The end of frequent flyer programs?

Dear Tim

Dear Connie,



First, no… I haven't heard anything to that effect. And

it's almost certainly just plain not true. This is, I should

mention, a rumor that surfaces periodically, like some of

the other recurring "urban legends" that compete for our

attention. And there's no more truth to it than to the rumor

that unsuspecting tourists are waking up in ice-filled

bathtubs missing kidneys and other vital organs.

Second, if the airlines did terminate their programs, they would surely give members plenty of advance notice… both to avoid a monstrous PR disaster and to avoid a run on frequent flyer awards as everyone rushed to cash in their miles before the deadline.

While there are plenty of things to worry about (the stock

market, Social Security, SAT scores), the imminent demise of

frequent flyer programs needn't be on the list. At least for now.



Tim Winship Contributing Editor SmarterTravel.com