How to file consumer complaints and get compensation from airlines
Consumer protection notification and DOT airline complaint systems need improvement. We are still waiting for the second iteration of the DOT's new consumer complaints system. Now that the Trump Administration is in charge, expect more than a few delays. Improving the...
Checked luggage costs more than your airline ticket. It’s time for this to end.
There’s a new milestone in American air travel: Checked luggage costs more than your ticket. Earlier this month, United Airlines raised its fees for the first checked luggage costs an eye-popping $50 at the airport. American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest...
Airline code-shares. Another reason why you SHOULD use a travel agent
Airlines love direct bookings — meaning anything you book on THEIR website. Don't use a codeshare. There are two main reasons why a passenger shouldn't use a codeshare... Airlines don't have to pay anyone or any website anything — whether it's a booking fee or...
Nine top air traveler carry-on and personal item theft preventatives
According to SITA, a multinational information technology company serving the air transportation industry, in the last fully reported year in the U.S., the airlines mishandled 6.3 checked bags per thousand passengers. Theft preventatives are more important than ever....
Using less mobile data when you travel. FAA finding on O’Hare AA/United scheduling spat.
While traveling we become even more dependent on our smartphones than usual. There are no other phones to use, we all need to get around so map programs are more and more important. Airline boarding passes are often loaded on cell phones. Apps that tell travelers the best hotels and restaurants are needed more than ever. And every time we pick up our mobile phone we need to use international data.
How the FTC can stop drip pricing, resort fees, and junk fees
Travelers United strongly supports all the President's men call to stop junk fees. Our advocacy group completely supports the Presidential call made in the 2023 State of the Union address to eliminate "junk fees." We have been very active over the past decade on this...
Will the Iran war claim an airline because of fuel costs?
Will the Iran war claim another victim because of fuel costs? During the last few weeks, as fuel prices have surged, Italian low-fare carrier GoTo Fly and Royal Air Philippines have folded. Before that, it was Air Albania and Slovenian low-cost airline AlpAvia. Spirit...
If Congress wants to help travelers with delays, it can fund training travel agents
Training travel agents will change the way we fly It's almost impossible to get through a day without some scary story involving a US airline. And while United Airlines and Boeing are getting the most headlines, other delays and problems are happening regularly....
Top 7 senior citizen traveler mistakes to avoid on your next journey
A senior citizen traveler should honestly consider their physical, mental, and medical conditions to avoid mistakes on their next journey. I'm a senior citizen traveler. I've been one for a while now. Yet I continue to travel for business and leisure. Many of the...
Should you buy quick travel insurance at checkout — or skip it?
You’re minutes away from confirming your dream vacation. You’ve selected a flight, hotel, and rental car. And then you see the question: “Add quick travel insurance to protect your trip for just $89?” One click, and you’re covered. Right? Maybe, maybe not. That quick...