Mo asks, “I’d really like to get to South Africa on one of the American Airlines carriers (preferably somewhere near the front of the plane) . What is your best strategy?”
Kent asked, “What are some of the best airline sites to see award availability on many other airlines ? For example on Alaska Air I can see if British Air has seats available, and a couple other airlines all in the same search.”
Reader Jason asks, “You’ve long supported [American]’s no-complimentary-upgrade policy for lower elites. You’ve said this policy keeps the [first class] cabin emptier for top elites. But on my last two AA flights the [first class] cabin was completely full — and occupied largely by non-revs.”
I don’t think that’s the reason I’ve said I like American’s policy… but let’s talk about employee upgrades, and unlimited complimentary elite upgrades.
Reader Wings has two questions: what’s the best rewards possible for a $25,000 home remodel project? And is now a good time to status match from United 1K to American’s Executive Platinum level?
Reader Jesse asks for a Starwood points strategy: “I understand that many airlines release more award seats close to the dates. Well, I am ready to transfer up to 200k SPG points to make first class award seat dreams come true. But I heard SPG takes up to 2 weeks to transfer points. How would you know which airline program to transfer the miles to so they would get there in time?”
IHG’s Accelerator promotion is great for new members of their program (2 free nights after 4 stays!) but less good for many others. I won’t come close to earning enough points for a free night from the offer. It turns out, however, that there is an alternate promotion you can choose.
I keep you up to date on the most interesting writings I find on other sites – the latest news and tips.
Back for September, I should have some time over the Labor Day weekend to put together answers to what’s on your mind.
Earlier this week I wrote about a rumor that American was installing live TV on its international fleet.
There’s now confirmation of the rumor – that there’s a test of Panasonic’s product installed in a 777-300ER and a 787, with a 777-200 to come.
Why your 22 inch carry on bag doesn’t fit into a 22 inch airline baggage sizer.. and answers to other mysteries.
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 »
