Following is our routine overview of the latest travel news and best traveler promotions reviewed during the week.
If it was a notably bad deal — or a good bargain — by an airline, hotel, or car rental loyalty program, you may read all about it , and plan your travel so.
Four Airlines See Notebook Ban Lifted
That laptop ban that has been the subject of debate and hand-wringing? It’s creating a slow fade into oblivion as more airlines are exempted.
Hyatt Diminishes Transparency, Opens Door to Sky-High Award Bargains
It corrected its provisions and conditions to allow it to increase award prices nilly when Hyatt added a new hotel to its record of award alternatives. Ouch!
Is TSA Missing 95 percent of Banned Items at Security?
A recent evaluation found that in detecting items that were banned at security checkpoints, the TSA’s success rate was a dismal 5 percent.
American, Alaska Air Frequent-Flyer Partnership Unravels
Beginning next year, the frequent-flyer connection between Alaska Air and American will be powerful. Details here.
‘Unsafe, Uncomfortable, Unfair’ — United’s New Tagline?
United’s recent series of highly publicized blunders and misdeeds has made a mockery of this company’s longtime tagline, “Fly the friendly skies!”
How Much Would You Pay to Have an Empty Seat Next to You?
Just how much would you pay to have the trainer seat? Middle East carrier Etihad Airways is about to find out.
Uber Changes Course, Adds Tipping Option to Program
Uber this week did the unthinkable: The world’s dominant rideshare company reversed its own long-held policy that is no-tipping. Perfect for motorists; less so for riders.
Acquire a 5-Day Visit to Iceland, Including Business-Class Air
Enter to win a five-day trip for 2 to Iceland, such as helicopter, airport transfers, resort, one dinner, business-class air and tours, swag.
Somebody has to win this trip, right? Might as well be you.