AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite vs United Explorer
AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite
$99/yr
6.0/10
VS
United Explorer
$150/yr
6.0/10
Quick Answer
AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite charges $99/yr with 1X base rewards. United Explorer charges $150/yr with 1X base rewards. AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite offers better overall value for most spenders when comparing fees, rewards, and benefits side by side.
Apply for AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite →
PointsPick may earn a commission. Disclosure
Apply for United Explorer →
PointsPick may earn a commission. Disclosure
Winner by Category
Annual Fees
AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite
Lower annual fee ($99 vs $150)
Rewards Earning
United Explorer
4 earning categories
Benefits & Protection
AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite
0 benefits vs 0
Statement Credits
United Explorer
$100 in annual credits
Flexibility
Tie
Both cards have similar redemption flexibility
OUR PICK
AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite wins for most people
The $51 fee difference is hard to justify unless you maximize premium benefits.
Apply for AAdvantage Aviator Red World ElitePREMIUM PICK
United Explorer wins for heavy spenders
If you can offset the higher fee with credits and perks, this card delivers more value.
Apply for United ExplorerRewards Earning: Detailed Comparison
AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite
| American Airlines purchases | 2.0X |
| Everything else | 1.0X |
United Explorer
| United Airlines purchases | 2.0X |
| Dining | 2.0X |
| Hotel stays | 2.0X |
| Everything else | 1.0X |
Related Comparisons
Other Comparisons with AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite
AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite vs AAA Daily Advantage
AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite vs AAA Travel Advantage
AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite vs AAdvantage Aviator World Elite Business
AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite vs AAdvantage Business World Elite
AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite vs AAdvantage Executive