Miles debit card can save you money when Business and First Class fares are high.

Prepaid travel cards, designed for business travelers, are like travel debit cards: You purchase a certain number of miles in advance and the account is debited each time you fly.

Such cards work best when published Business and First Class fares are high, such as those on routes to Asia and South America. They’re also good for short-notice trips, which is why they’re well suited for business travelers. But in fact, almost any discounted Business Class fare beats the travel card.

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The American Airlines AAirpass Program card can be used for domestic or international travel on all American Airlines flights. It can be used for companion travel, and carries complimentary Admirals Club Membership.

The card is offered in one- and two-year versions. The one-year AAirpass costs $11,250 for 25,000 flight miles; the two-year $22,000, is good for 50,000 miles. American Airlines AAdvantage program benefits are earned just as they would be with American Airlines tickets.

Additional card miles can be purchased at 45¢ per mile for 7,500 or more miles; otherwise the cost is 47¢ per mile for economy, with varying surcharges for Business and First Class.

For details, call (800) 433-6355, or visit the American Airlines AAirpass website: www.aairpass.com.

This article is adapted from the FlightBliss Special Report American Airlines Frequent Flyer Secrets.

For more techniques on getting Business and First Class upgrades and award seats, along with the latest news on fares and comfort upgrades, subscribe to First Class Flyer.