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Each Saturday, we round up news stories that you may have missed from the week before, including several that already appeared on The Points Guy, and some more that we haven’t covered yet. If you’re an avid TPG reader, scroll down for the new stuff. Here’s the top miles, points and travel news you may have missed this week.
Hurricane Maria swept through several Caribbean islands this week, leaving devastation in its wake and making it hard to fly to the region. Here’s how to make sure any flight you’ve had to cancel because of the storm doesn’t end up costing you money.
The Best Airline Elite Status Programs in the US
If you’re a frequent traveler, elite status is a topic that most likely crosses your mind often — but it’s hard to know which airline’s program will work best for you. Check out TPG‘s comprehensive study to see which carrier provides the best elite status program for its flyers.
United Confirms Final Domestic and International 747 Flights
Though the carrier has already operated a “final” domestic 747 flight, United recently confirmed when the last 747 flight will be — for real this time. The flight from San Francisco (SFO) to Honolulu (HNL) will take place on Tuesday, November 7, 2017. Unfortunately, tickets are completely sold out now, but TPG will be on board documenting everything, so stay tuned.
The Best Ways to Book Lufthansa First Class
When you fly in Lufthansa first class — regardless of the equipment — you’re going to get a consistent, luxurious experience. Find out all the best ways to book this ticket so you too can try out one of the best products in the air today.
American Express to Expand Dallas Centurion Lounge to Combat Overcrowding
Amex Centurion Lounges are some of the best places to kill time before you fly, however their popularity has also led to problems with overcrowding. Now, Amex is expanding its lounge at Dallas (DFW) in hopes of alleviating some of the crowds at that particular location.
Check out Austrian Airlines’ New Premium Economy Seat
TPG Editor-at-Large Zach Honig got an exclusive peek at Austrian Airlines’ new premium economy product this week at the Star Alliance MegaDo. While it looks great, its introduction also means a decrease in business-class seats and likely less award availability as a result.
MegaDo Day 1: Flying a Bankrupt Airline From New York to Rome
Every wonder what it’s like to fly on a bankrupt airline? In the case of Alitalia, it wasn’t half bad. Read about the entire experience here.
Amex Adds Lufthansa Lounge Access for Platinum and Centurion Cardmembers
American Express recently added access to four Lufthansa Lounges in Munich (MUC) for Amex Platinum cardholders — if you have the Centurion Card, you’ll be able to access the airline’s fantastic First Class Lounge at the airport as well.
In other news…
You Can Now Use Hilton Honors Points for Amazon Purchases
Though the program was announced several months ago, Hilton and Amazon launched “Shop With Points” this week, allowing Hilton Honors members to redeem points to pay for Amazon purchases. Unsurprisingly, you won’t be getting a good value from your points if you choose to use them this way.
The American Express Platinum card has some of the best perks out there: cardholders enjoy the best domestic lounge access (Delta SkyClubs, Centurion Lounges, and Priority Pass), a $200 annual airline fee credit as well as up to $200 in Uber credits, and mid-tier elite status at SPG, Marriott, and Hilton. Combined with the 60,000 point welcome offer -- worth $1,140 based on TPG's valuations -- this card is a no-brainer for frequent travelers. Here are 5 reasons you should consider this card, as well as how you can figure out if the $550 annual fee makes sense for you.
- Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases in your first 3 months.
- Enjoy Uber VIP status and free rides in the U.S. up to $15 each month, plus a bonus $20 in December. That can be up to $200 in annual Uber savings.
- 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel.
- 5X Membership Rewards points on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com.
- Enjoy access to the Global Lounge Collection, the only credit card airport lounge access program that includes proprietary lounge locations around the world.
- Receive complimentary benefits with an average total value of $550 with Fine Hotels & Resorts. Learn More.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit, up to $200 per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one qualifying airline.
- Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue on your Platinum Card®. Enrollment required.
- $550 annual fee.
- Terms Apply.
- See Rates & Fees
Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
Disclaimer: The responses below are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser. Responses have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the bank advertiser. It is not the bank advertiser’s responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.
