Miles & Points: The Week’s Best Frequent-Flyer Deals (Week of November 19, 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.

Southwest Now Included in TSA Pre Check

Southwest this week became the eighth airline to participate in TSA’s Pre Check program, allowing passengers to use a special security-clearance lane with less intrusive screening.

‘New York Times’ Slams American Merger as ‘Unwise’

The New York Times yesterday published “An Unwise Airline Merger,” the title of which succinctly reflects the editorial board’s assessment of the American-US Airways merger.

Next Mileage Program Devaluation: Alaska Air’s

The devaluation season continues with yesterday’s announcement by Alaska Airlines that, effective January 14, 2014, prices for a number of award flights would change.

Virgin America Sweetens ‘Feel the Earn’ Promotion

Virgin America has expanded the double-points portion of its Feel the Earn promotion to include Main Cabin flights through December 31.

Hyatt Is Latest to Devalue Loyalty Program

The net effect of Hyatt’s upcoming program changes will be an increase in award prices, and a decrease in the value of Gold Passport points.

Delta Devalues SkyMiles with More Price Increases

Delta has announced yet another round of price increases for SkyMiles award tickets.

Flyers Sue British Air Over ‘Fuel Surcharges’

Annoyed by those so-called fuel surcharges British Airways imposes on award flights? You’re not alone. And the matter may be headed for a public hearing in a U.S. court.

Win a Grammy Weekend for Two in Los Angeles

Enter the Hilton We’ll Take You There sweepstakes for a chance to win a trip for two to Los Angeles, including airfare, hotel, and tickets to the Grammy awards.

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

(Photo: Map via Shutterstock.com)