Traveling within India or internationally can be expensive, especially if you fly frequently. However, with the right credit card strategy, you can earn free flight tickets by leveraging reward points, cashback programs, and partner airline schemes. In 2025, Indian travelers have multiple options to redeem credit card points for free or discounted flights, making travel more affordable and rewarding.
This guide explains how credit card reward points work, which credit cards are best for earning flight tickets, tips to maximize points, and the practical steps to redeem them effectively.
Understanding Credit Card Reward Points
Credit card reward points are earned based on your spending. Every time you use your card for purchases such as groceries, dining, shopping, or flight bookings, you accumulate points.
How it works:
- For example, if your card gives 5 reward points per ₹150 spent and you spend ₹15,000, you earn 500 reward points.
- Some cards offer bonus points on travel spends, such as booking flights, hotels, or cab rides.
- Points can usually be redeemed for flight tickets, hotel stays, gift vouchers, or cashback.
Tip: Always check the reward conversion rate for flights. Some banks offer better conversion for airline bookings, making it easier to earn free tickets faster.
How Credit Card Reward Points Can Get You Free Flights
There are several ways to redeem points for flight tickets:
- Direct Airline Redemption
Some banks allow you to directly convert reward points into airline miles or credits.
- Example: HDFC Bank allows points to be transferred to airlines such as Jet Airways or Air India, which can then be redeemed for tickets.
- Flight Booking Portals
Certain credit cards have partner portals where you can pay using points.
- Example: Axis Bank Reward Points can be redeemed through the Axis Travel Portal.
- Cashback and Statement Credit
You can redeem points for cashback and then use the amount to book flights.
- Example: ICICI Bank allows points to be redeemed for statement credit that can be used to book domestic flights.
- Third-party Travel Platforms
Some reward programs partner with travel booking platforms like MakeMyTrip, Yatra, or Cleartrip, where points can directly reduce the ticket cost.
Best Credit Cards to Earn Free Flight Tickets in India (2025)
Here are the top options for Indian travelers who want to convert reward points into free flights:
1. HDFC Regalia Credit Card
Overview:
HDFC Regalia is ideal for frequent domestic and international travelers. Its rewards program is robust, and points can be transferred to airline loyalty programs.
Key Features:
- Reward points: 4 points per ₹150 spent
- Bonus points on flight bookings and travel spends
- Airport lounge access in India and international airports
- Travel insurance included
Redemption:
- Points can be converted into frequent flyer miles for partner airlines
- Redeem points for discounted or free flight tickets via HDFC Travel Portal
Best For: Travelers who fly frequently and want premium benefits along with rewards
2. Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card
Overview:
Axis Magnus is a premium travel card that provides high reward points for flight bookings. It also offers lounge access and concierge services.
Key Features:
- Reward points: 10 points for every ₹200 spent on travel
- Unlimited lounge access via Priority Pass
- Exclusive airline and hotel offers
Redemption:
- Transfer points to airline partners or use travel portal
- Redeem for domestic and international flights
- Bonus points for seasonal promotions
Best For: High-spending travelers seeking premium rewards and flexibility
3. ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card
Overview:
ICICI Sapphiro provides good reward rates for travel spends and allows points to be redeemed for flights at discounted rates.
Key Features:
- Reward points: 5 points per ₹150 spent, higher for travel
- Complimentary lounge access at selected airports
- Travel insurance included
Redemption:
- Redeem points via ICICI Travel Portal for domestic flights
- Transfer points to airline partners
- Combine points with cashback for cheaper tickets
Best For: Mid-tier travelers who want lounge access and travel rewards without a very high fee
4. SBI Card Elite
Overview:
SBI Card Elite is a premium card suitable for frequent flyers. It combines reward points, lounge access, and lifestyle benefits.
Key Features:
- Reward points: 2 points per ₹100 spent, bonus points on flight bookings
- Multiple domestic and international lounge visits
- Concierge services for travel and lifestyle
Redemption:
- Redeem points via SBI Travel Portal
- Convert points into frequent flyer miles for partner airlines
- Use points to offset flight bookings directly
Best For: Travelers seeking a premium card with multiple redemption options
5. Kotak Mahindra Solitaire Credit Card
Overview:
Kotak Solitaire is affordable and offers essential travel benefits, making it suitable for budget-conscious travelers.
Key Features:
- Reward points: 4 points per ₹150 spent, higher on travel
- Domestic lounge access
- Travel insurance for domestic trips
Redemption:
- Redeem points for domestic flights through the Kotak travel portal
- Convert points to partner airline miles for occasional international flights
Best For: Budget travelers who want to earn points for domestic flight tickets
Tips to Maximize Credit Card Points for Free Flights
- Use Your Card for Travel and Daily Expenses
- Spend on groceries, dining, and utilities to accumulate points faster.
- Focus on Travel Categories
- Some cards offer bonus points on flights, hotels, and cab rides. Use the right card for each category.
- Take Advantage of Partner Airlines
- Convert points to airline miles to redeem free or discounted tickets.
- Monitor Seasonal Offers
- Banks often run promotions where points earn higher value on flight bookings.
- Combine Points from Multiple Cards
- If you have multiple credit cards, pool points where possible for bigger redemptions.
- Plan in Advance
- Airline reward seats are limited. Book early to use points effectively.
- Track Expiry Dates
- Most reward points have a validity period. Redeem them before they expire.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring Conversion Rates
- Some banks give low-value points. Always check how many points equal flight value.
- Redeeming Points for Low-Value Options
- Avoid using points for merchandise or gift vouchers with poor conversion.
- Overlooking Fees
- Some bookings with points may include taxes or fuel surcharges.
- Not Using Travel Portals
- Direct airline redemption may offer better value than generic cashback options.
- Ignoring Lounge and Travel Perks
- Many travelers earn points but miss free lounge access, insurance, or concierge benefits.
Step-by-Step Guide to Redeem Points for Flights
- Check Your Points Balance
- Log in to your bank’s credit card portal or app.
- Identify Eligible Flights
- Check partner airlines or the bank’s travel portal for redeemable options.
- Calculate Points Required
- Compare point redemption vs direct payment to ensure maximum value.
- Book in Advance
- Reward seats are limited; early booking increases availability.
- Confirm Booking and Benefits
- Ensure taxes, fuel surcharges, and booking fees are covered in redemption.
- Track Points Post-Booking
- Some programs take a few days to deduct points. Keep a record to avoid confusion.
Conclusion
Earning free flight tickets using credit card reward points is not just a dream—it is entirely achievable with the right strategy. Credit cards like HDFC Regalia, Axis Magnus, ICICI Sapphiro, SBI Elite, and Kotak Solitaire provide strong travel rewards, lounge access, and flexible redemption options for domestic and international flights.
By focusing on travel spends, using partner airlines, monitoring offers, and planning ahead, you can turn everyday spending into free or discounted flights. With careful planning and smart usage, credit card reward points can make domestic and international travel more affordable and enjoyable in 2025.