Twenty-eight years after launching their first co-branded cards in France, American Express and Air France-KLM are evolving their long-standing partnership. Since January 15, 2026, a new generation of cards for individuals and professionals has been available, with the stated objective of strengthening loyalty among frequent travelers and meeting the expectations of premium customers seeking tangible benefits.
Summary
A historic partnership brought back to life
According to the specialized press, this overhaul is part of a joint strategy to further enhance the Flying Blue loyalty program and enrich the travel experience. American Express and Air France-KLM are promoting a more integrated approach, combining payment services, air travel benefits, and expanded insurance coverage.
Caroline Gaye, Country Manager for France at American Express, explains that the long-standing partnership between American Express and Air France-KLM aims to enrich the customer travel experience. With the launch of redesigned co-branded cards for individuals and small business owners in France, the two groups intend to strengthen their collaboration by offering distinctive benefits designed to support travelers at every stage of their journey.
For his part, Benjamin Lipsey, Senior Vice President Loyalty, Digital & Data at Air France-KLM and President of Flying Blue, points out that the number of Flying Blue program members has doubled since 2022. He is pleased to be able to offer more benefits to members thanks to the new co-branded cards issued by American Express.
Maps redesigned for individual travelers
For individuals, two cards are offered: a Gold version and a Platinum version. Both now include a free first checked bag on Air France and KLM short and medium-haul flights, as well as extended insurance coverage, which now also covers rail journeys.
The Platinum card also includes access to the "Flying Blue Extra Essential" package, which grants access to a selection of Air France and KLM lounges, as well as the ability to earn up to 80 experience points (XP) per year. The Gold version, on the other hand, allows you to earn up to 40 XP annually, facilitating access to higher Flying Blue program statuses.
-> Read more : American Express Air France 2026 : what professionals really need to know
An offer dedicated to executives and freelancers
American Express and Air France-KLM have also revamped their product range for professionals and small business owners. Two specific cards are offered, with benefits geared towards business travel and travel management.
The business plans include annual reimbursements for Air France's "Comfort on Board" services, covering benefits such as lounge access, seat selection, and Wi-Fi, as well as reimbursements for the purchase of Air France membership cards. They also allow members to accumulate Flying Blue XP points and credits within the bluebiz program, dedicated to businesses.
A deliberate customer loyalty strategy
Through this redesign, American Express and Air France-KLM aim to strengthen the perceived value of their co-branded cards, in a context of renewed business travel and rising customer expectations. The objective is twofold: to retain high-spending customers and to integrate Flying Blue into a broader mobility ecosystem, extending beyond air travel alone.
For tourism professionals, this development confirms the central role of loyalty programs and premium cards in the strategy of attracting and retaining frequent travelers, at a time when the overall experience is becoming a key differentiating factor.
Sources
👉 Stay informed about business tourism trends: subscribe to InfosTourisme Inside.
📘 Also check out our practical pages for tourism professionals.
📩 Send your press releases
