Fall is a favorite time to get away. For many of us, the cooler weather is welcome and the summer crowds at many destinations are out of the way. Here are some tips about getting the most value from your autumn vacation. If plans are taking you far away, plan ahead,...
When grandmothers are irritated with the airlines about hidden fees and sick and tired of being surprised at the airport with another fee, it is time for a change. In fact these fees, especially baggage fees actually discriminate against older passengers. At least let...
Giant snails seized at Dulles Airport Sometimes those agricultural inspectors and the cute sniffing dogs do the right thing and earn their keep. Over Labor Day weekend, they discovered a stash of giant snails as someone tried to bring them into the country. I guess if...
Over the nine years since 9/11, there have been many ceremonies, new memorials, congressional plaudits and remembrances for those who died in that day’s tragic events. This year there will be more. Sadly, few of these events will include flight attendants, the first...
Several readers have wondered why I seem obsessed about hidden airline fees these days. “Aren’t there other issues to vent about?” they ask. “We hear you, Charlie,” they say. Timing is everything. Right now for the first time in decades,...
These accomplishments have been achieved by working closely with our members, national media, the travel industry, the Department of Transportation (DOT), Congress and many other agencies.
– Removal of restaurant fees from DC area eateries — this is an ongoing project
– Creation of DOT Dashboard to outline consumer rights after cancellation of a flight
– Bi-partisan bill to eliminate hotel resort fees introduced into House of Representatives
– Creation of the Advisory Committee for Aviation Consumer Protections
– Advertised airfares now include airfare plus, mandatory taxes and fees
– Lost/damaged/delayed luggage compensation limit increased to $3,800
– Passengers have 24 hours to change or cancel their nonrefundable tickets without penalty
– Once an airfare is purchased, that airfare and ancillary fees cannot be increased
– Families flying together act passed by Congress that requires family members 13 years of age and younger to sit with other family members at no additional cost.
