Pack light or pay up for holiday flights
When airlines started charging some passengers $15 or more earlier this year to check their bags, they blamed soaring fuel costs. Since then, oil has plummeted. Yet the industry hasn’t stowed away the bag fees. Many of us are still paying to fly with a suitcase that doesn’t squeeze into the overhead bin or under the seat. The reason is simple: Airlines are still losing money, though now... [Read more]
A look at airlines’ Oct. on-time performance
U.S. airlines’ on-time performance and baggage handling improved in October, and the carriers overall posted a lower rate of domestic cancellations compared to the same month a year ago, the Transportation Department said Wednesday. Regional carrier Atlantic Southeast Airlines had the worst on-time performance in October, while regional carrier Pinnacle Airlines had the best. The DOT’s... [Read more]
Airlines baggage policies
Baggage policies differ by airlines. Read the rules on the carrier’s Web site or ask an agent before you fly. Here are fees that some leading U.S. carriers charge for a first, second and third checked bag, plus special rules for ski equipment on domestic flights. Note that most airlines waive baggage fees for elite members of frequent-flier programs, first- and business-class travelers and full-fare... [Read more]
Holiday Travelers’ Survival Guide 2008
The waits for planes, trains, and rental cars will be absurdly long this year. Get ahead of the crowd by taking the following shortcuts. Leave your gifts unwrapped. Airport screeners reserve the right to open any package. Wait until you reach your destination and then wrap your presents. You may bring cakes and pies through a security checkpoint, but they will be subject to inspection. Bringing wine... [Read more]
Delta AirLines adding first bag fee
Delta AirLines Inc., the world’s biggest carrier, said Wednesday it will impose a $15 fee to check a first bag, becoming the last of the six legacy airlines to impose such a fee. The carrier also said it is cutting certain other fees as it aligns its policies with those of Northwest Airlines, which it acquired last week. Atlanta-based Delta said that effective immediately, for traffic on or after... [Read more]
Tips for holding down business travel costs
With fuel surcharges, baggage fees and rising ticket costs, flying employees around the globe is more expensive than ever. American Express Business Travel has cash-saving tips for companies and road warriors: Confirm travel plans before booking; airlines often charge $150 or more for flight changes. Check as few bags as possible: Overnight delivery of presentation materials may be more cost-effective... [Read more]
United Airline boosts 2nd-bag fee to $50
United Airline has doubled its fee for a second checked bag to $50, citing volatile fuel prices. United says the $50 one-way fee will apply for tickets bought beginning Tuesday for travel beginning November 10 within the U.S. or to or from Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Travelers in first or business classes, “Premier” frequent fliers and active-duty military personnel... [Read more]
Baggage system breakdown delays JFK flights
A computer glitch in a baggage handling system is causing problems at New York City’s Kennedy Airport. American Airlines says a software problem crippled the baggage conveyor belt Wednesday morning in its terminal at JFK. About 20 flights have been delayed by at least an hour while technicians try to resolve the problem. The airline is sorting bags by hand, but the backup has left the terminal... [Read more]
Delta raising baggage fees
Delta Air Lines Inc., the nation’s third-largest carrier, will double its charge for checking a second bag on a domestic flight as part of a set of fee increases to help offset the high cost of fuel. The Atlanta-based carrier said Tuesday that the changes will apply to customers who purchase a ticket on or after Thursday for travel on or after Aug. 5. Fee changes include an increase from $25... [Read more]