Miles & Points: The Week’s Best Frequent-Flyer Deals (Week of August 8, 2014)

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.

Airfare: ‘A Great Bargain for American Consumers’?

Delta’s CEO correctly points out that airfares have never been lower. But does that make them a bargain? Most flyers think they’re anything but.

Earn Bonus Hyatt Points at 13 Las Vegas Hotels

Through December 30, Hyatt Gold Passport members can earn bonus points after every third night at any of 12 MGM properties or the Hyatt Place hotel.

Spend-Based AAdvantage Program ‘Not on the Plate’

According to American’s CEO, converting AAdvantage to a revenue-based program will be a two-step process. In other words, don’t hold your breath.

U.S. News: Marriott’s Is the Best Hotel Program

Marriott Rewards is the best hotel loyalty program, according to U.S. News & World Report, the former news weekly whose “Best Colleges” rankings have become its best-known product.

Orbitz Adds Dining Points to Rewards Program

Members of the Orbitz Rewards program can now earn Orbucks when dining at more than 11,000 participating restaurants.

DOT Weighs Inflight Cell Phone Use

Will you ever be able to use your cell phone on a plane? The answer may be coming soon.

10 Best Frequent Flyer Programs

A new report ranks the major U.S. carriers from best to worst. Do you belong to the right program?

Is the Recent TSA Fee Hike Illegal?

The airlines are so opposed to the TSA fee hike that they’re suing to stop them.

Enter to Win a Seven-Day Trip for Two to Hawaii

The seven-day trip for two includes air, hotel, some meals, spa treatments, and a video camera.

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