Miles & Points: The Week’s Best Frequent Flyer Deals

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.

Surprise, the Airports with the Most Guns Are …

The list of the top 10 airports where you’re most likely to cross paths with the country’s would-be flying gunslingers includes some surprises.

Best Western Offers Free Night After Three Stays

Between June 17 and August 18, members of Best Western’s Rewards program can earn one free-night voucher after completing three separate stays at participating Best Western hotels.

American-US Air Merger Claims Contested

Claims made by representatives of American and US Airways at a Senate merger hearing can’t be taken at face value.

No U.S. Carriers Among World’s Best Airlines?

The latest Skytrax World Airline Survey features many Asian and Middle Eastern carriers among its top-rated airlines. But U.S. airlines aren’t among the top 10. Or top 20.

United Adds Spend to Elite Status Requirements

United today that, beginning in January 2014, MileagePlus elite status will be awarded on the basis of a combination of elite-qualifying miles and spend.

American and Marriott, Loyalty Partners Again

After a three-year split, members of American’s AAdvantage program can again earn miles for Marriott stays, and Marriott Rewards members can convert points into AAdvantage miles.

United Ups Change Fees for Award Tickets

Effective today, United has increased fees to change an award booking or cancel an award booking and have the miles redeposited into a MileagePlus account.

JetBlue Upgrades Points-Expiration Policy

Members of JetBlue’s TrueBlue program now have one fewer thing to worry about: their TrueBlue points will no longer expire.

Win One of Four Travel Packages for Two

Enter the Hilton Great Getaway Giveaway sweepstakes by August 4 for a chance to win one of four prize trips for two, including air and hotel, and up to $2,300 spending money.

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