Miles & Points: The Week’s Best Frequent-Flyer Deals (Week of March 13, 2015)

Following is our regular summary of the latest travel news and best frequent traveler promotions reviewed during the past week.

If it was a good deal—or a notably bad deal—from an airline, hotel, or car rental loyalty program, you can read all about it here, and plan your travel accordingly.

Mileage Programs Need Regulating, and Now!

Among the many gripes consumers have about the airlines, mileage programs perhaps draw the most complaints. Is it time the government intervened to give travelers some relief?

American, US Air Programs to Merge Soon

The biggest and final step in consolidating the mileage programs of American and US Airways will take place in April. Here’s what you should do to prepare.

New Discover Card Awards 3 Percent Rebate on Travel

The latest entry in the travel-rewards credit card universe is the new Miles card from Discover, which features an effective 3 percent rebate on travel purchases.

United to Upgrade Its Airport Lounges

United will be “transforming the customer experience” at its 49 airport lounges, introducing new menu items, renovating facilities, and retraining staff.

Delta with Even More Changes to SkyMiles

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This week, Delta took a break from its recent string of bad-news announcements to publicize three SkyMiles changes that qualify as at least modestly consumer friendly.

Earn an Easy 1,000 Points from Hilton

Members of Hilton’s HHonors program can earn an easy 1,000 bonus points by updating their passwords before March 25.

Non-Flight Awards, Do They Offer Value?

Bottom line: Miles redeemed for flights are twice as valuable as miles redeemed for alternative awards.

Double Miles on Alaska’s New Seattle-JFK Flights

Through October 28, Mileage Plan members can earn double miles on Alaska’s Seattle-New York flights, launching on September 16.

Win an Eight-Day Danube River Cruise for 2

Enter the Viking River Cruises “Romantic Danube” sweepstakes by March 31 for a chance to win an eight-day Danube River cruise, including air, all meals onboard, tours.

Somebody has to win, right? Might as well be you.