Not enough airlines are competing. Airline competition is going to be a big issue this coming year. It is already, but the big airlines are making moves that beg for pushback from those who want to keep them in check and keep a competitive marketplace operating. Here...
Thank you to every Travelers United reader. We need your help to keep working for you. Donate to Travelers United. It has done more for travelers than any other organization in Washington, DC. Your support and your voices give us the strength to succeed. We need your...
A new cross-airline ban of a blacklist of problem passengers could also hand airlines a weapon against ordinary travelers. If you find yourself on a blacklist of problem passengers, you can usually walk over to a competitor’s counter and buy a ticket on another...
If you want a less stressful flight, it may be worth a splurge for preferred or premium seats. If you’re an elite level flier already booked for holiday travel you probably have your seat assignments confirmed, so you can disregard this post. Ditto if...
Review the top five traveler bank account scams. Ensure that you don’t fall prey to them and maintain your credit/debit cards and bank accounts in good order. When we travel, most of us use smartphones and many also use tablets, smart watches, etc....
Airlines are cutting flight availability dramatically and unexpectedly. Fewer on-time flights do not bode well for future bookings. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently announced that they are now recording the most fliers at US airports. More...
Airline passengers are “worth” different amounts of money in various countries and states. The value of life varies depending on where the case is brought to court. The value of life is not what many would have guessed. Although the US is at the top of the...
As travel season kicks into high gear, plan your trip insurance. Travel season is kicking into high gear. Have you also considered travel insurance if you plan any significant trips, especially international ones? If you don’t think it is important or necessary, you...
Special tips when taking connecting flights over the summer. Almost no one prefers to take a connection over nonstop, but sometimes scheduling, or airfares, make connecting flights the best option. Three of the largest airlines are considered “network...
NOAA has announced that El Niño has developed. In much of the northern hemisphere this summer, including the U.S. and Europe, it will cause temperatures to soar. Travelers must beware. Last week, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced...
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.
