✈ Big Changes to a Major Airline’s Loyalty Program, Singapore Airlines Business-Class Deal for 56,700 Miles & More News From TPG ✈

Also: Florida’s iconic Diplomat Beach Resort is transforming into Hilton’s new Signia brand October 16, 2024 [THE POINTS GUY]( [View in browser]( [TPG Daily NEWSLETTER]( [THE POINTS GUY]( Alaska overhauls Mileage Plan program by Sean Cudahy, Aviation Reporter [TPG | Hero Image] Big changes are coming to [Alaska Airlines' Mileage Plan](. And we’re not even talking about the combined loyalty program the airline is planning with Hawaiian Airlines after [recently acquiring that carrier.]( These are changes that’ll start in just a couple of months, when the calendar flips to 2025. And they’re mostly positive: There are no big devaluations to report, and the elite status qualification benchmarks aren’t changing. In fact, Alaska is generally [adding more ways to qualify for status]( and earn perks. The Mileage Plan program is getting new milestone perks. Customers will be able to select benefits from a menu of options when they hit certain numbers of elite qualifying miles — before and between elite status tiers. For instance, at 10,000 EQMs, you can opt to try MVP status for one trip or get a complimentary Wi-Fi pass (among other options). The options get more enticing as you climb the ladder. Alaska is really following in the footsteps of other airline and hotel loyalty programs that offer milestone rewards, such as JetBlue’s Perks You Pick and [World of Hyatt’s Milestone Rewards.]( Starting in 2025, Mileage Plan members will also be able to earn EQMs on award flights and when shopping with nonairline partners, from the airline’s shopping and dining platforms to Lyft. And, a key change: Those with the [Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card]( will earn 1 EQM for every $3 spent, up to a total of 30,000 EQMs each year on qualified purchases. That means $60,000 spent on your card during the qualifying period would earn you entry-level MVP status without your stepping foot on a plane. The current offer on the Alaska Airlines Visa card is [50,000 bonus miles plus the ability to buy one ticket and get one]( for just the taxes and fees ($0 fare plus taxes and fees from $23). To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account. Now, be forewarned: More changes are coming over the next year as Alaska forms one loyalty program in conjunction with Hawaiian. We’ll be sure to bring you more updates. In the meantime, here’s what to know about maximizing the Alaska Mileage Plan program as it currently stands: - [Alaska Airlines overhauls Mileage Plan with milestone perks, new elite-earning options and upgrade updates]( - [You can now transfer Hawaiian miles (and by extension, Amex points) to Alaska Airlines]( - [Which credit card should you use for Alaska Airlines flights?]( - [Why I applied for 2 Hawaiian Airlines cards on the same day]( Posts in this newsletter contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products, and this may impact how or where they appear. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, [visit this page](. Photo Credit: DUSTIN CHAMBERS/BLOOMBERG/GETTY IMAGES. Today’s top stories [Deal: Singapore Airlines business class between New York and Frankfurt for just 56,700 miles]( Hurry and reserve this deal by Oct. 31 and travel between Nov. 1 and Nov. 30. [Read more]( [Florida’s iconic Diplomat Beach Resort is transforming into Hilton’s new Signia brand]( The Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood, Florida, is changing from Hilton's Curio Collection to the new Signia brand. [Read more]( [Cancun International Airport backtracks on strict laptop rule for travelers]( Travelers will no longer be penalized for bringing multiple personal computing devices through Cancun International Airport (CUN) customs. [Read more]( [Disney introduces new 'skip the line' pass ... and it starts at $329 per day for the Magic Kingdom]( Beginning in a few weeks, Disney will offer a more expensive way for guests to skip more lines with less pre-booking and logistics: the Lightning Lane Premier Pass. [Read more]( [Airbnb knows how you like to travel — and it’s using that data to help you book the perfect stay]( The latest Airbnb update gives travelers personalized home recommendations, and hosts can now get expert help to list and manage their properties. [Read more]( The latest 1. [This Margaritaville resort day pass could cost you more than a cruise to get there]( 2. [How the Amex Platinum Card has provided me with access to $3,000+ in value this year]( 3. [Alaska Airlines overhauls Mileage Plan with milestone perks, new elite-earning options and upgrade updates]( 4. [Cruise ship problems: What to ask for when things go wrong on your cruise]( 5. [From vet bills to dog food: Earn points, miles and cash-back rewards on pet expenses]( 6. [What happens if your cruise is canceled, or you get bumped?]( 7. [Capital One Spark Cash Plus review: Solid 2% cash-back on all business expenses]( 8. [Virgin Atlantic Flying Club program changes: What I hope to see as a loyal frequent flyer]( 9. [$333 flights to Tokyo on new Houston route from budget carrier Zipair]( 10. [United Quest Card review: Earn 60,000 miles and get exclusive travel perks]( [fb]( [insta]( [yt]( [tw]( [in]( [mail](mailto:hello@thepointsguy.com) You are receiving this email because you opted in at [thepointsguy.com](. Where to find us: The Points Guy 100 5th Ave., 16th Floor New York, NY 10011 USA USA If this newsletter was forwarded to you, you can subscribe [here](. Changed your mind? You can [update your preferences]( or [unsubscribe]( at any time. Advertiser Disclosure: The cards we feature here are from partners who compensate us when you are approved through our site, and this may impact how or where these products appear. We don’t cover all available credit cards, but our analysis, reviews, and opinions are entirely from our editorial team. Please view our [advertising policy]( and [product review methodology]( for more information. 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