Miles & Points: The Week’s Best Frequent-Flyer Deals (Week of March 21, 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.

American Express Platinum Card Adds Two New Perks

Holders of the Platinum card will have two more ways to justify the $450 annual fee: Wi-Fi access through Boingo, and an $85 statement credit for a TSA PreCheck application fee.

Will Delta’s New Program Increase Travel Costs?

According to a new survey, corporate travel managers are worried that Delta’s new spend-based loyalty program will result in higher business-travel costs. Are they right to worry?

Book Southwest Awards Before March 31

The deadline to book Southwest awards before price increases take effect is almost upon us. Do it now!

Marriott Ups Awards Prices at 20% of Hotels

Effective on April 8, the number of points required for free room nights will increase at 20 percent of Rewards-affiliated hotels, and decrease at just 6 percent of program hotels.

Delta Declares War on Alaska Air with New Seattle Hub

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With its announcement that Seattle will be its newest hub airport, Delta declared war on Alaska Air, the city’s hometown carrier. Flyers can expect more perks from both airlines.

Rewards Cards Set to Rule Frequent Flyer Loyalty

A new Skift survey shows that frequent travelers are increasingly engaged with rewards credit cards, which offer more flexibility and value than traditional airline schemes.

Double, Triple Airline Miles for Choice Stays

For travelers who prefer airline miles to hotel points, Choice Hotels now has bonus offers in place with American, United, and US Airways.

JetBlue Wants You (Elites)!

Through April 18, JetBlue is giving away elite status to some (a status match), and making it easier to earn for others (a status challenge).

Win 50 Domestic (Count ‘Em!) U.S. Flights

Enter the CheapOair “APP-solute Getaway” sweepstakes by June 31 for a chance to win 50 domestic U.S. flight vouchers. There are also monthly prize drawings for vacation trips.

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