AirConnect News Desk

Loyalty Programmes

Loyalty News & Intelligence

Frequent flyer programme changes: earn and burn rate updates, partner additions, status tier adjustments, and redemption news.

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TSA PreCheck Touchless ID: Every airport with the speedy, new security lanes

Here's a full list of every airline and airport that offers the fast, new TSA PreCheck Touchless ID security program.

16 May 2026The Points Guy
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Hyatt Wins Loyalty Program Tax Fight That Could Save $589 Million — While Members Pay More Points For Free Nights

Hyatt just won a major appeals court fight over how its loyalty program is taxed, a ruling that could ultimately save the company $589 million, just as World of Hyatt members are about to pay more for free nights. The program is also getting a major economic boost from the new Chase deal.

16 May 2026View from the Wing
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American Express Gold vs. American Express Platinum: Which one is right for you?

If you're deciding between the premium Amex Platinum and the mid-tier Amex Gold, here's a comparison of their benefits and earning rates.

16 May 2026The Points Guy
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How Many Miles Per Gallon Does A Boeing 747-8 Get?

The newest version of the jumbo jet gets through a lot of fuel, but its high capacity means that the consumption is spread across more passengers.

16 May 2026Simple Flying
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You could save hundreds with these 60th anniversary Amex Gold offers — including complimentary Clear Concierge

Here are the best Amex Offers we've seen for the Amex Gold's 60th anniversary, including amazing deals on Clear Concierge and Uber One.

16 May 2026The Points Guy
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Royal ONE Plus Visa Signature credit card review: A premium path to cruise rewards

Designed for frequent cruisers, the Royal ONE Plus Visa Signature offers strong cruise rewards, priority perks and flexible onboard credit redemptions.

15 May 2026The Points Guy
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Reader mistake story: I missed out on a $250 hotel credit by forgetting to do this 1 thing

This week's mistake story is from a reader who tried to take advantage of a valuable hotel booking perk, but a simple error cost her dearly.

15 May 2026The Points Guy
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Last chance: Book these 10 popular Hyatt hotels with points right now — before major award chart changes

World of Hyatt is shifting its award chart on May 20, so now is the time to book with many of these popular properties before redemptions go up in price.

15 May 2026The Points Guy
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Rippling Corporate Card review: A powerful all-in-one card for cash back and expense control

The Rippling Corporate Card offers up to 1.75% in cash-back rewards and integrated spend management features at no annual fee. See whether this card is right for your business.

15 May 2026The Points Guy
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First look: Inside the Park Hyatt Cabo Del Sol, the beloved brand's debut in Mexico

Park Hyatt has a devoted fanbase around the world, including many staffers here at TPG. But the beloved brand has been noticeably absent in Mexico — until now.

15 May 2026The Points Guy
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United elite status vs. United cardholder perks: What gets you more?

Trying to decide between United Airlines status and a United card? We break down the similarities and differences, and how to get the most out of both.

15 May 2026The Points Guy
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JetBlue and United expand Blue Sky partnership with new reciprocal elite perks

JetBlue and United's Blue Sky partnership is expanding into a new phase focused on elite traveler benefits.

15 May 2026The Points Guy
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Chase Gives 30% More Southwest Points — Mostly Replaces What Rapid Rewards Took Away

Chase is offering a 30% bonus on transfers to Southwest Rapid Rewards, which sounds like value — until you remember how much Southwest has already taken away. The bonus mostly restores the value Rapid Rewards lost through devaluation, while showing how the new Southwest is happy to sell more points

15 May 2026View from the Wing
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7 cards that can replace your Amex Platinum

Are you reconsidering your Amex Platinum due to the high annual fee? Consider replacing it with one of these travel rewards credit cards.

14 May 2026The Points Guy
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Global Volunteer Month at Delta: People, purpose and partnership

Delta’s third annual Global Volunteer Month effort in April has quickly become a cornerstone for how the brand shows up to make a difference in communities. All month long, employees and SkyMiles Members joined volunteer events with Delta’s nonprofit partners across the globe. This year, more than 1

14 May 2026Delta Air Lines
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JW Marriott's first all-inclusive resort is now taking reservations

Here's everything we know about the JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa in Costa Rica.

14 May 2026The Points Guy
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Is the Chase Sapphire Reserve worth the annual fee?

The Chase Sapphire Reserve has an annual fee of $795 — is it worth it? Here's what you get for that fee to help you make up your mind.

14 May 2026The Points Guy
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United unveils new Tokyo route, nonstop US flights to Japan's top ski destination

United Airlines plans to launch two new routes to Japan this fall and winter, including service to Japan's top ski destination, Sapporo.

14 May 2026The Points Guy
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Allegiant and Sun Country are officially one, large leisure airline

Allegiant Air and Sun Country merge to create eighth largest airline in the U.S.

13 May 2026The Points Guy
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United Club Card review: Premium perks for frequent United flyers

The United Club Card offers United Club lounge access, free checked bags, Premier Access benefits and strong rewards on United Airlines purchases.

13 May 2026The Points Guy
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Are you eligible for a Chase Sapphire welcome bonus? Here's the full checklist

Before applying for a Chase Sapphire card, check these eligibility rules, including Chase's 5/24 policy and Sapphire bonus restrictions.

13 May 2026The Points Guy
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Airline baggage fees: How much it costs to check a bag on major US airlines

Many airlines now charge a checked bag fee, and some even charge for carry-on luggage. Here are the best airlines for baggage fees.

13 May 2026The Points Guy
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Frontier Passengers File $10 Million Claim Against Denver For Failing To Stop Runway Suicide

Frontier passengers traumatized after a suicidal trespasser walked into their jet’s path on a Denver runway have filed a $10 million claim against the city, arguing airport security should have stopped him before takeoff. Their trauma is real — but making taxpayers liable because someone scaled a ba

13 May 2026View from the Wing
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13 credit cards that can get you $1,500 or more in first-year value

How much are you getting from your credit card? If it's not enough, consider one of these choices that can provide at least $1,500 in value in the first year.

13 May 2026The Points Guy
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How to transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to United MileagePlus

Chase Ultimate Rewards has several appealing transfer partners, including United Airlines. Here's how to transfer Chase points to United MileagePlus.

13 May 2026The Points Guy
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Bargain era over: Airfares up a whopping 27% as fuel costs soar (See our booking tips)

If you waited until now to book summer flights, you may be in for an unpleasant surprise when you head to the airline’s website.

13 May 2026The Points Guy
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Citi / AAdvantage Globe Mastercard review: A strong mid-tier option for AA travelers

Receive lounge passes, a companion certificate and preferred boarding with the Citi / AAdvantage Globe Mastercard. See if it’s right for your travel style.

13 May 2026The Points Guy
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The Amex And Chase Points Playbook Is Changing — Some Programs Are Rising, Others Are Getting Riskier

Transferable points used to be the easy hedge against airline and hotel devaluations: keep flexible currency, transfer only when award space appears. But the currencies themselves are now moving in different directions, with some programs adding value while others lose edge or introduce new risk.

12 May 2026View from the Wing
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Self check-in kiosks and breakfast until 2 p.m.: My first Caption by Hyatt stay as a Globalist

What it’s like to stay at Caption by Hyatt Sydney Central as a Globalist member, including elite benefits, rooms, dining, amenities and self-service check-in.

12 May 2026The Points Guy
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Spirit Airlines collapse: See all the new flights rivals have added since the shut down

U.S. airlines are moving quickly to fill the gap left by Spirit Airlines in the market.

12 May 2026The Points Guy
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Man Who Walked In Front Of Frontier Jet In Denver Identified — Death Ruled Suicide

The man struck by a Frontier Airlines jet during takeoff in Denver has now been identified, and authorities say his death was suicide. He had climbed an 8-foot perimeter fence, crossed into a remote airfield area, and reached the active runway within about two minutes — a rare but not unprecedented

12 May 2026View from the Wing
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Offer extended: Free snacks on some flights if you are a Delta Air Lines cardholder

Delta is offering Delta cobrand cardholders an onboard snack for a limited time. Delta just extended the offer through the end of June.

12 May 2026The Points Guy
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United becomes 2nd US airline to return to Venezuela, ending nearly 10-year hiatus

Daily service from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Caracas’ Simon Bolivar International Airport (CCS) will begin Aug. 11.

12 May 2026The Points Guy
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Deal of the day: Fly nonstop to Tahiti from 25,000 Capital One miles

You can save on flights to Tahiti with this Qantas deal, and stretch your points even further with a Capital One transfer bonus.

12 May 2026The Points Guy
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Amex just added ChatGPT statement credits for select business cardholders

American Express launches a perk for Amex Business Platinum and Amex Business cardmembers: up to $300 in statement credits for ChatGPT Business. What to know.

12 May 2026The Points Guy
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Amex Centurion Lounges: Access, guest policies and more - The Points Guy

Amex Centurion Lounges: Access, guest policies and more The Points Guy

12 May 2026Google News: Lounge News
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Air France KLM Just Put A Real Points Expert In Charge Of Flying Blue

Most loyalty programs are run by people who understand spreadsheets better than members. Flying Blue just went the other way, tapping someone who has spent years on the member side of loyalty: helping travelers understand points, search awards, and navigate the programs from the outside. That is rar

11 May 2026View from the Wing
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Inside London's new luxury wellness retreat: Six Senses London

The Six Senses London is a 109-room luxury retreat in the heart of the British capital with some of the most cutting-edge spa and wellness facilities of any hotel.

11 May 2026The Points Guy
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Jeffrey Epstein Had 17 Amex Cards And 11 Million Points — His Black Card Concierge Booked “Decoy” Visa Flights

Jeffrey Epstein’s Amex records show the banal machinery behind something much darker: 17 cards, 11 million Membership Rewards points, and a Black Card concierge helping book “decoy” flights for visa interviews.

11 May 2026View from the Wing
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United Quest Card review: A powerful mid-tier card for United loyalists

The United Quest Card comes with United Airlines benefits that frequent United flyers will appreciate. But is it the best card for you? Here's what to know.

11 May 2026The Points Guy
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We're bringing back reader success and mistake stories. Tell us yours!

The Points Guy is relaunching our article series on reader successes and mistakes using points and miles. Write to us and tell us yours.

11 May 2026The Points Guy
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Frontier Scolded Passenger For Leaving Bags Behind During Evacuation — Then They Had To Fight For Diapers And Formula

Frontier passengers were told to leave their bags behind during an emergency evacuation — exactly what safety rules require. One mother traveling with a baby says she did just that, then spent hours without diapers, formula, ID, keys, medication, or a car seat while Frontier scolded them for not tak

11 May 2026View from the Wing
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A complete guide to Amex’s 1-bonus-per-lifetime restrictions

Everything you need to know about how American Express typically limits customers to one welcome bonus per card during their lifetimes.

11 May 2026The Points Guy
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Points Battle: 2 trips, 150,000 points, 1 card — who will win?

How we used the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card plus 100,000 Ultimate Rewards points to plan two epic trips, one to New Zealand and one to Morocco for a chance to win even more points.

11 May 2026The Points Guy
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Need points for holiday season travel this fall and winter? Apply for a new credit card now

Applying for a new credit card now can earn you bonus rewards to help you make your holiday travel bookings early, saving you money and stress.

11 May 2026The Points Guy
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Your United Miles Can Help Someone Reach A Dying Loved One In Time — Here’s How

Miles are usually about getting more value for yourself. But United miles can also do something far more urgent: help someone get on a plane in time to say goodbye to a dying loved one.

11 May 2026View from the Wing
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I finally flew ANA’s The Room business-class product to see if it lives up to the hype

I finally flew ANA’s The Room business class on a 12-hour flight. Here’s what stood out, and what fell short, on my long-haul flight from Tokyo.

11 May 2026The Points Guy
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Bags Before Safety: Frontier Evacuation Faces NTSB Probe Over Carry-On Chaos

Passengers reportedly ignored crew instructions and took their carry-on bags.

11 May 2026Simple Flying
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“Leave The Bags!” Flight Attendants Plead In Frontier Evacuation Video — Passengers Took Carry-Ons Anyway

Cabin video from the Frontier evacuation shows flight attendants pleading, “Leave the bags!” as passengers took carry-ons anyway. The exchange captures why emergency evacuations rarely work the way safety briefings imagine: people panic, protect their belongings, film, and make split-second choices

10 May 2026View from the Wing
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Hurry For The Chase 100,000 Point Ink Business Preferred Bonus

Chase has brought back a 100,000-point bonus on the Ink Business Preferred, giving small-business owners and those of you with a side hustle one of the strongest bank card offers available right now. The card’s $95 annual fee is low for a bonus this large, and the points can be transferred to valuab

10 May 2026View from the Wing