What's
in the news this week ...
Continental and United Announce Comprehensive Plan for Global Cooperation; Continental Plans to Join Star Alliance
June 19, 2008 - Continental Airlines and United Airlines today announced a framework agreement to cooperate extensively, linking their networks and services worldwide to the benefit of customers, and creating revenue opportunities and cost savings and other efficiencies.
AA adds $5 mileage-redemption fee on frequent-flier tickets
June 19, 2008 - On Saturday, American Airlines will begin charging a minimum fee of $5 on frequent-flier award tickets booked on its website. Tickets booked through a reservations agent are subject to a $20 fee. American says its AAdvantage Executive Platinum members using miles from their account are exempt from the fee.
United Airlines becomes first US carrier to offer Apple iPod ...
June 16, 2008 - United guests may now reach cruising altitude with a new, personalized in-flight entertainment system. United is the first U.S. carrier to offer iPod and iPhone connectivity to its in-flight entertainment system, enabling customers to enjoy their individual content on a 15.4-inch personal television, all while the iPod or iPhone charges.
Delta To Sponsor Registered Traveler Lanes
June 18, 2008 - Delta Air Lines today became the first legacy carrier to sponsor Registered Traveler lanes through an agreement with Verified Identity Pass' Clear to launch the program at its terminals in New York's John F. Kennedy International and LaGuardia airports and Los Angeles International Airport. The companies expect to launch the lanes this summer.
US Airways to charge for beverages, adds fee to frequent-flier awards
June 16, 2008 - In a move that it says "accelerates" its "business model transformation," US Airways just announced a sweeping series of changes that include charging customers for beverages and a $15 fee for a first checked bag.
Who's exempt from new airline baggage fees?
June 18, 2008 - Amid all the hemming and hawing over American, United, and now US Airways charging extra fees for all checked baggage ($15 for the first, $25 for the second), some of you may have missed the fact that these fees do not apply to everyone.
Flying on frequent flyer points best
June 18, 2008 - The fan of the Ontario loyalty program tries, whenever possible, to use her points for overseas travel to visit relatives, something that Sue and her husband Mike do on a regular basis.
Business-class awards cheaper than coach?
June 18, 2008 - Rather than the usual question-and-answer format, this month's Q&A column consists of a reader's suggestion followed by my comments.
