The Chase British Airways Visa Signature credit card is a standard platinum credit card, with rewards designed to benefit those who travel regularly on British Airways.
This card has an introductory APR of 4.9% on purchases and balance transfers for the first five months. Many credit cards offer lower introductory APRs, even 0%, so this is a possible disadvantage to the card. After the introductory five months, the variable APR kicks in and is reasonable, although not outstandingly low. As is the case with most credit cards, finance charges are higher on cash advances than they are on purchases. Those who intend to carry a balance on their card month to month might be better served by locating a card with lower finance charges. This card also carries an annual fee of $75.
The rewards program offered by this card, however, is excellent for anyone who makes constant use of British Airways. This card makes use of the Executive Club North America frequent flier program offered by British Airways. The card rewards work on a point basis, where members receive one mile for every dollar spent on general purchases, and double miles on purchases made through British Airways. They also receive 15,000 bonus miles with their first purchase on the card. There is no yearly cap on the number of miles that can be earned, and the miles do not expire provided the frequent flier membership account stays active during a three-year period. Miles can be redeemed with British Airways or any of its partners that participate in the same frequent flier program. Another possible bonus: If a cardholder uses their British Airways Visa Signature Card to purchase a full-fare British Airways business class round-trip ticket to London and beyond, they will receive a complimentary companion ticket.
Because this is a platinum credit card, it comes complete with standard platinum benefits that are especially useful to those who travel. These include but are not limited to travel accident insurance up to $1,000,000; auto rental insurance; a personal concierge service; airport parking guarantees; and lost luggage insurance. Members also receive extended warranties on purchases as well as a zero liability policy for unauthorized charges.
Because of its fairly high finance charges and good credit requirements, this card is not for everyone. However, those who travel extensively and plan to make use of the miles program and platinum benefits, and those who are already members of the British Airways Executive Club frequent flier program, will find this card can provide them with many advantages. If a cardholder does not plan on carrying balances month to month and intends on making use of the many travel opportunities, this card can be an excellent investment.
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