Kotak Air+ Credit Card
The Kotak Air+ Credit Card is a good option for people who travel often and want to earn rewards on their travel expenses. The card has a joining and annual fee of ₹3,000 + GST and gives 2,500 Air Miles as a welcome benefit. You also receive 2,500 Air Miles every year when you pay the annual fee. You can earn 5 Air Miles for every ₹100 spent on flight and hotel bookings through Kotak Unbox and 2 Air Miles for every ₹100 spent on other eligible purchases. These Air Miles can be used to book travel on Kotak Unbox or transferred to selected airline and hotel loyalty programs.
The card also comes with several travel benefits that make your trips more comfortable. It offers 4 free domestic airport lounge visits every year (2 per quarter) and 2 free international lounge visits through Priority Pass. In addition, it has a low foreign exchange markup fee of 2%, which helps you save on international transactions. Overall, the Kotak Air+ Credit Card is a suitable choice for frequent travelers looking to earn travel rewards, enjoy airport lounge access, and reduce the cost of spending overseas.
Rewards and Benefits
Fees & Charges
What should you consider before applying for a credit card in India?
Key Considerations Before Applying for a Credit Card in India:
- Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, which typically include age, income, credit score, and employment status as defined by the issuing bank or financial institution.
- Credit Score: A strong credit score can significantly improve your chances of approval and result in more favorable terms, such as lower interest rates or higher credit limits. Verify that your credit score is healthy before applying.
- Interest Rates and Fees: Compare the annual percentage rates (APR), processing fees, late payment penalties, and foreign transaction charges associated with various cards. These costs can vary widely and impact the overall value of the card.
- Rewards and Benefits: Evaluate the rewards, cashback, discounts, or other perks offered by the card to ensure they align with your spending patterns. Some cards may provide better benefits in specific categories, such as travel, shopping, or dining.
- Credit Limit: Review the credit limit offered by the card to ensure it meets your financial needs. Avoid applying for cards with excessive limits if you are concerned about managing debt, as this can lead to higher interest charges.
- Repayment Terms: Understand the repayment structure, including the minimum payment amount, payment due dates, and any associated penalties. Being clear about these terms can help you manage payments effectively and avoid interest buildup.
- Card Type and Features: Choose a card type that matches your specific needs—whether standard, premium, or specialized cards like those offering travel rewards or dining privileges. Ensure the features of the card align with your lifestyle and spending habits.
- Bank’s Reputation: Opt for a financial institution with a proven reputation for customer service and transparency. Consider researching customer reviews and assessing their support channels to ensure reliable service.
- Hidden Charges: Be aware of any hidden fees, including annual fees, balance transfer charges, foreign transaction fees, or cash withdrawal charges. These can add up over time and affect the overall cost-effectiveness of the card.
- Credit Utilization: Maintain a balance within your credit limit to avoid high credit utilization ratios, which can negatively impact your credit score. Responsible use of credit is essential for maintaining financial health.
- Long-Term Financial Plans: Consider how the credit card fits into your overall financial strategy. Avoid accumulating unnecessary debt and choose a card that supports your long-term financial goals without adding financial strain.
Kotak Air+ Credit Card Features and Benefits: Is It Worth It?
The Kotak Air+ Credit Card is a travel credit card designed for people who frequently book flights and hotels. It offers Air Miles on eligible spending, complimentary airport lounge access, milestone rewards, and a low forex markup fee. With a joining and annual fee of ₹3,000 + GST, the card is suitable for travelers who want to save on future trips by earning travel rewards.
Welcome and Renewal Benefits
The card offers 2,500 Air Miles as a welcome benefit after you pay the joining fee. You also receive 2,500 Air Miles every year when you pay the annual fee. These Air Miles can be redeemed for travel bookings, helping you reduce your travel expenses.
Milestone Rewards
You can earn extra rewards by meeting quarterly spending targets.
- Spend ₹1.5 lakh in a calendar quarter
- Get a ₹5,000 travel voucher or equivalent Air Miles
- Earn rewards worth up to ₹20,000 every year
| Quarterly Spend | Reward |
|---|---|
| ₹1.5 lakh | ₹5,000 Travel Voucher or Equivalent Air Miles |
| Maximum Annual Benefit | Up to ₹20,000 |
Air Miles Earning Rate
The Kotak Air+ Credit Card rewards your eligible spending as follows:
- Get 5 Air Miles on every ₹100 you spend on flights and hotels via Kotak Unbox
- Earn 2 Air Miles for every ₹100 spent on eligible purchases
- Air Miles are valid for 3 years
- Accelerated Air Miles are capped at 15,000 per statement cycle
You can redeem Air Miles on Kotak Unbox at 1 Air Mile = ₹1 or transfer them to selected airline and hotel loyalty programs.
Transfer Partners
| Partner | Transfer Ratio |
|---|---|
| Air India, Air Canada, Air France, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, United Airlines, Accor | 2:1 |
| Marriott Bonvoy | 3:1 |
Airport Lounge Access
The card provides useful travel benefits for frequent flyers.
- Get free access to domestic airport lounges 4 times a year (maximum 2 visits every quarter)
- Enjoy 2 complimentary international airport lounge visits each year using your Priority Pass
These benefits are available only for the primary cardholder.
Who Should Apply?
The Kotak Air+ Credit Card is a good option if you:
- Travel regularly for work or leisure
- Frequently book flights and hotels
- Want to earn Air Miles instead of cashback
- Can meet the quarterly spending milestone
Kotak Air+ Credit Card Review
The Kotak Air+ Credit Card is a good travel rewards credit card for frequent travelers. It offers welcome and renewal Air Miles, milestone rewards worth up to ₹20,000 annually, airport lounge access, and flexible travel redemptions. However, it does not offer Air Miles on international transactions or some everyday spending categories. If most of your expenses are related to travel and you prefer booking through Kotak Unbox, this card can provide good value and help you save on future trips.
What is the annual fee for the Kotak Air+ Credit Card?
The Kotak Air+ Credit Card has a joining and annual fee of ₹3,000 + GST. There is no annual fee waiver based on spending.
How can I earn Air Miles with the Kotak Air+ Credit Card?
You earn 5 Air Miles for every ₹100 spent on flight and hotel bookings through Kotak Unbox and 2 Air Miles per ₹100 on other eligible spends. The bonus Air Miles are capped at 15,000 per month, after which you continue earning the regular Air Miles rate.
Can I earn Air Miles on international spends?
No. International transactions do not earn Air Miles. However, they are charged a 2% forex markup fee.
How do I redeem my Air Miles?
You can redeem your Air Miles through the Kotak Unbox platform in the Kotak Mahindra Bank mobile app. The Air Miles can be used for eligible travel bookings or transferred to partner airline and hotel loyalty programs.
When are Air Miles credited to my account?
Air Miles are usually credited within 5 days after the transaction is successfully settled.
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