IndiGo, IDFC FIRST Bank launch dual-network credit card with zero-fee FD option

FILE PHOTO: Workers adjust the screen at an event by Indian airline IndiGo in New Delhi, India, August 5, 2024. REUTERS/Priyanshu Singh/File Photo
| Photo Credit:
PRIYANSHU SINGH

IndiGo and IDFC FIRST Bank today launched the IndiGo IDFC FIRST Credit Card, offering customers both Mastercard and RuPay networks through a single application. The card provides two application routes: a ₹4,999 joining fee option or a zero joining fee with a ₹1 lakh fixed deposit backing.

The dual-network card pair ensures acceptance across domestic, international and UPI transactions. Customers can earn up to 22 BluChips per ₹100 spent on IndiGo flight bookings through the airline’s website and mobile app, with annual milestone benefits offering up to 25,000 IndiGo BluChips.

Key features include a low forex markup of 1.49 per cent, trip cancellation cover and travel insurance. The FD-backed option provides guaranteed approval regardless of credit history, addressing accessibility concerns in the credit card market.

Shirish Bhandari, Head of Credit Cards at IDFC FIRST Bank, emphasised the card’s role in “democratising travel and financial empowerment” by allowing customers regardless of credit history to access premium benefits.

With annual spending of ₹12 lakh, customers can earn up to 60,000 BluChips plus 25,000 bonus BluChips yearly, sufficient for multiple free flights. First-year customers receive additional bonus vouchers of up to 8,000 BluChips.

The card strengthens IndiGo’s BluChip loyalty programne while supporting IDFC FIRST Bank’s customer-first digital banking approach. Both companies cited the partnership as enhancing value for frequent travelers and everyday spenders.