Last fall, Synchrony bank discontinued its Cathay Pacific credit card. The card was just re-launched and is now live for new applications. Is this card worth considering for miles and points travel?
For most people, no, it’s not worth it. For newbies to this miles and points hobby, there are much better credit card offers out there (namely the Chase Sapphire Preferred card and the Capital One Venture Rewards card.) But for some of us who have had nearly every credit card in the book, is the Cathay Pacific card a good option?
Cathay World Elite Mastercard
Cathay Pacific is an international airline based in Hong Kong. Synchrony Bank’s Cathay World Elite Mastercard (non-affiliate link) currently has a welcome bonus of 38,000 Asia Miles after spending $3000 in the first 90 days. Admittedly, that’s not a very compelling sign-up bonus compared to other cards. After meeting the minimum spend, you’d have at least 41,000 Asia Miles.
- Bonus: 38,000 Asia Miles after spending $3000 in first 90 days
- 3X on Cathay Pacific purchases
- 2X on dining and select dining delivery services
- 1X on all other purchases
- Earn 10 status points for every $5000 in purchases, up to 100 points per year
- Priority check-in for cardholder and travel companions
- Priority boarding for cardholder and travel companions
- Cardholders can use miles to access Cathay Pacific Business Class lounges
- 10% redemption discount on hotel, car rental and experiences awards with Asia Miles
- 10% savings on Asia Miles Gift Miles and Mileage Transfer Fee transactions
- Save up to 15% on flights originating from USA booked through 12/31/25 with exclusive discount code for cardholders (see details here)
- No foreign transaction fees
- $99 annual fee
Note: Cathay Pacific Asia Miles expire after 18 months unless you have some miles activity. Transferring points from partners does count as activity and will extend the expiration date.
Why Consider This Card
I have a few reasons I’m considering applying for this card:
- Synchrony is known for being relatively easy to get approved for new credit cards
- Cathay Pacific recently launched a nonstop flight from my home airport (DFW) to Hong Kong. I plan to visit Asia more over the next few years, so I’m sure I could use the miles.
- Saving 15% on a cash flight price from DFW to HKG is a decent discount
- I can add to my Asia Miles stash by transferring points from Amex, Bilt, Capital One and Citi
- I can use Asia Miles to book award flights on other Oneworld partners like American, Alaska, British Airways and more
The program does have its downsides. Leana ran into some issues with her award flights when Japan shut down for the pandemic (see her post here). The current award cancellation price is $120 per ticket or 17,000 miles. Ouch! In addition, not all partner airlines are available to book online, which is a pain.
Final Thoughts
The Cathay World Elite Mastercard is not a compelling card for most people in this hobby. However, I am considering it due to my upcoming travel plans and my lack of other credit card options at the moment.
Author: Nancy
Nancy lives near Dallas, Texas, with her husband and three kids. Her favorite vacations include the beach, cruising and everything Disney.
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