AIR TRAVELING

by: Brian Vaszily

Airfare prices may be set to increase in 2006, as airlines struggle with rising fuel costs and not enough passengers. The hardest hit are the smaller, budget airlines, such as Independence Air, which closed its doors in the first week of January.

From that shutdown alone, airfare experts say fares in many of the 30 cities previously served by Independence Air could double or even triple.

"We're going to learn the true meaning of 'sky high,' "said airline consumer expert Tom Parsons, CEO of Bestfares.com in a USA Today report.

But there is good news for travelers -- with a little know-how, you can save big on airfares. Top Eight Money-Saving Airfare Tips

1. Use an ethnic travel agent if flying internationally.
Travel agents in ethnic neighborhoods tend to cater to their home ethnicity. They buy space on flights in bulk and get the best deals for that crowd. So if you are flying to China, for example, seek out a travel agent in Chinatown.

2. Be flexible.
The least expensive days to fly are typically Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. You can save even more if you're willing to take a red-eye or very early morning flight, or one with a stop or two. If you can risk not being able to find tickets, you can try waiting until the very last minute. Many airlines offer last-minute promotional rates ... but only if seats are left open.

3. Opt for e-tickets.
Whenever possible, always choose the electronic ticket option. Most travel agents charge a fee to deliver paper tickets.

4. Buy tickets through a consolidator.
Consolidators buy blocks of tickets and sell them at a discounted rate in order to help airlines fill up seats. You can find "Ticket Consolidators" in your newspaper's travel section or online at sites like Hotwire.com, Onetravel.com and Lowestfare.com. Be aware that these tickets may have more restrictions than others.

5. Use an alternative airport.
Flying to an airport that is 30-40 minutes away from your destination can save you up to 50 percent on a flight. For instance, flying into Baltimore instead of Washington D.C., Oakland instead of San Francisco, or Rockford instead of Chicago.

6. Check fares on low-cost airlines.
Although they may not be featured on major travel Web sites, airlines like JetBlue, Southwest and American Trans Air often offer lower fares and better promotions than competitors. Fly eight round-trips on Southwest, for instance, and the ninth is free. However, the disadvantage is that their travel areas are much more limited.

7. Check online.
Ticket prices can be cut by 10 percent or more when purchased online. Many online travel sites also offer package deals for vacations that include flights, hotel and car rentals. Be sure to shop around though, as prices vary widely by site. Check online specials not only for individual airlines but also at sites such as Travelocity.com, Expedia.com, and Orbitz.com.

8. Do your homework, then act fast.
Once you get an idea of what a good price is for your particular flight needs, be prepared to act fast. Airfares change dramatically, even from day to day, so if you see a price you like, buy it

by: Luke Taylor

Competition in the flight industry can only be a good thing for the consumer, most people would say. Or is it ?. Too much competition amongst major airlines can force these flight companies to fold. If major airline companies fold it's not a good thing for the consumer. It gives monopoly to its former competitors and this can result in high priced plane tickets. Its the game of snuffing each other out to win the market for the real kill. Only the strongest will survive.

We have seen in recent times, many major airlines go into administration, either due to bad management, competition and the ever rising cost of fuel. I am still waiting for someone to invent an passenger plane that runs on electricity, wouldn't that be grand. Just add two huge rechargeable energizer batteries before take off.

Future aeronautical technology can be beneficial to both the consumer and airline companies. In terms of aircraft running costs, fuel efficiency and the number of seating. A good example would be the Airbus aircrafts. Airbus has build the world’s largest passenger aircraft, the A380 which can seat 555 passengers. Massive seating (customers) reduces running costs and this can only be beneficial to the consumer in terms of reduced plane tickets offered by airline companies.

As of now, the ball rolls around in the travellers court and so it should be. Cheap flights can be found on many travel agency and airline company sites. Travellers should take advantage of discounted plane tickets many travel agencies and airlines are offering at the moment.

Every now and then airline companies offer cheap flights with the aim of promoting customer loyalty. Sorry, but I am afraid that the only loyalty they achieve is for that period of the promotion. When tickets revert back to standard pricing, guess where all that loyalty goes? ...their competitors, offering an even lower priced ticket. I am sure you have seen the ads on TV, with the nice looking air hostess selling you a nice cosy environment and all the benefits when travelling. For domestic flights I'll buy a ticket, as long as the price is cheap, seating is reasonably comfortable and the rest are all frills. Eighteen hour International flights are a different story, here you look for the frills at cheap prices.

by: Joseph Kenny

There are a few fears in life that defy logic. Fear of spiders may be one, fear of lifts is another, and perhaps a fear of flying is another. Everyday, thousands of planes take off around the world, carrying millions of passengers safely to their destination. Flying is one of the safest, if not the safest, form of travel available. It is far safer than getting in the car, yet over one third of the population still report a fear of flying.

People cite many concerns when they talk of their fear of flying. Many report a lack of confidence in the air traffic control system and fear that a simple mistake on the ground can lead to disaster in the air. Then there are fears of faults with the plane itself. Most people saw the pictures of the concord crash a few years ago and when you’re sitting on an airplane, a few feet from the massive jet engines humming steadily, it seems very hard to believe that nothing could go wrong with such a machine. In fact the very shape and appearance of airplanes does little to inspire confidence in passengers who already are having doubts about the airworthiness of the plane.

Then there are the reports and press attention of the troubles of deep vein thrombosis.

The fact of the matter however, is that flying is extremely safe. It is one of the wonders of technology that air travel, with all the multitude of potential failures, keep delivering flight after flight, on time and without a hitch. In fact, in contrast to almost all other forms of travel, air travel is becoming safer and safer every year.

The statistics speak for themselves. Do you know what the chances are of having a single fatality on a flight? Well according to the BBC, it is 1 in 16 million. And in the vast majority of accidents where there are fatalities, more than half of the other passengers survive. What this means is that even if you defy all the odds and are on one of the few unlucky flights that does crash, you are still more likely to survive than die in the accident.

However, there is one issue with air travel that the statistics don’t commend so highly. Delays, lost luggage and missing flights are still frequent issues that plague passengers. Luckily, all of these can be covered for with some good, comprehensive travel insurance.

by: Eric Shannon

A pet owner must research the many requirements before taking a dog on an airplane. Different airlines have slightly different regulations, but most airlines follow the same basic set of rules in regards to flying with a dog.

One universal rule is that dogs cannot fly on a plane without the owner on board. Each airline that was contacted for this article has a rule that outlaws flying unaccompanied dogs from one point to another. Realize that the airline considers dogs to be cargo. Just as you are not allowed to send your luggage across the country without also being present, same thing goes when it comes to your dog. The intent of each rule is slightly different (it's unlikely that a bomb would be inside of a dog), but the bottom line is that the airlines to not want to be responsible for your dog. However, if you absolutely must transport your dog without being present, you can contact a licensed and approved pet transportation company to get the job done for you.

Before you even go to the airport, you need to make an appointment with your veterinarian. All airlines mandate that every dog that boards the plane must receive a full physical examination and be tested for various diseases (rabies is their main concern) prior to boarding. Usually the airline will want the exam certificate be dated within 30 to 60 days prior to the date of the flight, so the exam you had last year will not work for a flight you plan on taking next week.

Also, be aware of weather restrictions. These might be a big inconvenience, but they are in place to ensure the safety of your pet. The cargo area on an airplane can be incredibly hot. Because of this, there are restrictions on what times of the year dogs are allowed to travel to and from certain regions. Virtually all airlines will as well enforce weather and temperature related restrictions. For instance, if the temperature in the arrival or departure city is hotter than 85 degrees Fahrenheit, pets will not be permitted on the plane. Do not argue with the airline staff, because this is for your dog's safety.

Many airlines are currently allowing pets to be transported in the cabin of the plane, as long as they can comfortably fit into the in-cabin kennel cage (usually 22” long by 9”). The price of this service varies by airline but is usually under $100.00. This is considerably cheaper in comparison to the pets flying in the cargo hold which is not as safe and which can cost upwards of $300.00 on some airlines.

When flying internationally, be aware that the customs laws of many countries prohibit the entrance of dogs across their borders. Airlines are required to comply with these laws, and in many cases your dog will not be able to join you on an international flight at all.

by: Maryling Yu

Are you one of those people that has lots and lots of airline miles, so many that if you had a dollar for each one, you could stop working for a living? Do you know exactly where all the Auntie Anne’s Pretzels are located at the Dallas-Fort Worth airport? Do you book your flights by typing in the 3-letter airport code instead of the city name into the “Destination” box on-line? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you fly too much – and if you fly too much, chances are, it has taken a toll on your skin!

Let’s face it: when you fly, you are entering an aluminum box full of bad air consisting mostly of recirculated other-people's-gaseous-disturbances. 37,000 feet up, you are actually grateful for being able to breathe at all, but on the other hand, have you ever taken a close look at a flight attendant’s face? Talk about constant dehydration! The proper use of essential oils during your in-flight routine, in addition to having aromatic, anti-bacterial, and therapeutic benefits, can also help you avoid having YOUR skin resemble the Sahara desert or a topological contour map (where lines and wrinkles denote elevation). Here are 5 essential-oil based in-flight skin care tips that have worked for me, a former Frequent Flier:

Avoid drinking diuretics such as coffee, alcohol, or sodas. These squeeze the water out of our cells, and we need as much as we can get while we’re up there. Drink plenty of bottled water with a twist of Lemon or Lime for further purification and a refreshing tingle. They don’t have Lemon or Lime on your airline? Then use a drop of Lemon or Lime oil, instead. Don’t like plain water? Try mineral water or club soda instead for a little extra “zest!” Make a face spritzer and use it often! You can make one using an empty spray bottle with an atomizer top. Add some hydrating essential oils to make it more effective: I like to put 3 drops Lavender, 3 drops Neroli, and 3 drops of Rose per 4 ounces of water because these oils are not only hydrating, they’re also anti-aging. Have your body lotion readily available so you can quickly mollify dry, itchy areas like shins and arms. Add 10 drops of a good Dry Skin essential oil blend to 1 ounce of your favorite shea butter-based body lotion for maximum benefit as well: I like a blend of equal parts Roman Chamomile, Palmarosa, Ylang Ylang, Rose, and Sandalwood. For dry scalp (which causes embarrassing flakes) and lips in-flight, rub several drops of Lavender oil into your scalp and a single drop onto your lips to help eliminate dandruff and alleviate chapped lips. After you land, take a nice, long bath to soak up more moisture and soothe your nerves. Don’t forget to dunk your head under as well! I like to add 15 drops of Lavender and 15 drops of Grapefruit to 2 ounces of Epsom salts to my post-flight baths – it has the added bonus of putting me straight to sleep and helping me get over jet lag.

by: Donald Saunders

The secret to combating jet lag, and arriving at your destination with little or no jet lag, lies in sound preparation well in advance of your date of travel. This, however, is only the foundation of your "anti jet lag" plan and all of your sound preparatory work will be wasted if you don't also ensure that you follow a sensible routine during your flight.

Here are just five of the many things that you can do during your flight to reduce, or eliminate, the effects of jet lag:

1. Make sure that you get adequate rest.

Many people find that they can't, or simply don't want to, sleep during their flight. This is fine, although trying to get some sleep can certainly be helpful. If you can't, or don't want to sleep, then you should at least ensure that you take the opportunity to rest and should also try to plan your rest so that you will be aligned as far as is possible with the time at your destination.

If, for example, your twelve hour flight will get you to your destination early in the morning, try to get some sleep during the second half of the flight.

2. Make use of simple, natural sleep remedies.

If sleeping during the flight proves difficult, even with the use of such things as ear plugs and an eye mask to help simulate nighttime conditions, you may be tempted to resort to the use of sleeping pills. Don't succumb to this temptation!

A discussion on the rights and wrongs of using sleeping pills is beyond the scope of this article (although I do cover the subject in depth in articles and elsewhere on http://help-me-to-sleep.com) but, suffice it to say, that the use of sleeping pills during your flight will add to the problem of jet lag, rather than assist in reducing its effects.

There are however a number of natural sleep remedies available today which can provide a very effective solution. Of these chamomile and lavender, often taken in the form of a tea, are perhaps the best known. If these don't work in your particular case, then a slightly stronger and extremely good alternative would be either valerian root or melatonin.

3. Relax to soft, soothing music.

As an alternative to sleep, or indeed in addition to sleeping, try listening to soft, soothing music in preference to watching the in-flight movies. Even better; try some form of gentle meditation or relaxation exercises. This will not only help reduce the effects of jet lag, but will also help maintain a normal level of blood pressure and good circulation throughout a long flight.

4. Ensure that you take some exercise.

Although it can be tempting to stay in your seat throughout the flight, getting up from time to time and strolling around the cabin will refresh your body and promote both mental and physical activity. Some light exercise, particularly for your legs, will also help prevent the possibility of deep vein thrombosis – clots forming in the legs.

5 Keep yourself well hydrated.

The artificial environment created within the aircraft cabin by both pressurization and forced ventilation can lead to dehydration and so it is extremely important that you maintain your fluid levels. Drink plenty of water or fruit juice, but avoid tea and coffee and other caffeinated drinks. You should also avoid carbonated drinks and alcohol.

One part of the secret to arriving refreshed at your destination after a long flight is to ensure that you take the opportunity to rest and relax during the flight and that you avoid stimulants. Taking the simple steps outlined here will certainly go a long way towards preventing jet lag.

by: Donald Saunders

With the best preparation in the world before leaving home, and having taken a few simple precautions during your flight, you will inevitably suffer the effects of jet lag, unless you also continue your "no jet lag" plan once you arrive at your destination.

Here, however, we need to sound a word of caution. One common problem with jet lag is that, for many people, the true effects of jet lag are not immediately apparent and it may take a day or two to "catch up" with you. In addition, the excitement of arriving at your holiday destination, or for an important business meeting, may also tend to mask the symptoms of jet lag.

So, if you arrive at your destination feeling like a million dollars and throw yourself into your holiday or business activities – beware! Jet lag will almost certainly creep up and hit you on the back of the head just when you least expect it.

If your destination is in a time zone that is behind the time back home it is often claimed that taking a nap as soon as possible after your arrival is helpful. This is, however, not advisable, unless you really feel that you cannot press on without some sleep. If this is the case, try to take only a short nap lasting no more than about thirty or forty minutes. The best cure for jet lag, and its associated insomnia, is to press on to the normal bedtime at your destination and, thereby, to immediately begin the process of adapting your internal body clock to its new environment.

If you arrive at a destination that is ahead of your home time then try to sleep through as much of the night as possible, even though your body still thinks that it's the middle of the day. Here the use of natural remedies such as herbal teas, as well as a warm (but not hot) bath, aromatherapy or relaxation and meditation exercises can be extremely helpful in triggering the body's natural sleep cycle.

Light also plays a very important role in reducing the effects of jet lag and you should try to expose yourself to as much daylight as possible during normal waking hours. If you arrive during the day avoid the temptation to sit and rest in your hotel room or lounge and get out and about in the daylight until it's time for your normal evening routine.

You should also continue to pay attention to your diet. Eating and drinking to excess is often a normal part of any holiday or business trip, but try to avoid over-indulging in the first two or three days after arrival. In particular, limit your intake of such things as caffeine and alcohol, as well as other stimulants.

Finally, don't neglect your body's need for exercise. Taking regular daily aerobic exercise for at least twenty minutes (even if that's only a brisk walk back to your hotel rather than a taxi ride) is an important part of any plan to cure jet lag.

by: C Larroy

Make your trip safer...

When you fly on the commercial airlines of the United States, you are flying on the safest, most efficient form of transportation. When the rare accident does occur, more and more people survive due to advances in aircraft manufacturing and design, air traffic control technology, emergency planning, and cabin safety.

Aviation manufacturers, air carriers, and the Federal Aviation Administration are proud of their contributions to aviation’s impressive safety record. You, the air traveler, play a very important role in aviation safety.

You can take responsibility for your own safety.

• Listen To The Safety Briefing
• Keep Your Seat Belt Fastened
• Obey Carry-On Baggage Restrictions
• Wear Sensible Clothing

Fly Smart. Be responsible for your safety and make your safe trip even safer.

Listen to safety briefing...

Fly Smart travelers always listen to the safety briefing because they know that every aircraft is different. The following are some tips to ensure that you are familiar with the aircraft you are on:

• Take the passenger safety card out of the seat pocket and follow along while you listen to the safety briefing. Always take a moment to review the card before subsequent takeoffs and landings.

• One of the best things you can do to be prepared is to mentally plan the actions you would need to take in an emergency. As part of this plan, count seat rows between you and at least two exits.

• If you have any questions about the safety procedures, ask the flight attendant. Flight attendants are professionals; they know about the safety procedures of the aircraft.

Fasten your seat belt...

Of all the safety features aboard the aircraft, one of the most important is right at your fingertips, “Your Seat Belt.”

In a recent study, nearly 300 turbulence-related serious injuries to passengers were reported over a 10-year period. None of the injured had their seat belts fastened. To prevent turbulence-related injuries, Fly Smart travelers should always:

• Keep their seat belt fastened at all times.
• Make sure their seat belt is secured snugly and low across the hips.

Obey carry on rules...

Fly Smart travelers should be aware of what they bring on board.

• Most airlines restrict carry-on baggage to two pieces per passenger.

• Carry-on bags must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bins. It's a good idea to put the heavier items under the seat.

• Carry-on items could become flying projectiles during turbulence. Heavy items and baggage with sharp corners can be hazardous.

• Some hazardous materials are restricted. They can be dangerous if carried (or checked) on an aircraft. Following is a partial list of common articles from the home, workplace, or garage which, because of their physical or chemical properties, can pose a danger when transported.

• Mace, tear gas, and other irritants

• Aerosols containing flammable material (hair spray, deodorant,repellents)

• Loaded firearms

• Loose ammunition

• Gasoline and other flammable materials

• Propane, butane cylinders or refills, and lighter refills

• Wet-type batteries, e.g., as used in cars

• Fireworks and flares

• Safety or -strike-anywhere+ matches (in checked baggage)

• Paint and paint-related materials (thinners and cleaners)

• Corrosive (acids), poisonous, infectious, and radioactive materials

The above list is not all inclusive. There are certain exceptions for personal care, medical needs, and equipment to support physically challenged passengers. There are also provisions for sporting equipment. When in doubt, check with your airline.

• In the unlikely event of an emergency evacuation, leave everything behind.

Wear sensible clothing...

For ease of movement and protection in the unlikely event of an evacuation, Fly Smart travelers should follow these guidelines:

• Wear clothes made of natural fabrics such as cotton, wool, denim and leather. They offer the best protection. Synthetics may melt when they are heated.

• Wear clothing that allows freedom of movement. Avoid restrictive clothing.

• Wear low heeled shoes or boots. (Shoes with laces or straps are recommended. Avoid sandals.)

• Arms and legs should be as fully covered as possible. (Long sleeves/pants are recommended.)

Passenger checklist...

Suggestions for a safer trip...

Sensible Clothing

• Shirt - Long sleeved, natural fabrics.
• Slacks/pants - Long, natural fabrics.
• Shoes - Leather or canvas and low-heeled.

Child Safety Seat

Check with airline for policy on use before arrival at airport and on board the aircraft .

• Safely stow carry-on baggage.
• Wear seat belt snug and low across the hips.
• Keep your seat belt fastened at all times.
• If you take your shoes off, put them on before landing.

Review the passenger safety card before each takeoff and each landing.

• Listen carefully to the safety briefing.
• Ask questions if safety information is not clear.
• Make a mental plan of the actions you would take in an emergency.
• Be familiar with all exits.
• Count seat rows between you and at least two exits.

Exit Row Seating

• Listen to the safety briefing and/or read the written instructions for aircraft specifics.

• You must be physically capable and willing to perform emergency actions. If not, request another seat.

• You must know your responsibilities in the unlikely event of an emergency.

• Ask questions if instructions are not clear.

• Consider the effects of alcoholic beverages.

• In the unlikely event of an emergency, you should be aware of the following.

Evacuation Slides

• Jump feet first into center of slide.
• Do not sit down to slide.
• Place arms across chest, elbows in, and legs and feet together.
• High-heeled shoes can damage slides.

Decompression

• Pull oxygen mask toward you to start oxygen flow.
• Put your oxygen mask on as quickly as possible.
• Help children and others with their masks.

Flotation Devices

• Know where they are and how to use them.
• Life vests (under seat, if available), life rafts, and some seat cushions and evacuation slides can be used as flotation devices.

Evacuating the Aircraft

• Follow instructions of crew member (if possible).
• Stay calm and proceed quickly to exit.
• Leave all your possessions behind.

Fire or Smoke

Inflight

-Use wet paper towel or handkerchief over nose and mouth.

-Move away from the source of fire and smoke.

On Ground

-Stay low.

-Proceed by your predetermined count of seat rows to exit(s) and/or

-Follow floor proximity lighting to an exit.

-Exit the aircraft.

-Leave all your possessions behind.

Outside the Aircraft

• Move away from aircraft, fire, and smoke.
• If possible, help those requiring assistance.
• Remain alert for emergency vehicles.
• Never go back into a burning aircraft.

by: Drikus Botha

Almost anyone will probably agree that in a perfect world they'd be able to travel more. It is one of the most natural human desires to want to see different parts of the world and experience new things.

And anyone who has traveled will probably agree that you don't really appreciate or think about your home too much until you have the perspective of seeing how people live in other parts of the world.

The problem of course, is that travel has always been expensive. Although airfares have gotten cheaper over the years, they are still expensive enough that most people don't fly regularly, and this is likely to remain the case.

So unless you plan on suddenly getting rich, you're going to have to come up with some discount travel solutions if you want to fly more, and a great thing to look into if you're looking for a cheap flight are charter flights.

Charter flights are cheaper because they work on a different system than a started airline flight.

A standard airline will have a set route between two cites: an airline will fly a certain amount a times a week between two cities, and this remains constant regardless of the amount of passengers.

In other words normal airline routes function like bus routes, and sometimes there may only be a few people on the plane. It is this need to average out costs - to be able to afford all those times when the plane is a third full - that leads to high airfares.

A charter company can offer cheaper fares by working in a different fashion: they will charter an entire plane from an airline for a particular date and time, and thus receive a heavy discount on the cost.

They can then pass some of this discount on to you by offering a lower per seat price for the flight. Most charter companies operate along very common routes during peak times - for example, sunny vacation spots during the winter.

Charter flights are much more reliable then other more radical ways of obtaining discount airfare, and fares will generally get cheaper as the departure date approaches.

There is a certain amount of risk, however: a charter company can decide to cancel a flight if they haven't sold enough tickets.

Unlike a regular airline, which constantly has planes going to multiple destinations, the charter company may not be able o immediately put you on another plane.

So instead of waiting a few hours it's likely that if your charter flight is cancelled you'll either be receiving a refund, or waiting at least a day or two for another charter - which of course can ruin any vacation.

That being said, there are many large and reliable charter companies, and charter flights -- while not offering discounts as big as can be found through other discount travel methods - remain a reliable alternative to regular airfare.

And if you're flexible and willing to buy a ticket on short notice, you can find many excellent airfares from charter companies, making charter flights one of the more popular discount traveling methods.

by: David Goldschmidt

If you travel with small children, you no doubt have taken a stroller, car seat or some other essential on board an aircraft. These days, with full flights, you'll most likely have to gate check the item. This means leaving your item at the end of the jet way as you board, and picking it up after your flight in the same place, or at baggage claim. We have found that this is a fairly convenient strategy.

In the rush of boarding and keeping track of kids and your belongings, you were probably asked to sign a tag which was then attached to your stroller. Like us, you probably didn't bother reading the fine print. But after a recent flight on Northwest Airlines, we did, and we were surprised to learn what the airline’s legal department is up to...

The set up...

When you sign that tag, you are absolving the airline of responsibility for any damage to your stroller, car seat, etc. How? By stating that your item was already damaged when it was given to the agent at the gate. Of course you never said this - but it is what the fine print you signed contains.

Here is the text of what is on Northwest Airlines' Gate Luggage Claim Check:

"In consideration of carrier(s) transporting my property which has been damaged previously, I hereby release carrier(s) from liability resulting solely from such pre-existing damage."

Below this text is a line to enter a description of the damage, and one for your signature. You can see a picture of an actual Gate Luggage Claim Check by searching for 'check tag' at http://images.google.com/. Look for the pink tag.

So what's the big deal?

By signing the tag, you are acknowledging that the item is already damaged! The airline is saying they won't be responsible for this damage. That seems fair, but, here's the kicker: it is hard to prove when damage occurs. So they're covered if they ruin your stroller, because you said it was already damaged, and that gets them off the hook.

In our scenario, we checked a brand new stroller, purchased just for this trip. If it was returned to us at our destination damaged, the airline would no doubt say that the damage occurred before we handed it over to them, and the tag that we signed is their proof that we acknowledged previous damage. Pretty sneaky!

Again, on the surface the wording seems reasonable, as airlines can't be responsible for damage that really does occur before they take possession. And it isn't saying that they aren't responsible if they damage the item. But because it is hard to prove when damage occurred, and since you signed the tag saying it was damaged previously, the airline is in the clear for any damage that they cause.

The form does have a legitimate use, as I'm sure airlines do get strollers and car seats with existing damage. But the form should be rewritten so that the gate agent must identify existing damage in order to absolve the airline of responsibility.

So what do I do?

The next time you're asked to sign a gate check tag, make sure you print 'NO PREVIOUS DAMAGE' clearly, above your signature. You can use the damage description line for this purpose. By doing this, you are establishing the fact that your item was not damaged when handed over to the airline. So if it comes back to you all mangled, it is clear that the airline must have caused the damage, for which they are then responsible.

by: Josh Greenberger

Why does so much luggage get lost at airports? And how can you prevent it?

Since the beginning of time, man has been dreaming of flying. On December 17, 1903, Orville Wright turned that dream into a reality when he flew a plane 120 feet in 12 seconds. Today, with jets cruising at speeds of Mach 0.8 (Mach 1 is the speed of sound), man sits in airport terminal buildings -- "canceled" and "delayed" -- still dreaming of flying. Why is that?

This being the vacation season, it is important to be aware of some of the shortcomings of air travel. Good flying means never having to say "I've been bumped" or "Where's my luggage?" (Not that these two mishaps are the worst things -- Amelia Earhart never got bumped and her luggage was never lost.)

Probably half the people reading this article have had luggage lost by an airline at one point or another. Yet, most people don't seem to take any precautions to avert such problems. The trick is to outsmart the airlines.

One method of reducing the odds of losing luggage is a tactic developed by nuclear war strategists. For every suitcase you take on a trip, bring along four empty decoys. The chances of losing the "right" one is thereby reduced to 20 percent. If, with these kinds of odds in your favor, you lose the "right" one anyway, whatever you do, don't spend your vacation in Las Vegas.

If the airline loses all five suitcases, it's not an accident -- they're out to get you! I would strongly suggest traveling by boat. If a submarine is available, all the better. (On a submarine, instead of movies and snacks, they allow the passengers to look through the periscope and watch dolphins fly through burning bagels.)

The worst part about losing a suitcase is when they find it three months later and you no longer fit into the clothes you bought for your vacation.

There's one method which can totally eliminate the possibility of losing luggage. Instead of telling an airline you want to go to, let's say, Florida or Bermuda, tell them you want to go wherever your luggage goes. How can they possibly mess up?

What bothers me more than the lost-luggage problem, though, is the cover-up. Ever notice that no matter how many suitcases are lost on a flight the luggage carousel is always full? Who's are all those suitcases? Obviously, the airlines buy suitcases just to fill up the carrousels -- by dazzling you with an array of colorful (empty) suitcases, they figure it'll never dawn on you that your suitcase is in a holding pattern somewhere over Singapore.

Another serious problem plaguing the airline industry is the long delays. Sitting in an airport terminal building for what seems like an eternity, waiting to board a flight, sort of makes you wonder whether supersonic jets were invented just to make up for time lost at airports. Surely something more can be done to alleviate this frustrating situation. Perhaps they should have a flight attendant on the ground instead of on planes -- would you rather be comfortable on a two-hour flight to Florida, or a two-day wait at the airport? And it wouldn't hurt to have a post office at every airport -- just in case your passport expires.

The key to survival in the airline jungle is good planning. If your vacation begins, let's say, the morning of January 15th, be at the airport no later than July 23rd. This should give you enough time to get cancelled, bumped, delayed, held over, rerouted, and inconvenienced, and still get to your destination on time. Of course, this should also give you enough time to get from New York to Florida on a rubber raft. But setting up a projector and screen on a rubber raft could interfere with air currents and you could wind up in Singapore along with other people's luggage. So this is not recommended.

I think the whole mess could be straightened out with a few simple changes. They should put airline traffic controllers in charge of luggage -- this may cause some suitcases to collide every once in a while, but at least we'll know where they are at all times. To eliminate delays, every cockpit should have a pilot, a copilot, and a New York City cabbie -- a few sharp turns, a couple of loops, a nose dive here and there, and every plane would be on schedule. Finally, the baggage handlers should be put in charge of nuclear waste -- the United States government has been trying for a long time now to find a way to get rid of nuclear waste so that it never resurfaces. Are there any people better suited for this job than baggage handlers?

by: Matthew Keegan

Mexico is getting a new airline and if the carrier meets all expectations it will go a long way in helping Mexican air traffic double over just the next three years. Volaris Airlines, started by Mexican billionaires Carlos Slim and Emilio Azcarraga, is expecting to take its first flight on March 13th. Volaris may impact the airline industry well beyond Mexico especially if its aggressive expansion plans work out.

With the Mexican government in the process of divesting its interest in two airlines, Aero Mexico and Mexicana Airlines, start up carriers are poised to jump in and provide service as fares drop and demand surges. Up to now, the highly controlled Mexican airline industry has put a damper on customer demand as artificially high prices and a restricted market have kept customers away. Volaris Airlines, along with competing start up airline, Interjet, are expected to quickly reshape the Mexican airline industry beginning this year.

Volaris is planning to serve at least six Mexican cities and eventually provide service between Mexican and U.S. destinations. No word how all of this will impact wannabe start up Mexus Airlines, currently operating as a “paper carrier” with no concrete plans [or funding] to start flying.

Volaris plans on flying 16 A319 aircraft and has an option on 40 A320 aircraft. TACA International Airlines, based in El Salvador, will hold a minority stake in the airline.

by: Brian Vaszily

Airfare prices may be set to increase in 2006, as airlines struggle with rising fuel costs and not enough passengers. The hardest hit are the smaller, budget airlines, such as Independence Air, which closed its doors in the first week of January.

From that shutdown alone, airfare experts say fares in many of the 30 cities previously served by Independence Air could double or even triple.

"We're going to learn the true meaning of 'sky high,' "said airline consumer expert Tom Parsons, CEO of Bestfares.com in a USA Today report.

But there is good news for travelers -- with a little know-how, you can save big on airfares. Top Eight Money-Saving Airfare Tips

1. Use an ethnic travel agent if flying internationally.
Travel agents in ethnic neighborhoods tend to cater to their home ethnicity. They buy space on flights in bulk and get the best deals for that crowd. So if you are flying to China, for example, seek out a travel agent in Chinatown.

2. Be flexible.
The least expensive days to fly are typically Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. You can save even more if you're willing to take a red-eye or very early morning flight, or one with a stop or two. If you can risk not being able to find tickets, you can try waiting until the very last minute. Many airlines offer last-minute promotional rates ... but only if seats are left open.

3. Opt for e-tickets.
Whenever possible, always choose the electronic ticket option. Most travel agents charge a fee to deliver paper tickets.

4. Buy tickets through a consolidator.
Consolidators buy blocks of tickets and sell them at a discounted rate in order to help airlines fill up seats. You can find "Ticket Consolidators" in your newspaper's travel section or online at sites like Hotwire.com, Onetravel.com and Lowestfare.com. Be aware that these tickets may have more restrictions than others.

5. Use an alternative airport.
Flying to an airport that is 30-40 minutes away from your destination can save you up to 50 percent on a flight. For instance, flying into Baltimore instead of Washington D.C., Oakland instead of San Francisco, or Rockford instead of Chicago.

6. Check fares on low-cost airlines.
Although they may not be featured on major travel Web sites, airlines like JetBlue, Southwest and American Trans Air often offer lower fares and better promotions than competitors. Fly eight round-trips on Southwest, for instance, and the ninth is free. However, the disadvantage is that their travel areas are much more limited.

7. Check online.
Ticket prices can be cut by 10 percent or more when purchased online. Many online travel sites also offer package deals for vacations that include flights, hotel and car rentals. Be sure to shop around though, as prices vary widely by site. Check online specials not only for individual airlines but also at sites such as Travelocity.com, Expedia.com, and Orbitz.com.

8. Do your homework, then act fast.
Once you get an idea of what a good price is for your particular flight needs, be prepared to act fast. Airfares change dramatically, even from day to day, so if you see a price you like, buy it!

by: Paul Cris

Due to the different timing zones from country to country the health of the travelers is badly affected. In order to cope up with this difference try out the following procedures.

When your arrive during the daytime follow these set of rules:

1) Adjust your watch as per the local timing.

2) Follow a protein-based diet that will keep you active and fresh.

3) Enjoy the mild sunray in the morning.

4) Do some light exercises such as light stretches and walk a little distance to be energetic.

5) Take a short nap if you really feel exhausted say for about 20 minutes or less. Do not go to your bed too early or possibly be awake until 8 or 9 p.m.

If you have arrived during the nighttime you must try to keep yourself drowsy in the following ways.

1. Have meal containing maximum carbohydrates.

2. Plan to sleep during the local time even if you are not feeling sleepy.

3. Create an environment that causes sleepiness such as turning on dim lights and taking a hot bath with lavender oil.

Avoid using beverages like alcohol, caffeine that keeps you awake even during nights. This will cause you dehydration. Do not drive your vehicle when you are exhausted. Let the driver do the job for your safety.

by: Margarette Tustle

The JFK Airport or the John F. Kennedy International Airport was originally opened as the New York International Airport in 1948. The name was changed to John F. Kennedy International in 1963 after the late president of the United States. It is one of the busiest airports in the country, if not the world. Over 30 million people fly in and out of this airport every year. It has 9 terminals and serves over 80 airlines. It was recently renovated and the international terminal was given a “face lift.” If you fly into New York for a visit, or just passing through on a layover, chances are that you will go to JFK Airport “where America meets the world.” The other airport that serves this area is LaGuardia in Newark, NJ. Here is some information that will be helpful to you in your travels if you happen to pass that way.

Where Is It Located?

The JFK airport is located in the Queens borough of New York City about 15 miles southeast of the central part of the city. Because many people in the city do not have cars, and visitors may not have their own transportation, there are many other transportation options for people to travel to and from the airport.

Information Regarding The Terminals of the JFK Airport:

There is one Central terminal surrounded by all of the other terminals. Each of the separate terminals has its own parking lot and each is color coded to differentiate it from the other terminals. If you are traveling to the airport, you should plan plenty of time to get from the Central terminal to the terminal where your airline is located. You should also contact the JFK airport to make sure that there are no parking lot closures or restrictions before you leave to avoid any unnecessary waiting or missing your flight. In order to travel quickly between parking and terminals there are several options-most of them free: you can use AirTran which runs every 2-4 minutes, Autolink (which is free for travelers who have a quick connection) and also a group bus that is free but must be contacted by the airline. The only paying option at the JFK airport is a taxi.

Transportation Around The Airport:

Ground transportation is the way that most people get around the JFK Airport. You can travel by taxi, limousine, shuttle, bus, or rental car. There are booths to help you with all of your transportation needs on the ground floor of each terminal. You can get information about how long it will take to get to the parking lot or the terminal of your choice at JFK Airport. If you are parking at JFK you will find color coded traffic and parking signs that are coordinated with the colors of the terminals. If you have opted to rent a car, you can get free transportation from the rental car company to wherever you need to go in JFK Airport.

Other Airport Amenities:

You can get your shoes shined, buy a bouquet of flowers, get a bite to eat, pick up a newspaper or book to read, snag a baggage cart, find student assistance, access banking services, look up information about local hotels, and even visit one of the four on-site chapels. There is also information for immigrants, currency exchange, and also conference facilities. You may never have to leave the airport.

If you are lucky enough to visit John F. Kennedy International Airport, make sure that you take advantage of all of the services and amenities that are available to make your trip as enjoyable as possible.

by: Steven Gillman

To find cheap airfare, you need to do a little research. Start with the well-known sites, like Expedia, Travelocity, Cheap Tickets, Hotwire or Priceline. The travel agencies just can't compete with the discount sites any longer. You can also find cheap airfare by using the search engines. Type in something like "cheap plane tickets" and the destination.

I just checked fares from Tucson, Arizona to Traverse City, Michigan on the five sites mentioned above. Tickets ranged from $704 to $432 for the cheapest at each site (and up to $500 more for the most expensive). It isn't important which was cheapest (oh, okay, it was Expedia). It isn't important because you never know from day to day which sites will find the cheapest flights. It changes all the time

When you search, always check at least three places. It would mean a savings of $272 in the above example. Flight durations were within minutes of each other, by the way, and the food is probably equally bad on all the flights.

Find Cheap Airfare With Flexibility

Sometimes it's cheaper to buy two tickets. The lowest rate from Grand Rapids, Michigan to Tucson, Arizona is $451 roundtrip as I write this. Las Vegas to Tucson is $161, however, and there are $199 specials to Vegas from Grand Rapids. Is saving $91 worth booking two flights? Your call (It saved us over $1000 when we went to South America). Careful on the timing, though. You probably won't get a refund if you miss the connection.

More flexibility is the way to find cheap airfare. Check different departure and return dates. Click on "2 or more connecting flights," and mark "anytime" for departure. Even if you don't want to leave at midnight, the savings might change your mind, so try all the options. When the savings aren't enough, you can always book first class, direct flights, or whatever you prefer.

Purchasing ahead of time gets you cheaper airfare. Less than a week away tends to be expensive, although you never can tell in the mysterious realm of airfare pricing. At times the "last minute specials" are the best thing going.

Place a bid to find cheap airfare. Priceline still has a "Name Your Own Price" feature. You make your bid, and the airlines say yes or no, according to whether they have empty seats to fill. The way to use this is to first search for the cheapest tickets you can find online, then go and bid lower than that. If the bid is rejected, return to the website where you found the best deal and book it.

Package deals, where you pay for plane tickets and your hotel room, can sometimes save you money. Personally, I haven't had much luck with these, but it can't hurt to look at them.

Really Cheap Airfare

I once took a bus from Michigan to Miami, and flew from there to Ecuador. At the time saving hundreds of dollars was worth 38 hours on a bus. Usually this won't save you much on domestic flights. For example, at the moment, taking a bus from Traverse City to Detroit, then flying to Los Angeles, would only save about $70 (allowing for cab fare to the airport) compared with flying directly.

Other options are beyond the scope of this article. For example, courier flights can be a great deal if you don't mind letting a company use your baggage allowance (you get carry-on only). Then there are the stand-by deals, last minute deals and other ways to find cheap airfare.

by: Michelle Annese

Here are 17 ways to keep safe and secure when flying domestic or abroad. Air travelers need to keep a sharp eye and an ever present focus on what’s going on around them. Even though it has been a few years since the September 11th 2001 hijackings, the threat of terrorist actions against air travelers is still ever present. Not to mention with the hustle and bustle of a busy airport. This is a prime place to be potentially burglarized by a professional thief or criminal.

1. Keep Your Photo Identification Handy.

If you do not have photo identification, make sure you have two pieces of some other form of identification, one of which must be issued by a government authority. Minors are not obligated to have identification. Failure to have proper identification may result in additional security inspection and search. Some airlines may also prohibit you from boarding without proper ID. For international flights, airlines are required to collect your full name and ask you for a contact name and phone number.

2. Give Yourself Some Extra Time During busy hours, or when traveling.

With elderly or disabled passengers, young children or infants, give yourself more than enough time to maneuver through a busy airport or to make necessary arrangements with airport personnel.

3. Do Not Park Your Vehicle and Left Unattended in Front of the Terminal.

The airport parking rules are being strictly enforced and your vehicle may be very swiftly ticketed and towed. So make sure to park in well-lit, designated areas. Find a parking garage or lot you are comfortable with and is well populated.

4. Know What You Have with You.

Watch your bags all throughout the airport terminal, shops, and lavatories. Don't accept packages from strangers or persons who you might have a casual conversation with. Be prepared to answer questions about who packed your bags and whether you might have left them unattended at any time. Focus carefully and answer honestly—previous history has shown terrorists and criminals use unaware passengers to carry bombs or other dangerous devices on board an aircraft, either by deceiving passengers into carrying packages or by slipping items into unprotected bags. If you’re unsure, make it known to airport security personnel.

5. Beware of Unattended Packages.

If you see an unattended package, bag or piece of luggage in the terminal, report it to the airport security staff or other airport personnel immediately.

6. Don’t Fool Around.

Don't joke about having a bomb, firearm or weapon with you. Security personnel are trained to react when they hear these words. Punishment can be harsh and can include the possibility of time in prison and/or large penalties and fines.

7. Anticipate Having Your Bag and Luggage Searched.

Both carry-on and checked bags are subject to being hand-searched, especially when airline security personnel cannot determine by X-ray machines the contents of one. Keep gifts unwrapped until after you arrive at your destination. Airline security personnel will open it if X-ray machines are unable to identify the contents.

8. Leave Behind Firearms and Hazardous Products at Home.

Many hazardous products are not allowed on aircraft. Don’t pack or carry firearms, fireworks, flammable materials, household cleaners, or pressurized containers. Violations of hazardous materials regulations can have harsh civil penalties, as well as possible national legal action taken against you.

9. Be Aware of Your Surroundings.

When you are in an airport terminal or on an aircraft, take notice of your surroundings, and those around you. Especially, if activities or situations don't appear to be of the norm.

10. Report Strange or Odd Activity.

If you see anything in the airport or on an aircraft that looks out of place, unfitting and unusual behavior or potential security violations, inform either a law enforcement representative or security personnel.

11. Have No Bias About the Who May Pose a Threat.

If someone is intent on perpetrating violent acts against the air transport system, that person can be of any gender, age, or nationality. You should not presume any specific type of person is likely to do damage based on outward appearances.

12. Keep Away from Suspicious Circumstances.

If you are exposed to a potential risk in the airport, move away from the situation before contacting someone in authority. If necessary, inform others in the vicinity. Examples of these are; unaccompanied packages, suspicious behavior, or an unusual disturbance.

13. Leave Your Seat Belt Fastened While in Flight.

When you are seated, keep your safety belt securely fastened through your flight will provide extra protection if the plane is in unexpected turbulence.

14. Focus on What the Flight Attendants Are Saying.

The number one reason flight attendants are on an aircraft is for safety, so if there is any kind of emergency or potential crisis situation, look to the flight attendants for help and assistance.

15. Remember the Basic Rules for Wireless Devices.

In the U.S., cell phones, pagers, and other wireless communications devices may be used until the passenger entry doors are closed prior to takeoff. Do not use these devices for routine communications until the passenger doors are opened at the end of the flight. Rules vary around the world, so check with your airline.

16. Emergency Use of a Wireless Device.

In the event of an in-flight emergency, you should take stock of the situation before using any communications device, including the aircraft's seatback telephones. If a situation calls for it, use your cell phone or other personal to contact help. In the U.S., a helpful number to call is the FBI at 1-866-483-5137. If you are a flight attendant or other airline employee, contact an appropriate office or department of the airline.

17. Work Together.

If circumstances on an aircraft have the potential for danger, it is usually better to share information and work together with crew members and other passengers.

By taking the necessary precautions when you fly, you can travel with a piece-of-mind and have your security on 'high alert' and ready for anything.

by: Luke Taylor

Competition in the flight industry can only be a good thing for the consumer, most people would say. Or is it ?. Too much competition amongst major airlines can force these flight companies to fold. If major airline companies fold it's not a good thing for the consumer. It gives monopoly to its former competitors and this can result in high priced plane tickets. Its the game of snuffing each other out to win the market for the real kill. Only the strongest will survive.

We have seen in recent times, many major airlines go into administration, either due to bad management, competition and the ever rising cost of fuel. I am still waiting for someone to invent an passenger plane that runs on electricity, wouldn't that be grand. Just add two huge rechargeable energizer batteries before take off.

Future aeronautical technology can be beneficial to both the consumer and airline companies. In terms of aircraft running costs, fuel efficiency and the number of seating. A good example would be the Airbus aircrafts. Airbus has build the world’s largest passenger aircraft, the A380 which can seat 555 passengers. Massive seating (customers) reduces running costs and this can only be beneficial to the consumer in terms of reduced plane tickets offered by airline companies.

As of now, the ball rolls around in the travellers court and so it should be. Cheap flights can be found on many travel agency and airline company sites. Travellers should take advantage of discounted plane tickets many travel agencies and airlines are offering at the moment.

Every now and then airline companies offer cheap flights with the aim of promoting customer loyalty. Sorry, but I am afraid that the only loyalty they achieve is for that period of the promotion. When tickets revert back to standard pricing, guess where all that loyalty goes? ...their competitors, offering an even lower priced ticket. I am sure you have seen the ads on TV, with the nice looking air hostess selling you a nice cosy environment and all the benefits when travelling. For domestic flights I'll buy a ticket, as long as the price is cheap, seating is reasonably comfortable and the rest are all frills. Eighteen hour International flights are a different story, here you look for the frills at cheap prices.

by: Paul W Wilson

Off-site airport parking is a boon for travelers. Often they prove to be cheaper than parking lots run by airports and online discounts and other conveniences make the option even more attractive.

Satellite parking lots face competition and so it is easy for those in the know to save big.

Here are a few insights:

1. Keep a tab on offers. As the race for success becomes intense, all sites run attractive offers giving away coupons or web only deals. Many offer an e-coupon that entitles the user to a day’s free parking at selected parking lots. This means a saving of US$ 18. Other offers give away a day if you park for two days or 50% off on the first days parking fee.

2. If you are a frequent user of parking lots check for offers where a parking operator with a major presence near airports you use offers a 50% discount if you purchase a certain number of parking vouchers online or on the phone using your credit card.

3. Many parking sites have a different rate for different parking positions. Check on the kinds of parking and rate differences. You could save up to $ 55 for a seven day parking.

4. Ask for rates depending on the length of stay. Rates vary so if you are going to need parking for a week then you could get a higher discount than the daily rate on offer.

5. Many run a frequent user program where repeat customers are offered many facilities. This is similar to frequent flier programs.

6. Find out if the lots you use offer special discounts to members of AARP, AAA, or other such organizations. In fact, AA members save between 10-20% on parking. Some sites even offer the service of picking up and dropping your car from the airport terminal.

7. Do your research well compare providers, the rates on offer, as well as facilities at the place you need to park. If you are clever you can get more for less.

8. Before you travel use the internet to check on daily and weekly parking offers. There are free days, discounted weekly rates, and guaranteed rates on offer at various times. You can avail the offer by making a booking online or printing out the page with a code and presenting it to the cashier at the parking lot. 9. Keep track of promotions especially during holiday seasons. Many lots accept coupons and give away discounts offered by consumer products

10. Often pre-booking parking can get you a saving of even 60% and more.

11. Hotels often offer parking specials, so make use of the extra facility being offered by the hotel you plan to stay in.

12. Some travel agents who book flight tickets offer advice or coupons for parking at the point of exit and entry. Ask you agent when you book your flight.

Off site parking is not just fast and convenient it can be a saving too.

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