Grant Martin

Alaska's decision to partner with Singapore Airlines, a Star Alliance member, may seem strange, but there are serious benefits for international travelers.

As one carrier, United, backs off on basic economy, another, American Airlines, doubles down. Will this clear the field for American? Perhaps.

When it finally launches, West Elm Hotels' loyalty program may feature some keen integration with the Williams-Sonoma network at large. It's a smart business tie-up that could eventually end in other brands.

Air Berlin's potential absorption into Lufthansa may foreshadow fewer clean connections for American Airlines travelers heading to continental Europe, while United customers may see a benefit.

Bank of America has a new premium loyalty credit card for the travel industry, but its uses may be limited. Still, for the right kind of traveler the new card can end up being very lucrative.

Alaska Airlines continued to scoop up awards for its distance-based loyalty program while Marriott took advantage of its recent merger in this year's U.S. News and World Report's loyalty program rankings.

Until the time comes when airlines need to compete for customers again, passenger sentiment many not matter.

With new technology launched by American Airlines this week, tracking checked luggage will be ever-so easier.

Travelers won't be happy about Marriott's new cancellation policy but investors and operators will.

The move for Virgin's most loyal customers will be a hard one. But in return they get an airline that will take them so many more places.