This week's highlights ...

Friday, April 24, 2008

United and Lufthansa Increase Change Fees
United Airlines has increased its domestic change fee from $100 to $150 (plus any applicable fare difference) on non-refundable tickets issued after April 18. In addition, the Saturday night stay requirement has been reinstated in markets where United competes with other legacy carriers. Change fees on non-refundable international tickets have also increased. Some international non-refundable tickets cannot be changed, while some can be changed for a fee ranging from $150 to $250. The typical change fee on tickets to Europe is now $250 for both United and Lufthansa. Prior to reissuing a ticket, travel agents should always verify the fare rules of the ticketed fare and confirm the applicable change fee.  Travel-On expects other carriers to follow in this practice and will keep you informed through this bulletin.

What's in the news this week ...

United Airlines raises ticket change fees
Apr. 23, 2008 - We are officially in the era of airline fees. Over the past few weeks, major carriers across the country have been implementing extra fees to check second bags on their aircraft. Now, beginning with United Airlines, they're starting to charge higher fees to change your ticket.

New Baggage Fees For Air Travel
Apr. 22, 2008 - Five major airlines have added a $25 fee to passengers who check more than one bag. Many of the fees will go into effect on may 5th. Airline companies say it's just one way to help pay for the rising cost of fuel.

Why Airlines Are Nickel and Dime-ing You
Apr. 23, 2008 - Here's a riddle for you: What do my wife's curling iron, the latest hardback thriller and my favorite jeans have in common?

Booking a trip online may be cheap, but agencies can help ensure it's trouble-free
Apr. 23, 2008 - Between airline upheaval, rising prices and the Internet, travel agents might feel as if they need vacations of their own these days.

US Airlines Cut Capacity, Charge More Despite Strong Demand
Apr. 24, 2008 - Despite a weakening U.S. economy, airlines expect passenger traffic to remain strong through the summer travel season.

Lower oil prices boost airline stocks
Apr. 24, 2008 - A pullback in oil prices along with a strong push from the broader market helped boost airline shares Thursday.

Summer travel headaches loom as airlines' woes deepen
Apr. 23, 2008 - The parent company of United Airlines reported a worse-than-expected quarterly loss Tuesday, citing a string of problems that are hurting other carriers as well. And for travelers, a vacation season of jammed planes, delayed flights and higher fares looms in what's shaping up as the worst of times for both airlines and their customers.

Air Travel : More flight delays likely this summer
Apr. 23, 2008 - The Department of Transportation's chief watchdog reports that flight delays at major airports this summer could be as bad as or worse than last summer's.

Travel industry wants you — and your rebate
Apr. 24, 2008 - Next week, the first of 130 million Americans will be getting tax rebate checks designed to help jump-start a sputtering U.S. economy. And travel marketers, already skittish about the effects of lofty airfares and record gas prices, are out to convince them it's their patriotic duty to spend the cash — up to $600 for individuals, $1,200 for couples and $300 for a dependent child under 17 — on a trip away from home.

Airport freebies: As airlines gouge, airports give back
It's getting tough out there. Airlines continue to cut back on services while piling on fuel surcharges and fees for amenities that were once complimentary. But take heart: You may have to pony up now to check a second bag or to get that coveted aisle seat, but you can seek consolation with services that some airports still offer for free.

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