Update: Since we published this article Monday, the U.S Government announced short-term visitors can now receive a waiver from existing law banning HIV positive travelers from entering the country. This is a temporary solution until HIV is removed from a list of "communicable diseases of public health significance," which limit inbound travelers from entering the U.S. That list process is expected to take up to a year to complete.
Original Article:
Although President Bush signed a bill that would end the ban on HIV-positive travelers and immigrants coming to the U.S., the Health and Human Services Department, responsible for writing new rules allowing positive travelers into the country, has yet to move on the issue.
“We’re working hard to revise the regulation, and it’s our goal to have it completed during this administration,” said Health and Human Services spokeswoman Holly Babin.
The United States, normally regarded as a country leading the fight for equality and fairness, instead finds itself on the sidelines with a dozen or so repressive countries such as Libya, Sudan, Russia, and Saudi Arabia, by banning travel and immigration for people with HIV. All other countries in the world have no such ban.
Several house Democrats submitted a letter to Bush demanding swift action to remove the HIV travel and immigration ban. “Congress has sent a clear signal that we can’t fight discrimination and stigma aboard until we end it at home,” said Victoria Neilson, legal director of Immigration Quality. “Congress has done its part – it’s time for HHS to act.”
Showing posts with label policy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label policy. Show all posts
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Monday, September 29, 2008
Obstacles Still Preventing HIV-Positive Visitors Into U.S
Although President Bush signed a bill that would end the ban on HIV-positive travelers and immigrants coming to the U.S., the Health and Human Services Department, responsible for writing new rules allowing positive travelers into the country, has yet to move on the issue.“We’re working hard to revise the regulation, and it’s our goal to have it completed during this administration,” said Health and Human Services spokeswoman Holly Babin.
The United States, normally regarded as a country leading the fight for equality and fairness, instead finds itself on the sidelines with a dozen or so repressive countries such as Libya, Sudan, Russia, and Saudi Arabia, by banning travel and immigration for people with HIV. All other countries in the world have no such ban.
Several house Democrats submitted a letter to Bush demanding swift action to remove the HIV travel and immigration ban. “Congress has sent a clear signal that we can’t fight discrimination and stigma aboard until we end it at home,” said Victoria Neilson, legal director of Immigration Quality. “Congress has done its part – it’s time for HHS to act.”
Sunday, April 20, 2008
United Airlines Increases Change Fee
By Mike GrassoIn what could result in a domino effect among other mainline carriers, United Airlines has raised change fees for non-award tickets to $150.00. The change appears to be effective immediately.
The news was initially mentioned on flyertalk, and although United has not made a public announcement of the increase, I just confirmed the change in the q&a section of the ual website.
Most mainline carriers, including United, charged no more than $100 (plus any applicable fare change) for making changes to a reservation. With the increase, United is making a bold move, one likely to upset business & leisure travelers worldwide.
But, in February United announced they would pioneer a special $25 fee for checking in a second bag, and despite grumbles from flyers, within weeks most of the larger U.S-based airlines announced a matching the fee. Here, they were successful.
In addition to increasing change fees, in the coming months I expect many airlines to find other creative ways to charge passengers, far beyond the price of the ticket. As fuel costs rise to an all-time high, the industry must find solutions to offset the higher cost of flying planes.
Thursday, August 9, 2007
Free bonus miles points/miles with United, American, Amtrak & Air Canada
Thanks, View from the Wing Blog
Fill out a short survey and/or sign up to receive emails and earn the bonuses below.
250 free United Airlines miles
250 free American Airlines miles
250 free Amtrak points
1000 free Air Canada miles
These promotions are great because most airlines require some activity (air or partner) within a certain amount of time, otherwise they delete your frequent flyer account. Most airlines recognize these registrations as a qualifying partner activity therefore keeping your account active.
Thanks, View from the Wing Blog
Fill out a short survey and/or sign up to receive emails and earn the bonuses below.
250 free United Airlines miles
250 free American Airlines miles
250 free Amtrak points
1000 free Air Canada miles
These promotions are great because most airlines require some activity (air or partner) within a certain amount of time, otherwise they delete your frequent flyer account. Most airlines recognize these registrations as a qualifying partner activity therefore keeping your account active.
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Airlines to replace "No Smoking" with "No Mobile"
With the introduction of mobile phones services onboard some European-based airlines next year, the outdated "no smoking" signs above each seat will soon be replaced with "no mobile."
The illuminated "no smoking" signs have now become outdated since almost universal bans on lighting up on scheduled passenger planes were introduced in the late 1990s.
The "no mobile" sign will show a mobile phone crossed out and will be illuminated during takeoff until the plane has reached a certain altitude in order to ensure there is no interference with mobile networks on the ground.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
AirTran has announced an increase in change fees effective September 30th. Per their website, "all AirTran Airways fares are subject to a $60 change fee per person for any change made after purchase through September 30, 2007, plus any applicable increase in airfare. A $75 fee per person will apply to changes made after September 30, 2007, plus any applicable increase in airfare."
JetBlue announced earlier this month an increase in their change fee as well. Before the policy change customers we're out $25 bucks, now it's $35 for online changes, and $45 if an airline rep assists with the change (plus any increase in airfare).
In comparison, Southwest has no change fees (you pay only in change in the fare).
JetBlue announced earlier this month an increase in their change fee as well. Before the policy change customers we're out $25 bucks, now it's $35 for online changes, and $45 if an airline rep assists with the change (plus any increase in airfare).
In comparison, Southwest has no change fees (you pay only in change in the fare).
Friday, July 13, 2007
7 hours sitting on a plane - without leaving the ground
We are beginning to hear more stories about airlines refusing the let passengers off the plane when it's clear the aircraft will be stuck at the game for a while. Robert McKee (thanks Consumerist.com) shot this video of a recent Delta Airlines flight where passengers were provided multiple excuses for the problems. My favorite line is when one of the airline employees explained to customers that after calling Delta headquarters, they could not provide food to the passengers because the flight was not scheduled for food service - despite the many hours stuck on the tarmac.
While we here at inflightout try not to report on individual complaints, this video helps capture the many other incidents that have been reported on other airlines and other airports. In some incidents, such as this one, the airline is simply following federal policy about maximum hours flight crew can work. But often it's more important how the airline responds to such delays and treats its customers. It's likely we'll see more videos like this going forward.
While we here at inflightout try not to report on individual complaints, this video helps capture the many other incidents that have been reported on other airlines and other airports. In some incidents, such as this one, the airline is simply following federal policy about maximum hours flight crew can work. But often it's more important how the airline responds to such delays and treats its customers. It's likely we'll see more videos like this going forward.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
'Bumping' compensation rules by Airlines being reviewed
Getting "bumped" off a plane usually really pisses people off, or it makes them quite happy. The later is likely a voluntary bump and the former an involuntary bump. You know when something is involuntary is just can't be good; indeed the case here. Scenario: Your flight is oversold by 10 seats. The gate agent asks for volunteers to give up their seats in exchange for some denied boarding compensation (free air credit, ticket, upgrade etc) and put on a later flight. Lets say they can round up 9 good ol' folks to accept the voluntary bump- they walk away happy with some freebies in hand; that leaves the airline now 1 seat overbooked. The airline then initiates an involuntary bump; some lucky passenger will be pulled off the flight and accommodated on another flight - whether they like it or not. I've seen ordinary calm and pleasant passengers become hysterical in a matter of minutes once they've found out the ticket they have in hand is useless because of an involuntary bump.
It is here, the involuntary bump where the federal government steps in and monitors what's going on. Mandated reporting of INvoluntary bumps by the airline can show trends and whether the airline is just overbooking flight to frequently. The government also specifies mandatory compensation for INvoluntary bumps, whereas voluntary bumps are negotiated (in theory) between the passenger and gate agent.
INvoluntary bump compensation is being discussed by the Department of Transportation, specifically whether the compensation levels should be increased. The press release is here. Essentially 5 proposals, most to increase a displaced passengers compensation to a higher amount for being inconvenienced. DOT is accepting comment on the proposed changes.
Friday, July 6, 2007
Long live the days of the empty middle seat
Most U.S. airlines are reporting that planes are the fullest they have ever been in operating history according to the U.S DOT Bureau of Transportation Statistics. This has direct implications to passengers.
LOAD FACTOR BY YEAR
2006 79.2% (percent of seats filled on aircraft)
2005 77.6%
2004 75.5%
2003 73.5%
2002 71.8%
2001 70.0%
2000 72.4%
First, on average, you're more likely than ever in history to not have an empty seat next to you. So don't you dare move that armrest in the up position just yet.
Second, and probably more significant relates to cancelled flights. A fully booked flight where all seats are taken, then subsequently cancelled by the airline, can become a battle (or war) trying to accommodate all those unhappy folks on other flights. Less of a problem when planes were less full. Ahh, remember those days.
Third, if you are flying standby it also becomes more difficult because - you guessed it - there are fewer seats likely to be "open" for you to slip into. Miss your flight, and you may have a long wait at the airport. "Grande Latte please..."
Of course loads vary by time, market and revenue management techniques by the airline.
But, overall, those planes are running pretty darn full these days. Northwest, JetBlue and United have 2006 loads of 84%, 81.6% and 81.7% respectively. Southwest and AirTran have the lowest loads, 73.1% and 72.8% during the same year - meaning on average those planes are only about 3/4 full.
LOAD FACTOR BY YEAR
2006 79.2% (percent of seats filled on aircraft)
2005 77.6%
2004 75.5%
2003 73.5%
2002 71.8%
2001 70.0%
2000 72.4%
First, on average, you're more likely than ever in history to not have an empty seat next to you. So don't you dare move that armrest in the up position just yet.
Second, and probably more significant relates to cancelled flights. A fully booked flight where all seats are taken, then subsequently cancelled by the airline, can become a battle (or war) trying to accommodate all those unhappy folks on other flights. Less of a problem when planes were less full. Ahh, remember those days.
Third, if you are flying standby it also becomes more difficult because - you guessed it - there are fewer seats likely to be "open" for you to slip into. Miss your flight, and you may have a long wait at the airport. "Grande Latte please..."
Of course loads vary by time, market and revenue management techniques by the airline.
But, overall, those planes are running pretty darn full these days. Northwest, JetBlue and United have 2006 loads of 84%, 81.6% and 81.7% respectively. Southwest and AirTran have the lowest loads, 73.1% and 72.8% during the same year - meaning on average those planes are only about 3/4 full.
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Emergency Travel - Bereavement Fares
Sorting out flight arrangements is often the least concern when a distant family member has recently died or is imminent. Search engines likes Travelocity and Expedia make it much easier to sort schedules and fares for most of the airlines allowing you to choose what makes the most sense. But, sometimes you need some flexibility.
One option is redeeming frequent flyer miles for an air ticket. They often have more flexibility than a standard purchased ticket, with many airlines allowing you to change dates/times of departure at no fee providing there are still available seats.
A more classic option, Bereavement fares, can also provide customers options such as open return dates - because who knows how long you may need to stay at the destination to work through family matters. This program is usually available to immediate family members including domestic partners. But, not all airlines offer Bereavement fares any longer, so you need to call the airlines directly to find out.
Prices range from 10-75% off the FULL FARE price of a ticket for the same routing. Therefore, Bereavement fares are not always the least expensive - but again, can offer a greater ability to make changes as needed during your travel.
One option is redeeming frequent flyer miles for an air ticket. They often have more flexibility than a standard purchased ticket, with many airlines allowing you to change dates/times of departure at no fee providing there are still available seats.
A more classic option, Bereavement fares, can also provide customers options such as open return dates - because who knows how long you may need to stay at the destination to work through family matters. This program is usually available to immediate family members including domestic partners. But, not all airlines offer Bereavement fares any longer, so you need to call the airlines directly to find out.
Prices range from 10-75% off the FULL FARE price of a ticket for the same routing. Therefore, Bereavement fares are not always the least expensive - but again, can offer a greater ability to make changes as needed during your travel.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Pick a seat...any seat...then show us the money
AirTran begins a service allowing customers to choose their seat assignment at the time of booking their airline ticket, for a fee.
Most airlines allow you to pick the place to park your bosom on board the plane well before you hop on board. With AirTran, most customers select their seats day of departure. This new optional service allows mid and low priced ticket holders the ability to reserve certain seats in advance, including emergency row for a fee from $5-$15 each way rather scooping up whatever seats may be left on day of departure. Premium class and high priced Y,B, & M fares are not subject to the fee.
For a family of 4, an added cost of up to $120 to sit together cuts into the budget of a vacation.
For a solo 6'2 traveler, $30 for an emergency exit row seat might be appealing.
Good and Bad.
Most airlines allow you to pick the place to park your bosom on board the plane well before you hop on board. With AirTran, most customers select their seats day of departure. This new optional service allows mid and low priced ticket holders the ability to reserve certain seats in advance, including emergency row for a fee from $5-$15 each way rather scooping up whatever seats may be left on day of departure. Premium class and high priced Y,B, & M fares are not subject to the fee.
For a family of 4, an added cost of up to $120 to sit together cuts into the budget of a vacation.
For a solo 6'2 traveler, $30 for an emergency exit row seat might be appealing.
Good and Bad.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
"Get in, sit down, shut up," Welcome to the Unfriendly Skies
Drunk passengers at 35,000 feet is SOOO yesterday. Now flight attendants are dealing with shoe-spitting, chest-punching, bomb-threatening passengers, pouting because traveling has rapidly become a stressful nightmare. Flights are filled to capacity, airport security is an annoyance at best and delays & cancellations are taking their toll. But there's more.
Flight attendants have seen their pensions disappear, their payroll slashed and a one-time lucrative career become little more than a minimum wage job w/benefits. I'd be a little pist too.
This USA Today story discusses how the skies have become quite unfriendly these days.
Flight attendants have seen their pensions disappear, their payroll slashed and a one-time lucrative career become little more than a minimum wage job w/benefits. I'd be a little pist too.
This USA Today story discusses how the skies have become quite unfriendly these days.
Friday, May 25, 2007
The devaluation of United e-500-mile upgrades
United has long offered a program of earning or purchasing e-500 mile upgrades. As an elite member, the upgrades come complimentary after a certain amounts of miles are flown. One can also purchase packages of e-upgrades. Then, buy a coach ticket, apply for an upgrade to the next class of service, and as (if) seats are available people are upgraded.
People unable to use the e-upgrades because no upgraded seats become available, or they simply don't fly enough to use them up could at least look forward to those e-500 mile upgrades to be converted to regular United miles. This occurred 1 year from the date the e-500 mile upgrades were issued.
New Policy: United states the 500 mile upgrades will no longer be converted to miles.
UA flyers who fly often have accrued many upgrades and will take a big loss with this new policy. Infrequent travelers may not even notice the change. Others will fall somewhere in between. United however made this policy change quietly (small blurb at the bottom of a page on their website) and with very little notice. Many have criticized United not simply for this policy change, but the method they used to do so.
Here is the link discussing their e-500 mile upgrade program; at the bottom of the page is their new policy.
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Update: 6/3/07 United Airlines has modified this policy and in certain cases Premier Exec flyers and higher can ask to have upgrades coverted to miles. Low or no status UA flyers are still out'a luck. Thumbs down to United!
Friday, May 26, 2006
May 26, 2006 NEWSLETTER
Welcome to Issue #4 of the INflightOUT newsletter. May 26, 2006.
(feel free to forward to friends)
United, American and Frontier Airlines are all offering some version of "double miles" for future flights this year. You must register for the promo on the airlines' respective website! Hurry. UA/AA cut off for registration is May 31.
Southwest Airlines considering a new policy of assigned seating; fyi They considered this in 2004 as well, but obviously never implemented it. Here's the latest... Click here for Washington Post story
*WHY WE TRAVEL* (editor favorite)A beautiful collection of images from across the globe. These images have appeared in the New York Times, but this link is the cummulative slide show. The captions compliment the pictures well. Click Here for the Slide show
Alaska Airlines now offering Red Bull on all flights. It claims to be the 1st airline in the world to offer Red Bull. $5 charge in economy, free up front.
JetBlue flyers who also own the AmericanExpress JetBlue card receive a free complimentary coctail when flashing the card onboard any JB flight. Valid through June.
FREE AIRPORT WIRELESS SERVICE. Free service at Sacramento International, John Wayne/Orange County, Long Beach. Many airports charge $6-10 for this service. Click here to find out other FREE airport locations around the country.
NEW BAY AREA SERVICEIceland Airlines - Resumes non-stop service San Francisco to Reykjavik, Iceland 4 times a week, with good connections if you want to continue to mainland Europe. Iceland had an extensive GLBT marketing campaign recently promoting extensive outdoor activities and entertainment. Fares historically have been very competitive - allowing a few days in Iceland, then continue elsewhere in Europe for < $600. For now, nothing like that on their website. Keep your eyes open for it though.
Northwest Airlines - NEW daily non-stop service to Indianapolis starts June 1. 1000 bonus miles on this route. Airtran - also starts SFO-Indianapolis June 8.
Hawaiian Airlines - to offer "as low as" $43 each way tickets for inter-island travel starting October 1st. Likely competing with Mesa airlines who recently started island service. Book early for these fares! Source: Pualani Ohana Newsletter.
AmericaWest - their website is gone! Finally switches over to US Air. Travelers flying US Air "west" (ie: America West) can request United Airlines credit. Although not official on their website, there have been many reports successfully doing this. (US Air is part of Star Alliance - but America West was not)
(feel free to forward to friends)
United, American and Frontier Airlines are all offering some version of "double miles" for future flights this year. You must register for the promo on the airlines' respective website! Hurry. UA/AA cut off for registration is May 31.
Southwest Airlines considering a new policy of assigned seating; fyi They considered this in 2004 as well, but obviously never implemented it. Here's the latest... Click here for Washington Post story
*WHY WE TRAVEL* (editor favorite)A beautiful collection of images from across the globe. These images have appeared in the New York Times, but this link is the cummulative slide show. The captions compliment the pictures well. Click Here for the Slide show
Alaska Airlines now offering Red Bull on all flights. It claims to be the 1st airline in the world to offer Red Bull. $5 charge in economy, free up front.
JetBlue flyers who also own the AmericanExpress JetBlue card receive a free complimentary coctail when flashing the card onboard any JB flight. Valid through June.
FREE AIRPORT WIRELESS SERVICE. Free service at Sacramento International, John Wayne/Orange County, Long Beach. Many airports charge $6-10 for this service. Click here to find out other FREE airport locations around the country.
NEW BAY AREA SERVICEIceland Airlines - Resumes non-stop service San Francisco to Reykjavik, Iceland 4 times a week, with good connections if you want to continue to mainland Europe. Iceland had an extensive GLBT marketing campaign recently promoting extensive outdoor activities and entertainment. Fares historically have been very competitive - allowing a few days in Iceland, then continue elsewhere in Europe for < $600. For now, nothing like that on their website. Keep your eyes open for it though.
Northwest Airlines - NEW daily non-stop service to Indianapolis starts June 1. 1000 bonus miles on this route. Airtran - also starts SFO-Indianapolis June 8.
Hawaiian Airlines - to offer "as low as" $43 each way tickets for inter-island travel starting October 1st. Likely competing with Mesa airlines who recently started island service. Book early for these fares! Source: Pualani Ohana Newsletter.
AmericaWest - their website is gone! Finally switches over to US Air. Travelers flying US Air "west" (ie: America West) can request United Airlines credit. Although not official on their website, there have been many reports successfully doing this. (US Air is part of Star Alliance - but America West was not)