What’s Going On
Co-branded credit cards with international airlines (e.g. Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, etc.) are becoming more attractive for Indian users in 2025. Banks + airlines are pushing perks like lounge access, bonus air miles, priority boarding, and higher rewards on travel spends.
Top Perks These Cards Commonly Offer
| Perk | Why It’s Useful |
|---|---|
| Sign-up bonuses | Big chunks of air miles/points just for joining, which can often get you a free flight or a business class upgrade early on. |
| Lounge access (domestic & international) | More comfort at airports; good benefit especially if you travel frequently. |
| Accelerated miles/points on airline spends | When you fly or book through the same airline, you earn more — helps status upgrades. |
| Flexible redemption | Many cards let you use miles not just on flights but also upgrades, partner airlines, hotels, etc. |
| Travel-friendly fees & benefits | Lower foreign-currency transaction fees, priority check-in, extra baggage, etc. |
My Take
If you take flights a few times a year (especially international), a good airline co-branded credit card can add real value — freebies, convenience, upgrades that normal cards don’t offer. But if you fly rarely, the fees + restrictions might outweigh the perks. Pick based on how much you travel and which airline(s) you use often.