Miles & Points: The Week’s Best Frequent-Flyer Deals (Week of December 6, 2013)

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.

Supreme Court Considers Frequent-Flyer Rights Case

Very rarely do you hear about an airline expelling a member from its loyalty program. But just such a case came to light in arguments before the Supreme Court.

500 Rapid Rewards Points for Southwest Gift Cards

Through December 9, every purchase of a Southwest gift card of $200 or more will reward the buyer with 500 bonus Rapid Rewards points.

For Sale at Delta: Elite-Qualifying Miles

Through the end of this year, SkyMiles members can purchase between 2,500 and 10,000 elite-qualifying miles that will count toward reaching elite status for 2014.

Amex Cards Set to Lose Lounge Access Benefit

Beginning in March 2014, holders of American Express Platinum and Centurion cards will no longer enjoy complimentary access to the airport lounges of American and US Airways.

TSA Opens PreCheck to All U.S. Citizens

Expedited security screening is now available to most U.S. flyers.

Award Discounts for AAdvantage Credit Cardholders

Got an American AAdvantage credit card issued by Citibank or American Express? Then you may be entitled to book award flights for fewer miles.

United Doubles the Miles in Battle for Seattle

Through May 31, 2014, MileagePlus members can earn double miles for United or United Express flights between Seattle and Los Angeles, Portland, San Francisco, or Anchorage.

Win a ‘Masterpiece’ Trip to Britain for Two

Enter the Public Broadcasting Service Masterpiece sweepstake by March 15, 2014, for a chance to win the grand prize: a five-night trip for two to Great Britain, including airfare, hotel, and tours of the Sherlock Holmes museum, Selfridges department store, and Highclere Castle (as seen in “Downton Abbey”).

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