American Airlines and United are locked in a fierce, expensive battle over Chicago O’Hare Airport—flooding the market with flights, low fares, and aggressive marketing. Yet both carriers are strangely leaving their strongest strategic weapon unused: their massive frequent flyer programs and credit card partnerships, a surprising oversight that could cost either airline the competitive edge they desperately need.
American Airlines is celebrating its 100th anniversary by serving caviar, Beef Wellington, and other luxurious dishes in business class, signaling a renewed focus on premium offerings—at least temporarily.
Passengers were stunned as a bizarre air traffic control exchange sounded “like listening to ‘The Price Is Right.'” Plus, Starbucks’ new loyalty tiers aren’t revolutionary, and Frontier Airlines is giving away 5,000 free miles.
Southwest Airlines quietly revealed to the SEC that customers are redeeming fewer Rapid Rewards points than ever—a troubling sign that loyal passengers may be turning away just as the airline makes major changes.
Bilt Rewards cardholders were furious when the company replaced their easy ‘free points’ earned from paying rent—but in their outrage, many overlooked new benefits and higher value that could actually leave them better off. Here’s what went wrong in the rollout, why consumers were so angry, and what analysts miss.
American Airlines pilots have joined flight attendants in revealing they were forced to sleep in airports during last week’s meltdown, with their union blasting management as “completely unprepared,” despite clear warnings ahead of the storm.
Hyatt is advertising this card bonus as 5 free nights, but the spend required to earn it also triggers the card’s annual Category 1–4 night and generates enough points for another award night. Put it together and the “5-night” offer can realistically turn into 7 nights at Category 1–4 Hyatt hotels.
American Airlines is adding more first class seats to its cramped Airbus A319s—but there’s a catch. To squeeze in an extra row up front, the airline is tightening economy legroom and even installing flight attendant seats directly on lavatory doors, breaking a promise previously made by former CEO Doug Parker. A bit of good news, though – during this transition American will load extra first class meals on planes that have just 8 seats.
A Marriott guest was forced into an absurd debate with hotel staff, who resisted providing bottled water just to brush his teeth. Also in today’s roundup: Epstein-linked Hyatt documents surface, British Airways quietly ends its AARP discount, and why passengers clapping after landing annoys so many travelers.
A United Airlines first class passenger and his hearing impaired wife were threatened with removal from their flight after a conflict with an off duty crewmember. Video from the cabin shows the man in his seat, upset but controlled, explaining that the employee snapped at his wife because she “didn’t hear” and “wasn’t listening.”
Gary Leff is one of the foremost experts in the field of miles, points, and frequent business travel -- a topic he has covered since 2002.
Co-founder of frequent flyer community InsideFlyer.com, emcee of the Freddie Awards, and named one of the "World's Top Travel Experts" by Conde' Nast Traveler (2010-Present) Gary has been a guest on most major news media, profiled in several top print publications, and published broadly on the topic of consumer loyalty. More About Gary »
