1.   American and U S Airways say members of their plans will be able to redeem miles for tickets on each other.

2.   By adding consumer products including books, CDs, and appliances, the program also will take some pressure off American to redeem the miles, Engel said.

3.   For instance, he said, Northwest and United are the only major domestic airlines that allow frequent fliers to redeem their miles and book those flights online.

4.   Midwest Express passengers can also redeem miles for hotel rooms or meals at hotels.

5.   The old partnerships with Sabena and Swissair have been enhanced to allow members to earn or redeem miles on any flight.

6.   Then you try to redeem the miles, and no seats are available.

7.   There are several options for redeeming miles now and using them much later.

8.   Travelers enrolled with either Continental or America West can redeem miles earned flying on the other airline.