New restaurant junk fees are deceptive and unfair Restaurants across America are dealing with higher prices of food in a post-COVID world. In places like Washington, DC, the restaurant scene is simultaneously learning how to implement a new law that changes the way...
The smartphone travel apps are tools for travelers to maintain detailed itineraries, be a GPS on driving trips, keep tabs on TSA security at airports, track planes and cruise ships, etc. The smartphone travel apps are important tools for travelers. They can help...
Junk fees disclosure is material to the consumer’s decision Travelers United defeated Sonesta Hotels’ attempt to have a lawsuit challenging junk fees practice stopped. It was dismissed and sent to a jury on Thursday, March 21, 2024. As the Court explained, “a...
Nobody likes airline fees match, especially when it involves checked bag fees. Frequent fliers and travelers with expensive credit cards can avoid airline fees match. Perhaps they don’t get outraged as much with changes to baggage fees as with other airline...
These airport security dos and don’ts will help with problems at security checkpoints. Often, air travel isn’t easy. Getting through TSA security or airport security internationally can be challenging, with different rules in different countries and...
After a series of mishaps, United Airlines CEO Kirby claims, “planes are safe.” United Airlines planes are safe, according to Scott Kirby, the Chief Executive Officer of the airline. He told customers, pilots, and investors after a series of safety...
It’s critical to secure carry-on bags overhead. They especially need protecting when you’re not seated or asleep. Last week, my column was devoted to securing checked luggage during air travel. Unfortunately, it’s not just checked luggage security...
In the winter travelers expect delays and cancellations. In the summer they are supposed to ease up. This summer there may be more storms and a shortage of workers to keep the aviation system running. Many travel agents I know have long hated booking travel in winter....
However airlines spin it, when a mileage program changes its frequent flier rules it’s usually not good news for consumers. The most recent mileage program changes by American Airlines, scheduled to take effect in May, could be the worst yet for many travelers....
The problems of pets on planes have severe consequences for others caused by passengers breaking the rules. Last month, a passenger was flying with her chihuahua on United Airlines. She was traveling from Denver to Portland. United’s pet rules state, “Once...
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.
