What is Air China's MCC Code?
Air China uses MCC 3261 (Unknown MCC). This Merchant Category Code is used by credit card networks to classify transactions at Air China.
When you use your credit card at Air China, the transaction is tagged with MCC 3261. Your credit card issuer uses this code to determine what rewards you earn—whether it's bonus miles, cashback, or base points.
Best Credit Cards for Air China
HSBC Revolution
4 MPDIncluded in whitelist
Cap: Cap at $1,500 a month
Woman's World MasterCard
4 MPDNot excluded
Cap: Cap at $1,000 a month
Note: Online spend only
UOB Visa Signature
4 MPDNot excluded
Cap: Must spend between $1,000 to $1,200 via contactless and $1,000 to $1,200 for FCY
Note: On Site: Local contactless spend between $1,000-$1,200 | FCY: Foreign currency transactions between $1,000-$1,200
UOB Lady's Card
4 MPDEligible under Travel category
Cap: Cap at $1,000 per calendar month per bonus category
Note: Must select 2 bonus categories: Beauty & Wellness, Dining, Entertainment, Family, Fashion, Transport, or Travel. Earn 1X UNI$ for every $5 spent on all other eligible categories.
UOB Lady's Solitaire
4 MPDEligible under Travel category
Cap: Cap at $750 per calendar month per bonus category
Note: Must select 2 bonus categories: Beauty & Wellness, Dining, Entertainment, Family, Fashion, Transport, or Travel. Earn 1X UNI$ for every $5 spent on all other eligible categories.
Cards That Don't Earn Bonus
These cards earn base rewards (1 MPD) at Air China:
✗OCBC Rewards
✗UOB Preferred Platinum Visa
✗Citibank Rewards MasterCard
✗UOB KrisFlyer
Tips for Maximizing Rewards at Air China
- Use the card with the highest bonus rate for MCC 3261
- Track monthly caps to avoid missing out on bonus rewards
- Check if contactless vs inserted card affects your rewards rate
- Verify the MCC before making large purchases to ensure bonus eligibility
- Consider having multiple cards to maximize rewards across different spending categories