✈️ Vomit Seats, Flagship Suites, and Airline Alliances: This Week in Miles and Points

Hello, fellow frequent flyers and hotel hoppers! Welcome to another episode of the Miles & Points Daily Podcast. I'm Lucas, your friendly guide to the world of travel rewards, where the skies are friendly, the seats are squishy, and the points are, well, rewarding! Strap yourselves in because today we have some exciting news fresh from the cabin crew's gossip grapevine.

First up, let's talk about a smelly situation up in the air—did you hear about the Delta passenger who found themselves seated in a vomit-covered seat? Yes, you heard that right! Our source over at View from the Wing has the unfortunate tale. Note to self: always carry an extra air freshener. This story is a reminder that sometimes, you just have to roll with the turbulent times. Always have a backup plan for seating, whether a trusty hand sanitizer or a sweet-smelling scarf.

Now, for some sweet news from the realm of American Airlines. They've leaked their new Flagship Suite routes, and it's quite the rollout. Initially hitting the tarmac on Chicago to Los Angeles routes, these plush suites will then take on international skies between Chicago and London Heathrow, as noted by View from the Wing. So, if you're planning to fly with comfort akin to royal treatment, perhaps a little trip to Chi-town or jolly old London should be in the cards.

Meanwhile, in the blue corner, Bernie Sanders has been spotted flying first class with his Vermont senator buddy, Peter Welch. And people have interesting opinions about it! But as View from the Wing astutely points out, maybe it's time to get over the first-class shame and just enjoy a little legroom and champagne, folks.

Over to Southwest Airlines, they're revamping their boarding process. How many of you have had to awkwardly line up just to secure a seat? Yep, hands up, everyone! Soon, Southwest will be introducing assigned seating, ending the chaotic mystery lineup. With nine orderly boarding groups, flying Southwest just got a bit more civilized. View from the Wing brings us this civilized change.

For our eco-friendly and budget-savvy friends, Delta is dropping its fuel surcharges on award tickets from Europe. This change translates to significant savings, especially for one-way travelers. View from the Wing reports this is a win for anyone wanting to stretch their SkyMiles and experience European charm without setting their wallets ablaze.

Lastly, whispers of airline mega alliances speak of Alaska potentially joining a transpacific joint venture with American Airlines and Japan Airlines. One Mile at a Time suggests this could reshape the Asian travel market. If you're looking at a transpacific adventure, you might just score some strategic points with this partnership.

As we get ready to touch down, just 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.

Alright, travel lovers, that wraps up our flight of fancy for today. Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe to the Miles & Points Daily Podcast on all major platforms or visit us at milesandpointsdaily.com for your regular boarding call of rewards news. Safe travels until next time!