DOT puts airline loyalty programs under the microscope after lawmakers raise concerns

The Department of Transportation is investigating possible deceptive practices in airline loyalty programs after federal lawmakers raised concerns about how companies are calculating points and rewards. A DOT spokesperson said in a statement that the agency is planning “to carefully review complaints regarding loyalty programs and exercise our authority to investigate airlines for unfair and deceptive practices that hurt travelers as warranted.” The spokesperson said agency officials are actively meeting with U.S. airlines and gathering more information about the issue.