One Bag, One World

Daily Roundup--February 8, 2012

2012-02-08T14:04:55Z

At what point do the airlines cross the line with their myriad of hidden and ridiculous fees that the passengers say enough is enough? For consumer advocate Ralph Nader, that point is getting closer and closer.

Airbus has been ordered to inspect its entire fleet of A-380’s for wing cracks. There are currently 68 in service. That’s airplanes, not cracks.

Strikes in France and Israel are causing delays and cancellations of many flights.

Have you worried that sitting in coach may make you more susceptible to blood clots and deep vein thrombosis? Have no fear, a new study says that it really doesn’t matter where you sit but what you do during the flight.

AirfareWatchdog published a carry-on policy chart for most major airlines throughout the world.

The TSA is expanding its “Pre-Check” security clearance program to 28 more cities.

Daily Roundup--February 7, 2012

2012-02-07T14:57:35Z

The TSA will allow West Yellowstone Airport, the seasonal Montana airport, to hire private screeners rather than fly in government employees. This will not only save lots of money but create jobs for local residents. I wonder if they’re doing it because it makes sense or because a new law may force them to make similar decisions?

The U.S. Congress has approved a new FAA funding bill and the President is expected to sign it.

Alaska Air will soon start flying to Philadelphia and Ft. Lauderdale. It’s also dropping Miami from its route map.

Grand Canyon National Park has banned the sale of plastic water bottles. It’s not the first national park to do this.

Happy 200th birthday to Charles Dickens.

Daily Roundup--February 6, 2012

2012-02-06T14:28:44Z

China is banning its airlines from paying an EU emissions tax on all flights in and out of Europe. Twenty six other countries, including the U.S. and India, are protesting the legality of the EU’s actions.

The NY Giants did some celebrating on their flight home today from Indianapolis to Newark. This video was posted before they even landed:

It looks like full body scans will be required at Australia’s international airports. No more opting for a pat down. Only those with serious medical conditions may opt out.

A new bill in front of the Senate will allow airports to hire private screeners to replace the TSA. This bill, which already passed the House of Representatives, is expected to pass the Senate and then be signed by the President. The bill overrides TSA head John Pistole who said he would not allow private screeners.

This has nothing to do with travel but it’s just wrong!!!!! Thank you for allowing me my rant.

Snow & Wheels--not a good combination.

2012-02-05T14:29:26Z

As many of you may have heard, Rome received a rare blanketing of snow this weekend. And as a prized tourist destination, you knew this photo was inevitable:

(Photo courtesy of the Sacramento Bee)

For more photos of Rome in the Snow, click here

Daily Roundup--February 3, 2012

2012-02-03T13:34:51Z

Hungary’s Malev Airlines has stopped flying. They are the second European airline to go bust in the past week. (We reported on Malev’s problems and Spanair’s bankruptcy in previous Daily Roundup columns.) With the European economy the way it is, I wonder who’s next?

Meanwhile….after that announcement, Ryanair announced 26 new routes out of Hungary to help fill the void—and increase revenue. Air Berlin also announced more routes as well.

How about taking a cruise with the New York Times? This October, the “old gray lady” will offer up intellectual stimulation, and numerous seminars by some of its top journalists, while cruising the eastern Mediterranean. Makes you wonder….instead of unlimited drinks, do you get unlimiited crossword puzzles?

Uh oh, eh? Canada’s Wesjet airlines is looking into new ways to raise ancillary income. In layman’s talk, that means more ridiculous fees.

U.S. Passport Fees are going up—and not by just a little. Don’t feel bad, I just checked. I’m up for renewal. I should have looked sooner.

A rare heavy snowstorm in Rome has forced the closure of the Colosseum and Roman Forum.. Will disappointed tourists take solace in extra gelato? Doubtful in this weather.