Frequent-Flier Data Sought From 9 Airlines

The Transportation Department is asking nine U.S. airlines what percentage of seats on a given flight are allocated for frequent-flier award travel. An ongoing review of frequent-flier programs shows that airlines might not be providing consumers with adequate information about the number of seats that are available for award travel under the programs, the department said. Alaska Airlines Inc., America West Airlines Inc., AMR Corp.’s American Airlines, Continental Airlines Inc., Delta Air Lines Inc., Northwest Airlines Corp., Trans World Airlines Inc., UAL Corp.’s United Airlines and US Airways Group Inc. were asked to submit information detailing how they notify members of changes in the award system and of seat limits that may apply. The Air Travelers Assn. said the department often receives a surge of complaints during the summer travel season.