Best American Express Points Transfer 2026: Regional Strategy Guide
The best Amex transfer partner depends on where you're flying. A partner that's perfect for transatlantic business class may be weak for Asian first class. This regional guide breaks down the optimal partner for every route.
North America
Domestic US Flights
| Partner | Best For | Points Needed |
|---|---|---|
| British Airways Avios | Short-haul (under 650 mi) | From 7,500 |
| Air Canada Aeroplan | Cross-country | From 10,000 |
| Delta SkyMiles | All domestic | From 5,000 |
Best strategy: Use British Airways Avios for short American Airlines flights. Use Aeroplan for United cross-country.
US to Hawaii
| Partner | Economy | Business |
|---|---|---|
| Air Canada Aeroplan | 17,500 | 35,000 |
| Delta SkyMiles | 22,000+ | 45,000+ |
Best strategy: Aeroplan offers the best rates for US–Hawaii premium cabins.
Europe
US to Europe
| Partner | Economy | Business | First |
|---|---|---|---|
| Air France-KLM Flying Blue | 20,000 | 50,000 (promo: 35,000) | 80,000 |
| Air Canada Aeroplan | 25,000 | 55,000 | 70,000 (Lufthansa) |
| Virgin Atlantic | 20,000 (Delta) | 47,500 | 50,000 (Upper Class) |
Best strategy: Flying Blue Promo Awards for business class to Europe. Aeroplan for Lufthansa First.
Within Europe
| Partner | Economy | Business |
|---|---|---|
| British Airways Avios | From 4,500 | — |
| Flying Blue | From 10,000 | From 15,000 |
Best strategy: British Airways Avios for short intra-Europe hops.
Asia
US to Asia
| Partner | Business | First |
|---|---|---|
| Virgin Atlantic | 95,000 (ANA) | 110,000 (ANA First) |
| Air Canada Aeroplan | 75,000 (ANA) | 90,000 (ANA) |
| Cathay Pacific Asia Miles | 85,000 | 110,000 (Cathay First) |
Best strategy: Virgin Atlantic for ANA First Class. Asia Miles for Cathay Pacific premium.
Within Asia
| Partner | Economy | Business |
|---|---|---|
| Cathay Pacific Asia Miles | From 7,500 | From 15,000 |
| Singapore KrisFlyer | From 7,500 | From 15,000 |
Middle East & Africa
| Route | Best Partner | Business Points |
|---|---|---|
| US–Dubai | Emirates Skywards | 95,000 |
| US–Doha | Cathay Pacific Asia Miles (Qatar QSuite) | 90,000 |
| US–South Africa | Air Canada Aeroplan | 55,000 |
Best strategy: Asia Miles for Qatar QSuite to Doha/Middle East.
South America
| Route | Best Partner | Business Points |
|---|---|---|
| US–Brazil | Air Canada Aeroplan | 35,000 |
| US–Argentina | Air Canada Aeroplan | 35,000 |
| US–Colombia | British Airways Avios | 20,000 |
Best strategy: Aeroplan for all South America premium awards.
Oceania
| Route | Best Partner | Business Points |
|---|---|---|
| US–Australia | Cathay Pacific Asia Miles | 90,000 |
| US–New Zealand | Air Canada Aeroplan | 65,000–75,000 |
Best strategy: Asia Miles for Qantas or Cathay Pacific to Australia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Amex transfer partner for Europe?
Flying Blue (Air France-KLM) for Promo Awards or Air Canada Aeroplan for Lufthansa First/Swiss Business.
What is the best Amex transfer partner for Asia?
Virgin Atlantic for ANA First Class or Cathay Pacific Asia Miles for Cathay Pacific premium cabins.
Can I transfer Amex points to my spouse's account?
No. Amex points can only be transferred to loyalty accounts in your name.
What is the minimum Amex point transfer amount?
Most partners require a minimum of 1,000 points per transfer.