Can You Pay for Flights Monthly? Here’s How to Do It

Modern financial tools allow individuals to spread the cost of air travel over time. These options provide budget management benefits, enabling more people to access travel opportunities without needing to pay the entire fare at once.

Direct Payment Options from Airlines and Travel Agencies

Many major airlines and online travel agencies (OTAs) offer direct installment plans, often powered by financial partners. These programs allow travelers to secure flights with an initial down payment, typically 10% to 50% of the fare, followed by monthly payments over 3 to 12 months. Some services offer longer terms, though these often incur more interest.

Eligibility generally involves a soft credit check that does not negatively impact credit scores. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and provide personal identification. Minimum purchase amounts and booking window requirements may apply. Interest rates vary based on creditworthiness, with some plans offering 0% APR or rates from 8.99% to 36%.

To use these options, select the desired flight and choose the “pay in installments” or “fly now, pay later” option at checkout. This initiates an application process with the financing partner. An instant approval or denial decision is usually provided. Upon approval, the initial down payment is processed, and the payment schedule is confirmed. Future payments are managed directly through the financing partner’s online portal or app.

Utilizing Third-Party Financing Services

Independent Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services like Klarna, Afterpay, or Affirm offer another way to finance flights. Consumers obtain pre-approval for a spending limit through the BNPL provider’s platform before purchasing. The typical BNPL repayment splits the purchase into four interest-free installments over about six weeks, with the first payment due at checkout. For larger purchases or longer terms, interest may apply, with APRs ranging from 6.99% to 35.99%.

Eligibility for these independent BNPL services generally includes being at least 18 years old and a U.S. resident. While many BNPL providers conduct a soft credit check that does not impact credit scores, approval can depend on factors beyond just credit history, such as the purchase amount and prior repayment behavior with the specific provider. Some longer-term BNPL plans may involve a hard credit check and report payment activity to credit bureaus, which can affect credit scores. Users typically need to link a debit card, credit card, or bank account for automatic repayments.

The process begins by applying for a spending limit through the BNPL provider’s app or website. Once approved, the BNPL service may generate a virtual card or payment code for use at checkout. Some BNPL providers are also listed as direct payment options. After the flight is purchased, all subsequent installment payments are made directly to the BNPL provider, not the airline, according to the agreed-upon schedule. While the merchant receives the full payment upfront from the BNPL provider, the consumer is responsible for fulfilling the repayment terms with the BNPL company.

Monthly Payments Through Credit Cards

Credit cards offer a widely accessible method for monthly flight payments. Paying less than the full statement balance each month, by making a minimum payment, spreads the cost over time. However, interest charges accrue on the remaining balance. As of February 2025, the average credit card APR was approximately 21.95%, with rates ranging from 12.86% at credit unions to over 27%.

Different types of credit cards offer varying advantages for flight purchases. General rewards cards earn points or miles on spending, which can be redeemed for travel. Travel-specific credit cards often provide enhanced rewards on travel-related purchases, along with perks like free checked bags, airport lounge access, or trip cancellation insurance. Some credit cards also feature introductory 0% APR offers, allowing users to pay no interest on purchases for a set period, typically 12 to 18 months, if the balance is paid in full before the promotional period ends. Carrying a balance beyond this period, or on a card without such an offer, will result in interest charges that increase the total cost of the flight over time.

Using a credit card for a flight purchase is straightforward. After the purchase, managing the account for monthly payments requires understanding the credit card statement. Minimum payments are calculated by the issuer, often as a percentage of the outstanding balance plus interest and fees. Paying only the minimum can extend the repayment period significantly and lead to substantial interest costs, as required by regulations like the Credit CARD Act of 2009. Timely minimum payments are essential to avoid late fees and maintain a positive credit standing.