additional guest, per visit. The Priority PassTM Select membership also lets you access restaurants, cafes, and markets participating in the Priority Pass Select network.
It offers 60,000 bonus points, which is equivalent to $900 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of card ownership. In addition, you’ll receive 5x points on flights, 10x points on car rentals and hotel stays, 3x points on other travel and dining expenses, and 1x points on all other purchases.
Other benefits:
- Earn up to $300 in statement credits as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year
- Enjoy 50% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals, and cruises through Ultimate Rewards
- Receive Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit of up to $100 every four years
- Pay no foreign transaction fees on purchases outside the US
- Transfer points to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card: Best for Complimentary Access to Delta Sky Club®
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card
BEST FOR:
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card
- Limited Time Offer: Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after spending $12,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, earn an additional 10,000 Bonus Miles after you make an eligible Delta purchase with your new Card within your first 6 months. Offer Ends 10/25/2023.
- Save 15% On Award Travel With TakeOff 15. Card Members now enjoy savings on Delta flights. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
- With complimentary access into Delta Sky Club®, you can relax before your Delta flight, or find downtime between connections.* You’ll also receive two Delta Sky Club One-Time Guest Passes each year so you can share the experience with others when you’re traveling together. *Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 10 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.
- When you purchase a Delta flight with your Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card, you will receive complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge or Escape Lounge – The Centurion® Studio Partner.
- After you spend $150,000 on your Card in a calendar year, you earn 1.5 miles per dollar (that’s an extra half mile per dollar) on eligible purchases the rest of the year. If your purchase qualifies for a category that has a higher mileage accelerator, only the higher accelerator will apply (ex. you would earn 3X miles on purchases made directly with Delta instead of 1.5X).
- Enjoy 3x miles per dollar on Delta purchases.
- With Status Boost®, earn 15,000 Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $30,000 in purchases on your Card through 12/31/23, up to four times per year getting you closer to Medallion Status.* MQMs are used to determine Medallion Status and are different from the miles you earn towards flights.*Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available, and there will be a new way to earn toward Medallion Status with the Card. Learn more.
- Terms and limitations apply.
Pros
- Premium travel perks
- No foreign transaction fees
- Lucrative welcome bonus
Cons
- High annual fee
- No opportunity for introductory financing
- Balance transfers aren’t available
- Annual miles boost: Earn 15,000 MQMs and 15,000 bonus miles after spending $30,000 each year.
- Companion certificate: Receive a companion certificate valid for one round-trip First Class, Delta Comfort+®, or Main Cabin Companion ticket each year upon renewal of your card.
- Free checked baggage: Receive free checked baggage for you and eight guests.
- Priority boarding: You can board your flight when Main Cabin 1 priority boarding is called.
- In-flight savings: Enjoy 20% savings in the form of a statement credit on select in-flight purchases.
- Baggage insurance: Covers up to $1,250 for carry-on baggage and $500 for checked baggage.
- Limited Time Offer: Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after spending $12,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, earn an additional 10,000 Bonus Miles after you make an eligible Delta purchase with your new Card within your first 6 months. Offer Ends 10/25/2023.
- Save 15% On Award Travel With TakeOff 15. Card Members now enjoy savings on Delta flights. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
- With complimentary access into Delta Sky Club®, you can relax before your Delta flight, or find downtime between connections.* You’ll also receive two Delta Sky Club One-Time Guest Passes each year so you can share the experience with others when you’re traveling together. *Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 10 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.
- When you purchase a Delta flight with your Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card, you will receive complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge or Escape Lounge – The Centurion® Studio Partner.
- After you spend $150,000 on your Card in a calendar year, you earn 1.5 miles per dollar (that’s an extra half mile per dollar) on eligible purchases the rest of the year. If your purchase qualifies for a category that has a higher mileage accelerator, only the higher accelerator will apply (ex. you would earn 3X miles on purchases made directly with Delta instead of 1.5X).
- Enjoy 3x miles per dollar on Delta purchases.
- With Status Boost®, earn 15,000 Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $30,000 in purchases on your Card through 12/31/23, up to four times per year getting you closer to Medallion Status.* MQMs are used to determine Medallion Status and are different from the miles you earn towards flights.*Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available, and there will be a new way to earn toward Medallion Status with the Card. Learn more.
- Terms and limitations apply.
Pros
- Premium travel perks
- No foreign transaction fees
- Lucrative welcome bonus
Cons
- High annual fee
- No opportunity for introductory financing
- Balance transfers aren’t available
- Annual miles boost: Earn 15,000 MQMs and 15,000 bonus miles after spending $30,000 each year.
- Companion certificate: Receive a companion certificate valid for one round-trip First Class, Delta Comfort+®, or Main Cabin Companion ticket each year upon renewal of your card.
- Free checked baggage: Receive free checked baggage for you and eight guests.
- Priority boarding: You can board your flight when Main Cabin 1 priority boarding is called.
- In-flight savings: Enjoy 20% savings in the form of a statement credit on select in-flight purchases.
- Baggage insurance: Covers up to $1,250 for carry-on baggage and $500 for checked baggage.
Why we like it: The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card offers complimentary access to Delta Sky Clubs for you, plus two one-time guest passes each year, at more than 50 airport lounges. After that, pay an exclusive per-visit rate of $50 per person for up to two guests. In addition, you will also receive complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge or Escape Lounge – The Centurion® Studio Partner.
You will get 100,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $12,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, earn an additional 10,000 Bonus Miles after you make an eligible Delta purchase with your new Card within your first 6 months. You will also earn 3x miles per dollar on eligible purchases made directly with Delta Air Lines, 1x miles per dollar on all other purchases, and then 1.5x miles per dollar after spending $150,000 in a calendar year.
Other benefits:
- 15,000 Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $30,000 in a calendar year, up to four times per year
- Domestic First Class, Delta Comfort+®, or Main Cabin round-trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your card
- Complimentary upgrades when available
- Main Cabin 1 Priority Boarding on Delta flights
- First checked bag for free and save up to $60 on a round-trip Delta flight
- No foreign transaction fees on international purchases
- Up to $100 fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
It’s also one of our top-recommended cards for earning miles because of its luxury travel perks and rewards.
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card: Best for Exclusive Delta Sky Club® Per-Visit Rate
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card
BEST FOR:
Frequent Delta flyers who want to access premium business Delta features
- Limited Time Offer: Earn 90,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $8,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, earn an additional 10,000 Bonus Miles after you make an eligible Delta purchase with your new Card within your first 6 months. Offer Ends 10/25/23.
- 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.
- You can receive a domestic Main Cabin round-trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your Card. Payment of the government imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments) is required. Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
- Earn more miles on big purchases with 1.5 miles per dollar on single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more (that’s an extra half mile per dollar), up to 50,000 additional miles per Calendar year. If your purchase qualifies for a category that has a higher mileage accelerator, only the higher accelerator will apply (ex. you would earn 3X miles on purchases made directly with Delta and hotels instead of 1.5X).
- Delta Sky Club® Access – Get access to Delta Sky Club® at a rate of $50 per person per visit for you and up to two guests or immediate family while flying together on Delta. Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available.
- With Status Boost®, earn 10,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $25,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, up to 2x per year getting you closer to Medallion Status. MQMs are used to determine Medallion Status and are different from the miles you earn towards flights. Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available, and there will be a new way to earn toward Medallion Status with the Card. Learn more at delta.com/skymilesprogramchanges.
- Terms and limitations apply.
Pros
- No foreign transaction fees
- In-flight savings
- Business management tools
Cons
- $250 annual fee
- No interest-free financing period
- Balance transfers aren’t allowed
- Delta benefits: Receive your first checked bag for free and access priority boarding.
- Travel accident insurance: Provides card owners with travel accident insurance up to $100,000.
- Purchase protection: Provides coverage for purchases that are damaged or stolen up to 120 days from the date of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 for an item and up to $50,000 for all claims for one year.
- Limited Time Offer: Earn 90,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $8,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, earn an additional 10,000 Bonus Miles after you make an eligible Delta purchase with your new Card within your first 6 months. Offer Ends 10/25/23.
- 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.
- You can receive a domestic Main Cabin round-trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your Card. Payment of the government imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments) is required. Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
- Earn more miles on big purchases with 1.5 miles per dollar on single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more (that’s an extra half mile per dollar), up to 50,000 additional miles per Calendar year. If your purchase qualifies for a category that has a higher mileage accelerator, only the higher accelerator will apply (ex. you would earn 3X miles on purchases made directly with Delta and hotels instead of 1.5X).
- Delta Sky Club® Access – Get access to Delta Sky Club® at a rate of $50 per person per visit for you and up to two guests or immediate family while flying together on Delta. Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available.
- With Status Boost®, earn 10,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $25,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, up to 2x per year getting you closer to Medallion Status. MQMs are used to determine Medallion Status and are different from the miles you earn towards flights. Effective 1/1/24, this benefit will no longer be available, and there will be a new way to earn toward Medallion Status with the Card. Learn more at delta.com/skymilesprogramchanges.
- Terms and limitations apply.
Pros
- No foreign transaction fees
- In-flight savings
- Business management tools
Cons
- $250 annual fee
- No interest-free financing period
- Balance transfers aren’t allowed
- Delta benefits: Receive your first checked bag for free and access priority boarding.
- Travel accident insurance: Provides card owners with travel accident insurance up to $100,000.
- Purchase protection: Provides coverage for purchases that are damaged or stolen up to 120 days from the date of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 for an item and up to $50,000 for all claims for one year.
Why we like it: The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card has a lower annual fee compared to the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card. However, this card does not grant complimentary access to Delta Sky Club®.
Instead, you get an exclusive per-visit rate of $50 per person for you and up to two traveling companions. For this special rate, you can take advantage of services such as complimentary snacks and beverages, Wi-Fi access, satellite TV, newspapers and magazines, personalized flight assistance, and private restrooms.
You can earn 3x miles on every dollar spent on purchases made directly with Delta Air Lines or with hotels, 1.5x miles on single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more (for up to 50,000 additional miles per calendar year), and 1x miles on all other purchases. You will also receive 90,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $8,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months. Plus, earn an additional 10,000 Bonus Miles after you make an eligible Delta purchase with your new Card within your first 6 months. Offer Ends 10/25/23.
Other benefits:
- Domestic main cabin round-trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your card
- Main Cabin 1 priority boarding
- First checked bag for free and save up to $60 on a round-trip Delta flight
- Either a $100 statement credit for Global Entry or up to an $85 statement credit for TSA PreCheck®
- No foreign transaction fees on purchases made outside of the US
This card is also one of our top travel business credit cards because of its premium rewards on Delta flights with a low annual fee.
SKYPASS Visa Signature® Business Card: Best for Traveling With Korean Air
SKYPASS Visa Signature® Business Card
BEST FOR:
Those who travel with Korean Air frequently
- 2 miles for every eligible $1 you spend on Korean Air ticket purchases
- 2 miles for every eligible $1 you spend at gas stations and hotels
- 1 mile for every $1 you spend on all other eligible purchases
Pros
- Charges low annual fee for a travel rewards business credit card
- Offers bonus miles upon renewal
- Doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees
Cons
- Doesn’t have 0% introductory APR
- With additional fees for employee cards
- Low ongoing rewards
- Morning Calm Club membership: Cardholders are entitled to exclusive check-in services, KAL lounge access, priority baggage handling, and SkyTeam Elite member status.
- Visa Business reporting: You can manage expenses made by your employees and set customizable spending rules through U.S. Bank’s Visa Business Spending.
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: You’ll receive auto rental collision damage waiver insurance when you rent a car using this card, letting you decline the rental company’s collision damage waiver option and receive coverage through Visa for collision damage or theft.
- Travel and emergency assistance services: Visa provides assistance and referrals 24/7 while you are traveling away from home. Restrictions and limitations may apply, so check your SKYPASS Visa Guide to Benefits for more information.
- 2 miles for every eligible $1 you spend on Korean Air ticket purchases
- 2 miles for every eligible $1 you spend at gas stations and hotels
- 1 mile for every $1 you spend on all other eligible purchases
Pros
- Charges low annual fee for a travel rewards business credit card
- Offers bonus miles upon renewal
- Doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees
Cons
- Doesn’t have 0% introductory APR
- With additional fees for employee cards
- Low ongoing rewards
- Morning Calm Club membership: Cardholders are entitled to exclusive check-in services, KAL lounge access, priority baggage handling, and SkyTeam Elite member status.
- Visa Business reporting: You can manage expenses made by your employees and set customizable spending rules through U.S. Bank’s Visa Business Spending.
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: You’ll receive auto rental collision damage waiver insurance when you rent a car using this card, letting you decline the rental company’s collision damage waiver option and receive coverage through Visa for collision damage or theft.
- Travel and emergency assistance services: Visa provides assistance and referrals 24/7 while you are traveling away from home. Restrictions and limitations may apply, so check your SKYPASS Visa Guide to Benefits for more information.
Why we like it: The SKYPASS Visa Signature® Business Card is a great option if your business requires you to travel to any of Korean Air’s destinations. You will receive two complimentary Korean Air Lounge coupons each year, which are valid for use in the airline’s airport lounges in Korean Air gateway cities within North America and Seoul.
For a low annual fee of $95, you can earn 2x miles for every $1 spent on Korean Air ticket purchases, gas stations, and hotels. Then, earn 1x miles for every $1 spent on all other purchases. Receive 30,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 within the first 90 days of card ownership, and 2,000 bonus miles when you renew your card each year.
You will also enjoy the following perks:
- Get a $50 Off coupon for Korean Air ticket purchases each year
- Enjoy up to $1,000,000 in Travel Accident Insurance
- Pay no foreign transaction fees on international purchases
- Make purchases to maintain your Morning Calm Club membership to enjoy exclusive check-in services, KAL lounge access, priority baggage handling, and SkyTeam Elite member status
For other business credit cards, check out our guide to the best small business credit cards.
How We Selected the Best Business Credit Cards With Lounge Access
In addition to complimentary airport lounge access, we considered travel rewards and other benefits when selecting the best business credit cards with lounge access. Travel perks like no foreign transaction fee, travel credits for incidental fees, priority boarding, free checked bags, companion certificates, and travel insurance are also taken into consideration. We selected cards associated with some of the most popular airlines and cards associated with independent airport lounge programs.
Bottom Line
When choosing the best airport lounge access business credit card, determine whether you would benefit more from an airline-specific credit card or one that allows access to independent lounges with more locations around the world. Be sure to consider how frequently you plan to visit airport lounges, as the majority of these cards require a high annual fee.
If your business requires you to travel frequently, you may want to have multiple credit cards with airport lounge access. Consider one card associated with your favorite airline and another with a wider selection of club access even if you fly with a different airline. Just ensure that you make use of the perks and benefits to justify the annual fees.