Chase and Amex share several useful airline partners, but neither bank is best for every trip. Chase has direct access to programs such as United and Southwest; Amex has direct access to programs such as Delta and ANA. Check the exact award first, then compare which points can reach it with a suitable ratio.
| Transfer question | Chase Ultimate Rewards | Amex Membership Rewards |
|---|---|---|
| Shared airline examples | Air Canada Aeroplan, Air France/KLM Flying Blue, British Airways, Aer Lingus and Iberia. | Air Canada Aeroplan, Air France/KLM Flying Blue, British Airways, Aer Lingus and Iberia. |
| Distinctive airline options | United MileagePlus and Southwest Rapid Rewards. | Delta SkyMiles and ANA Mileage Club. |
| Hotel options | World of Hyatt, IHG One Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy. | Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy and Choice Privileges. |
| Best next step | Search the award through the airline, then check the Chase transfer screen. | Search the award through the airline, then check the Amex transfer screen. |
What to compare before transferring
A partner name is only the first check. Compare the award price, taxes and fees, transfer ratio, transfer time and seat availability. Ratios can vary by partner and card product. Offers can change, and transfers to an airline account are usually irreversible.
Use the official Chase transfer guide and the Amex transfer page to confirm current eligibility and terms. The transfer page attached to your account is the final source for the ratio you will receive.
Which points should you use?
Use Chase when a Chase-only partner has the award you want; use Amex when an Amex-only partner does. If both banks reach the same airline, compare their transfer ratio and any active bonus after you have confirmed availability. Otherwise, leave the points in the bank account until you have a booking to make.