Are there any cards that let you use points to subsidize the cost of plane tix?(bonus BA or USair)

[Anonymous]

I am currently looking for a card, but it is hard not being able to have full access and knowledge of how the reward systems work.  I live in Philadelphia which is a US Airways hub and also has a good number of British Airways flights to Europe (amongst some other airlines), which is where I travel to.

I currently have 1% straight cash back but I was wondering if I would be able to do better with a variable point system.  Do any cards offer decent US Airways or British Airways rewards?  Could I use say 20,000 points to get 40% off of the flight if I don't have enough points (something similar if not like Chase UR)?

Also with variable point systems, I hear you might get 1 point per dollar spent, which could vary from 2-4 cents with air travel.  That would be better than what I have now, is that usually the case?

[mongstradamus]

I don't know if i am reading your question properly but there is barlcays us airways card thats 40k miles, on first spend. In other words no min spending required, there is an 89 AF on it though. You would also get 2 points for each dollar you spend buying an us airways ticket. 

[coldnmn]

Welcome to the forum.

http://www.usairways.com/en-US/dividendmiles/creditcards/default.html?re=1

[wHiTeSoL]

Man, when my wife looked over my shoulder at this question she rolled her eyes and said "so you'll be stuck there for an hour?" I could go on and on answering your question here but I'll try to keep it simple.

There are two types of cards you would go after.
1. Fixed value "miles" like the Barclay arrival or the capital one venture(one). Both give you 2% back in miles that you can redeem against travel purchases (wiping them out) Barclay gives you an additional 10% of miles used as a rebate and cap one has a lower AF.

2. Airline "miles" which is like currency on its own. There is a different chart for each carrier, each with its own "sweet spot". They are less versatile than the miles above (as these are subject to availability) but tend to give you insane values when redeemed for premium international flights (like business to Europe). This one requires some knowledge to get the best values from them (I.E just because you will be flying British airways doesn't mean you should collect their miles).

I can go on and on but for the most part option 1 is better if you are flying coach and need the flexibility to go at the drop of a hat while 2 is better for planned out vacations and splurges in a premium class.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the explanation.  I hear Chase can offer some deals with variable Freq. flier points.  If a fixed point card could offer 1.5 pts.+ per dollar spent and 1 point=$0.01 or more, then that would be better than currently.  How restrictive can economy fares get on frequent flier/variable point cards? Or is it hard to say?