News from October 2024
Alaska Airlines offers two cobranded credit cards that appeal to loyal customers: the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card and the Alaska Airlines Visa® Business card. Both cards, issued by Bank of America, cater to different types of users while providing similar benefits.
Between October 14 and October 31, Air New Zealand is increasing its flight capacity to Apia, Samoa's capital, by operating 25 return flights. This increase represents a 29 percent boost compared to typical operations during this period. The move aims to accommodate the heightened demand as Samoa hosts the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).
Icelandair and TAP Air Portugal have announced a new codeshare agreement, expanding their existing partnership. The agreement was signed on October 14 at TAP's offices located at Lisbon Airport.
American Airlines has initiated a limited beta test for online redemption of systemwide upgrade certificates, fulfilling a promise made earlier this year. The trial began on Monday and is available to select AAdvantage members who were notified via email. This test will last two to three weeks and aims to assess the need for adjustments before broader implementation.
Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) is set to showcase its diverse training and career opportunities at the upcoming 'Professional Days' event at Zurich Airport from October 22 to 26. The event will allow attendees of all ages to participate in daily tours and informational sessions, offering insights into various jobs and roles associated with the airline.
When The Points Guy's senior writer, Ben Smithson, informed a colleague about Air France-KLM Flying Blue's July Promo Reward sale, offering flights from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Europe starting at 15,000 Flying Blue miles each way, it was an opportunity too good to pass up. This particular deal was noteworthy because such offers typically depart from either the East or West Coast, and the individual in question is based in Colorado.
Unite Here, a national labor group representing hospitality workers on strike in various U.S. cities, has called for state attorneys general to investigate hotel loyalty programs. The group claims these programs engage in deceptive practices and devalue rewards.
Whether you're purchasing a home, leasing a vehicle, or applying for a new credit card, having a healthy credit score can significantly impact your ability to secure low interest rates or increase your chances of approval. For those with poor credit or no credit history, obtaining a loan or line of credit can be challenging.
The USAA Preferred Cash Rewards Visa Signature Credit Card is a straightforward cash-back option for military members, their spouses, and dependents. It offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on purchases without an annual fee. However, it lacks introductory APR offers or exclusive perks.
Federal Express Corporation has taken a significant step towards its goal of zero-tailpipe emissions by introducing four new electric vehicles (EVs) to its fleet in Thailand. This initiative, part of FedEx's broader vehicle electrification strategy, aims for an all-electric parcel pickup and delivery fleet by 2040.
Last month, a growing number of travelers were caught off guard by a Mexican customs rule that limits travelers to one portable computing device each. This rule considers both laptops and tablets as personal computing devices. However, travelers can bring up to two cellphones.
Delta Air Lines has announced a suspension of its flights between New York's JFK Airport and Tel Aviv until March 31, 2025. This decision is attributed to the ongoing conflict in the region. Passengers affected by these changes will be notified through the Fly Delta app and via contact details provided in their reservations.
Virgin Atlantic is set to introduce significant changes to its Flying Club loyalty program starting October 30. The changes, announced last month, will involve a shift to dynamic pricing and expanded redemption and points-earning opportunities. However, the full details are yet to be disclosed.
Singapore Airlines has announced its KrisFlyer Spontaneous Escapes promotion, offering significant discounts on select award flights. This month's offer includes a 30% discount on specific routes if bookings are made by October 31, for travel between November 1 and November 30.
Chase has announced a 40% transfer bonus to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, as reported by View from the Wing. This offer is available until November 30 and is described by Chase as its largest-ever offer to Virgin Atlantic. However, potential users should be aware that Virgin Atlantic will transition to a dynamic pricing model for points redemptions starting October 30.
Air New Zealand has initiated a significant refurbishment of its Boeing 787-9 fleet, marking a first in the aviation industry. The initial aircraft, identified by registration code ZK-NZH, arrived in Singapore to undergo extensive interior upgrades at ST Engineering, the airline's maintenance partner.
Japanese budget airline Zipair is expanding its reach to the United States with a new route connecting Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Tokyo's Narita International Airport (NRT). Starting March 4, 2025, the airline will operate four weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Ethiopian Airlines has launched a new passenger service to Port Sudan, a key city on the Red Sea in the Republic of Sudan. The inaugural flight took off from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport after a ceremony attended by delegates from Sudan and Ethiopian Airlines executives.
The Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood, Florida, is undergoing a significant transformation. Currently part of Hilton's Curio Collection, the 36-story resort will become the Signia by Hilton Diplomat Beach Resort. This change marks it as only the fourth hotel under the Signia brand, which emphasizes major gateway cities and offers top-tier event and meeting spaces.
Seven employees of Dometic's Philadelphia-area plant have reached a settlement with the United Auto Workers (UAW) union officials after filing a federal case. The case was based on allegations that the union threatened illegal discipline during a strike. This outcome mandates UAW officials to address not only these threats but also issues related to blocking workers from resigning their memberships and unlawfully demanding full union dues.