Archive for November, 2008

Thursday, November 20th, 2008

Delta Begins Charging for First Checked Bag

Delta Air Lines has announced it will begin charging $15 to passengers for their first checked bag and $25 for a second checked bag on domestic flights.
This new fee is in effect for new bookings for travel Dec. 5 or later. People with advance bookings made prior to Wednesday will not have to pay the first-bag fee, regardless of dates of travel. Previously, Delta had no fee for a first checked bag, but did charge $50 for a second checked bag. When Delta added a fee for checking a second bag, it cited rising fuel costs. However, following the recent drop in oil prices, Delta this time cited a competitive motivation.

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Thursday, November 20th, 2008

Travel Tips for the Holidays

Travel Tips for the Holidays
Travel during Thanksgiving and the Christmas season – both business and leisure – offers unique challenges. During these peak travel periods, airports are crowded and airline personnel are busy helping families and other less experienced travelers. Here’s a few tips to help ease upcoming travel.

Arrive for Travel Early
Plan for crowded parking lots and busy departure drop-off areas. Check-in and security lines will be longer and move slower than usual. Giving yourself extra time will help you to be more relaxed. In case your flight is overbooked an early check-in will usually limit the chance of not being bumped.

Organization 3-1-1
Organize your carry-on baggage for security inspection. Use the TSA’s 3-1-1 guidelines: — All liquids, gels and aerosols must be in (3) three-ounce or smaller containers. — All liquids, gels and aerosols must be placed in (1) one quart-size, zip-top, clear plastic bag. — Remove the (1) one plastic, zip-top bag from carry-on and place it in a bin for X-ray screening.

Pack Smart
Make sure you know the current baggage limits for your air carrier and pack accordingly. Airlines are constantly changing fees and adding rules governing allowable checked and carry-on baggage. Keep in mind that carriers often have different rules for domestic and international baggage.

Know Your Airports
Visit the websites of airports you’ll be using for your travel. Review any maps and terminal diagrams to familiarize yourself with each airport’s layout. Print the diagrams and carry them with your other travel documents. A little preparation can make navigating around a big airport easier – especially if you find yourself in a hurry.

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