Consumer Reports, the much-respected mainstay of consumer advocacy and information, reported in its May issue that frequent flyer programs have demonstrated a decidedly “disappointing” trend.

The magazine cited six recent developments among 11 North American programs, including rampant partner-switching and expensive new restrictions and fees.

Sue Juliano, travel editor for the Consumer Reports Web site, told the Orange County Register that the elimination of blackout dates and an increase in award usage in 2002 indicates that not all is gloom and doom, however.