Fractional jet operator OurPLANE and American Express have just announced a partnership to offer benefits and discounts on memberships for American Express holders. For example, any purchase of a fraction of a new Eclipse very light jet (VLJ) made with an American Express card will be discounted 2%.

The partnership looks beneficial for both companies, as OurPLANE gains access to American Express’s immense membership base, and American Express is able to provide its members with an entrée to a very light jet market poised for growth.

OurPLANE’s partnership with American Express is part of a trend in the luxury travel industry. The destination club Ultimate Resort recently partnered with American Express to offer double reward points to customers paying their yearly dues on their cards. Last year, Exclusive Resorts and American Express made a deal whereby new members to the club receive one million reward points.

While membership in any one of these clubs cannot be justified on the basis of credit card deals alone, these promotions are nonetheless beneficial. One million reward points earned through Exclusive Resorts’ Amex partnership, for example, can be redeemed for $10,000 in Sak’s Fifth Avenue gift-cards – enough for a considerable shopping spree. Promotions like these signal momentum in the luxury real estate and travel industries, as niche-market high-end companies partner with household names like American Express.

More on Private Jets and Luxury Homes

• Decision Guide to Private Jets
• Decision Guide to Destination Clubs
• Decision Guide to Private Residence Clubs