News and notes from around the interweb:

• Rocketmiles is 7 years old and they’re doing a giveaway, 7 winners will get 7000 miles each (choose your program) just follow Rocketmiles on Instagram, like the post, then comment and tag a friend.

  Normally I wouldn’t mention it but there’s only about 100 entries so far.

• Qatar Airways said they will no longer offer lounge access and seat selection on business class award tickets unless the passenger has elite status in a oneworld program. I didn’t cover this right away because it runs counter to what I understand are plans for the Privilege Club program. One Mile at a Time asked them about it and the airline is contradicting the earlier statement, saying now that these changes aren’t in the cards. Perhaps the first spokesperson was confused about how the airline’s misguided basic business fare plan will work.

  

• The new Virgin Australia won’t be as premium featuring a diminished business class, fewer lounges, and buy on board in economy – but still more service than they offered back when their name was Virgin Blue.

  

• Good review of what we know about the safety of flying during Covid-19 (HT: Jonathan W.)

• Keeping OpenTable points within the Priceline family for your redemptions may now yield strong value.

  For some reason, even Kayak was $105 if I wasn't using my OpenTable points. I'll take that as a good deal.

  — Bee Dazzle (@BenPHL) November 18, 2020

• Delta will continue blocking (most) middle seats through March 30, 2021.