# policy change

Changes to airline, hotel and program policies that are neither a price increase nor a promotion: baggage rules, seat assignment, cancellation and change terms, account and points expiry rules, and booking conditions. Stories here state what changed and from when. Changes that make points worth less are also filed under devaluation.

100 signals tagged policy change (type).

## December 2 is the cutoff for Southwest bonuses toward Companion Pass

Yesterday · 2 sources · Southwest, loyalty program, policy change, airline, credit card, award redemption, program change

The Priority card still pays 90,000 points after $3,000 spend in 3 months and the Plus card pays 80,000 after $1,000, both short of the Companion Pass threshold.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/southwests-new-credit-card-bonuses-offer-up-to-90-000-points-toward-companion-pa)

## Lufthansa Group requires Travel ID for online check-in from October 20

Yesterday · 3 sources · Lufthansa, policy change, airline, safety & operations, service policy change

Lufthansa Group web and app check-in will no longer work with only a booking reference, and U.S. flights join on November 16, 2026.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/lufthansa-now-requires-an-account-just-to-check-in-online)

## JetBlue raises first checked bag to $50 each way

Yesterday · 5 sources · JetBlue, policy change, airline, devaluation, fee change, service policy change

The second hike of 2026 applies to tickets bought from November 3, while Mosaic members and JetBlue Plus and Premier cardholders still get a free checked bag.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/jetblue-raises-bag-fees-againone-checked-bag-can-cost-140-roundtrip-other-airlin)

## American adds earlier-flight standby to disruption rebooking

Thursday · 1 source · American Airlines, policy change, airline, app & tech, service policy change

Disrupted American passengers who rebook in the app or on aa.com can list for an earlier nonstop and keep their confirmed flight until they clear.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/american-airlines-adds-new-app-option-when-flights-go-wrongtry-for-an-earlier-fl)

## Delta has free Sync Wi-Fi on more than 95% of its fleet

Wednesday · 1 source · Delta Air Lines, policy change, airline, credit card, service policy change

SkyMiles members now get free inflight Wi-Fi on nearly 1,300 Delta aircraft, with paid service still on 717s and most regionals until early 2027.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/delta-now-offers-free-wi-fi-on-over-95-of-its-fleet-heres-how-to-check-your-flig)

## Flying Blue Complete+ lets members buy 30,000 miles a month

Wednesday · 2 sources · Air France-KLM, loyalty program, policy change, airline, credit card, devaluation, program change

The new Subscribe to Miles tier credits 30,000 Flying Blue miles each month, with a 3-month commitment and no elite-qualifying credit.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/air-france-klm-flying-blue-subscribe-to-miles-launches-complete-with-30-000-mile)

## Flying Blue delays 50% SAF XP hike to 1 December 2026

Wednesday · 2 sources · Air France-KLM, loyalty program, policy change, airline, devaluation, elite status, program change

Flying Blue members again pay €10 per XP for SAF and charity after a hike without notice, but the rate still rises to €15 on 1 December 2026.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/flying-blue-delays-saf-donation-xp-changes-until-december-2026)

## Aeroplan Members Can Now Redeem Points for Harbour Air Seaplane Flights

Wednesday · 3 sources · Air Canada, American Express, Chase, Canada, loyalty program, policy change, airline, credit card, award redemption, partnership

Flights, hotels, credit cards, points

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/aeroplan-members-can-now-redeem-points-for-harbour-air-seaplane-flights)

## Air Tahiti Nui will add free Starlink Wi-Fi on 787-9s in 2027

Tuesday · 1 source · policy change, airline, service policy change

Passengers in every cabin on Air Tahiti Nui's four Boeing 787-9s will get complimentary Starlink in 2027, with no month set.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/air-tahiti-nui-will-offer-free-starlink-wi-fi-on-its-boeing-787s-as-of-2027)

## Amex auto-enables Pay Over Time on February 1, 2027

Tuesday · 1 source · American Express, credit card, policy change

American Express will automatically turn on Pay Over Time on February 1, 2027 for accounts that already have it, including cards with no preset spending limit.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/pay-over-time-on-eligible-amex-cards-will-no-longer-be-optional-from-2-1-27)

## Amex UK Platinum caps Priority Pass at 20 visits from 2028

Tuesday · 1 source · American Express, policy change, credit card, lounge, service policy change

American Express will cap UK Platinum primary cardholders at 20 Priority Pass visits a calendar year from 1 January 2028.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/american-express-ends-unlimited-priority-pass-lounge-visits-for-platinum-cards-i)

## ALL Accor+ Explorer adds 3-night Stay Plus minimum at some hotels

Tuesday · 1 source · Accor Live Limitless, loyalty program, policy change, hotel, credit card, program change

Stay Plus free nights at some hotels now require a minimum of 3 consecutive nights for paid ALL Accor+ Explorer members.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/all-accor-explorer-benefit-changes-october-november-2026)

## Flying Blue raises SAF spend per XP from €10 to €15

Monday · 1 source · Air France-KLM, loyalty program, policy change, airline, hotel, devaluation, elite status, program change

Flying Blue members offsetting Air France KLM flights with sustainable aviation fuel now earn one XP for every €15 spent, up from €10.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/ouch-flying-blue-makes-earning-xps-through-saf-50-more-expensive)

## IHG starts paying points on master-billed group stays

Monday · 1 source · IHG One Rewards, loyalty program, policy change, hotel, program change

IHG One Rewards is beginning to credit a flat nightly points award and elite qualifying nights on master-billed group stays of at least $30 a night.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/ihg-one-rewards-members-now-earn-points-qualifying-nights-on-master-billed-stays)

## American reopens LAX Flagship Dining to Flagship Business next week

Oct 30 · 2 sources · American Airlines, policy change, airline, service policy change

American Airlines will seat qualifying Flagship Business passengers with first class in the private restaurant at Los Angeles next week after a March 2020 closure.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/scoop-american-airlines-is-reopening-its-exclusive-lax-dining-room-next-week-aft)

## United sells three-tier domestic first class from October 28, 2026

Oct 29 · 2 sources · United Airlines, policy change, airline, service policy change

United's Base domestic first class fare charges $199 to change and earns 0 MileagePlus award miles.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/united-airlines-launches-basic-first-class-with-punitive-change-fees-and-zero-aw)

## Bilt ends 4% Bilt Cash for new cardholders from January 1, 2027

Oct 29 · 1 source · Bilt, loyalty program, policy change, credit card, program change

Anyone who wants 4% Bilt Cash needs a Bilt card before January 1, 2027 and must opt out of Housing Only Rewards while that choice is still available.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/decomplexifying-bilt-my-personal-ponderings)

## Etihad Guest now earns up to 250% on STARLUX flights

Oct 28 · 1 source · Etihad, loyalty program, policy change, airline, award redemption, partnership, program change

Etihad Guest members now earn miles on STARLUX flights, with first class F and A tickets crediting 250 percent of miles flown.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/etihad-guest-members-can-now-earn-miles-for-starlux-flights)

## Heathrow plans to put Delta in Terminal 4 in 2028

Oct 28 · 1 source · Delta Air Lines, Virgin Atlantic, policy change, airline, credit card, partnership, service policy change

Delta business class would lose access to Virgin Atlantic's Clubhouse at Heathrow in 2028 under a plan to move the airline to Terminal 4.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/london-plans-to-bump-delta-from-terminal-3-no-more-virgin-clubhouse-access)

## JetBlue overhauls TrueBlue and Mosaic perks on February 1, 2027

Oct 28 · 2 sources · JetBlue, loyalty program, policy change, airline, hotel, credit card, devaluation, elite status, program change

TrueBlue and Mosaic members face smaller Perks You Pick bonuses from February 1, 2027, including a TrueBlue point award that falls from 5,000 to 1,000.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/jetblue-trueblue-changes-coming-in-2027-new-perks-you-pick-menus-complimentary-u)

## Bilt retires 4% Flexible Bilt Cash unless holders opt out

Oct 27 · 3 sources · Bilt, loyalty program, policy change, credit card, program change

Bilt cardholders must opt out in the Bilt app before their next anniversary to keep 4% Flexible Bilt Cash, after which the choice is locked.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/bilt-program-changes-for-2027-impact-bilt-cash-credit-cards-hotel-redemptions)

## Bilt ends 4% Flexible Bilt Cash for new cardholders from 2027

Oct 27 · 1 source · Bilt, loyalty program, policy change, credit card, program change

New cardholders approved on or after January 1, 2027 will earn Housing-Only Rewards of up to 1.25X on rent or mortgage rather than 4% Flexible Bilt Cash.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/bilt-rewards-is-changing-its-program-again-some-good-some-bad)

## BA raises Silver to 8,000 tier points and cuts Club World bonuses

Oct 27 · 2 sources · British Airways, loyalty program, policy change, airline, devaluation, program change

British Airways will raise Silver to 8,000 tier points from 1 April 2027 and cut Club World bonuses from 500 to 200 for bookings from 25 November 2026.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/british-airways-increases-tier-point-requirements-for-silver-gold-from-april-1-2)

## Bilt shifts cards to 1.25x housing points unless 4% locked by Dec 31

Oct 27 · 1 source · Bilt, loyalty program, policy change, airline, credit card, program change

New Bilt cards will default to up to 1.25 points per dollar on housing from January 1, 2027 unless applicants accept by December 31, 2026 to keep 4% Bilt Cash.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/bilt-introduces-daily-rewards-with-a-chance-at-1-million-for-a-homeand-gives-you)

## ANA staff at Osaka Itami refuse standby on partner awards

Oct 27 · 1 source · United Airlines, policy change, airline, service policy change

ANA agents at Osaka Itami refused earlier flight standby on a United MileagePlus award from Itami to Haneda costing 6,000 miles plus $5.60.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/ana-all-nippon-airways-no-longer-allows-standby-on-partner-issued-award-tickets)

## Flying Blue adds Qantas Premium Economy and First awards

Oct 27 · 1 source · Qantas, Air France-KLM, policy change, airline, partnership, service policy change

Flying Blue members can now redeem miles for Qantas Premium Economy and First awards on routes such as Sydney to Los Angeles.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/qantas-premium-economy-first-class-award-now-available-through-air-france-klms-f)

## Amex stops auto-linking new Membership Rewards cards

Oct 26 · 1 source · American Express, credit card, policy change

Cardholders who already hold Membership Rewards cards must choose the link step in the application or contact Amex later to combine balances.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/amex-no-longer-automatically-linking-membership-rewards-accounts)

## WestJet raises Silver TQS to $5,000 and Platinum to $15,000 in 2027

Oct 26 · 1 source · loyalty program, policy change, airline, hotel, credit card, program change

WestJet Rewards will raise Silver, Gold and Platinum TQS to $5,000, $8,000 and $15,000 from 1 January 2027, with elite benefits unchanged.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/upcoming-changes-to-westjet-rewards-tier-qualifying-spend-thresholds-in-2027)

## Southwest adds Platinum at 140,000 points on January 1, 2027

Oct 25 · 1 source · Southwest, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, loyalty program, policy change, airline, elite status, program change

A-List Preferred members who already hold Companion Pass gain little by pushing to Southwest Platinum at 140,000 points on January 1, 2027.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/how-southwests-new-2027-elite-status-compares-to-american-delta-and-united)

## Amex adds a 10-minute Centurion Lounge waitlist in the app

Oct 25 · 1 source · American Express, policy change, hotel, credit card, lounge, service policy change

As of 18 September 2025, eligible cardholders can join the queue for a U.S. Centurion Lounge in the Amex app and have 10 minutes to check in once called.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/amex-centurion-lounge-waitlist-how-to-join-the-queue-before-you-arrive)

## Southwest will open 11 Icon Lounges from late 2027

Oct 25 · 1 source · Southwest, Chase, policy change, airline, credit card, service policy change

Access to Southwest's 11 Icon Lounges, starting late 2027 in Austin, Baltimore, Nashville and Honolulu, is expected mainly through a new Chase premium card.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/southwest-will-open-11-airport-lounges-starting-in-2027-here-s-what-we-know)

## BA raises Silver to 8,000 points and cuts Club World bonuses

Oct 23 · 1 source · British Airways, loyalty program, policy change, airline, safety & operations, promotion, program change

British Airways will lift Silver to 8,000 tier points from 1 April 2027 as Club World bonuses fall from 500 to 200 per flight.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/british-airways-makes-status-harder-to-earn-again-while-slashing-bonus-points-fo)

## Delta holds 2027 Medallion MQDs at 5,000 to 28,000 for a third year

Oct 22 · 2 sources · Delta Air Lines, loyalty program, policy change, airline, credit card, devaluation, elite status, program change

Delta said 2027 Medallion qualification will match 2026 for SkyMiles members, keeping Silver at 5,000 MQDs and Diamond at 28,000 MQDs.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/just-in-delta-confirms-medallion-status-requirements-for-2027)

## Singapore Airlines makes Changi concierge permanent for Suites, First

Oct 22 · 1 source · Singapore Airlines, policy change, airline, service policy change

Singapore Airlines now assigns Suites and First Class passengers at Changi a personal concierge from First Class check in to the aircraft door.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/singapore-airlines-adds-a-personal-concierge-for-first-class-passengers-from-che)

## Frontier will launch first class on March 5, 2027

Oct 21 · 1 source · policy change, airline, service policy change

Frontier will install 2 rows of first class seats that do not recline in a 2 by 2 configuration and put tickets on sale for travel from March 5, 2027.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/frontier-airlines-new-first-class-wont-include-food-drinks-or-recline)

## Etihad lets Jakarta business class rebook 5 days around Hi Fly

Oct 21 · 1 source · Etihad, policy change, airline, service policy change

Business class passengers with tickets issued on or before 15 October 2026 for EY472 and EY473 may move to an Etihad operated Jakarta flight within 5 days of departure.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/etihad-issues-travel-waiver-for-jakarta-rotation-affected-by-operating-airline-c)

## Hilton tests Pay with Points at 150 U.S. hotels

Oct 21 · 1 source · Hilton Honors, loyalty program, policy change, hotel, award redemption, program change

Silver elite and higher Hilton Honors members can redeem points for folio charges at 150 U.S. hotels during digital checkout.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/hilton-wants-you-redeeming-points-at-checkoutinternal-memo-says-hotels-will-get)

## Asia Miles restores Japan Airlines awards after this month's outage

Oct 20 · 1 source · Cathay Pacific, JAL, policy change, airline, service policy change

Cathay Pacific Asia Miles members can book Japan Airlines awards in every cabin again after award space vanished earlier this month.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/cathay-pacific-brings-back-jal-awards-using-asia-miles)

## Delta equips 95% of fleet for free Wi-Fi after Pacific gap closes

Oct 20 · 1 source · Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Southwest, policy change, airline, service policy change

SkyMiles members can expect free internet on almost every Delta flight, including transpacific routes, now that more than 95% of the fleet is outfitted.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/deltas-free-wi-fi-rollout-reaches-95-of-planes-as-rivals-bet-big-on-starlink)

## DOT postpones delay amenity rule until January 1, 2027

Oct 19 · 1 source · policy change, industry news

Passengers may get fewer meals and hotels from airlines after some unscheduled mechanical delays starting January 1, 2027.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/dot-delays-rule-change-on-airline-maintenance-delays)

## United drops PQFs and raises Premier 1K to 32,000 PQP for 2027

Oct 18 · 2 sources · United Airlines, loyalty program, policy change, airline, elite status, program change

MileagePlus members who want Premier 1K for the 2027 earning year will need 32,000 PQP and four flights operated by United or United Express.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/united-announces-elite-changes-for-2027)

## Norwegian Reward now grants elite status every 8 flights

Oct 18 · 1 source · loyalty program, policy change, program change

Norwegian Air rebuilt Norwegian Reward in early September 2026, with elite status now stepping from Member at 0 flights to Gold at 32.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/norwegian-air-revamps-loyalty-program-earn-elite-perks-every-8-flights)

## Lufthansa lets some skip unused flights on Germany tickets

Oct 18 · 1 source · Lufthansa, policy change, airline, service policy change

Lufthansa will cancel unused segments without recalculating remaining fares for German residents and tickets whose origin or destination is in Germany.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/lufthansas-approved-way-to-skip-a-flight-throwaway-ticketing-now-requires-proof)

## IHG replaces Hertz 1,500-point rental bonus with 10 points per dollar

Oct 17 · 1 source · IHG One Rewards, loyalty program, policy change, hotel, partnership, program change

IHG quietly replaced the Hertz bonus of 1,500 points with 10 points per dollar of base fare for bookings through IHG Trip Extras.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/reader-comment-ihg-quietly-changes-hertz-partnership-points-structure)

## Southwest overhauls Rapid Rewards on January 1, 2027

Oct 17 · 3 sources · Southwest, loyalty program, policy change, airline, credit card, program change

Southwest will replace A List and A List Preferred with Silver, Gold and a new Platinum tier that includes unlimited Companion Pass on January 1, 2027.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/major-southwest-changes-companion-pass-will-be-status-benefit-awards-on-partners)

## Southwest ends Companion Pass credit on card bonuses after December 2

Oct 16 · 1 source · Southwest, loyalty program, policy change, airline, credit card, program change

Southwest cobrand cards approved by December 2, 2026 will still count their welcome bonuses toward Companion Pass even if the minimum spend lands in early 2027.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/southwest-is-ending-the-easiest-way-to-earn-companion-passact-by-december-2-for)

## Hyatt opens free 1:1 member transfers, 525,000-point yearly cap

Oct 16 · 4 sources · World of Hyatt, loyalty program, policy change, airline, hotel, credit card, program change

World of Hyatt members can gift points to one another for free at a 1:1 ratio with the Points.com tool that replaced the PDF and paper form on October 15, 2026.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/world-of-hyatt-is-finally-making-it-easier-to-transfer-points-between-members)

## TSA pauses Gateside expansion, leaving 13 pilot airports

Oct 16 · 1 source · policy change, service policy change

TSA has pulled Gateside for PreCheck members back from about 300 U.S. airports to the original 13 that launched as a pilot in September 2026.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/tsa-pauses-expansion-of-gateside-program-that-lets-non-travelers-through-airport)

## Lufthansa ends free elite seats on Economy Light from Oct 27, 2026

Oct 16 · 1 source · Lufthansa, policy change, airline, service policy change

Senator and HON Circle members will lose complimentary seat selection on Lufthansa Economy Light intercontinental fares from October 27, 2026.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/lufthansa-further-culls-senator-hon-circle-perks-removes-seat-reservation-benefi)

## Southwest folds Companion Pass into Platinum at 140,000 TQPs

Oct 15 · 2 sources · Southwest, loyalty program, policy change, airline, credit card, program change

Southwest elite status will shift to Silver, Gold and Platinum on January 1, 2027, with Platinum including unlimited Companion Pass at 140,000 TQPs.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/southwest-rapid-rewards-overhaul-new-elite-tiers-companion-pass-changes-partner)

## Southwest Companion Pass excludes card bonuses from January 1, 2027

Oct 15 · 1 source · Southwest, loyalty program, policy change, airline, promotion, program change

Southwest said 135,000 points posted by December 31, 2026 would still produce a Companion Pass valid through December 2027.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/southwest-companion-pass-no-longer-earned-with-signup-bonus-points-starts-2027)

## Amex no longer auto-pools Membership Rewards on new cards

Oct 15 · 2 sources · American Express, loyalty program, policy change, airline, credit card, app & tech, program change

American Express now puts each newly opened Membership Rewards card into its own rewards account rather than joining an existing pooled balance.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/american-express-no-longer-automatically-pools-membership-rewards-points-from-ne)

## Southwest folds Companion Pass into 140,000-TQP Platinum in 2027

Oct 15 · 2 sources · Southwest, loyalty program, policy change, airline, credit card, program change

From January 1, 2027, Southwest Companion Pass will be a Platinum benefit requiring 140,000 TQPs, and credit card welcome bonuses will no longer count.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/southwest-cardholders-can-earn-2x-companion-pass-qualifying-points-this-month-he)

## Aeroplan adds 1,000-point bonus for first DINR Premium year

Oct 15 · 1 source · Air Canada, loyalty program, policy change, airline, hotel, credit card, program change

Paying DINR Premium members receive 1,000 bonus Aeroplan points in the first $95 year and at least 100 points per completed restaurant booking in Canada.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/aeroplan-members-can-now-earn-points-on-dinr-restaurant-reservations)

## Hyatt adds online point transfers with 525,000 yearly caps Oct 15

Oct 14 · 2 sources · World of Hyatt, loyalty program, policy change, hotel, credit card, award redemption, program change

World of Hyatt members can combine points on the website from October 15, 2026, under new yearly caps of 525,000 points sent and 525,000 received.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/awesome-news-hyatt-points-transfers-can-be-done-online-from-10-15-26)

## United raises Premier 1K to 32,000 PQP and ends PQFs in 2027

Oct 14 · 4 sources · United Airlines, loyalty program, policy change, airline, hotel, credit card, elite status, program change

From 2027, MileagePlus Premier status will be earned only with PQP, so members who relied on flight volume lose that shortcut.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/united-makes-mileageplus-elite-status-harder-to-earn-is-the-airline-winning-or-j)

## KLM adds paid catering on select short-haul flights from 25 Oct 2026

Oct 14 · 1 source · Air France-KLM, policy change, airline, service policy change

Passengers on select KLM short-haul flights will pay for meals from 25 October 2026, with Flying Blue elite snack and drink benefits still undefined.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/klms-new-buy-on-board-menu-for-the-service-launch-on-october-25-2026)

## Lululemon gift cards stop triggering Amex Platinum $75 credit

Oct 13 · 1 source · American Express, credit card, policy change

Lululemon gift cards bought in stores stopped triggering the $75 quarterly statement credit for American Express Platinum cardholders around October 5, 2026.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/reports-lululemon-gift-cards-no-longer-trigger-american-express-platinum-stateme)

## United raises 2027 Premier 1K PQP 14% and drops the PQF path

Oct 13 · 1 source · United Airlines, loyalty program, policy change, airline, devaluation, program change

United MileagePlus members will earn 2027 Premier status on Premier Qualifying Points only, and the Silver through Platinum bars do not move.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/united-airlines-increases-status-qualification-requirement-for-2027-removes-pqf)

## United drops flights-plus-spend path, raises 1K to 32,000 PQPs

Oct 13 · 1 source · United Airlines, loyalty program, policy change, airline, elite status, program change

United MileagePlus members who mixed Premier qualifying flights with lower spend will need full PQP totals next year, with 1K rising to 32,000 PQPs.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/i-ve-flown-united-43-times-this-year-why-today-s-elite-status-changes-are-bad-ne)

## United drops PQFs in 2027 and raises Premier 1K to 32,000 PQPs

Oct 13 · 2 sources · United Airlines, loyalty program, policy change, airline, devaluation, elite status, program change

MileagePlus members will qualify for 2028 Premier status on 2027 Premier Qualifying Points only, with a 4-flight United minimum still required.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/united-ditches-flight-segments-raises-bar-for-1k-in-premier-status-shakeup)

## Marriott Bonvoy lounges coming to 100 Asia Pacific hotels by 2027

Oct 13 · 1 source · Marriott Bonvoy, policy change, hotel, service policy change

Eligible Elite members at participating Premium hotels in Asia Pacific and Greater China will find the new lounges through a filter in the Bonvoy app.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/marriott-bonvoy-lounge-new-concept-coming-to-asia-pacific-serving-bonvoy-bites)

## Langham ends Brilliant point earning from 12 January 2027

Oct 13 · 1 source · loyalty program, policy change, devaluation, program change

Brilliant by Langham members have until 11 January 2028 to redeem unused award points, which then expire with no grace period.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/langhams-brilliant-evolves-kills-free-night-awards-point-earnings-effective-janu)

## DOT ends hotel and meal rules for 10 delay types on October 19

Oct 10 · 1 source · policy change, industry news

Frequent flyers delayed overnight by unscheduled maintenance may have to pay for hotels and meals themselves after a rule takes effect October 19, 2026.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/dot-calls-it-an-obvious-liebut-its-new-rule-lets-airlines-deny-hotels-and-meals)

## Amex cuts Amsterdam Centurion Lounge hours to 6 PM daily

Oct 10 · 1 source · American Express, policy change, credit card, lounge, service policy change

Platinum cardholders on evening non-Schengen flights from Amsterdam Schiphol no longer have Centurion Lounge access after 6 PM.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/amex-cuts-centurion-lounge-hours-at-amsterdams-schiphol-now-closes-at-6-pm-daily)

## Developers abandon 451-key Westin at Miami International Airport

Oct 10 · 1 source · Marriott Bonvoy, hotel, policy change, safety & operations, hotel opening

Points travellers will not get a new Westin with terminal access at Miami International in 2026 after the FAA rejected the 150-foot design.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/faa-blocks-planned-westin-miami-airport-over-radar-blind-spot-fears)

## KLM will split short-haul catering into 5 bands from 11 October 2026

Oct 9 · 1 source · Air France-KLM, policy change, airline, service policy change

KLM short-haul award and revenue passengers will not get the same meal service on every European flight, and buy-on-board will exist only on the longer routes.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/klms-buy-on-board-surprise-five-bands-of-flights-with-four-tiers-of-service)

## Alaska ends fare-drop credits and requires cancel-and-rebook

Oct 9 · 1 source · Alaska Airlines, policy change, airline, service policy change

Alaska Airlines no longer issues a credit when a main or first class fare drops, and Wallet funds may not cover Companion Fares or paid seats.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/alaska-airlines-now-makes-you-cancel-and-rebook-to-get-a-lower-farebut-may-not-l)

## Cathay suspends Asia Miles awards on Japan Airlines

Oct 9 · 1 source · Cathay Pacific, JAL, policy change, airline, service policy change

Members cannot book or change Japan Airlines awards in Asia Miles until further notice, though tickets already issued can still be flown.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/cathay-pacific-asia-miles-suspends-japan-airlines-awards)

## American will put Starlink on more than 1,000 mainline jets

Oct 8 · 1 source · American Airlines, policy change, airline, service policy change

American Airlines will install Starlink on every mainline Airbus and Boeing jet in early 2027, and AAdvantage members are expected to get it free.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/american-expands-starlink-wi-fi-plans-will-now-equip-its-entire-mainline-fleet)

## KLM will add free Starlink Wi-Fi on long-haul from mid-2027

Oct 8 · 1 source · Air France-KLM, policy change, airline, service policy change

Flying Blue members in every cabin will get free Starlink internet on KLM intercontinental flights from mid-2027, with no date yet for a finished rollout.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/klm-rolling-out-free-starlink-wi-fi-in-2027-but-only-on-long-haul-flights)

## Choice Privileges adds free point sharing with 5,000-point minimum

Oct 7 · 2 sources · Choice Privileges, hotel, credit card, policy change

Choice Privileges members can now send 5,000 to 100,000 points to other members at no charge in 1,000 point steps.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/choice-privileges-adds-free-points-sharing-between-members)

## American Express adds custom card order in the app and online

Oct 7 · 1 source · American Express, policy change, credit card, service policy change

American Express cardholders can mix personal and business cards in one list or keep them in separate groups.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/american-express-now-allows-customizing-card-order-in-the-app-and-login)

## Aegean cuts Air China class P from 200% to 25% on Oct 12, 2026

Oct 7 · 1 source · loyalty program, policy change, airline, program change

Miles+Bonus members who credit Air China flights will earn far fewer miles on P-class tickets after October 12, 2026, when a new earning chart takes effect.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/aegean-miles-bonus-air-china-miles-earning-changes-effective-october-12-2026)

## Vancouver loses its domestic Maple Leaf Lounge for 14 months

Oct 6 · 1 source · Air Canada, policy change, airline, service policy change

Lounge-eligible domestic passengers at Vancouver lose access to the Maple Leaf Lounge after October 13, 2026 and may use two Air Canada Cafes.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/air-canada-vancouver-domestic-maple-leaf-lounge-closure-october-14-early-2028)

## Lufthansa raises fuel surcharges 10-25% for the third time in 2026

Oct 6 · 1 source · Lufthansa, policy change, airline, devaluation, award redemption, service policy change

Some First Class Miles & More awards to the United States now cost up to 71% more in fuel surcharges after the latest Lufthansa increase.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/lufthansa-increases-fuel-surcharges-yet-again-for-third-time-this-year)

## American restores reserved coach food on DFW-LAX from October 13, 2026

Oct 6 · 1 source · American Airlines, policy change, airline, service policy change

Invited coach passengers can pre-order meals on American's Dallas-Fort Worth to Los Angeles flights from October 20, 2026, with reservations opening October 13.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/american-airlines-wants-to-stop-running-out-of-food-in-coachpreorder-starts-roll)

## Hyatt replaces 500-point new-hotel bonus with double points Oct 1

Oct 5 · 2 sources · World of Hyatt, loyalty program, policy change, hotel, promotion, program change

World of Hyatt ended its automatic 500 point nightly bonus at newly added hotels on October 1, 2026 and now requires a special rate for matching points.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/hyatts-new-hotel-offer-can-be-much-more-lucrativeup-to-25-000-bonus-points-per-s)

## Alaska restores Atmos partner earnings from 1 January 2027

Oct 5 · 2 sources · Alaska Airlines, loyalty program, policy change, airline, credit card, program change

Atmos Rewards members who select price paid earning on tickets not issued on Alaska stock 027 will receive stronger partner rates from 1 January 2027.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/alaska-airlines-atmos-rewards-partner-miles-earnings-from-january-1-2027)

## American mandates zero involuntary denied boardings

Oct 5 · 1 source · American Airlines, policy change, airline, service policy change

American Airlines has told staff to keep soliciting volunteers rather than bumping passengers, after around 15,000 involuntary denied boardings in 2025.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/american-airlines-commits-to-ending-involuntary-denied-boardings)

## Chase raises IHG Select fee to $99 and free night to 50,000 in 2027

Oct 4 · 1 source · Chase, IHG One Rewards, credit card, hotel, fee change, policy change

Existing holders of the discontinued IHG Select card will pay $99 a year from their 2027 anniversary, up from $49, for a free night of up to 50,000 points.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/changes-coming-to-ihg-select-card-old-49-card-no-longer-available)

## Exclusive: American Airlines Will No Longer Bump Passengers—Volunteers Can Get The Next Flight Even If It’s Full

Oct 4 · 1 source · American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, Southwest, United Airlines, United States, policy change, airline, service policy change

American Airlines is telling employees to stop involuntarily bumping passengers and even giving them permission to confirm volunteers on the very next flight even when it’s already full to make volunteering less of a hassle

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/exclusive-american-airlines-will-no-longer-bump-passengersvolunteers-can-get-the)

## Accor Plus adds 2026 dining blackouts and 15% F&B cuts

Oct 4 · 2 sources · Accor Live Limitless, loyalty program, policy change, hotel, promotion, program change

Accor Plus Explorer members can lose hotel dining discounts entirely or drop to 15 percent at more Mercure and Fairmont outlets in 2026.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/all-accor-explorer-sign-up-promo-with-3-000-bonus-points-october-1-31-2026)

## Delta Air Lines Will Let You Check 12 Bottles Of Wine Free From Five California Airports

Oct 2 · 1 source · Delta Air Lines, United States, policy change, airline, service policy change

Delta Air Lines is introducing an interesting and potentially useful perk for travelers visiting California wine country: eligible SkyMiles members can check a case of wine free on flights departing five participating airports. I like this…though there are a few restrictions to keep in mind

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/delta-air-lines-will-let-you-check-12-bottles-of-wine-free-from-five-california)

## Amex Business Gold $240 credit now covers UPS.com, not FedEx

Oct 1 · 1 source · American Express, credit card, policy change

Business Gold cardholders can apply the $20 monthly statement credit to UPS.com shipments as of October 1, 2026, after FedEx stopped qualifying.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/american-express-business-gold-adds-ups-to-240-flexible-credit-benefit-replaces)

## Bilt cuts World of Hyatt transfers to 4:3 on January 1, 2027

Oct 1 · 2 sources · Bilt, World of Hyatt, loyalty program, policy change, airline, hotel, credit card, devaluation, program change

A 100,000-point Hyatt stay will cost 134,000 Bilt points after January 1, 2027, a 34% increase that applies to every card and every member.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/no-surprise-bilt-devalues-world-of-hyatt-points-transfers-as-of-2027)

## Atmos Rewards raises partner international premium earning to 250%

Oct 1 · 1 source · Alaska Airlines, loyalty program, policy change, airline, program change

Atmos Rewards members who choose fare-paid earning will get higher first- and business-class rates on partner tickets booked direct starting January 1, 2027.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/atmos-rewards-improves-points-earning-for-first-business-class-on-partner-airlin)

## United will sell restrictive First Base fares in coming weeks

Sep 30 · 1 source · United Airlines, policy change, airline, service policy change

Domestic first-class buyers will soon see a basic fare that cuts MileagePlus earning and most perks, according to an internal memo reviewed by The Points Guy.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/united-will-bring-basic-fares-to-yet-another-cabin-first-class)

## Atmos Rewards lets members choose distance, spend or segment earning

Sep 29 · 2 sources · Alaska Airlines, loyalty program, policy change, airline, program change

Selections open October 1, 2026 for flights from January 1, 2027, and Atmos Rewards members who make no choice keep earning by distance.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/alaska-airlines-atmos-rewards-members-can-choose-how-they-earn-elite-award-point)

## Alaska opens Atmos Rewards 2027 earning choice from Oct. 1

Sep 29 · 1 source · Alaska Airlines, loyalty program, policy change, airline, program change

Atmos Rewards members can choose a 2027 earning method from Oct. 1, covering award points and elite status on Alaska and Hawaiian flights.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/pick-how-you-earn-points-alaska-s-new-atmos-rewards-choice-accrual-starts-this-w)

## American auto-assigns AAdvantage seats from 24 hours before departure

Sep 28 · 1 source · American Airlines, policy change, airline, service policy change

AAdvantage members can set seat preferences in the American app and be moved automatically to a matching same-cabin seat from 24 hours before departure.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/cool-american-airlines-app-can-now-automatically-move-you-to-a-better-seat)

## Blue Rewards and VIPorter add 500-point bonuses for linking

Sep 28 · 1 source · loyalty program, policy change, airline, promotion, program change

Porter became Blue Rewards' preferred airline on September 24, 2026, so linked members earn extra VIPorter points on Porter with a 2:1 conversion still to come.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/link-blue-rewards-and-viporter-to-earn-bonus-points)

## Miles+Bonus credits 1 mile per euro on Wolt in Greece and Cyprus

Sep 28 · 1 source · loyalty program, policy change, partnership, program change

Miles+Bonus members can earn 1 award mile per euro on Wolt orders in Greece and Cyprus and claim 3 free months of Wolt+ if they have not subscribed in 6 months.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/aegean-miles-bonus-world-partnership-for-greece-cyprus-earn-miles-free-wolt)

## Marriott requires a corporate email for negotiated rate bookings

Sep 26 · 1 source · Marriott Bonvoy, policy change, hotel, app & tech, service policy change

Bonvoy members must verify employment with a company email before they can book negotiated or corporate rates on the website or app.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/marriotts-new-corporate-verified-rates-cracking-down-on-rate-abuse)

## Turkish raises EcoFly-to-business upgrades by as much as 38%

Sep 25 · 2 sources · Turkish Airlines, loyalty program, policy change, airline, hotel, credit card, devaluation, program change

Turkish Airlines now charges Miles&Smiles members 25,000 extra miles to upgrade EcoFly tickets to business on Far East and North America routes.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/turkish-airlines-miles-smiles-increases-mileage-upgrade-prices-by-up-to-38)

## Chase devalues Hyatt transfers 25% for Preferred cards on October 1

Sep 25 · 1 source · Chase, World of Hyatt, loyalty program, policy change, hotel, credit card, devaluation, program change

The 1:1 Ultimate Rewards transfer to World of Hyatt ends October 1, 2026 for Sapphire Preferred and Ink Business Preferred, while Sapphire Reserve stays at 1:1.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/last-call-chase-ultimate-rewards-to-world-of-hyatt-transfer-devaluation-on-octob)

## KLM opens paid short-haul meal pre-orders from 25 October 2026

Sep 23 · 1 source · Air France-KLM, policy change, airline, service policy change

KLM short-haul passengers can pre-order paid meals from 25 October 2026, including a Caesar salad at $14.30 that LoyaltyLobby called grossly overpriced.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/klm-short-haul-buy-on-board-pre-order-meals-now-live-for-flights-on-of-after-oct)

## Targeted: Bilt offers in-app upgrades to Obsidian and Palladium

Sep 22 · 1 source · Bilt, credit card, policy change

Select Blue and Obsidian cardholders may see upgrade options in Card settings, with one reported Palladium offer of 50,000 points plus $100 after $4,000 spend.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/bilt-now-allows-product-changes-and-even-offering-upgrade-bonuses)

## Korean Air bans in-flight voice calls and live streaming

Sep 22 · 1 source · policy change, airline, service policy change

Korean Air published cabin connectivity rules on September 22 that require headphones for videos and games and prohibit filming without consent.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/korean-air-releases-in-flight-wifi-use-guidelines-headphones-on-no-filming-live)

## American and Hyatt end enhanced partnership; link by Nov 15

Sep 21 · 6 sources · American Airlines, World of Hyatt, Delta Air Lines, Hyatt, AAdvantage, SkyMiles, loyalty program, policy change, airline, hotel

American Airlines and World of Hyatt members who link accounts by November 15, 2026 will keep remaining cross program awards through each program year.

[Full signal](https://thetravelsignal.com/s/american-aadvantage-and-world-of-hyatt-end-enhanced-partnership)

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