✈️ Southwest Slashes Points, Delta Adds Shake Shack, and More Travel Updates

Welcome to another episode of the Miles & Points Daily Podcast, where we serve up all the latest juicy travel tidbits with a side of humor. I'm Lucas, your trusty navigator through the ever-turbulent skies of loyalty programs and travel deals. Fasten your seatbelts because we've got a lot to cover today from some of the most reputable sources in the travel world.

First up, let's talk about Southwest Airlines, coming to us from View From the Wing. Southwest has sent shockwaves through the traveler community by slashing their frequent flyer points on non-refundable tickets by a whopping two-thirds. For those in Southwest's A-List and A-List Preferred loyalty tiers, your points just became a little less rewarding. Sadly, these elite bonuses will now apply to a smaller points base. If you're one to bank points for future travel, it might be time to double-check your strategy.

Sticking with Southwest news—but this time from One Mile at a Time—it's not just the points taking a hit. Southwest announced the shutdown of two crew bases in Austin and Fort Lauderdale as part of a broader effort to enhance operational efficiency. This cost-cutting move follows significant layoffs at their corporate headquarters. Remember, if you're traveling through these regions, be prepared for potential changes in flight scheduling.

Pivoting over to a classic travel emergency at the airport, our comrades at One Mile at a Time reported a heart-stopping moment at Phoenix Airport, where an air traffic controller's quick thinking prevented a runway disaster. This is your reminder of the incredible work these professionals do to keep our skies safe.

Meanwhile, The Points Guy shares some palate-pleasing news from Delta Air Lines. They're expanding their partnership with Shake Shack to offer delicious burgers on more flights, and they're adding a hint of sparkle with the introduction of fancy Champagne. Delta is also testing out Red Bull on certain routes. So, expect a more energized cabin crew—thanks to those extra bubbles!

And before you pack your bags, listen to this: IHG Hotels are offering a 15% discount on award nights at newly opened properties if you stay by the end of May. The Points Guy advises checking out these fresh locations if you're planning a trip soon. It's a neat way to leverage your IHG One Rewards for an affordable getaway.

Last but not least, for our solo travel enthusiasts, The Points Guy has some exciting news about Riverside Luxury Cruises. They're waiving the single supplement fee for select suites. So, if you've been dreaming of a luxury river cruise, cruising solo is a more affordable option than ever!

As we come to the final approach in today's episode, a quick word from our sponsor. Looking for the best award flights? Use AwardTravelFinder.com to search availability across Qatar Airways, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, and more. Try it for free with our link in the shownotes.

A heartfelt thank you for tuning in to the Miles & Points Daily Podcast. If you haven't already, subscribe to us on all major platforms or head over to milesandpointsdaily.com. Until next time, may your travels be rewarding and may your upgrade list always clear. Goodbye for now!