If you’re an Alaska Airlines loyalist, big news is on the horizon. The airline is set to launch its new Premium Card in summer 2024, designed to deliver exceptional value for frequent flyers. With an annual fee of $395, this card introduces companion benefits, accelerated rewards, and exclusive travel perks that could transform how you experience air travel.
Let’s break down exactly what this card offers, how it stacks up against the competition, and whether it’s worth the investment.
What to Expect from Alaska’s Premium Card
The new Alaska Airlines Premium Card comes with standout features tailored for travelers who want maximum comfort and value:
- Global Companion Award Certificate: Fly a companion for free on Alaska Airlines and partner flights, in any class of service, including international routes. Upon approval, you’ll get one companion certificate, and you can earn a second by meeting spending requirements.
- Enhanced Earning Rates: Earn 3x miles on eligible foreign purchases and dining, helping you rack up rewards quickly when traveling or enjoying meals abroad.
- Waived Award Ticket Fees: No more $12.50 partner award ticket fees when redeeming miles for flights.
- Same-Day Flight Changes: Flexibility is key for frequent travelers, and this card offers free same-day changes, a perk that can save you hundreds.
- Inflight Wi-Fi Passes: Stay connected while you fly with complimentary Wi-Fi access.
With the anticipated Alaska-Hawaiian Airlines merger, these perks become even more valuable, providing broader travel opportunities and improved flexibility across routes.
The Companion Pass Benefit: Travel Smarter
The Global Companion Award Certificate is the star of the show here. Unlike standard companion fares that are often restricted to economy class, this certificate applies to any class of service, including first or business class, even on international flights.
Upon card approval, you’ll receive one companion certificate, and if you hit specific spending milestones, you can unlock a second certificate. This flexibility makes it easier to plan trips with family or friends without breaking the bank.
- Estimated Value: Alaska Airlines values the companion certificate at around $260. Combined with savings on international premium cabins, it easily helps offset the $395 annual fee.
- Mileage Cap: While exact limits haven’t been disclosed, keep an eye on this detail to ensure you maximize your savings.
Maximizing Rewards with the Premium Card
The new Premium Card offers elevated earning potential:
- 3x miles on eligible foreign purchases and dining.
- 1x mile per dollar spent on all other purchases.
For frequent travelers, this means faster mileage accumulation on everyday spending and trips abroad. Alaska’s Mileage Plan is already regarded as one of the most valuable airline loyalty programs, and the new earning structure only sweetens the deal.
Plus, with waived award ticket fees and free same-day changes, redeeming your miles becomes smoother and more cost-effective.
Annual Fee Breakdown: Is It Worth It?
At $395 per year, the Premium Card positions itself as a high-value option for ultra-loyal Alaska flyers. Here’s what you get in return:
- One (or two) Global Companion Award Certificates (estimated value: $260+).
- Free inflight Wi-Fi passes.
- Waived partner award fees and same-day change charges.
When compared to cards with lower annual fees (e.g., $95), the Premium Card’s additional perks—especially the flexibility of the companion pass—can justify the cost, particularly for travelers who take multiple trips per year.
Pre-Register to Lock in Bonus Miles
If this card sounds like a fit for your travel goals, consider pre-registering before December 31, 2024, to lock in bonus miles:
- 500 bonus miles upon waitlist registration.
- 5,000 bonus miles when you apply for the Premium Card in 2025.
This is an easy way to kickstart your mileage earnings and maximize the benefits of the new card as soon as it launches. Remember, this offer is limited to one registration per Mileage Plan account, and upgrades from existing Alaska Airlines cards won’t qualify.
How It Compares to Other Premium Cards
When stacked against competitors like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or Amex Platinum, the Alaska Airlines Premium Card carves out a unique niche:
- Companion Benefits: The Global Companion Award is far more flexible, allowing travel in premium cabins.
- Award Fee Waivers: Eliminating the $12.50 partner award ticket fee is a small but valuable perk.
- Status Alignment: As Alaska integrates with Hawaiian Airlines, Mileage Plan members will enjoy enhanced travel options.
While cards like the Sapphire Reserve offer broader earning categories, Alaska’s card delivers exceptional value for frequent flyers loyal to the airline.
Should You Get Alaska’s Premium Card?
For frequent Alaska Airlines travelers, the Premium Card is a clear winner. The Global Companion Award Certificate, elevated earning rates, and waived fees provide exceptional value, easily offsetting the $395 annual fee for regular flyers.
With its launch in summer 2024, this card promises to elevate your travel experience while aligning Alaska Airlines’ offerings with the needs of its most loyal customers.
If you’re ready to take your travel rewards to the next level, pre-register now to lock in bonus miles and prepare for a smoother, more rewarding journey ahead.
