About Gary Leff

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 »

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American Airlines Gave Up On New York—Now Here’s How They Can Win It Back

May 18 2025

Obviously they should optimize their schedules – stop burning peak-hour slots on thin-regional routes and upgauge high yield routes. They should continue to lean into the co-location of their oneworld partners in terminal 8. They should consider growing at Newark (long-term, this month wouldn’t be the time to announce it).

But I actually think there are several additional things that American Airlines can do to compete effectively in New York.

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United Switched Caterers At SFO—No Food, No Ice, No Warning. Even First Class Isn’t Spared.

May 17 2025

United Airlines is experiencing a catering meltdown in San Francisco. The airline is transitioning from Gate Gourmet to LSG Sky Chefs and the changeover began Thursday. There have been widespread problems including severely reduced food and beverage services, inadequate onboard provisions, and confusion among crew and passengers about what to expect.

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American Airlines Cleared For Takeoff While United Still On The Runway—LaGuardia Controllers Admit the Mistake

May 17 2025

The tower controller mistakenly issued takeoff clearance to American Eagle flight AA4736. Communication was further complicated by a Spirit Airlines pilot inadvertently blocking transmissions. As American 4736 accelerated down the runway, tower controllers received an automated collision alert and attempted to retract the takeoff clearance.

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