American Express offers something called the ‘International Airline Program’ for personal and business Platinum and Centurion cardholders. Originally cardholders received 2-for-1 business and first class tickets, this was changed to provide discounts for premium economy, business and first class flights in June of 2017. American Express added the ability to book these flights via chat last year (previously phone only) and have now added the ability to book these flights online directly.
Another added benefit is that when booking online you’re no longer charged the $39 per ticket fee. Personal cardholders receive 5x points when booking through this program and business cardholders will receive 35% back in points (on first and business class flights for their selected airline. Up to 500,000 points back per year). I personally hate having to call or even chat to utilize a benefit like this, so I think this is a massive improvement. That being said I’m incredibly cheap and don’t generally even fly premium cabins when using award miles so in practice this change won’t impact me at all but still a positive change. To book you just use the regular AmEx travel portal.
Hat tip to TPG
