Frequent-flier programmes make more free seats available – The Wall Street Journal

I spent years accumulating frequent flier miles through my credit card and a loyalty card connected to my grocery shopping, but lost out on the Cuban adventure of a lifetime by a whisker as my credit card company closed its programme just before Christmas. This sudden shut-down took me by surprise because my credit card was connected to a company that also owns an airline and shares branding with that airline. On paper I haven't lost money, because the credit card company shifted its incentive programme to another organisation. But, in reality, it has been impossible to access the benefits, with one call centre after the next fobbing me off with different requirements. So I gave up. I'm not alone with awards programme fatigue. Many credit card customers have seen through the hype and have been voting with their feet. As The Wall Street Journal reports, airlines have finally seen the light and are starting to become more generous in order to protect their custom from credit card companies. Maybe I'll give that call centre another try, with a view to claiming my points – and a holiday! – Jackie Cameron

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