We’ve got some bad (and good) news for Alaska Airlines credit card holders. Alaska Airlines and Bank of America are rolling out some changes on both their co-branded personal and business cards. But don’t go canceling your card just yet because, luckily, it seems the positive changes outweigh the negative ones.
The bad news
Annual fees: The annual fees on the Alaska Visa card are jumping up from $75 to $95.
Lounge changes: There will no longer be discounts on day passes to the Alaska lounge.
Checked bags: If you want your first checked bag to be free for you (and up to six companions), you’ll need to pay for your flight with your Alaska card.
The good news
More chances to earn: You’ll be able to earn in more categories. Using your card will earn you 2x miles on gas, rideshares, cable, and some streaming services. Business cards will also earn 2x points on shipping services.
Bonuses: The Alaska Visa will also offer 10% rewards on any miles earned if you have a Bank of America account.
Boarding: Cardholders will get priority boarding when they use their card to purchase their flight.
Lounge changes: Cardholders will also get $100 off Alaska Lounge+ memberships when they purchase it with their Alaska visa.
All in all, it seems the positive changes definitely outweigh the negative ones. The Alaska card is still a great card to have and with Alaska pushing people to use their card, it’s great that they are offering more ways to earn points and bonuses. If you have an Alaska card and a Bank of America account, this is actually really good news for you. Get ready for more rewards and perks coming your way.
The positive changes will kick in immediately while the more negative ones will be rolled out in March of this year.