Kudos has partnered with CardRatings and Red Ventures for our coverage of credit card products. Kudos, CardRatings, and Red Ventures may receive a commission from card issuers. Kudos may receive commission from card issuers. Some of the card offers that appear on Kudos are from advertisers and may impact how and where card products appear on the site. Kudos tries to include as many card companies and offers as we are aware of, including offers from issuers that don't pay us, but we may not cover all card companies or all available card offers. You don't have to use our links, but we're grateful when you do!
AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card Review: Is It Still Worth It?
What Is the AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card?
The AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card was a co-branded airline credit card offered in partnership with Chase. This card was designed for frequent flyers of AirTran Airways, allowing cardholders to earn A+ Rewards credits on their purchases. However, it's important to note that AirTran Airways was acquired by Southwest Airlines in 2011, and the merger was completed in 2014. As a result, the AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card is no longer available for new applications.
Despite its discontinuation, understanding this card's features and the transition process to Southwest's Rapid Rewards program can provide valuable insights into airline credit cards and loyalty program mergers. This review will explore the card's past benefits, the conversion process to Southwest Rapid Rewards, and what alternatives are available for those seeking similar perks today.
[[ SINGLE_CARD * {"id": "39", "isExpanded": "true", "bestForCategoryId": "52", "bestForText": "Trvael Enthusiasts", "headerHint" : "Best for AirTran Airways Flyers" } ]]
AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card Pros & Cons
While the AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card is no longer active, it's worth examining its pros and cons to understand its value proposition and how it compared to other airline cards of its time.
Pros:
- Earn A+ Rewards credits: Cardholders could earn 2 A+ Rewards credits for every $1 spent on AirTran purchases and 1 credit for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
- Anniversary bonus: The card offered 2 A+ Rewards credits on the account anniversary each year.
- No foreign transaction fees: This benefit was particularly useful for international travelers.
- Inflight savings: Cardholders received a 50% discount on in-flight beverages.
- Conversion to Southwest Rapid Rewards: When AirTran merged with Southwest, credits were converted to Rapid Rewards points at a favorable ratio.
Cons:
- Limited airline options: The card was tied specifically to AirTran Airways, which limited its usefulness for those who flew with other airlines.
- Annual fee: The card came with an annual fee, which may not have been worth it for infrequent travelers.
- Discontinuation: The biggest drawback is that the card is no longer available, and existing accounts were eventually converted or closed.
- Complex rewards structure: Some users found the A+ Rewards system more complicated than traditional points-based programs.
Who Was the AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card For?
The AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card was primarily designed for:
- Frequent AirTran flyers: Those who regularly flew with AirTran Airways could maximize their rewards and enjoy perks like discounted in-flight beverages.
- Budget-conscious travelers: AirTran was known for its competitive pricing, and the credit card allowed these travelers to earn rewards on their budget-friendly flights.
- Domestic travelers: AirTran primarily served destinations within the United States, making this card ideal for those who frequently traveled domestically.
- Loyal AirTran customers: The card was perfect for those who appreciated AirTran's service and wanted to deepen their relationship with the airline.
- Southwest Airlines enthusiasts: After the merger, the card became valuable for those who wanted to boost their Southwest Rapid Rewards balance, as A+ Rewards credits were converted to Rapid Rewards points.
Comparing the AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card With Other Credit Cards
When considering the AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card, it's helpful to compare it with other popular options in the mid-tier travel card category:
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card:
- Annual fee: $95
- Sign-up bonus: Substantial points bonus after meeting spending requirements
- Key rewards: 2X points on travel and dining, 1X on other purchases
- Standout feature: 25% more value when redeeming points for travel through Chase TravelSM
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card [rates & fees]:
- Annual fee: $95
- Sign-up bonus: Large miles bonus after meeting spending requirements
- Key rewards: 2X miles on all purchases
- Standout feature: Miles transferable to travel partners
American Express® Gold Card [rates & fees]:
- Annual fee: $325
- Welcome offer: Substantial points bonus after meeting spending requirements
- Key rewards: 4X points at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year), 3X on flights
- Standout feature: Up to $120 dining credit and up to $120 Uber Cash annually. You must have downloaded the latest version of the Uber App and your eligible American Express Gold Card must be a method of payment in your Uber account. The Amex benefit may only be used in United States
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.
Each card offers unique benefits tailored to different spending habits and preferences. Consider your personal financial goals when choosing the best card for you.
Key Takeaways:
- AirTran Airways A+ Rewards excels in allowing cardholders to earn A+ Rewards credits on their purchases
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® offers versatile travel rewards
- Capital One Venture provides simple, flat-rate miles earning
- American Express® Gold Card features strong dining and groceries rewards
[[ CARD_LIST * {"ids": ["509","438", "118"]} ]]
Consider Using Kudos
While the AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card is no longer available, savvy travelers can still maximize their credit card rewards using innovative tools like Kudos. Kudos is a free AI-powered browser extension designed to help you get the most out of your credit cards when shopping online.
With Kudos, you can:
- Receive personalized credit card recommendations for each purchase
- Earn rewards at over 15,000 stores
- Multiply your rewards up to 5X during exclusive "Flash Boost" events
- Discover new credit cards that align with your spending habits
If you're looking to optimize your credit card rewards strategy, Kudos can be an excellent addition to your toolkit. They're currently offering $20 back after your first eligible purchase — just sign up for free with code "GET20" and make a purchase at a Boost merchant.
Our Expert Takeaway
The AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card was a product of its time, offering value to loyal AirTran customers and playing a crucial role during the airline's merger with Southwest. While it's no longer available, its legacy lives on in the form of converted Southwest Rapid Rewards points for many former cardholders.
For those seeking similar benefits today, there are numerous airline credit cards available that offer comparable or superior rewards and perks. However, the landscape of travel rewards has evolved, and it's now possible to maximize your earnings across multiple airlines and travel providers using flexible rewards cards or tools like Kudos.
The key takeaway from the AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card story is the importance of adaptability in the credit card rewards space. As airlines merge, rewards programs evolve, and new technologies emerge, staying informed and flexible can help you maximize your travel rewards regardless of changes in the industry.
[[ SINGLE_CARD * {"id": "39", "isExpanded": "true", "bestForCategoryId": "52", "bestForText": "Trvael Enthusiasts", "headerHint" : "Best for AirTran Airways Flyers" } ]]
AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card FAQ
Can I still apply for the AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card?
No, the AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card is no longer available for new applications due to AirTran's merger with Southwest Airlines.
What happened to existing AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card accounts?
Existing accounts were either converted to Southwest Rapid Rewards® Credit Cards or closed, depending on the cardholder's preference and eligibility.
How were AirTran A+ Rewards credits converted to Southwest Rapid Rewards points?
AirTran A+ Rewards credits were converted to Southwest Rapid Rewards points at a ratio of 1 A+ Rewards credit to 1,200 Rapid Rewards points.
Did A+ Rewards credits expire?
Yes, A+ Rewards credits typically expired 12 months from the date they were earned if there was no account activity.
Can I still use my AirTran A+ Rewards for flights?
No, AirTran Airways ceased operations in December 2014. All remaining A+ Rewards were converted to Southwest Rapid Rewards points.
What are some alternatives to the AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card?
Good alternatives include the Southwest Rapid Rewards® credit cards, as well as other major airline co-branded cards or flexible travel rewards cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card.
How does the Southwest Rapid Rewards program compare to the old AirTran A+ Rewards program?
The Southwest Rapid Rewards program is generally considered more flexible and user-friendly, offering point-based rewards that can be redeemed for flights without blackout dates.
Were there any business versions of the AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card?
Yes, there was a business version of the card that offered similar benefits tailored for small business owners.
How can I maximize my airline rewards now that the AirTran card is no longer available?
Consider using a combination of airline-specific credit cards, flexible rewards cards, and tools like Kudos to optimize your rewards across multiple airlines and travel providers.
Did the merger between AirTran and Southwest affect elite status in the A+ Rewards program?
Yes, AirTran's elite status was eventually phased out and replaced with Southwest's A-List and A-List Preferred status tiers.
By understanding the history of the AirTran Airways A+ Rewards Credit Card and its transition to the Southwest Rapid Rewards program, you can gain valuable insights into the ever-changing landscape of airline rewards programs and credit cards. While this particular card is no longer available, the lessons learned from its features and the merger process can inform your future credit card and travel rewards strategies.
Supercharge Your Credit Cards
Experience smarter spending with Kudos and unlock more from your credit cards. Earn $20.00 when you sign up for Kudos with "GET20" and make an eligible Kudos Boost purchase.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
