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New Airline Takes Top Honors from Readers as Best Domestic Airline for Third Consecutive Year
Virgin America Launches "Three-peat" Fare Sale Later Today to Thank Flyers and Celebrate Win
Virgin America, the California-based airline that is reinventing travel, today took the top honors for the third year running as "Best Domestic Airline" in the prestigious Travel + Leisure Annual World's Best Awards readers' survey. Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards highlight the results of an impartial survey that allows Travel + Leisure readers to share their opinions of their favorite travel experiences.* In the annual reader survey, airlines were rated independently by Travel + Leisure readers in four categories, including: cabin comfort, in-flight service, customer service and value.
To thank its loyal guests and celebrate winning the title for the third consecutive year, Virgin America will launch a "Three-peat" fare sale later today on www.virginamerica.com. Members of the public may also follow the airline on Twitter to be among the first to receive the news on "Three-peat" fares (twitter.com/virginamerica).
"We're honored to receive the highest marks from Travel + Leisure's readers for the third year in a row," said Virgin America President and Chief Executive Officer David Cush. "There are many surveys that attempt to rank airline quality that are paid or that exclude smaller carriers, but this award confirms that we're continuing to lead the U.S. industry and hit the mark with savvy consumers. As we enter our fourth year of operations, the win is a testament to our unique product and the dedication of our entrepreneurial team."
With industry-leading guest service, beautiful design and a host of high-tech amenities, Virgin America has captured a list of industry best-in-class awards since launching service in 2007. The airline offers unrivalled value with low fares and innovative features like touch-screen seatback entertainment, power outlets, mood-lighting and custom-designed leather seating with a deeper, more comfortable pitch. In May 2009, Virgin America became the first airline to offer guests in-flight internet on every flight. Virgin America is the only airline in the U.S. with a touch-screen seatback menu that allows guests to order what they want, when they want it during a flight. Virgin America offers one of the largest selections of fresh menu items, with a focus on lighter, more health-focused options in keeping with the airline's California roots. Virgin America's in-flight and airport staff training includes a special focus on delivering concierge-like guest care.
The complete Travel + Leisure 2010 results, including the Top 100 Hotels Overall and Top 10 Cities Overall, are featured on www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest now and in Travel + Leisure's August issue, available on newsstands July 23. The Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards winners for 2010 will be honored in New York City on July 21 at an awards ceremony luncheon at the Trump SoHo New York, followed by a party that evening at the new Andaz 5th Avenue in New York City.
In addition to a Main Cabin that offers custom-designed leather seats with a deeper, more comfortable pitch, Virgin America's First Class cabin features international-grade amenities, including plush white leather seats with 55 inches of pitch and lumbar massagers. The carrier's Main Cabin Select service offers 38-inches of seat pitch, complimentary food and cocktails, an all-access pass to the Red entertainment platform's countless entertainment options, dedicated overhead bin space, one free checked bag and priority check-in and boarding. Virgin America's Elevate frequent flyer program offers guests the ability to redeem points for any unsold seat — on any flight, at any time.
Virgin America offers over 100 flights a day and flies to: San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C., Seattle, Las Vegas, San Diego, Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Toronto and starting in the fall of 2010 – Orlando. Virgin America has flown more than eight million guests since its inaugural flights in August 2007.
SOURCE Virgin America
Airline, Visa partner to offer Gogo Inflight Internet service free through July 31
Alaska Airlines is now offering Aircell's Gogo Inflight Internet service on more than half its aircraft, including all 55 of its Boeing 737-800s and 10 of its 737-900s. The service will be available on the airline's remaining two 737-900s by the end of July. These aircraft fly throughout Alaska's network, including all transcontinental routes.
"Our installations are on schedule and every week more customers are having the opportunity to sample our new Gogo service at no cost, thanks to the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Card," said Joe Sprague, Alaska's vice president of marketing.
The airline is partnering with the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature card to offer passengers Inflight Wi-Fi free of charge on flights through July 31, 2010. After July 31, the Gogo service, currently available in the U.S. lower 48 states, will be offered to customers at a cost of $4.95 per flight and up, based on length of flight and device used.
With Gogo, Alaska Airlines passengers with wireless devices can browse the Web; access online music, games, podcasts and webcasts; send and receive e-mail; and connect to virtual private networks while flying. The easy-to-use service provides passengers with full Internet access on any Wi-Fi-equipped laptop or personal electronic device at speeds similar to wireless mobile broadband services on the ground. Customers can visit alaskaair.com/wifi for more information about Alaska's Inflight Wi-Fi.
The airline's remaining 737-400s and 737-700s will be equipped with the Gogo service by the end of 2010.
To ensure the service is available to the airline's namesake state, Aircell will expand its network by early 2011 to provide Gogo Inflight Internet service on key routes to, from and within the state of Alaska. A detailed coverage map is available for download from Alaska Airlines' image gallery at alaskaair.com/newsroom.
Aircraft equipped with inflight Wi-Fi have a Wi-Fi symbol located outside the aircraft's boarding door and information about the service located in seatback pockets. Gogo is available above 10,000 feet, following an announcement approving the use of portable electronic devices.
SOURCE: Alaska Airlines
Continental Airlines today announced that it will introduce specialty cocktails on board flights beginning July 1. The specialty beverages include Stirrings® Mojito, Stirrings® Pomegranate Martini, and Red Bull® Energy Drink.
"We continue to search for premium offerings to give our customers more choices inflight," said Mark Bergsrud, senior vice president of marketing programs and distribution. "The new specialty cocktails are top-quality products for our customers to enjoy."
Continental Airlines partnered with Stirrings, the leading premium cocktail mixer brand, to offer its Mojito and Pomegranate Martini. The Mojito is a crisp cocktail with a sweet, smooth blend of mint, cane sugar and lime juice, served with Bacardi Light rum on ice for $9. The Pomegranate Martini is a refreshing cocktail with a sweet-tart blend of pomegranate, cane sugar and lemon juice, served with Skyy Vodka on ice for $9. Stirrings cocktail mixers are made with all-natural, superior-quality ingredients like real fruit juice, cane sugar and triple-filtered water, and are available to customers without alcohol for $3.
Continental teamed with Red Bull to offer its energy drink to customers for $3. Known as the original energy drink that vitalizes the body and mind, customers may pair it with Skyy Vodka on ice for $9.
The specialty drinks, available for sale in economy class on flights to North American, Caribbean and Latin American destinations, may be purchased with a major credit or debit card in Continental's cashless cabins. Customers may take advantage of an inflight discount of $2 off alcoholic beverages when using a Continental Airlines MasterCard from Chase.
The specialty beverage menu is part of Continental's initiative to offer customers more choices inflight. In the fall, Continental will introduce a variety of high quality, healthy food choices for purchase in economy class on many U.S./Canada and certain Latin American routes. Continental will continue to offer free beverage snacks and unlimited nonalcoholic beverages, including premium blend Fresh Brew coffee, hot tea and a wide selection of soda and juices.
Continental Airlines is the world's fifth largest airline. Continental, together with Continental Express and Continental Connection, has more than 2,600 daily departures throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia, serving 132 domestic and 138 international destinations. Continental is a member of Star Alliance, which overall offers more than 21,200 daily flights to 1,172 airports in 181 countries through its 28 member airlines. With more than 40,000 employees, Continental has hubs serving New York, Houston, Cleveland and Guam, and together with its regional partners, carries approximately 63 million passengers per year.
Continental consistently earns awards and critical acclaim for both its operation and its corporate culture. For nine consecutive years, FORTUNE magazine has ranked Continental as the top U.S. airline on its "World's Most Admired Companies" airline industry list. For more company information, go to continental.com.
SOURCE Continental Airlines
Sir Richard Branson & Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger Take to the Skies to Christen Flight, Mark Airline's Sustainable Growth
Hip Hop Juggernaut and Toronto Native Drake Hosts Mile High Party for Guests En Route to Toronto
Virgin America, the California-based airline, today marks the launch of its first international city and sets it sight on its next destinations. Today, the airline toasts its new Toronto service on a celebrated flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) through San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ). Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger joins Virgin Group Founder Sir Richard Branson onboard the LAX to SFO leg, and via WiFi at 35,000 feet over the California coast, they announce the airline's intent to serve a new destination: Mexico. Upon touchdown, San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom will welcome Sir Richard, the Governor and other guests. The SFO to YYZ flight then will continue on to cross the border in style with Drake, the Toronto native and Grammy nominated recording artist, hosting a mile high party en route.
Since its 2007 launch, Virgin America has made sustainable practices a core part of its business model and has experienced record-setting growth along the way – with 1,600 new jobs created, eight million guests flown and a sweep of the major awards, including "Best Domestic Airline" in Condé Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards and Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards. Virgin America's low-fare, high-tech service injects new competition into the Canadian market with daily flights* from both SFO and LAX to YYZ. Today, the airline announces its intent to launch flights from SFO to San Jose del Cabo (SJD), SFO to Cancun International Airport (CUN) and LAX to CUN. The airline today files with the U.S. Department of Transportation for authority to begin flying to Mexico this winter.
"Today is a great day for airline competition, for our teammates and for travelers," said Virgin America President and CEO David Cush. "When more airlines compete, consumers win with lower fares and better service. At a time when most airlines are contracting and consumers expect less and less, we're proud to be growing, operating responsibly and offering travelers a very different kind of flight experience."
Virgin America is now poised for major growth, with the launch of five new destinations in 2010, a fleet growth of close to two-thirds projected by Dec. 2011 and plans to double its teammate base by 2012. In addition to creating jobs, lowering fares and improving service, the airline leads the industry on sustainability. Virgin America's investment in new aircraft and consistent use of sustainable practices on the ground and in the air, make it one of the most carbon efficient airlines – with a fleet that is up to 25 percent more efficient than the U.S. average. Virgin America was the first U.S. airline to list its footprint via globally-recognized standards and to offer guests the ability to offset their travel in-flight. Virgin America's focus on sustainability has also helped streamline the airline's costs. The airline remains a strong supporter of AB 32, California's historic climate change legislation.
"It is no surprise that the only airline headquartered in California is harnessing the best in technology and design to change how people fly. Virgin America has not only reinvented the in-flight experience, they are in step with California's nation-leading green policies and are leading the way to reduce their carbon footprint," said Governor Schwarzenegger. "Their growth reflects the entrepreneurial spirit of our state and again proves that sustainable practices can improve the bottom line and create jobs. I am thrilled to be a part of Virgin America's first international flight and look forward to their continued expansion."
Virgin America's headquarters are LEED certified and its new home at SFO's Terminal Two will be LEED certified as well. Virgin America operates one of the youngest fleets in North America and its mood-lit, custom-designed cabins feature the Red™ entertainment system, the most advanced in-flight entertainment platform in the skies. The Red system's touch-screen offers 20 films, live TV, Google Maps, an MP3 library, videogames, an on-demand menu that allows guests to order at their seat, and even select Carbonfund.org offsets. In 2009, the airline became the first to offer WiFi fleetwide.
"San Francisco is proud to have Virgin America as its hometown airline," said Mayor Newsom. "Since 2007, they have created hundreds of jobs, lowered fares and helped make SFO one of the nation's few growing airports."
Upon touchdown in Toronto, the Airbus A320 aircraft, "Air Drake," will make a splashy entrance into Canada with a water cannon salute, an international welcoming committee and a red carpet party on the arrival tarmac. Flight guests and Torontonians will be feted later this evening, as Virgin America takes over the trendy new spot to see and be seen – The Thompson Toronto – for a launch party that may just cause an international incident.
"Virgin America is adding direct connections between California and Toronto and doing it in style", added Lloyd McCoomb, President and CEO of the Greater Toronto Airports Authority. "We are thrilled to welcome another airline to Toronto and look forward to working with Virgin America. The connections between Toronto, San Francisco and Los Angeles make perfect sense, and it is wonderful to have Virgin America connecting our great cities."
In addition to being a good time, the Toronto launch will help do some good: by raising funds for Virgin Unite and mentoring some aspiring entrepreneurs along the way – literally. Sir Richard, Eric Ryan (Co-Founder of eco-friendly cleaning product company Method), Jason Pomeranc (Thompson Hotel Group Founder) and other outside-the-box business leaders, will host "airplane pitch" sessions with young entrepreneurs en route from SFO to YYZ. Also today, Virgin America kicks off its search for the "Virgin America Toronto Provocateur" who is Virgin enough to represent the airline in Toronto. For every entry, the airline will raise funds for Virgin Unite's Young Entrepreneurs, which provides training and seed funds to disadvantaged young people.
"Trade, travel, and innovation are keys to one of the closest bilateral relationships in history, and more connections mean more prosperity," said U.S. Consul General Kevin Johnson, who helps welcome the Virgin America flight to Toronto today. "Vibrant, diverse, and already a gateway to much of the U.S. and the world, Toronto and Ontario are natural partners for California, where ideas and dreams are born."
Virgin America's Toronto service began on June 23, however the celebratory first flight occurs today due to G8/G20 summit events. Virgin America flies to San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C., Seattle, Las Vegas, San Diego, Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Toronto, and starting in the fall of 2010 – Orlando.
SOURCE Virgin America
Carrier Now Offers 13 Daily Nonstops to Philadelphia from the Boston Area (Boston Logan, Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, and Providence's T.F. Green International Airport)
The airline that brought America the Freedom to Fly now unites two cites centered around Freedom. Southwest Airlines today began new nonstop service between Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). Initially, Southwest will start with five daily nonstops between the two cities. These new flights come in addition to Southwest's service between other Boston-area airports and PHL:
On August 14, 2010, the carrier will add three additional BOS-PHL daily nonstops to the schedule, bringing the total to eight daily nonstops to/from Boston Logan and PHL. To accommodate Southwest's rapid growth in Boston, Massport, which owns and operates Logan, built an additional gate at the airline's current location in Terminal E. Southwest is now proud to operate three gates at Logan.
Southwest is also proud to bring low fares to the PHL-BOS route that previously had none. Prior to the carrier's announcement of service to PHL, the cheapest advance-purchase fare was well over $1,000 roundtrip. Southwest's initial introductory fare back in February was $59 one-way, and it continues to be the Low-Fare Leader as the new service launches.
When shopping for Southwest online, it's important to know that Southwest Airlines' low fares are available only at http://www.southwest.com. Not only will Customers find Southwest's great rates online at http://www.southwest.com, but the site also hosts Southwest's Travel Guide, where Customers can check out insider travel tips posted by those who frequent the Boston and Philadelphia areas.
After 39 years of service, Southwest Airlines continues to differentiate itself from other low-fare carriers—offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service. Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded, now serving 69 cities in 35 states. Southwest also is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for its commitment to the triple bottom line of Performance, People, and Planet. To read more about how Southwest is doing its part to be a good citizen, visit southwest.com/cares to read the One Report. Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,300 flights a day and has nearly 35,000 Employees systemwide.
Terms and Conditions
Member will receive 1 (one) promotional roundtrip Rapid Rewards Award after registering, purchasing, and flying three (3) roundtrips between Philadelphia (PHL) and any one or combination of the following Boston Area airports (Boston Logan(BOS), Manchester(MHT), and Providence(PVD)) between June 28, 2010 and September 15, 2010. To qualify, Member must include Rapid Rewards account number at time of booking. Promotional Award will be deposited into Member's account within four (4) weeks of Member completing qualifying travel. Promotional Award expires on February 15, 2011. Promotional Award expiration date cannot be extended or amended. Member will continue to earn Rapid Rewards credit on all eligible flights. Drink Coupon Books will not be issued with the Promotional Award. Award travel or Companion Pass travel does not qualify for the promotion. Changes made to the itinerary after purchase may eliminate qualification for this promotion. Travel good only on Southwest Airlines published, scheduled service. All Rapid Rewards rules and regulations apply.
SOURCE: Southwest Airlines
You can follow the tour at http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2010/indie.asia/.
SWISS opened its new San Francisco gateway June 2 with the arrival of a newly designed Airbus 340 marking the start of new non-stop service between San Francisco International Airport and Zurich, Switzerland.
The new service will operate six times a week offering Bay Area passengers the opportunity to enjoy pure Swiss hospitality and feel right at home when flying to Switzerland and beyond to any of its 73 worldwide destinations. The newly designed Airbus 340 sports a colorful flower power design with striking "San Francisco" lettering as a tribute to the West Coast city's famed past. Prior to the inaugural flight, a team of eight individuals at Zurich Airport spent three days applying the new color scheme. The final design is the result of a contest held in Switzerland.
The aircraft is complete with SWISS First and SWISS Business cabins (premium cabins offer generous space and innovative air cushions that can be individually adjusted to meet personal needs) plus a comfortable SWISS economy experience.
Schedule is:
|
SFO-ZRH |
LX 39 |
dep. 7:25 p.m. |
arr 3:40 p.m. + | |
ZRH-SFO |
LX 38 |
dep. 1:15 p.m. |
arr 4:30 p.m. | |
+ following day |
||||
|
No operation on Tuesdays |
||||
Consistent customer focus and contentious efficiency gains make SWISS one of the few air carriers able to further expand its network in 2010. As a result, the new San Francisco-Zurich service brings one of North America's most important business and leisure destinations into the SWISS network; and with San Francisco growing steadily in importance for Swiss-based companies, the new service will further enhance Switzerland's appeal as a business location.
"We are most pleased about this west coast addition to our network, linking two vital business and leisure destinations," said SWISS CEO Harry Hohmeister. "We wish to thank our partners, colleagues and employees and look forward to serving the San Francisco community with professional and efficient Swiss hospitality and outstanding air service."
San Francisco is the eighth gateway served by SWISS in North America. Others include Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Newark, and Montreal.
SOURCE: SWISS
Flights connecting Detroit to Seoul, Hong Kong begin this week
Delta Air Lines this week begins nonstop flights from its Detroit Metropolitan Airport hub to Seoul-Incheon and Hong Kong. The new routes, along with expanded service to Shanghai, continue Delta's development of Detroit as a major gateway to Asia thanks to its strategic geographic position for millions of customers who travel between the U.S. East Coast and Asia. On a year-round basis, Delta offers Detroit customers service to 158 nonstop destinations, including 28 international destinations and five in Asia.
"Delta's development of Detroit as a major international hub and gateway to Asia has been a boon for our customers and this community," said Andrea Fischer Newman, Delta's senior vice president – Government Affairs. "With service to 12 small- and medium-sized Michigan communities, Delta connects not only Detroit but customers statewide to the world with one convenient connection at one of the world's top-rated airports for customer satisfaction."
Delta in October will inaugurate twice weekly service from Detroit to Sao Paulo, South America's largest business market. The new Detroit service will create a second competitive gateway to Brazil from the Midwest region. Delta plans to add service from Detroit to Tokyo's Haneda Airport complementing the airline's current service connecting Detroit to Tokyo at Narita. Service to Tokyo-Haneda is pending final U.S. government approval.
The new and expanded service from Detroit is part of Delta's summer 2010 schedule, the first fully consolidated schedule published following Delta's merger with Northwest. Compared to Northwest's 2007 schedule, Delta has introduced 15 new nonstop destinations from Detroit including eight new international destinations. The merger combined Delta's broad network to Europe, Middle East, Africa and Latin America with Northwest's Asian network providing single airline access to the world.
|
New nonstop service between Detroit and Hong Kong begins June 2. |
||||
|
Flight |
Departs |
Arrives |
Frequency |
|
|
27 |
Detroit at 3:30 p.m. |
Hong Kong at 7:15 p.m.* |
Five times weekly |
|
|
26 |
Hong Kong at 9:15 a.m. |
Detroit at 12:10 p.m. |
Five times weekly |
|
|
| ||||
|
Expanded nonstop service between Detroit and Shanghai, China begins today. |
||||
|
Flight |
Departs |
Arrives |
Frequency |
|
|
19 |
Detroit at 4:35 p.m. |
Shanghai at 7:20 p.m.* |
Daily |
|
|
18 |
Departs Shanghai at 10 a.m. |
Detroit at 12:05 p.m. |
Daily |
|
|
*Flight arrives the following day. |
||||
Delta customers flying at Detroit Metropolitan Airport enjoy 579 peak-day departures from the state-of-the-art, 121-gate terminal designed specifically for international connections. Detroit's airport recently was ranked No. 1 among large airports in overall customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates.
Customers on the new flights will have the opportunity to experience Delta's award-winning BusinessElite service, including innovative food offerings from celebrity chef Michelle Bernstein and original wine selections chosen by Delta's Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson. BusinessElite also features on-demand personal in-seat entertainment boasting more than 20 first-run and popular classic movies, a variety of TV programs, thousands of music titles and a suite of video games.
Routes operated with Delta's new Boeing 777-200LR aircraft, including Detroit to Hong Kong, offer BusinessElite customers a fully flat, six-foot, three-inch bed in a one-two-one configuration, which provides every customer with direct aisle access.
As previously announced, Delta will invest $1 billion, or about $300 million per year, through mid-2013 to improve the customer experience in the air and on the ground. The product investment includes installing full flat-bed seats in BusinessElite on 90 trans-oceanic aircraft, including 14 Boeing 767-400ERs, 52 Boeing 767-300ERs, 16 Boeing 747-400s and eight Boeing 777-200ERs. Upon completion, each of these fleets will have full flat-bed seats on all aircraft. Delta also will add in-seat audio and video on demand throughout Economy Class on 16 Boeing 747-400 and 52 Boeing 767-300ER aircraft. With these additions, Delta will offer personal, in-seat entertainment for both BusinessElite and Economy class customers on all wide-body aircraft. Additional information about these product investments is available at http://news.delta.com/index.php?s=43&item=870.
The new service in Detroit is part of a series of Delta schedule enhancements this summer to strengthen its international network for summer 2010. The changes - which will expand service for customers in 17 cities - leverage Delta's industry-leading joint venture with Air France-KLM, growing alliance relationship with Alaska Air Group and increased fleet flexibility gained from its merger with Northwest. A complete list of Delta's summer 2010 seasonal service is available at http://news.delta.com/index.php?DB=mr4enh_delta&s=11. The airline's expanding global network also benefits Delta Cargo customers, opening up more opportunities to ship directly to more markets than any carrier in the world. More information is available at deltacargo.com.
SOURCE Delta Air Lines
First major hotel reservation service to back its price guarantee with a $25 bounty
Priceline.com announced today the launch of a ground-breaking Big Deal Hotel Price Guarantee for its Name Your Own Price® hotel service. With the launch of its Big Deal Guarantee, priceline.com is the first major online hotel reservation service to offer a $25 bounty to hotel customers who can find a lower price than what they paid for their reservations on priceline.com.
Here's how the Big Deal Hotel Price Guarantee works: If a customer books a Priceline Name Your Own Price® hotel room and finds a better price any time up until the day before check-in, priceline.com will match that price, pay a $25 bounty and give the customer a $50 Priceline Vacation Package coupon.
"We believe that travelers want a hotel price guarantee with teeth," said priceline.com's Chief Marketing Officer, Brett Keller. "Priceline's Big Deal Hotel Price Guarantee doesn't just guarantee the lowest price. It guarantees that you'll get a great deal, and we're backing that guarantee all the way up to the day before check-in."
So why is priceline.com so confident of its hotel Big Deal prowess? In a recent internal study, priceline.com looked at Name Your Own Price® hotel bookings for April 2010 in all star levels, and then compared those booked prices with the published rates available on Expedia, Travelocity and Orbitz for the same hotels and dates. The survey found that over 50% of the priceline.com customers saved at least 50% over competitors' published nightly rates. All rates and prices used in the comparison excluded taxes and fees.
In addition to its Big Deal Hotel Price Guarantee for Name Your Own Price® hotel rooms, priceline.com offers its standard best price guarantee for published-price hotel rooms. If a customer books a published-price hotel room through priceline.com and finds a better price online within 24 hours, priceline.com will refund the difference and give the customer a $50 Priceline Vacation Package coupon.
Here are some examples of Name Your Own Price® winning hotel bids recently made by priceline.com customers for major cities around the country. These winning bids were shown on priceline.com on May 26, 2010. Actual prices and availability are not guaranteed and can change at any time.
Priceline.com is an industry leader in increasing savings for traveling consumers. In November 2007, priceline.com became the first major online travel agency to eliminate booking fees for all domestic and international airline tickets. Then, in July 2008, priceline.com became the first major online travel agency to slash booking fees on its published-price hotel rooms. Priceline.com also is known for being the only major online travel agency to offer a sunshine guarantee for its vacation packages in 2008 and is the only major online travel agency to offer hotel rooms, airline tickets and rental cars with the Name Your Own Price® service.
SOURCE: Priceline.com
SOURCE: CNN
Fairmont Peace Hotel General Manager, Kamal Naamani has launched a nationwide hunt to source memories and memorabilia of Shanghai's beloved art deco landmark. The hotel, which officially opened on August 1, 1929, was widely known as the luxurious "Number One mansion in the Far East" for its prime location along the Bund and for its grandeur, including the distinctive copper-sheathed roof that rises 77 meters above ground, white Italian marble floors, and priceless Lalique glass artwork.
The Peace Hotel has undergone three years of meticulous restoration to reinstate it to its rightful place as Shanghai's most prestigious hotel address. The hotel will have a phased launch with facilities opening from spring onwards culminating in the grand opening later this year.
Fairmont also plans to open a Peace Hotel Museum and will create an archive showcasing wonderful stories and personal treasures where visitors can learn more about the unique and colorful history of Shanghai's most famous building.
Whether it is silverware, chinaware, monogrammed goods, historic photographs, postcards, art, past menus, trinkets or great stories or anecdotes, Fairmont is interested "To fully showcase the rich heritage of China's grandest hotel, we'd love past guests to share with us their memories, memorabilia and 'borrowed' items so we can record and preserve history for future generations," commented Naamani.
Contributors who take the time to share their reminiscences and recollections will receive a special invitation to view the exhibition when it opens. Those that temporarily or permanently bequeath special items that are selected to be showcased in the museum will be invited to a cocktail reception hosted by Naamani in the fall.
"As Shanghai's most beloved hotel, we take great pride in being the custodian of this legendary icon. We know there are a number of pieces of memorabilia out there that have become personal treasures and wonderful memories. We are excited to see what memories and items find their way back, and we're committed to creating an archive of this great landmark's history so we can continue to share this with future generations," says Naamani.
Those with submissions should include their name and contact details and send details to peacememories@fairmont.com along with fun stories or anecdotes about the provenance of the piece.
SOURCE: Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
Carlson Hotels, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, today announced that it has signed a landmark agreement to develop the first Radisson Blu hotel in the United States. This USD 125 million development in Chicago is scheduled to open in the fall of 2011. It marks the company’s most important investment so far as part of Carlson Hotels’ Ambition 2015 growth strategy.
“Our ambition is to establish flagship hotels in major cities in the U.S., and the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel is a major step towards realizing that goal,” said Hubert Joly, president and chief executive officer, Carlson.
Ambition 2015 is fueled by an investment program of up to USD 1.5 billion focused on positioning Radisson in North America as a powerful, globally consistent first-class brand. Recognized around the world for its contemporary design, Radisson Blu delivers upper-upscale hospitality.
A joint venture between Carlson Hotels and Aqua at Lakeshore East LLC owner and developer, Magellan Development Group, Chicago’s Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel will be located on 18 floors of the 81-story tower. The mixed-use residential property received the 2009 Skyscraper of the Year Award for its fascinating shape, the appearance of which changes dramatically depending on the perspective.
“This venture is part of the moves we are making to align our U.S. brand with our global standards,” said Thorsten Kirschke, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Carlson Hotels, The Americas.
SOURCE: Carlson Hotels
Airline partners with Visa to offer free Gogo Inflight Internet service through July
Alaska Airlines launched Aircell's Gogo Inflight Internet service today on six Boeing 737-800 aircraft and plans to expand the service to its entire fleet by the end of 2010. The airline is partnering with Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Card to offer passengers Inflight Wi-Fi free of charge on flights through July 31, 2010. Customers can visit alaskaair.com for more information about Alaska's Inflight Wi-Fi.
With Gogo, Alaska Airlines passengers with wireless devices will be able to browse the Web; access online music, games, podcasts and webcasts; send and receive e-mail; and connect to virtual private networks while flying. The easy-to-use service will provide passengers with full Internet access on any Wi-Fi-equipped laptop or personal electronic device at speeds similar to wireless mobile broadband services on the ground.
"Through July 31, our customers traveling on Wi-Fi-equipped planes will be able to try out the new Gogo service at no cost, courtesy of the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Card," said Joe Sprague, Alaska's vice president of marketing.
By the end of summer, Gogo will be installed on the airline's fleet of 737-800s and -900s, which represents the majority of Alaska's fleet. The remaining 737-400s and -700s will be equipped with the service later in the year.
Aircraft equipped with inflight Wi-Fi will have a Wi-Fi symbol located outside the aircraft's boarding door and information about the service located in seatback pockets. Gogo will be available above 10,000 feet, following an announcement approving the use of portable electronic devices.
Customers can use inflight Wi-Fi free of charge through July 31 by entering the promotional code ALASKAVISA on the login screen. After July 31, the Gogo service, currently available in the U.S. lower 48 states, will be offered to customers at a cost of $4.95 per flight and up, based on length of flight and device used.
To ensure the service is available to the airline's namesake state, Aircell will expand its network by early 2011 to provide Gogo Inflight Internet service on flights to, from and between key destinations in the state of Alaska.
SOURCE Alaska Airlines
Continental and United today announced a definitive merger agreement, creating the world’s leading airline with superior service to customers, expanded access to an unparalleled global network serving 370 destinations around the world, enhanced long-term career prospects for employees, and a platform for improved profitability and sustainable long-term value for shareholders. The all-stock merger of equals brings together two of the world’s premier airlines, creating a combined company well positioned to succeed in an increasingly competitive global and domestic aviation industry.
Glenn Tilton, chairman, president and chief executive officer of UAL Corp., will serve as non-executive chairman of the combined company’s Board of Directors through December 31, 2012 or the second anniversary of closing, whichever is later. Jeff Smisek, Continental’s chairman, president and chief executive officer, will be chief executive officer and a member of the Board of Directors. He will also become executive chairman of the Board upon Tilton’s ceasing to be non-executive chairman.
The combined organization will draw on the talented group of leaders from both companies, and key management positions will be determined prior to the transaction’s closing. The combined company’s management team is expected to include an equitable and balanced selection of executives from each company with the intention that each company will contribute roughly equal numbers. In addition to Smisek and Tilton, the 16-member Board of Directors will include six independent directors from each of the two companies and two union directors required by United’s charter.
The holding company for the new entity will be named United Continental Holdings, Inc. and the name of the airline will be United Airlines. The marketing brand will be a combination of the brands of both companies. Aircraft will have the Continental livery, logo and colors with the United name, and the announcement campaign slogan will be “Let’s Fly Together.” The new company’s corporate and operational headquarters will be in Chicago and it will maintain a significant presence in Houston, which will be the combined company’s largest hub. Additionally, the CEO will maintain offices in both Chicago and Houston.
Tilton said, “Today is a great day for our customers, our employees, our shareholders and our communities as we bring together our two companies in a merger of equals to create a world-class and truly global airline with an unparalleled network serving communities worldwide with outstanding customer service. Building on our Star Alliance partnership, we are creating a stronger, more efficient airline, both operationally and financially, better positioned to succeed in a dynamic and highly competitive global aviation industry. This combination will provide a strong platform for sustainable, long-term value for shareholders, opportunities for employees, and more and better scheduled service and destinations for customers. Knowing and respecting our colleagues at Continental as we do, we are confident that together we can compete successfully in what is now, clearly, a global marketplace.”
Smisek said, “This combination brings together the best of both organizations and cultures to create a world-class airline with tremendous and enduring strengths. Together, we will have the financial strength necessary to make critical investments to continue to improve our products and services and to achieve and sustain profitability. We have forged a highly collaborative partnership with United over the past two years as we prepared for and executed a seamless transition to Star Alliance, an important achievement that gave us valuable experience in working together and built mutual respect between our two companies. I look forward to working with the employees of both companies around the world, so our airline can become an even stronger global competitor, deliver sustainable profitability, achieve best-in-class customer service under our unified brand, create long-term career opportunities and deliver increased value for shareholders.”
The combination of United and Continental brings together the two most complementary networks of any U.S. carriers, with minimal domestic and no international route overlaps. The combined company will offer enhanced service to Asia, Europe, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East from well-placed hubs on the East Coast, West Coast, and Southern and Midwestern regions of the United States. The combined company will have 10 hubs, including hubs in the four largest cities in the United States, and will provide enhanced service to underserved small- and medium-sized communities. The combined carrier will continue to serve all the communities each carrier currently serves. Together, Continental and United serve more than 144 million passengers per year as they fly to 370 destinations in 59 countries.
Employees will benefit from improved long-term career opportunities and enhanced job stability by being part of a larger, financially stronger and more geographically diverse carrier that is better able to compete successfully in the global marketplace. The companies believe the effect of the merger on front-line employees will be minimal, with reductions coming principally from retirements, attrition and voluntary programs. The company will provide employees with performance-based incentive compensation programs focused on achieving common goals. The combined company will be focused on creating cooperative labor relations, including negotiating contracts with collective bargaining units that are fair to the company and fair to the employee.
On a pro forma basis, the combined company would have annual revenues of approximately $29 billion based on 2009 financial results, and an unrestricted cash balance of approximately $7.4 billion as of the end of first quarter 2010, including United’s recently closed financing transaction.
In the merger, Continental shareholders will receive 1.05 shares of United common stock for each Continental common share they own. United shareholders would own approximately 55% of the equity of the combined company and Continental shareholders would own approximately 45%, including in-the-money convertible securities on an as-converted basis.
The merger is expected to deliver $1.0 billion to $1.2 billion in net annual synergies by 2013, including between $800 million and $900 million of incremental annual revenues, in large part from expanded customer options resulting from the greater scope and scale of the network, and additional international service enabled by the broader network of the combined carrier. Expected synergies are in addition to the significant benefits derived from the companies’ existing alliance and expected from their future joint venture relationships. The combined company is also expected to realize between $200 million and $300 million of net cost synergies on a run-rate basis by 2013. One-time costs related to the transaction are expected to total approximately $1.2 billion spread over a three-year period.
The combined airline will have the most modern, fuel-efficient fleet (adjusted for cabin mix) and the best new aircraft order book among major U.S. network carriers. It will have the financial strength to enhance customers’ travel experience by enabling it to invest in globally competitive products, upgrade technology, refurbish and replace older aircraft, and implement the best-in-class practices of both airlines.
The merger will create the industry’s leading frequent flyer program, offering vast opportunities for customers to earn and redeem miles, including on Star Alliance partners.
United and Continental are members of Star Alliance, the world’s largest airline network. Star Alliance customers will continue to benefit from service to over 1,000 destinations, more connecting opportunities, additional scheduling flexibility and access to leading reciprocal frequent flyer and airport lounge benefits with Star Alliance's 24 other member airlines around the world.
The merger, which has been approved unanimously by the Boards of Directors of both companies, is conditioned on approval by the shareholders of both companies, receipt of regulatory clearance, and customary closing conditions. The companies expect to complete the transaction in the fourth quarter of 2010. During the period between signing and closing of the merger, the CEOs of both companies will lead a transition team, which will develop a specific integration plan.
J.P. Morgan Securities Inc. and Goldman, Sachs & Co. acted as financial advisors and provided fairness opinions to United, and Lazard and Morgan Stanley acted as financial advisors and provided fairness opinions to Continental. Jones Day, Vinson & Elkins LLP, and Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP acted as legal advisors to Continental, and Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP acted as legal advisor to United.
SOURCE: United Airlines
flydubai, Dubai's first low cost airline, will make travel a little less complex, a little less stressful and a little less expensive for people living in and travelling to Kabul, with the launch of the airline's first direct flights to the Afghan capital on May 17.
Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO of flydubai said: "We are very excited about the start of our new service to Kabul. There are currently more than 1,000 people travelling between Dubai and Kabul every day and we are pleased to offer them the option of travelling on one of the industry's safest, newest fleets of aircraft.
"We believe there will be a huge demand for flydubai and as this is an important market for us we are already working with the authorities to increase the number of flights we operate to the city. Kabul is a fascinating place with an incredible history. I am personally looking forward to making the trip in the near future."
flydubai is owned by the Government of Dubai and was established to offer quality, low cost travel to destinations that are underserved by direct air links to the UAE or where additional capacity is required.
Following its first commercial flight in June 2009, flydubai has rapidly grown its network to comprise 13 operational destinations, with an additional five routes scheduled to begin operating by the end of June.
Sticking to the traditional low cost model, flydubai's fares are one way, tax inclusive and include one piece of hand luggage. The other services you would find on a full service airline are also available, but are charged separately.
"This is how we make our fares fair," said Al Ghaith. "After all why should you pay for a suitcase if you are travelling with hand luggage? And why should you pay for a meal if you don't want to eat?"
Although flydubai is low cost, the airline has spent money where it counts. In 2008 flydubai ordered 50 brand new 737-800 Next Generation aircraft from Boeing at a list price of $4bn. The 737-800NG is one of the safest aircraft flying today and, with one taking off every 4.6 seconds somewhere in the world and a 40-year track record, there is plenty of evidence to back up that claim.
flydubai didn't scrimp on board either with seats specially designed by Recaro - seat manufacturer for Formula 1 and Porsche - to give extra comfort and legroom. A simple redesign which moved the traditional seat back pocket to up behind the tray, gives each seat an additional 2 inches of extra legroom, and means flydubai has one of the largest seat pitches of any economy airline.
"We may be a low cost airline, but low cost doesn't have to mean low quality," explained Al Ghaith. "We are committed to upholding the very highest standards of safety and comfort on board and we want to ensure our passengers enjoy their reliable, on-time flight with flydubai. We are a different to other airlines operating on the Kabul-Dubai route, so I would encourage people to give us a try and find out why we have become one of the world's fastest growing start up airlines ever."
SOURCE flydubai
Seven daily nonstop departures to Boston and one daily nonstop flight to both Fort Lauderdale and Orlando to begin November 1, 2010 - -$39 (a) sale fares each way to Boston, $59 (a) to Orlando or $69 (a) to Fort Lauderdale available now at www.jetblue.com - - Low fare value airline to become largest carrier between Boston and D.C. Region, with 18 conveniently-timed flights
JetBlue Airways today is proud to announce plans to serve the popular Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), its third airport in the Washington region, with seven daily nonstop flights to Boston's Logan International Airport (BOS) and one daily nonstop flight each to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and Orlando International Airport (MCO) beginning November 1, 2010.
Fares are on sale now at www.jetblue.com as low as $39 (a) between DCA and Boston, $59 (a) to Orlando or $69 (a) to Fort Lauderdale. Flights must be booked by May 5, 2010 for travel through December 15, 2010 (a). Blackout dates may apply (a). Everyday low fares for JetBlue's DCA-Boston flights will be up to 73 percent lower than pre-JetBlue fares.
DCA will be JetBlue's 62nd destination. The carrier also serves the region with service from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). With the addition of DCA's seven daily shuttle flights to Boston -- complementing five daily nonstop flights from BWI and six daily flights between Boston and IAD -- JetBlue will become the largest carrier for flights between Boston and the Washington DC region offering 18 conveniently-timed departures.
"JetBlue's customer-centric approach to serving all three Capital-area airports focuses on fair fares, more choices and a conveniently-timed business-day schedule to Boston, now with 18 daily flights available," said Robin Hayes, executive vice president and chief commercial officer of JetBlue Airways. "As our customers have come to know, our preferred product delivers more value and more entertainment than the other guys, including a free first-checked bag, unlimited complimentary snacks and beverages, assigned leather seating with industry-leading legroom, and more than 140 channels of free, live television and radio programming. This is topped by our award-wining crewmembers, who make the enjoyable JetBlue Experience complete."
"Congratulations to JetBlue on the new Boston-National service," said Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick. "Seven new round trips will give residents and visitors alike more options."
"This is certainly great news for Boston. Adding another daily destination is another sign that our economy is thriving despite tough times and that Boston is a city people want to do business in," said Mayor Thomas M. Menino.
"I welcome JetBlue's expansion at Orlando International Airport to include daily, non-stop service to Washington National," said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. "JetBlue's award-winning, low-fare service provides increased options for Orlando's visitors and residents to travel between our nation's capital and the vacation capital of the world."
"JetBlue is a vital component of our economic engine here in central Florida," said Orange County Mayor Richard Crotty. "Expanding service to the heart of the nation's capital is a great move for JetBlue and a big plus for our community."
"Congratulations to JetBlue for consistently increasing service to and from the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport," said Broward County Mayor Ken Keechl. "Adding Reagan National Airport to their list of destinations provides more options for the travelling public."
"We welcome JetBlue's 36th destination from Boston Logan International Airport, and we are sure that the customers of Boston's largest airline will welcome it too,'' said Thomas J. Kinton, Jr. CEO & Executive Director of the Massachusetts Port Authority, which owns and operates Boston Logan. "With seven daily flights, the service to Washington Reagan National Airport will bring competition to one of Logan's busiest business routes and will lower fares.''
JetBlue's schedule between DCA and Boston:
Washington National (DCA) to Boston (BOS)
Depart - Arrive
6:30 a.m. - 7:59 a.m.
10:00 a.m. - 11:22 a.m.
12:00 p.m. - 1:23 p.m.
2:15 p.m. - 3:41 p.m.
3:45 p.m. - 5:13 p.m.
6:00 p.m. - 7:28 p.m.
8:00 p.m. - 9:26 p.m.
Boston (BOS) to Washington National (DCA)
Depart - Arrive
7:30 a.m. - 9:18 a.m.
9:35 a.m. - 11:17 a.m.
11:00 a.m. - 12:42 p.m.
1:25 p.m. - 3:08 p.m.
3:25 p.m. - 5:09 p.m.
5:30 p.m. - 7:18 p.m.
8:20 p.m. - 10:01 p.m.
JetBlue's schedule between DCA and Fort Lauderdale:
Washington National (DCA) to Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
Depart - Arrive
7:50 a.m. - 10:21 a.m.
Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to Washington National (DCA)
Depart - Arrive
11:15 a.m. - 1:40 p.m.
JetBlue's schedule between DCA and Orlando:
Washington National (DCA) to Orlando (MCO)
Depart - Arrive
1:20 p.m. - 3:31 p.m.
Orlando (MCO) to Washington National (DCA)
Depart - Arrive
6:13 p.m. - 8:20 p.m.
JetBlue will operate service out of the nostalgic Terminal A complex atWashington National with its state-of-the-art aircraft, featuring free, unlimited snacks and beverages, all-leather seating, the most legroom in coach of any U.S. airline, and 36 channels of free, live DIRECTV(r) programming and more than 100 channels of XM Satellite radio on personal seatback TVs. Customers will also be treated to a first checked bag free and the best customer service in the industry, delivered by the airline's friendly and award-winning crewmembers.
(a) For travel between Washington D.C. (DCA only) and Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, and/or Boston: Travel must be booked by May 5, 2010, 11:59 PM (ET). All fares are subject to change without notice. Travel costs $15 more per person if purchased by telephone, or at an airport or city ticket office. Travel must take place between November 1, 2010 and December 15, 2010. Travel must be completed by December 15, 2010. Blackout dates for travel are between November 19, 2010 and November 29, 2010. Travel must take place on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and/or Saturdays. Fares may not be available on all days or on all flights. All fares must be purchased at time of reservation, and are one-way, nonrefundable, and nontransferable. Cancellations and changes can be made prior to scheduled departure for $100 per person at 1-800-JETBLUE (1-800-538-2583), TTY/TDD 1-800-336-5530, or at jetblue.com, with applicable fare adjustment. Cancellations are for a JetBlue travel credit only, which is valid for one year. If a reservation is not changed or canceled prior to scheduled departure, all money associated with the reservation is forfeited. Fares do not include Passenger Facility Charges of up to $9 each way, September 11th Security Fees of up to $5 each way and a Federal Segment Tax of $3.70 per domestic segment. A segment is a takeoff and landing. All taxes and fees must be paid at the time of purchase. JetBlue reserves the right to deny boarding to passengers without proper documentation. A second bag fee of $30 applies. Other restrictions apply. ©2010 JetBlue Airways
SOURCE JetBlue Airways
Crowning an industry-leading, employee-driven green program, the four-diamond W San Francisco made history this week by earning the first LEED certification of an existing building belonging to a major hotel brand.
With its Silver LEED certification, W San Francisco becomes only the seventh hotel in the United States to receive the recognition for an existing building. Stringent criteria for an existing building certification measure "operations, improvements and maintenance on a consistent scale, with the goal of maximizing operational efficiency while minimizing environmental impacts," according to the U.S. Green Building Council, which administers LEED.
"For our guests, the green experience at W San Francisco is a seamless part of their overall W experience, which is extremely gratifying for us," said Michael Pace, W San Francisco's General Manager, and a sought-after speaker on green business practices. "W San Francisco is a leader in the area of sustainability and green practices for W Hotels Worldwide. Green has become part of modern living and is expected by our guests, who can feel our team's true passion for green practices, which are infused in everything we do, everyday."
Certified by the state of California as a green business, W San Francisco began its green program in 2007 with the passion of employees helping launch it. W San Francisco also won a 2008 "Good Earthkeeping" award, recognizing environmental leadership, from the California Hotel & Lodging Association.
Among the energy efficiency steps taken at W San Francisco without negatively impacting the sensory experience and atmosphere of the hotel: More than 70 percent of guestroom lighting and 90 percent of back-of-house lighting is energy efficient, using CFLs, LEDs, motion sensors, and other technologies; the hotel's HVAC cooling towers were replaced with energy-efficient models, saving 300 kWh/year; motion sensors power off HVAC in unoccupied guestrooms; and ENERGY STAR power management features are activated on all PCs. Management continues to track energy usage and savings with a third-party vendor through the hotel's utility company, PG&E. Lastly, to further improve energy efficiency and encourage the use of renewable energy, management is considering installing wind turbines on the hotel's roof--a first for a commercial building in the city.
W San Francisco added a green component to the W signature meeting experience, "Sensory Meetings," where all food and beverage is organic, biodynamic, and local. The hotel also hosts "zero-waste," carbon-neutral events through a partnership with "Live Neutral" carbon offsets.
W San Francisco's LEED certification means another milestone for Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT), the hotel's parent company, adding to their portfolio of four new construction (LEED-NC) properties to obtain the coveted designation. Worldwide, Starwood has a total of 67 hotels that are either LEED certified or registered for or pursuing LEED certification.
Element, Starwood's new "green from the ground up" brand, made its own history by becoming first major hotel brand to mandate that all properties pursue LEED certification.
LEED is an internationally recognized, third-party certification for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings. The LEED rating system is designed to promote design and construction practices that increase profitability while reducing the environmental impacts of buildings and improving occupant health and well-being. LEED's rating system offers four certification levels for new construction -- Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum -- that correspond to the number of credits accrued in five green design categories.
The LEED for Existing Buildings Rating System helps building owners and operators measure operations, improvements and maintenance on a consistent scale, with the goal of maximizing operational efficiency while minimizing environmental impacts. LEED for Existing Buildings addresses whole-building cleaning and maintenance issues (including chemical use), recycling programs, exterior maintenance programs, and systems upgrades. It can be applied both to existing buildings seeking LEED certification for the first time and to projects previously certified under LEED for New Construction, Schools, or Core & Shell.
SOURCE: Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.
Ideal for Road Warriors who want unlimited Gogo Inflight Internet access
Aircell, the world's leading provider of airborne communications, has introduced the Gogo® Monthly Subscription, a new pricing option that can be used across the entire fleet of more than 800 Gogo equipped aircraft. Gogo Monthly Subscription offers the best value for frequent fliers who want to stay connected regardless of their airline choice.
This new option automatically renews each month and is available for $34.95.
"Building on the strong demand for our existing 30-Day product, frequent flyers are telling us that they want a single pass that provides a seamless and convenient way to stay connected across all Gogo equipped airlines," said Michael Small, Aircell's President and CEO.
Passengers can purchase the Gogo Monthly Subscription through the inflight portal, just as they do today. Once registered, passengers will have Internet access on all Gogo equipped flights. Though it will be redeemable on all equipped airlines, Gogo Monthly Subscription will initially be available for purchase on AirTran Airways, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and Virgin America; all airlines that have equipped a high percentage of their fleet with Gogo.
Aircell's goal is to offer airline passengers a wide range of pricing options. In addition to the new subscription product, Aircell will continue to offer Gogo passes for single flight segments, which start at $4.95.
Gogo is currently available on all AirTran Airways and Virgin America flights and on select Air Canada, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, US Airways and United Airlines flights. Later in 2010, Alaska Airlines and Continental Airlines will join the family of Gogo equipped carriers.
SOURCE Aircell
Fly Just Four Roundtrip Flights and Earn a Free* Roundtrip Ticket Anywhere Southwest Serves
Southwest Airlines is introducing "Double Credit Days" rewarding frequent flyers with one bonus Rapid Rewards credit on every flight, anywhere Southwest flies. Therefore, Rapid Rewards Members can earn free travel on Southwest by taking just four roundtrip flights from any city that Southwest serves. Members who purchase a Business Select fare will receive 2.25 for short-haul flights and 3.0 credits for long-haul flights, making it even faster to earn an Award. To qualify, Members must register, book their flights, and travel beginning today through May 26, 2010.
"It's going to be hard to find a better deal out there anywhere – this is one you won't want to miss," said Southwest's Director of Customer Loyalty Ryan Green. "We're thanking our Members for their loyalty and inviting new Customers to fly Southwest with an even faster and easier way to earn free travel."
It is fast and easy to earn free travel through Rapid Rewards. Rapid Rewards Members earn credits by flying or using the program's Preferred Partners. It takes just eight roundtrips, or 16 credits, to qualify for an Award. However, Members can accelerate their earnings by using the Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Credit Card from Chase, doing business with any of the airline's other Preferred Partners, or by purchasing Southwest's Business Select fares when flying. Plus, once it's earned, Southwest Airlines allows the Member to transfer the Award to anyone. The Award is free but subject to the U.S. government-imposed September 11th Security Fee of up to $10 roundtrip.
After 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines continues to differentiate itself from other low fare carriers—offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service. Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience, with all leather seats, all Boeing 737 jets. Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded, currently serving 68 cities in 35 states (Southwest will launch service to Panama City Beach, FL on May 23, 2010). Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,200 flights a day and has nearly 35,000 Employees systemwide.
Terms and Conditions:
*The Rapid Rewards Award is free, but travel is subject to the government-imposed September 11th Security Fee of up to $10 per roundtrip. Travel good on Southwest Airlines published, scheduled service. One additional credit per one-way will be issued for all fares, except Business Select. Business Select Customers will receive 2.25 credits for flights less than 750 miles and 3.0 credits for flights 750 miles or more. Member must register for this promotion between April 7, 2010, and May 26, 2010, to qualify, and registration must be completed prior to commencement of travel. Valid on new reservations only. Reservation must be booked between April 7, 2010, and May 26, 2010. Qualifying travel must be completed between April 7, 2010 and May 26, 2010. Rapid Rewards account number must be entered at the time of booking. Members will receive one bonus credit per qualifying one-way flight. Travel on an Award or Companion Pass does not qualify for promotion. Bonus flight credits do not count toward A-List qualification. Rapid Rewards credit will post to your account within four days of completing travel. Changes made to the itinerary after purchase may eliminate qualification for this promotion. All Rapid Rewards rules and regulations apply.
SOURCE Southwest Airlines
New low fare competition set to begin in November - - Initial schedule of eight daily flights planned - - JetBlue's third airport in the Baltimore-Washington metro area
JetBlue Airways today is proud to announce plans to serve the popular Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) beginning in November 2010 (a). Customer-favorite JetBlue intends to initially offer travelers at least eight daily departures from DCA to select East Coast destinations, complementing its existing low fare service from Washington Dulles International Airport and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. JetBlue's new DCA flights are expected to go on sale at www.jetblue.com at a later date, pending schedule confirmation and final airport negotiations.
"Capital-area travelers who prefer the ease of traveling from Reagan National have waited far too long for JetBlue's award-winning, low fare service," said Robert Land, JetBlue's Senior Vice President of Government Affairs and Associate General Counsel. "We are thrilled to finally be entering the DCA market, injecting high-quality competition into this centrally located airport."
JetBlue's access to Reagan National is part of an agreement with American Airlines announced today and through which JetBlue will also acquire slots for additional daily service at Westchester County Airport in suburban White Plains, N.Y.
Terms of the slot transfer were not disclosed, and regulatory approval is not required for this transaction.
In addition to the access to Reagan National outlined today, last week JetBlue filed for approval from the United States Department of Transportation on a proposed slot transfer transaction with US Airways that would result in JetBlue securing a further five in-perimeter slot pairs at Reagan National. In order to offer a robust schedule that provides even more value for Reagan National customers, JetBlue today petitioned the FAA for access to unused slot pairs in the early morning and late-evening hours.
SOURCE JetBlue
(a) Subject to negotiations with Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, operator of DCA.
BASEBALL IN BEANTOWN PACKAGE GIVES RED SOX NATION REASON TO CHEER
The Copley Square Hotel, Back Bay’s luxury boutique hotel, is offering the Baseball in Beantown package to celebrate the start of the 2010 Red Sox season on April 4. The hotel, which is within walking distance from Fenway Park, is offering a variety of ticket options that will not only get you into one of America’s Most Beloved Ballparks, but will also get you close to the action.
The package includes 2 bottles of water, 2 Red Sox hats, a box of Crackerjacks and game tickets. Ticket prices start at $85 each for centerfield bleacher and go up to $180 each for Loge Box Seats. Packages start at $417.50 plus tax, based on double occupancy. Tickets are subject to availability and prices exclude some games. Use promo code BRSP to book online. Guests can contact the Copley Square Hotel directly at 800-225-7062 about games and pricing.
The Copley Square Hotel is located at 47 Huntington Avenue at the corner of Exeter Street, in Boston, MA 02116. For more information, or to make reservations, please visit http://www.copleysquarehotel.com/.
SOURCE: The Copley Square Hotel
Hub-to-hub link provides additional travel options
Continental Airlines on Saturday, March 27, will inaugurate service between New York and Munich, Germany, with daily nonstop flights from the airline's hub at Newark Liberty International Airport.
"Launching nonstop service to Munich allows us to link Continental's New York hub to the Munich hub of our new partner Lufthansa," said Jim Compton, Continental's executive vice president and chief marketing officer. "It's a great example of how joining Star Alliance is allowing our customers to seamlessly connect to a greater number of travel destinations."
Convenient Flight Schedule
Continental will operate the nonstop daily flight with a Boeing 767-200ER aircraft, seating 25 passengers in BusinessFirst and 149 passengers in economy class. Flight CO106 will depart Newark Liberty daily at 5:30 p.m. and arrive in Munich at 7:40 a.m. the next day. The return flight, CO107, will depart Munich's Franz Josef Strauss International Airport daily at 9:20 a.m. and arrive at Newark Liberty at 12:35 p.m. the same day. The schedule of the Continental service complements that of Lufthansa's existing daily New York/Newark-Munich service, which departs Newark Liberty about three hours later and Munich about six hours later.
The new flight has been timed to provide convenient connections at Munich, where Star Alliance member flights provide service to more than 95 destinations in Western Europe, Eastern Europe and the Middle East, and at New York/Newark with an extensive network of Continental flights to more than 100 destinations throughout the U.S., Canada and Latin America. Continental operates the largest hub in the New York City metropolitan area at Newark Liberty International Airport.
Munich becomes the fourth German city to be served with daily flights to New York by Continental after Frankfurt, Berlin and Hamburg; the airline also operates daily service between Frankfurt and Houston. Munich is the 30th destination in Continental's overall trans-Atlantic network.
Award-winning BusinessFirst Service
The new flights will feature Continental's BusinessFirst service, rated by Condé Nast Traveler magazine as the highest among all U.S. carriers for trans-Atlantic flights for 10 years in a row. Continental's BusinessFirst amenities include an extensive gourmet menu served with premium wines and champagnes created by Continental's Congress of Chefs and Sommeliers. A specially selected and trained corps of concierges is available to provide individualized pre-flight and post-flight services for BusinessFirst customers at 35 international airports worldwide. Customers traveling in BusinessFirst are also able to access any of Continental's 24 Presidents Clubs and other airline affiliated lounges worldwide.
Munich Destination
The new service will provide daily nonstop flights to Germany's third largest city and the economic centre of southern Germany. Munich, the capital of Bavaria, has a population of 1.3 million in the city and 5 million in the Munich Metropolitan Region. Famed for its historic and modern architecture and annual Oktoberfest beer celebration, Munich boasts a wealth of cultural attractions and institutions. Among the many world-renowned companies whose headquarters are in the city are Siemens AG (electronics), BMW (cars), MAN AG (trucks, engineering), Allianz (insurance) and Munich Re (re-insurance). Lufthansa operates a hub at Munich's Franz Josef Strauss International Airport, which is the second-largest airport in Germany after Frankfurt.
Continental also offers tour packages to Germany through Continental Airlines Vacations.
SOURCE: Continental Airlines
LAN Airlines S.A., one of the leading airlines in Latin America, and its subsidiaries today announced that the Company signed an agreement with Boeing to adjust the delivery of ten Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners to be incorporated into the Company's long haul fleet. This new delivery schedule anticipates by three years the arrival of this aircraft, previously scheduled for 2014 and now expected starting in the first semester of 2011.
In this way, LAN becomes the first airline in the western hemisphere to receive the Dreamliner, which is expected to revolutionize the airline industry, incorporating the most advanced technology. These ten aircraft are part of the original order for 26 Boeing 787s placed by LAN in 2007 and previously scheduled for delivery between 2014 and 2019. In addition, LAN has outstanding orders for six leased Dreamliners.
The Boeing 787-8 undertook its first flight in December 2009 and is expected to begin commercial operations in 2010. It has the capacity to seat approximately 250 passengers, providing a unique in-flight experience due to innovative technological advances featured inside the aircraft cabin. In addition, Dreamliners are fuel efficient and ecologically friendly, providing a significant reduction in emissions.
The Dreamliners will assist in the renewal and growth of the Company's long-haul fleet, allowing LAN Airlines and its subsidiaries to serve international destinations, improving connectivity between Latin America, Europe and the United States.
Mr. Enrique Cueto, LAN's Chief Executive Officer, stated, "The incorporation of the Boeing 787 ensures the Company's sustainable growth while preserving the environment and incorporating state-of-the-art technology to deliver the best travel experience for LAN's passengers. LAN looks forward to incorporating this new generation of aircraft in the first half of 2011."
"Partnering with LAN Airlines, one of the world's great air carriers, is an exciting way to introduce the 787 to the flying public. We look forward to seeing the Dreamliner fly with LAN's livery. The 787 Dreamliner represents one of those rare generational advancements in powered flight that will provide superior operating economics, compelling environmental performance and unique passenger comforts. LAN and its passengers will be among the early beneficiaries of these enhancements," said Marlin Dailey, Vice President Sales Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
SOURCE: LAN Airlines
New York Loves New York's Hometown Airline
JetBlue support center to move to Long Island City, Queens
JetBlue Airways, New York's hometown airline, announces today the decision to keep its headquarters in New York City, and to combine the current Forest Hills, NY and Darien, CT corporate offices, with nearly 1,000 crewmembers and business partners in total, into one main support center to be located in Long Island City, Queens. In addition, recognizing JetBlue as New York's Hometown Airline, JetBlue and the State will begin joint branding of the world-recognized I Love NY logo, an unprecedented partnership with the State's iconic brand.
"New York and JetBlue are made for each other," said Dave Barger, JetBlue Chief Executive Officer. "After an exhaustive study to determine the best location for our corporate offices, we have decided that remaining in our hometown of New York makes the most sense for our company. The city is an important part of our heritage and culture, our brand and our customer connection, as well as our operation, with our base at JFK's Terminal 5. As we enter our second decade, we are proud to be New York's Hometown Airline, and look forward to welcoming our customers locally and across our network with our award-winning service and the high-value JetBlue Experience."
"JetBlue engaged cities around the country in a selection process to determine where to build a central corporate office and grow jobs over the long term. New York City prevailed, and both our city and the airline are better off for it," said Mayor Bloomberg. "There was a time when New York might have taken such an exercise lightly, relying on the city's reputation to win out. But cities across the country and around the world are engaged in an increasingly competitive environment to attract growing companies, and – while we can't always compete on cost – we've worked extremely hard to strengthen and highlight New York City's competitive advantages. The 200 jobs the company will move to and add in New York City and the new Long Island City headquarters it will build will be significant contributions to the local and citywide economies. We wish the company much success in the years ahead, and look forward to our continued partnership."
"The relationship between New York State and JetBlue is exactly the kind of innovative economic partnership that we have fought to deliver, especially now, at a time when our State needs it most," said Governor Paterson. "JetBlue's plans to invest millions directly into New York's economy will create more jobs and provide more opportunities for all New Yorkers. As our State and City work to create strategic economic opportunities, we will continue to help companies like JetBlue develop and grow right here – in the great State of New York."
"JetBlue is New York's hometown airline and they made the right call in choosing to stay right here where they belong – in the Big Apple," said Senator Charles Schumer. "From Buffalo to Rochester to Syracuse to Stewart Airport I have enjoyed watching JetBlue develop into a terrific organization that is a vital part of the Empire State's economic vibrancy. New York State and New York City via ESDC and EDC have crafted a creative package that makes sense for JetBlue, for its employees and for the people of New York. I look forward to many more years of JetBlue's first-class service and affordable travel options and to this dynamic company staying and growing here in New York."
"I'm very pleased that JetBlue is cleared for landing. The airline's decision to keep their world headquarters here in New York City is welcome news," said Senator Gillibrand. "JetBlue has grown into the seventh largest airline in no small part due to the hard work of the nearly 1,000 local employees at its world headquarters that are among the more than 5,000 crewmembers that also work at airports and maintenance facilities across New York State. I was proud to work with officials at all levels to present JetBlue with a very strong offer. I look forward to working with them in the years to come as they remain one of New York City's premier corporations."
"As the only airline whose corporate headquarters is located in New York City I am extremely pleased that JetBlue's headquarters will remain in our great city," said Congressman Meeks. "This decision by JetBlue Airways has allowed nearly 1,000 jobs to remain in New York City and its continuing commitment to growing at JFK airport shows that they are a true partner to the people of the city of New York. I look forward to their continued growth at JFK and throughout the city in creating jobs and opportunities for New Yorkers."
"We are delighted that JetBlue, a company that started in Queens and employs many Queens residents, is staying right here in America's most diverse county," said Borough President Marshall. "This decision saves hundreds of jobs during a difficult economic period and represents JetBlue's commitment to Queens and the City of New York. We couldn't be happier. I also thank Mayor Bloomberg and the City's Economic Development Corporation and all the elected officials and parties who worked together to bring about this wonderful announcement today."
"New York City's unrivaled infrastructure, economic potential, and access to top-tier talent make it an ideal location for companies that what to expand their competitive edge," said NYCEDC President Seth W. Pinsky. "JetBlue's decision to relocate to Long Island City and grow there not only solidifies the company's incredible entrepreneurial vision, but also underscores the City's position as the business and innovation capital of the word."
"Today's announcement that JetBlue will remain and expand its headquarters in New York City illustrates what we know to be true—that New York State is the number one location to grow a business," said Empire State Development Chairman and CEO designate Dennis M. Mullen. "Not only does this project create jobs and investment in New York, it affords us the opportunity to align the iconic I Love New York brand with JetBlue. This renewed partnership will no doubt bolster the state's tourism economy and demonstrate that New York State is open for business, as well as for leisure travel."
"This is a huge win for our passengers and for the Port Authority's entire regional airport system. It is also a real credit to JetBlue and its CEO Dave Barger for continuing to believe in New York, as well as Mayor Bloomberg, Governor Paterson, Senator Schumer and all of the leaders who played a key role in keeping JetBlue here at home," said Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Executive Director Ward. "We are also pleased to learn that JetBlue's new flagship terminal at JFK, which the Port Authority financed, was a critical factor in JetBlue's decision. We look forward to our ongoing partnership."
After an extensive multi-year review of several cities around the country, JetBlue narrowed its focus on New York City and Orlando. While both locations have tremendous synergies with JetBlue, New York, among other reasons, means JetBlue can now truly lay claim as New York's Hometown Airline.
JetBlue's Darien, CT support center will be combined with the current New York office sometime in 2011. Seventy jobs will be relocated to New York. The carrier's Darien office provides transactional financial support for the value airline since 2000 and has been a key ingredient of the airline's success in its first decade.
Orlando, which remains a significant city for JetBlue's network, is the airline's "home away from home" for more than 1,000 crewmembers and boasts JetBlue University, a world-class training facility, and support center. The airline continues to grow operations at Orlando International Airport offering 23 nonstop destinations, including six international cities.
New Address: 27-01 Queens Plaza North, Long Island City, New York
Subject to execution of a lease with Metropolitan Life Insurance Co. (MetLife), JetBlue expects to occupy approximately 200,000 square feet by mid-2012 in the historic Brewster Building in Long Island City Queens. The Brewster Building, owned by Brause Realty, a New York City-based real estate company, is just six miles down the road from JetBlue's current support center location in Forest Hills, and is situated at the foot of one of the main gateways to Manhattan -- the Queensborough Bridge.
The Brewster Building has a relevant aviation history. It was built in 1911 and is where the Brewster Aeronautical Company manufactured the Brewster F2A (a.k.a. The Brewster Buffalo), the first monoplane fighter airplane used by the U.S. Navy in World War II. In addition, the building is recognized by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) as having achieved Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design for Existing Buildings (LEED EB) Silver certification, which designates operation of high performance buildings that are environmentally responsible. JetBlue will be subleasing the space from MetLife, who will continue to maintain a significant presence at the location with approximately 800 associates.
"We are pleased that JetBlue, has made their decision to join us and establish their headquarters at our class A Long Island City facility," said John M. Vazquez, Vice President, Chief Procurement Officer, Vendor Sourcing and Corporate Services for MetLife. "Our mutual commitment to Long Island City is evidence that the area continues to grow and prosper with significant residential and business development. We are confident that JetBlue crewmembers will feel right at home in our headquarters quality building and will enjoy the full array of amenities available. We value this partnership with JetBlue and appreciate having such a well regarded and customer focused organization complement MetLife."
David Brause, President of Brause Realty Inc. and Chairman of the Long Island City Business Improvement District (BID), said, "We are very pleased that JetBlue Airways has chosen to lease our family's building in Long Island City for its new headquarters location. In partnership with our tenant, MetLife, Brause Realty looks forward to many years together with JetBlue as we accommodate this vibrant company's present space needs and their growth into the future."
"We look forward to creating an exciting new home that is welcoming to our crewmembers, customers and business partners," Mr. Barger said. "In making an announcement today, it was important to for us to announce not just our hometown, but also the location. We are very pleased with our new space and the Brewster Building, with its rich history in transportation. It offers many opportunities to design a space that is flexible and adaptable to suit our needs, making it a clear winner for JetBlue. We look forward to our new home and a strong partnership with MetLife and Brause Realty."
JetBlue aims to be the Americas' Favorite Airline by delivering superior customer service, the award-winning JetBlue Experience and the best domestic coach product in the skies. The airline inaugurated service between New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with two daily nonstop flights on Feb. 11, 2000. JetBlue offers the most nonstop departures from JFK and the most domestic departures from the New York metro area of any major domestic carrier. JetBlue is also the single largest airline operating nonstop between New York and Florida (a) and the 7th largest passenger carrier in the United States (b), serving 60 destinations in 20 states, Puerto Rico and 11 countries in the Caribbean and Latin America.
JetBlue's home base of operations is Terminal 5 at New York's JFK, a state-of-the art terminal that opened in October of 2008. T5 focuses on efficiency and customer comfort. The 635,000-square-foot terminal boasts 26 gates distributed throughout three concourses and includes a 55,000-square-foot central retail and concession Marketplace. T5 is designed to accommodate up to 20 million annual customers with up to 250 daily departures.
SOURCE: JetBlue
The GO Group has launched a new web-based application that allows travelers to book a GO airport shuttle from their iPhones.
The app is designed also to work with Apple's web-enabled iPod Touch and the soon-to-be released iPad.
"Frequent travelers, in particular, will appreciate the ability to book ground transportation quickly from any location on their mobile device," says John McCarthy, president of The GO Group, which is comprised of 28 ground transportation companies, serving 52 airports in the United States, Canada and Europe.
To make a reservation, the iPhone user accesses the GO website www.goairportshuttle.com, and clicks on the iPhone icon on the home page to reach a special reservation page. By bookmarking the site and clicking the "add to home screen" option, an icon will appear on the phone's home screen to expedite future bookings.
The mobile application was developed by The Hudson Group, a Lawrence, MA, reservation systems technology company.
T5 takes home the titles of Terminal with the 'Best Concessions Program Design,'
'Most Unique Services,' 'Best Overall Concessions Program,' and
'Best Concessions Management Team'
JetBlue Airways today announced it has received top honors in four categories in Airport Revenue News' (ARN) 2010 Best Airport & Concessionaire Awards in the Single Terminal Division for its state-of-the-art home base at New York's Terminal 5 at JFK, including: 'Terminal with the Best Concessions Program Design;' 'Terminal with the Most Unique Services;' 'Terminal with the Best Overall Concessions Program;' and, 'Terminal with the Best Concessions Management Team.'
"JetBlue is thrilled to receive four individual awards for our T5 concession program in ARN's airport survey this year, and we thank the many business partners and crewmembers that have helped us revolutionize the airport experience for JetBlue customers," said Mitch Nadler, Director of Concession Management at JetBlue Airways. "We would also like to congratulate our individual concessionaires who also took home awards from ARN this year. We are extremely proud of Terminal 5 and all it has to offer, and we will continue to strive for high customer satisfaction and optimal revenue performance."
Several individual operators that have locations at JetBlue's T5, as well as other airports across the nation, also received awards honoring their achievements in the airport concession industry, including:
For the second year in a row, nominating and judging for the 2010 awards was conducted entirely online and resulted in unprecedented industry participation. Consistent from previous years, more than 200 airport executives voted for concession companies and concessionaires voted for airport programs, eliminating any conflict of interest issues from the process.
JetBlue's T5 at JFK was inaugurated in October, 2008. T5 has the ability to handle up to 20 security lanes, 26 gates, free Wi-Fi, 22 restaurants and food outlets, 25 retail stores, and a large children's play area. The 635,000-square-foot building was designed to handle up to 20 million passengers per year.
Megabus.com Serves Five Million Customers
The intercity bus service industry continues to rise in popularity according to a recent study conducted by DePaul University's Chaddick Institute for Metropolitan Development. Megabus.com, the express bus service, which offers fares as low as $1 via the Internet, announced today it is maintaining growth and has served five million customers.
Also according to the study, amenities such as free Wi-Fi and power outlets add to the value, convenience and popularity of traveling intercity by bus. Megabus.com also increases the benefits of bus travel by operating environmentally friendly 81-passenger double-decker buses.
"Megabus.com has seen continued success for multiple reasons, primarily, travelers are still looking to save money and get a good deal," said Dale Moser, president and COO of megabus.com. "The number one reason our customers travel with us is our low fares."
Since its launch in April 2006, megabus.com has continued to steadily expand and now serves 17 Midwest cities and 11 Northeast cities.
"We are pleased that our customers are recognizing the benefits of intercity bus service and are continuing to contribute to our growth," said Moser.
America's Premier Small Business Credit Card Program Joins Forces With America's Most Business Friendly Airline
Partnership Kicks Off With Free Wi-Fi on All AirTran Flights From March 13 Through March 27, 2010
AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc., today announced a partnership with American Express OPEN and the OPEN Savings program. To celebrate the partnership, OPEN Savings is sponsoring free onboard Wi-Fi on all AirTran Airways flights from March 13 through March 27, 2010.
Starting today, American Express OPEN card holders will be eligible for a five percent discount on all of the low-cost carrier's more than 700 daily flights. Any ticket purchased at www.airtran.com, via 1-800-AIR-TRAN or at any AirTran Airways ticket counter with an American Express Business Card will receive the discount to our already low fares.
"As the only airline with Business Class and Wi-Fi on every flight, we are the perfect partner for OPEN Savings members," said Tad Hutcheson, AirTran Airways' vice president of marketing and sales. "OPEN Savings members can now enjoy a significant discount while staying productive in the air and reaping the benefits of affordable Business Class."
In addition to being the only airline with Business Class and Wi-Fi on every flight, the airline also offers other business friendly features, including; affordable walk up and one-way fares, no Saturday night stay requirements and complimentary XM Satellite Radio with CNBC, Bloomberg Radio, CNN and Fox News channels.
"Time-pressed small business travelers who are weary of coupons or special offer codes now have a better and simpler way to save, with OPEN Savings," said Kirk Fitzsimmons, VP OPEN Savings. "With this new partnership, small businesses can reduce their airline expenses just by using their American Express Business Card."
SOURCE AirTran Airways
Hotel Prices at Level Last Seen in 2003
The average price of a hotel room was 14% lower in 2009 than in 2008, according to the Hotels.com(R) Hotel Price Index. Travellers spent 13% less on hotel rooms in Europe during 2009 than in 2008, 14% less in the U.S., 16% less in Asia and 21% less in Latin America.
In fact, the average price of a hotel room across the world was cheaper in 2009 that it was in 2004, when the HPI began. However, towards the end of 2009, the rate at which the average price of hotel room fell started to slow down.
The average price of a hotel room fell by just 7% year-on-year in Q4 2009, compared to 16% in Q1, 17% in Q2 and 14% in Q3.
David Roche, President of Hotels.com, comments:
"Step inside the time machine, turn the dial back to 2003, and compare hotel prices then and now. What's changed? Not much. Our latest Hotel Price Index, covering all of 2009, shows that prices fell globally by 14% on already weak 2008 figures, bringing consumer prices back to levels not seen since 2003. Despite some possible first signs of hotel prices recovering in Europe and the US in the last quarter of 2009, the promotions and great value look set to continue for some time yet. 2010 promises to be another great year for the traveller."
Price changes by end of 2009
Price falls started to level off towards the end of 2009 particularly in Europe and North America.
While hotel prices had fallen by double digits in the first three quarters of 2009 on both continents, by Q4 the rate of price falls was in single digits in both Europe (down 6% in Q4) and North America (down 7% in Q4).
Prices continued their slump in both Asia and Latin America though.
In Latin America prices fell by 10% year-on-year in Q4 whereas in Asia, the level of price falls experienced by hotels actually accelerated in Q4 2009 compared to the previous quarters. Hotel rates dropped 19% in Q4 in Asia compared to 17% in quarters two and three and 15% in Q1.
SOURCE Hotels.com
OnePass Elite frequent fliers continue to receive the premium seats for free
Continental Airlines today announced that beginning March 17, 2010, it will offer customers the option of purchasing, at check in, premium seat assignments for unreserved economy-class seats that feature extra legroom.
Continental's OnePass Elite frequent flyer members and their traveling companions will be able to continue to assign themselves seats with extra legroom in economy class without charge.
"Our customers want more choices," said Jim Compton, Continental's executive vice president and chief marketing officer. "Seats with additional legroom are higher-value seats, and we want to offer them to customers who recognize that value."
Depending on the type of aircraft and row, seats with extra legroom provide customers with a minimum of seven additional inches of leg space. Customers will be able to purchase these seats at continental.com or at the airport kiosk during the normal check-in period, beginning at 24 hours prior to departure of the first flight in an itinerary. Pricing for the premium seats will vary depending on a number of factors, including the length of the flight and market.
Continental joins several other U.S. and international airlines in offering customers the option of purchasing premium seat assignments.
Continental Airlines is the world's fifth largest airline. Continental, together with Continental Express and Continental Connection, has more than 2,500 daily departures throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia, serving 133 domestic and 135 international destinations. Continental is a member of Star Alliance, which overall offers 19,700 daily flights to 1,077 airports in 175 countries through its 26 member airlines. With more than 41,000 employees, Continental has hubs serving New York, Houston, Cleveland and Guam, and together with its regional partners, carries approximately 63 million passengers per year.
Continental consistently earns awards and critical acclaim for both its operation and its corporate culture. For the sixth consecutive year, FORTUNE magazine named Continental the No. 1 World's Most Admired Airline on its 2009 list of World's Most Admired Companies. For more company information, go to continental.com.
SOURCE Continental Airlines
American Airlines said today, as part of its efforts to streamline processes and the customer experience during flight departure, it is placing greater focus on its existing Confirmed Flight Change service (CFC), while modifying its standby procedures for customers traveling within and between the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Canada.
To streamline the departure process at the gate, only American's premium customers will continue to be eligible to standby at no charge on the day of travel for a flight on which they are not confirmed. This includes American's elite status AAdvantage® members – AAdvantage Executive Platinum®, AAdvantage Platinum® and AAdvantage Gold®, those customers who are confirmed in the First or Business Class cabin, customers on certain types of Coach cabin fares, other travelers booked in the same reservation as the eligible customer, and customers traveling on military fares (including spouse and immediate family).
All customers wishing to change to another flight on their day of travel may purchase American's Confirmed Flight Change for $50, if inventory is available on the requested flights. The CFC service has been in place since 2005. Customers who desire CFC may call American's Reservations offices, handle the transaction at an airport Self Service machine, or purchase at the airport ticket counter. Subject to availability, day-of-travel changes may be confirmed within 12 hours of the new desired flight departure.
The changes go into effect for tickets purchased on or after Feb. 22, 2010. American noted that the changes announced today are similar to the policies of several other airlines and also apply to American Eagle and AmericanConnection flights.
SOURCE American Airlines
Value airline based on style, service and cost enters second decade - - Special 10-themed livery revealed
New York's hometown value airline JetBlue Airways today celebrates its 10th anniversary with a special Airbus A320 aircraft, featuring a unique 10-themed livery to signify the carrier's entry into its second decade. Images of the new livery design can be seen on JetBlue's blog at http://blog.hellojetblue.com. In its second decade, JetBlue aims to be America's Favorite Airline by delivering superior customer service, the award-winning JetBlue Experience and the best domestic coach product in the skies.
"We created a customer service company that happens to fly airplanes," said Dave Barger, JetBlue's CEO. "Since 2000, we have succeeded in building a new airline category that focuses on friendly service, free snacks and drinks, comfortable leather seating with ample legroom and complimentary satellite radio and live TV on personal seatback screens. We look forward to our next 10 years and thank all of our loyal customers and crewmembers for an incredible decade. We will continue to refine and refresh our product by listening to the valuable feedback from them while delivering more destinations, more choices and more value to our customers!"
In addition to revealing the new 10-themed livery, JetBlue today also announced its Crewmember Tailfin Design Contest winner. In October of 2009, JetBlue crewmembers were invited to submit proposed designs for another new tailfin. The winning design was chosen from among the top five finalists by public voting between December 8, 2009 and January 31, 2010. After more than 30,000 votes, the winning design for an A320 aircraft was selected. More information on this tailfin and the winner can be found at http://blog.hellojetblue.com.
JetBlue inaugurated service between New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with two daily nonstop flights on Feb. 11, 2000. JetBlue offers the most nonstop departures from JFK and the most domestic departures from the New York metro area of any major domestic carrier. JetBlue is also the single largest airline operating nonstop between New York and Florida(a) and the 7th largest passenger carrier in the United States(b), serving 60 destinations in 20 states, Puerto Rico and 11 countries in the Caribbean and Latin America.
JetBlue's home base of operations is Terminal 5 at New York's JFK, a state-of-the art terminal that opened in October of 2008. One of the first terminals in the United States to be completely designed and built post 9/11, T5 focuses on efficiency and customer comfort. The 635,000-square-foot terminal boasts 26 gates distributed throughout three concourses and includes a 55,000-square-foot central retail and concession Marketplace. T5 is designed to accommodate up to 20 million annual customers with up to 250 daily departures. JetBlue is the #1 airline at Boston's Logan International Airport and at Los Angeles's Long Beach Airport, and continues to grow at other focus cities in Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
TrueBlue, JetBlue's customer loyalty program, is home to nearly 8 million members and provides customers with a rich, rewarding and flexible way to enjoy the benefits of a program that has no blackout dates -- every seat on every JetBlue flight is now available for redemption (c), allowing customers to redeem awards whenever they want to travel. TrueBlue points will not expire as long as a member travels on at least one paid JetBlue flight or makes a qualifying purchase with a JetBlue Card from American Express within 12 months of their last TrueBlue transaction (either a qualifying flight or JetBlue Card transaction). To enroll in TrueBlue or to learn more about the program, visit www.jetblue.com/trueblue.
New York-based JetBlue Airways has created a new airline category based on value, service and style. In 2009, the carrier ranked "Highest in Customer Satisfaction Among Low-Cost Carriers in North America" by J.D. Power and Associates, a customer satisfaction recognition received for the fifth year in a row. Known for its award-winning service and free TV as much as its low fares, JetBlue is now pleased to offer customers Lots of Legroom and super-spacious Even More Legroom seats. JetBlue introduced complimentary in-flight e-mail and instant messaging services on aircraft "BetaBlue," a first among U.S. domestic airlines. JetBlue is also America's first and only airline to offer its own Customer Bill of Rights, with meaningful and specific compensation for customers inconvenienced by service disruptions within JetBlue's control. Visit www.jetblue.com/promise for details. JetBlue serves 60 cities with 600 daily flights. With JetBlue, all seats are assigned, all fares are one-way, and an overnight stay is never required. For information or reservations call 1-800-JET-BLUE (1-800-538-2583), TTY/TDD 1-800-336-5530 or visit www.jetblue.com.
(a) Based on both number of departures and service capacity as measured by Available Seat Miles (ASMs)
(b) Based on service capacity as measured by Available Seat Miles (ASMs)
(c) No blackout dates apply to JetBlue-operated flights only. Blackout dates apply to code share and interline flights.
SOURCE JetBlue Airways
Southwest Airlines Showcases Difference with Web Site Enhancements
southwest.com, the most popular airline web site in terms of unique visitors, is now offering an even better online Customer experience. Today, Southwest Airlines launched a new look and feel, along with improved navigation, on its award-winning web site. The new homepage offers Customers a more personalized experience and makes it easier to find what's needed including hotel and car rentals. The new homepage also showcases what makes Southwest Airlines different from other air carriers. southwest.com is the only place to book Southwest fares online, and the bookings made through the site account for more than 80 percent of all Southwest Airlines bookings. Check out the changes at www.southwest.com.
The new web site enhancements include:
The new homepage is another step in Southwest's efforts to ensure that southwest.com is the preferred full-service travel booking solution for Customers. In 2009, multiple enhancements to the site laid the ground work for the new southwest.com. Southwest launched an online travel community called TravelGuide, provided Customers tools to quickly find travel deals with a new Special Offers section, and completely redesigned the air booking functionality to make the process more useful and efficient. More updates to southwest.com are expected throughout 2010.
After 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines continues to differentiate itself from other low fare carriers--offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service. Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience. Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded, currently serving 68 cities in 35 states. Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,100 flights a day and has nearly 35,000 Employees systemwide.
SOURCE Southwest Airlines
Geolives, editor of maps & GPS solutions for outdoor activities, has launched Geolives-M, an iPhone application designed to search and share audio guides, vocalized by Acapela, the expert and inventor of innovative vocal solutions, in more than 20 languages and a wide choice of voices.
Wherever you are in the world, visiting a capital city or hiking off the beaten track, Geolives-M allows you to select routes sorted by activity around your GPS location.
Follow the guide!
Find your way with only an iPhone, without the need for a bulky book or printed map.
Throughout your itinerary, and according to your GPS positioning, you automatically access images, youTube videos and written information read out loud by a synthesized voice. You also get acquainted with Wikipedia geo-localized articles (already more than 80 000 articles available in 13 languages) which are read to you, on the spot, by highly natural voices from Acapela.
20 languages and a wide choice of voices to show you the way Acapela speech synthesis is your perfect guide, reliably turning written information into speech, reading proper names, dates and figures with precision. Choose from among Geolives-M's repertory of voices the one, female or male, which will be your companion throughout your route.
'Geolives-M must provide high quality and fast to download audio guides. Acapela voices allow us to perfectly vocalize information from any text format, with an excellent audio result in many languages. It was the right choice for our application which offers to the end user a cheerful talking interface which fully meets their needs' said Yves Peeters, Geolives General Manager.
Community websites allow users to make the most of their experiences with additional features and to share their favorite trails and itineraries on line. Geolives.com enables the selection of specific topographic maps for a range of European countries and routeyou.com paves the way to over 180 000 hikes and outdoor activities the world over.
Geolives-M - Features
Sold at EUR 4.99, the Geolives-M application is provided with one synthesized voice from Acapela. Additional voices can be acquired for EUR 1.99 /voice.
Available languages : Czech, Dutch NL, Dutch BE, English UK, English US, Danish, Finnish, French, French Canadian, German, Italian, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish, Swedish .
SOURCE Acapela Group
Your iPhone is perfect--you just wish you could hear that Southwest trademarked DING!, right? Well now you can. Southwest Airlines announces its first app for iPhone and iPod touch now available from the App Store. Customers can book reservations, checkin for flights, check flight status, view flight schedules, and download DING! to get exclusive, deeply discounted fares on Southwest flights. And, in true Southwest style, the app is free! To check it out, click here: www.southwest.com/iphone or visit www.itunes.com/appstore/.
"Southwest is known for convenience and simplicity, and our new app is a great example of that," said Kevin Krone, Southwest Airlines Vice President of Marketing, Sales, and Distribution. "Whether you are managing Rapid Rewards credits or need to checkin for your flight, the Southwest Airlines App now offers Customers the flexibility to do that and more--with plenty of Southwest flair!"
To celebrate the new app, Southwest Airlines is offering special DING! fares for Customers today. These fares are only available through the DING! feature so Customers have to download the app and register for DING! to access them. Click here for details: www.southwest.com/iphone
After 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other low fare carriers--offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service. Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience. Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded, currently serving 68 cities in 35 states. Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,100 flights a day and has nearly 35,000 Employees systemwide.
SOURCE Southwest Airlines
Worldwide brand relaunch of Holiday Inn continues momentum in 2010
IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group), the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, announced today that the Holiday Inn Wall Street will open in April as the only full-service IHG property in the center of the Financial District in New York City. This 20-story conversion property was newly built in 2009 and is located at 51 Nassau Street.
The property will showcase the brand’s new sign, which is the seal of approval that this hotel exemplifies the standards of the $1 billion Holiday Inn brand relaunch program. The Holiday Inn brand relaunch is the largest in the history of the hospitality industry, with more than 3,300 hotels around the world being updated - improving quality and driving consistency at Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express hotels around the world. The global estate is expected to be relaunched by the end of 2010, and more than 1,700 hotels have already been relaunched to date.
The Holiday Inn Wall Street is in a prime location for both business and leisure travelers alike. Located directly across the street from the Federal Reserve Bank and just a block north of the New York Stock Exchange, business travelers will be centrally located in the business capital of the world and only minutes from all of the major financial institutions on Wall Street. Leisure travelers will also be conveniently located near popular attractions such as South Street Seaport, Battery Park and the ferry to the Statue of Liberty. For those wanting to explore more of the city, subway access is just one block from the hotel.
“Developing strong relationships with companies like McSam Hotel Group and Hersha Hospitality Management, gives IHG the opportunity to grow our portfolio in the right markets for our guests and their travel needs,” said Jim Anhut, chief development officer, the Americas, IHG. “Despite the current economic market, we’ve opened four IHG properties in New York City in the past year, and this Holiday Inn Wall Street is additional proof of the strength of our brands and the commitment of our owners and franchisees.”
The Holiday Inn Wall Street is owned by McSam Hotel Group and managed by Hersha Hospitality Management, LP, under a license agreement with a company in the InterContinental Hotels Group. This is the 18th IHG property being managed by Hersha Hospitality Management in the United States.
"We are delighted to work with IHG around this exciting launch of the new Holiday Inn Wall Street, which will quickly become an urban jewel at the heart of Lower Manhattan,” said Naveen P. Kakarla, Executive Vice President of Hersha Hospitality Management. “This assignment also marks a continuation of Hersha's fast growing third party management platform and is our twelfth hotel under management in New York City."
The 113 guestrooms each feature a 32 inch flat-panel TV, a Herman Miller ergonomic desk chair, granite countertops, Speakman showerheads, cordless speaker phone and free high-speed wired and wireless internet access.
Additional amenities include a 24-hour fitness center and a full service restaurant providing the Holiday Inn Best-4-Breakfast menu, featuring signature items such as Cinnamon Supreme French Toast™ and Skillet Inspirations™. Room Service Right…On Time™, also a standard at all Holiday Inn hotels, ensures that guests’ room service orders are accurate and delivered on time, every time.
Elements of the Holiday Inn brand relaunch include:
Redesigned Brand Signage
An evolution of the iconic script logo, energizing the signature color green and eliminating the current shield shape for a more refreshed and contemporary look.
Refreshed Guest Room
New bedding that redefines the look and feel of each guest room with fresh, white triple- sheeting and pillows that come in two comfort levels: “soft” and “firm.” An enhanced bathroom that features an improved showerhead offering superior pressure, as well as a signature shower curtain with curved rod and new amenities to deliver a consistent bath experience that feels fresh and contemporary.
Warm Welcome
A new signature arrival – including new lighting, landscaping and design features – that creates an energized and branded sense of welcome that is universally recognizable. Customized music and scent selections also engage guests in a complete sensory experience, and a decluttered front desk to promote a more efficient and interactive check-in process.
New Service Promise
A best-in-class service culture – “Stay Real” – to further ensure the team develops the behaviors and skills to best serve guests so they feel like individuals and not numbers. Genuine people delivering real service. Leading the charge, will be a newly created position at each hotel – the Guest Experience Champion.
SOURCE Holiday Inn
HARD ROCK'S NEWEST LOCATION WILL OFFER GUESTS A LUXURY ENVIRONMENT COMBINED WITH A UNIQUE MUSIC VIBE
Hard Rock International proudly announces the opening of Hard Rock Hotel Singapore. Launched with a ceremonial lion dance and ribbon-cutting, the luxurious, 360-room hotel is part of Resorts World Sentosa, a US $4.4 billion resort destination on Sentosa Island.
Opened in January 2010, the 49-hectare Resorts World Sentosa is Singapore's first integrated family resort destination, complete with Southeast Asia's first and only Universal Studios theme park, the world's largest Marine Life Park, six unique hotels offering 1,800 rooms, more than 60 dining outlets and a casino.
Hard Rock properties offer stylish and contemporary design, unparalleled service and the thread that unites them all - music. The properties are situated in resort destinations with unique character and tourist appeal as well as in urban gateway cities. Hard Rock Hotels cater to the evolving and distinctive needs of today's experienced, modern travelers, who seek a reprieve from traditional, predictable properties, whether for business or leisure travel.
"The highly anticipated Hard Rock Hotel Singapore is a welcome addition to the Hard Rock Hotel portfolio," says Hamish Dodds, President and Chief Executive Officer, Hard Rock International. "This development and our relationship with Genting Group and Resorts World complement Hard Rock Hotel's expansion strategy in premier locations worldwide, and will serve as a perfect backdrop for the continued growth of Hard Rock's portfolio."
The Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, a nearly $223 million venture, is one of six unique destination hotels at Resorts World Sentosa, which include Festive Hotel, Crockfords Tower, Hotel Michael, Equarius Hotel and Spa Villas. The hotel offers 360 keys (including nine suites and 351 rooms), modern conference facilities with 26 meeting rooms and Asia's largest column-free ballrooms with seating for 7,300 guests. Featuring the latest in audio-visual equipment, the ballroom will be an ideal venue for concerts, seminars, performances and banquets and can be further subdivided into smaller ballrooms or separate conference halls for more intimate affairs. The Rock Pool, a quintessential Hard Rock element, is a focal area for both music and relaxation, as well as a social gathering place.
The Hard Rock Hotel guest rooms incorporate Hard Rock's tradition of providing luxury, quality service and amenities with a distinctive music edge. A retreat for chic jet-setters, Hard Rock Hotel Singapore is also the perfect family destination. Deluxe twin rooms can accommodate up to five guests, with an extra pull-out bed for kids.
The hotel offers destination dining venues and high-energy bar locations providing both locals and hotel guests a place to see and be seen. Starz Restaurant, a stylish modern restaurant designed in contemporary style, offers a relaxing al fresco dining area overlooking the Rock Pool. Inspired by the healthy and energetic lifestyle of Singapore, the restaurant's buffet-style dining with live cooking stations complements an A la Carte menu with the culinary flavors of Morocco, Europe, Middle East and Australia. The Rock Bar, located on the second level of the hotel, is a trendy lounge and bar complete with a DJ spinning rock and techno music. The menu features a selection of premium wines, liquors and champagnes, as well as Hard Rock's famous cocktails. Finally, the award-winning Rang Mahal Group's latest dining concept of Indian cuisine is housed at the Hard Rock Hotel Singapore. With the dining mood and decor inspired by the colorful celebrations of India using vivid colors and ethnic Indian instruments, the stylish restaurant pays tribute to "a celebration of Indian cuisine" with its menu highlighting classical Indian favorites as well as new, trendy dishes that embody the new generation of fusion flavors.
Chief Executive Officer of Resorts World Sentosa, Mr. Tan Hee Teck said, "We are excited to welcome our guests to the renowned Hard Rock Hotel in Singapore. As a family destination with two of Asia's largest attractions, Universal Studios Singapore and the Marine Life Park, we believe that Hard Rock Hotel adds not only sizzle to our appeal, but excitement to accommodation options in the region.''
"The Seminole Tribe of Florida is excited about the opening of our newest Hard Rock development in Southeast Asia," noted Jim Allen, CEO of Seminole Gaming and Chairman of Hard Rock International. "It's a testament to the brand that we have such incredible strategic partners and ample opportunity for global growth in emerging locations."
SOURCE Hard Rock International
LAN Airlines and its affiliates' fourth U.S. gateway will offer the only non-stop service from San Francisco to South America
LAN Peru – an affiliate of LAN Airlines - will initiate operations to Peru out of San Francisco. The company will offer four flights per week to Lima on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
LAN Peru's new service from San Francisco to Lima offers passengers connecting service to multiple destinations in the region including Sao Paulo, Brazil; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Santiago, Chile.
"The announcement of LAN Peru's new service between SFO and Lima opens the gateway for an unprecedented expansion of economic and cultural ties between North and South America," said San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom. "The additional passengers and commerce that this new service brings to the Bay Area is extremely positive news during these challenging economic times."
San Francisco will become LAN Airlines and its affiliates' fourth U.S. gateway, in addition to New York, Los Angeles and Miami.
"This announcement represents LAN and its affiliates' continued commitment to growth in North America and expanding the travel options available to its passengers in this market," said Pablo Yunis, Vice President of North America and the Caribbean for LAN Airlines.
The new route will continue to support the growth of tourism to the region, considering that it will be the only nonstop flight connecting San Francisco with South America, offering passengers more options for travel to unique destinations like Machu Picchu, Patagonia, as well as Easter Island and Iguazu Falls.
The company will service this route on modern Boeing 767-300s with long-haul reach and a capacity for 221 passengers. These aircraft offer LAN's Premium Business cabin that includes full flat, 180 degree reclining seats with a completely horizontal sleeping option that only a select group of airlines in the world offer, in addition to a renovated Economy class. In both classes of services, passengers have access to a modern entertainment system that offers one of the most diverse audio and video on-demand programming in the world.
SOURCE LAN Airlines
Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2010, leading online student and faculty travel provider StudentUniverse.com announced today it will extend its discounted travel services to a broader range of young travelers. The new StudentUniverse.com Youth Travel Discounts will enable travelers ages 18-25 – high school students right through recent college grads – to save money on airfares across the US and around the world.
StudentUniverse.com works directly with airlines to broker deals specifically for youth travelers, often resulting in the discounted domestic and international airfares. StudentUniverse.com started out with only a couple of partner airlines, and has over the years built relationships with thirty-five airline partners. Currently, StudentUniverse works with most of the major airlines.
"The marketplace of young travelers has grown over the past decade and today's students are savvy travelers looking to go farther on less," said Atle Skalleberg, Vice President of Marketing at StudentUniverse. "We're excited to be able to extend StudentUniverse's discount travel services to a broader range of young travelers and offer some truly unique deals to great destinations in honor of our 10th year as the leader in online student travel."
StudentUniverse.com has grown significantly since the website was launched ten years ago. Now millions of students use StudentUniverse.com every year, and in 2009's fourth quarter, alone, new members grew by 32%.
SOURCE StudentUniverse.com
Making Investment in Going Green at Two Baltimore-Area Properties
TownePlace Suites by Marriott At Baltimore BWI Airport will receive LEED Existing Building Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), making the hotel the first property at BWI Airport to have that distinction.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification is an internationally recognized green building certification system, providing third-party verification that a building was designed and operated to provide enhanced energy savings, water efficiency, emissions reduction and overall environmental quality. LEED certification is available for existing buildings that have been retrofitted to comply with USGBC standards and those newly constructed.
The TownePlace Suites property, built in 2007, is undergoing comprehensive programs to qualify for LEED status, including composting all breakfast waste to achieve zero waste, using sustainable and environmentally friendly cleaning products, replacing plumbing hardware with low-flow devices and purchasing renewable energy wind credits to offset the hotel's carbon footprint.
"We're thrilled that the TownePlace Suites property will be BWI Airport's first LEED certified hotel," said Michelle Emley, general manager of the hotel. "Going green is not only good business, it's the right thing to do. Because we host so many business and leisure travelers every day, we have the opportunity to set a great example and teach people the easy steps they can take to make their own homes more environmentally friendly."
The owners of the TownePlace Suites property also recently opened downtown Baltimore's first green hotel, on track for Gold LEED-certification, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Baltimore on S. President Street, blocks from the Inner Harbor. Located on the site of the former Baltimore Brewing Company, the hotel's distinctive and environmentally friendly design includes a rain barrel made from the brewery's repurposed grain storage silo, which is now used to capture and store rain water to serve the property's landscaping irrigation needs.
Both the TownePlace Suites Baltimore BWI and the Green Fairfield Inn Baltimore have also been awarded the Environmental Protection Agency's ENERGY STAR Rating, the first step in LEED certification. ENERGY STAR, which provides an energy performance rating system used for consumer products, appliances and commercial and industrial buildings, is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. Buildings that rate in the top 25 percent nationwide for energy efficiency qualify for the ENERGY STAR.
SOURCE TownePlace Suites by Marriott At Baltimore BWI Airport
