Travel-On Travel Industry News
Events We're Watching
Friday, January 20, 2012

United and Continental Frequent Flyer Program Merge

In preparation for the coming merger of the United MileagePlus and Continental OnePass frequent flyer programs, travelers holding both accounts are asked to link them. This simple process must be completed by January 28, 2012 using either of the links below:

Benefits to linking the accounts include:

  • Ability to transfer miles between accounts immediately
  • Elite qualifying activity for both accounts will be combined, which could place you at a higher elite level for both accounts
  • Ability to combine miles earned for award travel

Linking your accounts will also ensure a smooth transition to the 2012 MileagePlus program. When the program beings on March 3, United will assign new eight-character alphanumeric account numbers to MileagePlus members who are not linked to a OnePass account. By linking accounts travelers will be able to use their existing OnePass number as the new MileagePlus number. Travelers who do not link their accounts by the deadline of January 28th may find that they have duplicate accounts after March 3rd and will need to take extra steps to have them merged.

For more information please go to: http://www.mileageplusmergerupdates.com/en/mp/Welcome

India - Mumbai Airport Runway Closure

The main runway (09-27) at Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM) will remain shut for flight operations between 0900 and 1700 from Jan. 20 to June 1. Airport officials said that delays up to 40 minutes are possible during this period as the facility's secondary runway (14-32) will not be able to accommodate the same number of flights as the main runway.

Winter Storm Targets Midwest and Northeast

A winter storm will quickly dart from the Midwest to the Northeast Friday into the first half of Saturday with a band of snow along with some sleet and freezing rain.

Bolivia - Public Transport Strike

Public Transport Workers are planning a tentative 24-hour strike for Jan. 24, though organizers have not confirmed the details.

Taiwan - Airport Ground Crew Strike in Kaohsiung

Ground crewmembers at Kaohsiung International Airport have threatened to launch an indefinite strike over the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday to demand a pay raise. The workers, who handle freight, aircraft cabin, passenger, ramp, and equipment services, did not announce a specific start date, but the Lunar New Year holiday will begin Jan. 21 and run through Jan. 29. A strike is possible any time over that period and would likely prompt significant flight delays and cancellations, especially due to heightened holiday flight volume.

Q and A

Can I Bring Food From Home For The Plane Instead of Buying It At the Airport or On-board?

Yes, officially the TSA allows wrapped foods that do not contain liquids or gels to pass through security. Examples include a wrapped sandwich, small bag of chips, whole fruit (apple, orange, banana, etc.), granola bars, candy, gum, and pastries. Foods containing liquids or gels, such as gravies, sauces, salad dressings, and salsas, are prohibited. All food must pass through the X-ray machine. Whole cakes and pies are permitted, but may be subject to additional inspection.

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