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Virgin America Ranks No. 1 in Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards

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

Alaska Airlines Now Offering Inflight Wi-Fi on More Than Half Its Aircraft

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 Introduces Specialty Cocktails

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

Virgin America Goes International: California's Airline Toasts New Toronto Flights, Sets Sight on Next Routes

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

Southwest Airlines Begins New Boston-Philadelphia Nonstop Service

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:

1. Four nonstops to/from T. F. Green International Airport in Providence (PVD) and PHL
2. Four nonstops to/from Manchester-Boston Regional Airport in Manchester, New Hampshire (MHT) 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

J.D. Power and Associates Reports: Despite Proliferation of Add-On Fees and Economic Difficulties, Overall Satisfaction With Airlines Improves

Alaska Airlines and JetBlue Airways Rank Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Airlines In Their Respective Segments

Reversing three consecutive years of declines, overall customer satisfaction with airlines in North America has increased notably, with 10 of 12 airlines improving from 2009, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2010 North America Airline Satisfaction Study(SM) released today.

"The fact that overall satisfaction with airlines has improved is particularly notable in light of a difficult economic year, in which add-on fees have continued to proliferate and two major airlines have merged," said Stuart Greif, vice president and general manager of the global travel and hospitality practice at J.D. Power and Associates.

The study finds that overall customer satisfaction with airlines in 2010 has improved to a three-year high of 673 on a 1,000-point scale, improving by 15 points from 2009. The improvement is driven by increases in satisfaction with cost and fees and in-flight services in 2010, compared with 2009.

According to Greif, many of the same macroeconomic conditions that adversely impact airlines financially—including lower fares—have led to improvements in satisfaction.  For example, with fewer passengers traveling and fewer flights in the air, on-time performance has improved.  As more airlines charge fees for checking bags, fewer passengers are choosing to do so, thus reducing the number of baggage issues and complaints. The study findings also suggest that while passengers may dislike add-on fees, they are gradually starting to accept them. In turn, those fees may be having a less pronounced impact on satisfaction as passengers recalibrate their expectations.  

"Airlines generally compete based on costs and fees, which is necessary to make their organizations stronger in an extremely difficult environment," said Greif. "It's important for carriers to remember, however, that building a base of committed passengers is also about creating a travel experience that fosters emotional attachment to a particular carrier, which in turn may make customers willing to flex their schedules or pay a little more for their flights."

However, as the economy gradually recovers, airfares are beginning to rise and more travelers are returning to the skies.  

"The question is whether airlines will take the necessary steps to improve the passenger experience and build commitment before rising prices and increased passenger traffic negate those efforts." said Greif.  

The study measures overall customer satisfaction based on performance in seven measures (in order of importance): cost and fees; flight crew; in-flight services; aircraft; boarding/deplaning/baggage; check-in; and reservation. Carriers are ranked in two segments: traditional network and low-cost. Traditional network carriers are defined as airlines that operate multicabin aircraft and use multiple airport hubs, while low-cost carriers are airlines that operate single-cabin aircraft with typically lower fares.

Traditional Network Carrier Rankings

Alaska Airlines ranks highest in the traditional network carrier segment for a third consecutive year and performs particularly well in six of the seven measures: flight crew; aircraft; boarding/deplaning/baggage; check-in; cost and fees; and reservation. Continental Airlines and American Airlines, respectively, follow Alaska Airlines in the rankings. Continental Airlines performs particularly well in the in-flight services measure.

Low-Cost Carrier Rankings

For a fifth consecutive year, JetBlue Airways ranks highest in the low-cost carrier segment. JetBlue Airways performs particularly well in two of the seven measures: aircraft and in-flight services. Following JetBlue in the segment rankings are Southwest Airlines and WestJet, respectively. Southwest Airlines performs particularly well in the cost and fees and reservation measures. WestJet performs particularly well in the check-in; boarding/deplaning/baggage; and flight crew measures.

The study results include the following key findings:

1. Overall, among customers who are assigned to a middle seat, satisfaction averages 16 points lower than among customers in a window or aisle seat.  This impact is magnified among members of frequent flyer programs of traditional network carriers, as satisfaction among these passengers falls to 20 points below the segment average. In comparison, among non-members of frequent flyer programs who are assigned to a middle seat, satisfaction decreases to just two points below the segment average.
   
   
2. Among passengers of traditional network carriers, 65 percent indicate that complimentary meals is the in-flight amenity they would most like to have. Approximately 56 percent of passengers of low-cost carriers say the same.
   
   
3. Nearly one-half of passengers say that prices for in-flight beverages and food; checked baggage; and preferred seating are unreasonably high.
   
   
4. On average, three in five airline passengers check baggage. Satisfaction with boarding, deplaning and baggage averages nearly 60 points higher among passengers who are not charged for the first checked bag, compared with those who are charged for the first bag (765 vs. 702, respectively).

The 2010 North America Airline Satisfaction Study measures customer satisfaction of both business and leisure passengers with major North American carriers. The study is based on responses from more than 12,300 passengers who flew on a major North American airline between April 2009 and April 2010. The study was fielded between May 2009 and April 2010.

Overall Airline Satisfaction Index Scores

(Based on a 1,000-point scale)

Traditional Network Carrier Segment
Carrier	Index score	JDPower.com Power Circle Ratings For Consumers
Alaska Airlines	699	5
Continental Airlines	672	4
American Airlines	642	3
Traditional Network Carrier Segment Average	642	3
Delta Air Lines	640	3
Air Canada	636	3
United Airlines	630	3
US Airways	613	2

Low-Cost Carrier Segment
Carrier	Index score	JDPower.com Power Circle Ratings For Consumers
JetBlue Airways	764	5
Southwest Airlines	742	3
WestJet	740	3
Low-Cost Carrier Segment Average	735	3
AirTran Airways	704	2
Frontier Airlines	688	2

SOURCE J.D. Power and Associates

SWISS Opens New San Francisco Gateway With Groovy-Designed Aircraft

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

Delta Continues to Build Asian Gateway in Detroit

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

UNITED AND CONTINENTAL ANNOUNCE MERGER OF EQUALS TO CREATE WORLD-CLASS GLOBAL AIRLINE

• Customers and Communities to Benefit from Greater, Easier Access to World’s Most Comprehensive Network; Preserves and Enhances Service to Small Communities
• Employees to Benefit from Enhanced Long-Term Career Opportunities and Greater Stability as Part of Stronger Global Competitor
• Shareholders to Benefit from Strong Financial Foundation, Expected Net Annual Synergies of $1.0 Billion to $1.2 Billion and Sustainable Long-Term Value
• Award-Winning Customer Service Combines With Industry-Leading On-Time Performance
• Industry-Leading Frequent Flyer Program Provides More Opportunities to Earn and Redeem Miles Worldwide
• Existing Alliance Partnership Provides Platform for Smooth Integration
• Name of Airline Will be United with Continental’s Logo and Livery

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 Brings its Quality, Simple, Uncomplicated Low Fare Service to Kabul

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

JetBlue to Launch Service from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport to Boston and Florida

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

Southwest Airlines Announces Double Credit Days

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

JetBlue to Launch Service at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

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.

Continental Airlines to Inaugurate Nonstop New York-Munich Service Saturday

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 Will Be One of the First Airlines in the World to Receive the Boeing 787 Dreamliner

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

JetBlue Plants Its Flag in New York City with New Headquarters Location

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 7^th 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

JetBlue Airways' Terminal 5 at New York's JFK Wins Four Categories in ARN's 2010 Best Airport and Concessionaires Awards

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:

• The Paradies Shops for 'Retailer with the Highest Regard for Customer Service;' 'Best Retail Specialty Brand Operator (for Brooks Brothers);' and 'Best Overall Retailer' in the Large Retailer Division
• Dunkin' Donuts for 'Best Franchisor' in the Large Retailer Division
• Taxco Sterling for 'Best DBE Operator' in the Large Retailer Division and 'Best Overall Retailer' in the Small Retailer Division
• ZoomSystems for 'Best Specialty Retail Brand Operator' in the Small Retailer Division

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.

AirTran Airways Partners With American Express OPEN

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

Continental Airlines to Sell Seat Assignments Offering Extra Legroom at Check In

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 Streamlines Its Airport Processes

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

JetBlue Airways Celebrates 10th Anniversary

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

Sleek New Look, Same Low Fares, Only on southwest.com

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 homepage image and other features can be personalized and pre-populated to the user's home airport. Saved searches make it easier for Customers to shop for flights, cars, and hotels.
• Customers can now easily plan any part of their trip directly from the homepage with new car and hotel booking widgets.
• New pages have been added to highlight how Southwest Airlines is different from its competitors.
• Every page of the site has updated, easy-to-use navigation and a search box to help users find exactly what they are looking for.
• Drop downs are available from the global navigation to help users get to interior pages faster.
• Every page now has a social media bar to help users engage with Southwest on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and blogsouthwest.com.

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

DING! Southwest Airlines App Now Available On App Store

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

LAN Peru Announces Service From San Francisco to Peru

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

American Airlines Expands Cashless Cabins to All Flights

American Airlines, a founding member of the global oneworld Alliance, will be cashless onboard all flights. American will accept Citi/AAdvantage MasterCard, as well as other major credit and debit cards, for purchases made inflight. Cash will not be accepted.

In an effort to streamline the inflight sales process, American first implemented cashless cabins on flights within the continental United States, as well as flights to and from Hawaii, Alaska, and Canada in June 2009.

"The implementation of cashless cabins on select flights last summer has simplified the inflight transaction process for both customers and flight attendants," said Lauri Curtis, American's Vice President – Onboard Service. "For this reason, we look forward to going cashless onboard all American Airlines flights on Feb. 1."

Flight attendants utilize a hand-held Onboard Sales Recorder, devices American has used since May 2006, to charge credit and debit cards, eliminating the need to search for small bills or change. Receipts are provided to passengers upon request.

American Eagle and AmericanConnection flights will continue to accept only cash for onboard purchases.

SOURCE American Airlines

Air New Zealand Named Airline of the Year by Air Transport World Magazine

Penton Media's Air Transport World, the leading monthly magazine covering the global airline industry, today announced the selection of Air New Zealand as its Airline of the Year for 2010. The Auckland, N.Z.-based carrier is being honored for its superb commitment to safety and operational excellence, typified by the use of Performance Based Navigation cockpit technology at weather and terrain challenged destinations, and for its superb and groundbreaking customer service that combines high-tech, passenger-friendly IT systems with high-touch and caring staff.

The editors further cited Air New Zealand's sterling financial performance and fiscal management during one of the most turbulent periods in aviation history. They also were strongly impressed with the airline's leadership role in addressing environmental challenges facing the industry, including conducting the world's first sustainable biofuel flight.

Sydney, Australia-based Regional Express was named Regional Airline of the Year. Rex, as it is known locally, is recognized for its superior safety record and operational excellence, demonstrated by outstanding punctuality and flight completion. The editors also applauded the "Rex Virtuous Cycle" model in which Rex competes against itself by adding capacity as load factors rise, causing fares to fall. As a result, enplanements have doubled over the past five years, while airfares have dropped 30%, excluding fuel levies; and it earns consistently high marks in consumer polls. Rex's strategy rewards shareholders, too: It has been profitable for the last six years.

In a rare joint award, Honeywell Aerospace and Rockwell Collins were selected for the Aviation Technology Achievement Award to recognize their advanced cockpit weather radars. These systems are playing a vital role in improving safety of flight, reducing turbulence-related injuries and boosting operational efficiency. "Competition drives innovation and technological advancement. As Rockwell Collins and Honeywell Aerospace have sought to leapfrog each other in weather radar technology, the beneficiaries have been flight crews and the flying public," ATW Editorial Director Perry Flint said.

The Joseph S. Murphy Industry Service Award, named for the founder of ATW, went to the Commercial Aviation Alternative Fuels Initiative, a US-based cooperative effort launched in 2006 by airlines, airports, manufacturers and the Federal Aviation Administration to guide the development and deployment of alternative fuels for air transport. CAAFI has since added approximately 300 members around the world. CAAFI's efforts helped lead to approval of a new specification for alternative jet fuel that should pave the way for near-term approval of sustainable plant-based biofuels.

Riga, Latvia-based airBaltic was selected for the Phoenix Award, which recognizes airlines that have gone through a life-changing transformation. The editors cited airBaltic's successful decision to change its business strategy from a focus on point-to-point traffic in favor of a network model making Riga a connecting hub between East and West. Since making the transition, airBaltic has experienced significant improvements in traffic and financial performance, including a 33% rise in passengers at its home airport in the first nine months of 2009.

Orlando, Fla.-based AirTran Airways received the Airline Market Leadership Award. The editors recognized the carrier's innovative blending of the traditional low-fare model with service amenities not typical of budget airlines, including a business class cabin and free XM Satellite Radio. The editors further cited AirTran's leadership role in becoming the first major airline to offer Wi-Fi on every flight through its partnership with Aircell. AirTran is also a market leader in terms of operational performance, as measured by the U.S. Dept. of Transportation.

The awards will be presented on February 1 in Singapore at ATW's gala dinner and celebration at the Swissotel-The Stamford. Further information about the award winners is available in the February issue of ATW.

Air Transport World (www.ATWOnline.com) is the leading monthly magazine serving the airline and commercial aircraft manufacturing and support industries. It launched its awards program in 1974. ATW is published by Penton Media.

SOURCE Penton Media

JetBlue Begins Nonstop Service Between Boston and Montego Bay, Jamaica

Now offering 33 nonstop destinations from Boston, the most of any airline -- -- Second weekly flight to Jamaica will operate during the summer

JetBlue Airways today celebrated its inaugural service between Boston's Logan International Airport (BOS) and Montego Bay's Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Jamaica. The new flight will operate on Saturdays all year long and becomes JetBlue's 33rd destination from Logan, where the airline already offers flights to the most nonstop destinations of any carrier. In addition, from May 5 through Sept. 1, 2010, JetBlue will operate a second weekly flight (on Wednesdays) between Boston and Montego Bay for the summer. The new route complements the airline's daily connecting service to Montego Bay via New York/JFK and starting Feb. 8, 2010, via Orlando.

"This new service links two important parts of JetBlue's route map - Boston and the Caribbean," said Scott Laurence, JetBlue's vice president of network planning. "JetBlue is Boston's carrier of choice and the addition of this nonstop service to the popular Caribbean island of Jamaica adds another great destination for our customers."

"Jamaica is excited to continue its partnership with JetBlue as it launches service from Boston to Montego Bay," said Jamaica's Director of Tourism John Lynch. "With this new nonstop flight Bostonians will have more convenient options to fly to Jamaica, and at just four hours away it provides a perfect winter rescue."

JetBlue's schedule between Boston and Montego Bay:

• Boston (BOS) to Montego Bay (MBJ)
  Depart: 11:55 a.m.
  Arrive: 3:45p.m.

• Montego Bay (MBJ) to Boston (BOS)
  Depart: 4:45 p.m.
  Arrive: 8:53 p.m.

Customers interested in other sunspots this winter can take advantage of JetBlue's nonstop service from Logan to Aruba; Cancun, Mexico; Nassau, Bahamas; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic; and St. Maarten.

JetBlue already has plans to start service to its 34^th destination from Boston: San Jose, California. Beginning March 13, 2010, the airline will operate daily nonstop service on the route. In addition, JetBlue has applied for authority from the U.S. Department of Transportation to offer nonstop weekly flights (on Saturdays) from Boston to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic starting May 8, 2010 (a).

JetBlue will continue to grow its service to Jamaica with the start of daily service between Montego Bay and Orlando on Feb. 8, 2010. Montego Bay will be JetBlue's 23^rd nonstop destination from its growing Orlando focus city, and one of eight destinations offered by JetBlue from Central Florida to the Caribbean and Latin America, including Bogota, Colombia; Cancun, Mexico; Nassau, Bahamas; San Jose, Costa Rica; Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic; and Aguadilla, Ponce, and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

JetBlue offers Customers a host of premium amenities including a free first-checked bag, the most legroom in coach of any U.S. airline (b), 36 channels of complimentary DIRECTV(R) (c), more than 100 channels of XM Satellite Radio(R), and unlimited free snacks and drinks. For a small fee customers can upgrade to one of JetBlue's super-spacious Even More Legroom seats, which offer travelers 38 inches of seat pitch.

(a) Route is subject to receipt of government operating authority.

(b) JetBlue offers the most legroom in coach, based on average fleet-wide seat pitch for U.S. airlines, excluding premium coach products.

(c) DIRECTV(R) service is not available on flights outside the continental United States; however, where applicable in-flight movies are offered complimentary on these routes.

SOURCE JetBlue Airways

Delta Air Lines' Sky Magazine Looks at 'Our World Now' in Its January Issue

Annual themed issue features newsman Anderson Cooper, Bill Ford and Harrison Ford on the future of 'Electrification' and what will capture our attention in 2010

Sky magazine, the monthly business, travel and lifestyle publication of Delta Air Lines, has developed an annual themed issue, "Our World Now," beginning in January 2010. Each January, Sky's editors will look at global trends, issues, events, people and places they think will play a role in shaping the future.

A redesigned Sky magazine debuted in April 2009 under new publisher MSP Communications with the "Our World Now" concept. The theme translates well as an annual issue kicking off each year and speaks to the global scale of Delta. The "Our World Now" concept is a first for Sky and the in-flight category.

"Each month we aim to create a magazine that engages, informs and entertains our readers whether they're on a flight, reading it online or have picked it up on a newsstand," said Jayne Haugen Olson, editor in chief of Sky. "We're excited to create an annual signature issue that looks at the topics, places and people sure to create buzz in the year ahead."

The cover subject of the January issue is Anderson Cooper, the Emmy-Award winning CNN anchor who is interviewed by The New York Times media columnist David Carr. Also included is Sky's quarterly "Fame Exchange," featuring Harrison Ford and Bill Ford interviewing each other on the topics of energy, future technology and transportation; and an array of content dedicated to space, art, music, philanthropy and places of interest to global travelers. The issue also "Rediscovers Vancouver" in time for the Winter Olympics and offers a cheat sheet on what and who to watch in this year's Games.

Sky's redesigned content -- with its dynamic visuals and take-away essentials -- has struck a chord with readers, marketers and advertisers alike and was recently awarded Folio's Gold Eddie for Best Custom Magazine: Single Issue.

Sky is available onboard all Delta and Northwest Airlines' flights, on newsstands and online at www.deltaskymag.com. Following the April merger of the airlines, MRI (Mediamark Research & Intelligence) 2009 Doublebase numbers indicate the unduplicated net audience as 5.3 million readers per month -- 21% more than the next in-flight.

SOURCE Delta Sky magazine

Continental Airlines Launches New Service to Fiji

Twice-weekly flights offer convenient connections from U.S. mainland and Japan

Continental Airlines begins new nonstop service from Honolulu and its Guam hub to Nadi, Fiji on Friday, Dec. 18, 2009.

"Nadi is a popular vacation spot that attracts visitors from around the world and fits well with our portfolio of destinations throughout the Pacific," said Jim Compton, Continental's executive vice president of marketing. "We've scheduled the Fiji flights to conveniently connect with Continental's flights from the U.S. mainland, Japan and Micronesia."

Continental serves more destinations in the Pacific than any other U.S. carrier. In addition to the new Fiji service, Continental operates twice-daily flights between Houston and Honolulu, daily flights between New York, Los Angeles and Honolulu and between Honolulu at Guam, and three-times-weekly service between Honolulu and the Marshall Islands and Federated States of Micronesia.

During the busy holiday travel season, Continental will operate a third daily flight between Houston and Honolulu. Beginning March 7, 2010, Continental will add daily service between Los Angeles and Maui and Orange County and Honolulu, and four-times-weekly service between Orange County and Maui.

The new Fiji service is operated by Continental Micronesia using two-cabin Boeing 737-800 aircraft with 155 seats.

The flights from Honolulu International Airport (HNL) operate on Mondays and Fridays departing at 6:55 p.m. and arriving in Nadi International Airport (NAN) at 12:40 a.m. two calendar days later after crossing the International Date Line. Return flights operate on Tuesdays and Saturdays departing Nadi at 9:50 a.m. and arriving in Honolulu at 5:25 p.m. the previous day.

The flights from Guam's A.B. Won Pat International Airport (GUM) operate on Mondays and Fridays departing at 10:55 p.m. and arriving at Nadi at 8:30 a.m. the next morning. Return flights operate on Wednesdays and Sundays departing Nadi at 1:40 a.m. and arriving in Guam at 5:10 a.m. the same day.

Fiji, located in the heart of the South Pacific, is a group of more than 300 islands and atolls dotted across 200,000 square miles of sea. The islands are known for their picturesque coasts, tall coconut palms and brilliant turquoise lagoons fringed by coral reefs and white sandy beaches. Travelers from around the world visit Fiji for its pristine beauty, varied activities including diving and surfing, and relaxed lifestyle.

Continental Airlines is the world's fifth largest airline. Continental, together with Continental Express and Continental Connection, has more than 2,400 daily departures throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia, serving 130 domestic and 132 international destinations. Continental is a member of Star Alliance, which provides access to more than 900 additional points in 169 countries via 24 other 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.

Celebrating its 75th anniversary this 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

Delta Air Lines Wins Three Business Traveler Magazine Awards

SkyMiles, delta.com and Sky Clubs earn top honors for the fourth consecutive year

Delta Air Lines has the "Best Frequent Flyer Program," "Best Airline Web Site" and "Best Airport Lounge," according to Business Traveler readers who voted in the magazine's 2009 Best in Business Travel Awards.

Now in its 21st year, Business Traveler's annual Best in Business Travel Awards is one of the world's most comprehensive business travel poll, covering various sectors of the global travel industry and showcasing the industry's highest standards of excellence. During 2009, a random selection of 8,000 of the magazine's estimated 100,000 premium business travel subscribers were invited to vote on their favorite airlines, travel destinations, hotels and other travel companies.

"We are pleased and excited that the SkyMiles program, Sky Clubs and delta.com have been recognized for the fourth straight year by Business Traveler readers," said Tim Mapes, Delta's senior vice president - marketing. "As we approach the final phase of the Delta and Northwest integration, we continue to focus on building the world's leading airline network as well as delivering best-in-class products and services for our customers. These awards are an affirmation of our efforts."

Recent improvements to the SkyMiles program, Sky Clubs and delta.com customer experience include:

• Northwest WorldPerks and Delta SkyMiles programs were officially and successfully merged to create the world's largest airline loyalty program with more than 70 million members.
• Delta announced details of a new SkyMiles Medallion program, which will be implemented in early 2010 and feature industry-leading benefits for the airline's most frequent flyers, including rollover Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs), a new top-tier Diamond Medallion status and Choice Benefits.
• Northwest WorldClubs and Delta Crown Room Clubs became Delta Sky Clubs, offering members one consistent experience and adopting customer favorites from both lounge programs. Delta Sky Club membership provides access to more than 50 airport Club locations worldwide, as well as partner lounges including Alaska Airlines Board Rooms.
• delta.com is now accessible in 11 languages, making viewing and changing flights easy, and providing customers with upgraded, self-service rebooking functions.

SOURCE Delta Air Lines

Garuda Indonesia to Fly Jakarta-Dubai-Amsterdam from June 2010

Airline to operate A330-200 on new long-haul route

Indonesia's national carrier, Garuda Indonesia, will launch a daily non-stop service from Jakarta to Dubai and on to Amsterdam from 1 June 2010. The airline will operate the new long-haul service with its technically advanced 222-seat Airbus A330-200s, which features Garuda Indonesia's new 'Nature's Wing' livery, signature interior and upgraded on-board service.

The introduction of the Jakarta-Dubai-Amsterdam route marks a significant step forward in the airline's global network expansion strategy.

"The Middle East will play an integral role in our 'Quantum leap' strategy, which includes growing our international network and increasing the number of departures by more than 300% to 1,222 a week by 2014," said Emirsyah Satar, President and CEO, Garuda Indonesia.

"We have been flying to this region for over 50 years now and want to continue to grow a strong presence here. We're also investing heavily in developing a service culture known as the 'Garuda Indonesia Experience', which combines warm Indonesian hospitality with quality service that emphasises on safety and comfort both in the air and on the ground," added Satar.

Garuda Indonesia will operate from Soekarno Hatta airport to Dubai International Airport departing Jakarta at 21.00, arriving in Dubai at 02.00 local time. The same aircraft will then leave for Amsterdam at 03.15 and arrive at Schiphol airport at 08.00. The return service will leave Schiphol airport at 10.00 and arrive in Dubai at 18.30. The aircraft will then leave Dubai at 19.45 and arrive in Jakarta at 07.10 the following day allowing adequate transfer time for onward flights to other cities in Southeast Asia.

"Aside from the business travel market, Dubai is becoming an increasingly popular leisure destination for Dutch travellers looking for long-weekend getaways. This new service will help meet growing demand," said Agus Priyanto, EVP Commercial, Garuda Indonesia.

The A330-200 features individual touch-screen LCD screens in all classes, state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment system with Audio & Video on Demand (AVOD) with a choice of 25 feature films, 250 audio tracks and 25 video games.

In Executive Class, the aircraft has fully reclining flat beds with 74-seat inch pitch. The A330-200 will operate in a two-class configuration carrying 36 passengers in Executive Class and 186 in Economy Class.

SOURCE Garuda Indonesia

Turkish Airlines Spreads Its Wings & Pampers Travelers With Only Nonstop First-Class New York-Istanbul Service

Turkish Airlines - winner of "Best Airline: Southern Europe" in the 2009 Skytrax World Airline Survey - marks a major milestone in its 76-year history with the launch of the industry's only nonstop first-class service between New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Istanbul's Ataturk International Airport (IST). The daily nonstop Boeing 777-300ER service features 312 seats in a three-class configuration - eight in First, 30 in Business and 274 in Economy -departing JFK every day (seven days a week) at 4:15PM, and arriving IST at 9:25AM the following morning. The return flight departs Istanbul at 10:30AM, arriving New York at 2:45PM that day.

Turkish Airlines' Director in New York, Ihsan Baytan, cites Istanbul's status as an emerging regional business hub demanding tailored pre- and in-flight amenities for business travelers. "We're proud to pioneer this one-and-only service to fill what was a major gap in the marketplace," he said. "With the first-class option in place, we're offering a true best-of-class experience, providing maximum comfort and convenience for travelers flying between New York and Istanbul or continuing on to the Middle East, Central Asia, CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) countries, the Far East and Africa."

Exclusive airport services for first-class passengers include a dedicated private lounge and a check-in counter, and in Istanbul "meet and greet" from check-in to boarding. Travelers kick back and enjoy the trip across the Atlantic Ocean in their own 26 sq. ft. suite whose sliding door ensures total privacy. Seats recline to a fully flat 180 degrees and 6.8-foot length with massage from eight different points. Exclusive in-flight offerings include: unlimited caviar; an assortment of authentic Turkish meze and hors d'oeuvres from international cuisines; a choice of meat, fish, and vegetable dishes as a main course; a complimentary Bvlgari amenity kit, with razor blades and shaving foam for men on request. Entertainment options abound with more than 200 hours of movies, music and games on a 23-inch flat screen in-seat monitor.

SOURCE Turkish Airlines

Air Canada begins customer trials for inflight internet

First Canadian Airline to Offer Wi-Fi Connectivity in the Air

Air Canada said today it has begun trials to offer its customers Gogo(R) Inflight Internet service on board select flights on the carrier's Toronto-Los Angeles and Montreal-Los Angeles routes.

"Air Canada is the first Canadian airline to begin offering customers access to the internet while they are flying," said Louise McKenven, Senior Director, Marketing, at Air Canada. "With this service, our customers will be able to email, work and surf the net while flying, and more fully enjoy what is already a superior travel experience that includes complimentary seatback entertainment and access to standard power outlets."

Following the test period which runs until January 29, 2010, Air Canada will analyze usage and customer feedback before it proceeds with introduction of the service on other routes.

"This initial phase is intended to get our customers' feedback about this exciting new service. The ultimate rollout of our inflight internet service will be finalized pending the outcome of the trial period as well as obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals and the development of ground infrastructure in Canada to provide a domestic network," added Ms. McKenven.

"We are very pleased to launch Gogo on Air Canada, the first Canadian airline to offer Inflight Internet," stated Ron LeMay, Aircell President and CEO. "Air Canada's customers will now feel the freedom of having the world at their fingertips thanks to having full Internet access in flight. We look forward to working with Air Canada to deliver that world to them."

Customers can access the service using their own standard, Wi-Fi equipped laptop at a cost of US $9.95 per flight or Personal Electronic Device (PED) at a cost of US $7.95 per flight.

Initially, the Gogo system will be powered by Aircell's existing network and only available in the continental U.S. in order to make Air Canada's rollout fast, economical and simple. Air Canada intends to extend the system on other routes in North American with the deployment of the Canadian Air-To-Ground (ATG) network. Aircell plans to collaborate with the Canadian ATG licensee in supporting the establishment of a Canadian ATG network and in facilitating the fleet-wide deployment of Air Canada's onboard connectivity service.

SOURCE AIR CANADA

United Airlines and Continental Airlines Upgrade Services for Most Loyal Customers

United Airlines and Continental Airlines today announced that members of each carrier's frequent flyer program who have earned elite status will receive unlimited, complimentary domestic upgrades on flights operated by both airlines when space is available.

Continental's elite-level frequent flyers also will have complimentary access to United's Economy Plus seating, offering additional legroom near the front of the Economy cabin. United's elite-level frequent flyers will have complimentary access to Continental's Premium Seating as well.

These new benefits will begin to roll out in mid-2010.

Unlimited domestic upgrades and preferred economy class seating for elite-level frequent flyer members are the latest additions to the suite of benefits available to United and Continental customers since the two carriers announced a wide-ranging global partnership in June 2008 and since Continental joined the Star Alliance Oct. 27 - benefits that include new access to dozens of cities around the world, recognition of elite status, and the ability to accrue and redeem miles on each other's flights.

"The partnership between United and Continental means more comfort and better rewards for our most loyal customers," said Graham Atkinson, president of Mileage Plus. "While our elite-level customers enjoy significant benefits on Continental through its membership in Star Alliance, we are delighted to build on those benefits to provide travelers the best our industry has to offer."

"Continental and United have highly complementary networks that cover the map for business travelers," said Mark Bergsrud, Continental's senior vice president Marketing Programs & Distribution. "This announcement is part of our ongoing plan to deliver frequent flyer benefits that offer the best overall solution for the traveler who wants extra space and comfort across the network."

SOURCE United Airlines; Continental Airlines

flydubai Starts Service to Sudanese Capital

flydubai, Dubai's first low cost airline, celebrated its eighth inaugural flight in less than six months last night when the airline's first flight to Sudan touched down at Khartoum International Airport.

FZ631 left Dubai International Airport's Terminal 2 at 1845hrs on Sunday, November 8, and arrived in the Sudanese capital at 2150hrs local time, where flydubai's CEO, Ghaith Al Ghaith was welcomed by a Sudanese delegation to commemorate the first flydubai flight between the two cities.

Al Ghaith said Khartoum is enjoying increasing levels of investment and development and that makes the city an exciting new destination for flydubai.

"Sudan has enjoyed increased exposure in recent years because of its important involvement in the global oil industry. In addition it has growing glass, textile and printing industries which are rapidly developing and enjoying new levels of investment. There are also impressive levels of investment being ploughed into the infrastructure development of downtown Khartoum which is a sign of the city's commitment to modernize and grow.

"We feel flydubai can play an important role in bringing visitors and potential investors to Khartoum, as well as help to ensure the undoubted opportunities that are available in Sudan are accessible to a wider range of people."

Despite the distance from Dubai to Khartoum - 1,600 miles - flydubai is keeping fares low with prices starting from just AED 325 one way, which includes all taxes and one piece of hand baggage weighing up to 10kg, per passenger.

The flydubai model is simple, with customers paying only for the services they want to receive. Passengers have the option to purchase checked-in baggage in advance at just AED 40 for the first piece and AED 100 for the second, weighing up to 32 kg, subject to availability. Checked baggage at the airport is also strictly subject to availability and passengers are advised to book online early to secure the space, as only pre-purchased baggage can be guaranteed.

A nominal payment of AED 5 allows customers to select their seat and just AED 50 secures the extra legroom positions. Bookings can be changed for a small fee, plus any difference in the fare, and food and drink can be purchased on board.

flydubai operates from a modernised and enhanced Terminal 2 on the north side of Dubai International Airport.

SOURCE:  flydubai

oneworld Alliance Welcomes Mexicana on Board

Mexicana becomes part of oneworld® at midnight tonight - adding Mexico and Central America's leading airline to the world's leading quality airline alliance.

Its subsidiaries MexicanaClick and MexicanaLink join oneworld at the same time, as affiliate members. All three airlines will offer the alliance's full range of services and benefits with the first flights tomorrow.

They extend the oneworld network to almost 700 destinations in nearly 150 countries, with a combined fleet of some 2,250 aircraft operating more than 8,000 flights a day, carrying 325 million passengers a year, with annual revenues of $100 billion.

A massive promotional program will be launched today to highlight the group's addition to the alliance.

Mexicana is offering passengers flying with the airline in the next four weeks the chance to win a pair of tickets for a trip of a lifetime right around the world, flying with its new oneworld partners.

A Mexicana Airbus A320 and MexicanaClick Boeing 717 were unveiled today at their Mexico City hub - decorated in oneworld's alliance livery.

oneworld's award-winning Travel and Charging Stations land for the first time in Latin America, installed today at Mexico City's Benito Juarez International Airport.

Mexicana's market-leading Mexican and Central American network are covered starting at midnight tonight by oneworld's full and extensive range of alliance fares and sales products - including its new Visit Mexico and Central America pass.

Mexicana's addition comes a day after oneworld was named the World's Leading Airline Alliance for the seventh year running in the World Travel Awards.

As it updates its Web site to mark the addition of Mexicana, oneworld is also enhancing its online services to include a Spanish version of its popular round-the-world booking tool, an iPhone flight search application and a complete mobile website for customers using Blackberrys, iPhones and other smartphones.

As of tomorrow, members of the MexicanaGO frequent flyer program can earn and redeem mileage awards on all oneworld partners, which include some of the biggest and best airlines in the world - American Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific Airways, Finnair, Iberia, Japan Airlines, LAN Airlines, Malev Hungarian Airlines, Qantas and Royal Jordanian and almost 20 affiliated airlines. Russia's leading domestic carrier S7 Airlines is on track to join during 2010.

MexicanaGO Conquer and Discover cardholders have oneworld Emerald and Sapphire status respectively, gaining them access to some 550 airport lounges worldwide offered by the alliance's airlines. Mexicana Explore cardholders have oneworld Ruby status.

The 21,000 customers in these top three MexicanaGO tiers have been sent new membership cards, bearing the oneworld logo, to ensure they receive their alliance benefits.

Also starting at midnight tonight, the 100 million members of the established oneworld airlines' frequent flyer programs will be able to earn and redeem awards and tier status points and receive all other oneworld benefits on Mexicana and its two affiliates.

As Mexicana joins oneworld, its logo will be added to thousands of oneworld signs at the 700 airports worldwide on its member airlines' networks, on the alliance's website and all oneworld branding used in its and its member airlines' advertising, publications and stationery, increasing awareness of Mexicana in the near 150 countries served by the alliance's carriers.

At the same time, Mexicana will be applying oneworld logos onto the fuselages of all 105 aircraft in its combined fleet and featuring the alliance emblem wherever its own Mexicana logo is featured.

oneworld Governing Board Chairman, American Airlines Chief Executive Gerard Arpey, said: "oneworld is very selective about who we invite on board to join us as a new member. We only consider airlines with brands that match the quality of our established partners, who share our priorities of safety, customer service and profitability and who can expand our existing combined network in key regions, rather than simply replicating what we already offer. As the leading carrier in Mexico and Central America, Mexicana more than fits the bill. We are delighted to be welcoming it and its customers on board oneworld."

Iberia Chairman and Chief Executive Antonio Vazquez said: "Iberia has been honored to act as Mexicana's sponsor into oneworld, a process that has reinforced the excellent relations between both airlines. Mexicana will considerably strengthen oneworld's long established position as the leading airline alliance in the Spanish-speaking world and in Latin America, making it easier for more customers to reach more places more easily and for better value with some of the world's best airlines."

Mexicana Chief Executive Officer Manuel Borja said: "As a member of oneworld, we can now offer our customers more choice and convenience, a much more extensive global network, more opportunities to earn and redeem frequent flyer rewards, more lounges, more customer service support and better value - services and benefits beyond the reach of any individual airline. For Mexicana and our employees, becoming part of oneworld, flying alongside some of the most respected names in the airline industry worldwide, strengthens our position considerably in an increasingly competitive marketplace."

SOURCE: oneworld Alliance

United to Introduce Three New Countries to Global Network

New service to Ghana, Nigeria and Kingdom of Bahrain to begin in spring 2010

United to add nonstop service between Chicago and Brussels

United Airlines announced today the airline will inaugurate its first-ever service to Africa in 2010, with one daily, same-plane service from Washington to Accra, Ghana, and Lagos, Nigeria. The airline also will extend its existing daily Washington-Kuwait flight to include Bahrain, and will offer a new non-stop flight between Chicago and Brussels, Belgium. Introduction of all of the new services is subject to government approval.

"Our first-ever non-stop service to Africa will offer customers convenient and comfortable travel opportunities to visit two of the fastest-growing cities in the continent," says Kevin Knight, senior vice president of planning. "In addition, our new services to Bahrain and Brussels will open more international routes to our customers throughout Europe and the Middle East."

The new routes are consistent with the 2010 capacity outlook United provided on its third quarter earnings conference call, and reflect the continuing optimization of United's international network.

Africa

Daily non-stop service from Washington Dulles to Accra, the capital of the west African nation of Ghana, begins on May 2. The flight will continue from Accra to Lagos, Nigeria. The return flight will operate from Lagos to Accra and Washington. The flights, which will be available for sale this fall, will be operated by Boeing 767 aircraft on the following schedule:

     Schedule                        Depart        Arrive        Start Date

     --------                        ------        ------        ----------

    United 990 Washington to Accra   10:10 p.m.    12:40 p.m.*   May 2, 2010

    United 990 Accra to Lagos        2:20 p.m.     4:25 p.m.     May 3, 2010

    -------------------------        ---------     ---------     -----------

    United 991 Lagos to Accra        9:15 p.m.     9:20 p.m.     May 3, 2010

    United 991 Accra to Washington   11:00 p.m.    6.25 a.m.*    May 3, 2010

    * indicates next day arrival

    ----------------------------     ----------    ---------     -----------

"I am delighted that United Airlines, a global leader in the airline industry, has demonstrated the economic wisdom to expand its routes to include destinations in Africa," said U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush of Illinois. "African economies are among the fastest growing in the world, registering nearly six percent overall economic growth in 2007, the highest in 20 years. United's new routes are an important element in advancing the mutual trade interests of the United States and Africa and I am encouraged by the prospects for enhanced economic prosperity for the three nations."

Middle East

On April 18, United will launch the only same-plane service operated from the Western Hemisphere to the Kingdom of Bahrain. United's existing non-stop service from Washington Dulles to Kuwait will continue to Bahrain, with the return flight also stopping in Kuwait before continuing to Washington.

Flights will be operated by Boeing 777 aircraft on the following schedule:

    Schedule                        Depart     Arrive     Start Date

    --------                        ------     ------     ----------

    United 982 Washington to Kuwait 6:12 p.m.  1:35 p.m.* Existing Service

    United 982 Kuwait to Bahrain    2:50 p.m.  3:55 p.m.  April 18, 2010

    United 981 Bahrain to Kuwait    9:25 p.m.  10:30 p.m. April 18, 2010

    United 981 Kuwait to Washington 11:45 p.m. 6:47 a.m.* Existing Service

    * indicates next day arrival

    ------------------------------- ---------- ---------  ----------------

The Accra/Lagos and Kuwait/Bahrain flights are conveniently timed for connections at Washington Dulles, United's principal transatlantic gateway, to and from dozens of cities throughout the Americas. United offers more than 275 daily departures from Washington Dulles to more than 90 cities.

"We are delighted with United's announcement," said Leo Schefer, president of the Washington Airports Task Force. "Service to a new international market expands a region's trading horizon and increases its competitiveness as a business location and tourist destination."

Brussels

Additionally, United will inaugurate non-stop service between Chicago and Brussels on March 28, offering convenient connections on Brussels Airlines - which joins the Star Alliance on Dec. 9 - to points in Europe and Africa. The Chicago-Brussels services also are timed to offer convenient connections at Chicago O'Hare to and from dozens of cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico. As the largest airline in Chicago, United offers more than 570 daily departures to more than 130 cities worldwide. Chicago-Brussels flights will be operated by Boeing 767 aircraft on the following schedule:

    Schedule                        Depart        Arrive        Start Date

    --------                        ------        ------        ----------

    United 972 Chicago to Brussels  6 p.m.        9:20 a.m.     March 28, 2010

    United 973 Brussels to Chicago  11 a.m.       1:15 p.m.     March 29, 2010

    ------------------------------  -------       ---------     --------------

United will continue to offer non-stop service between Washington and Brussels.

Customers seated in United First and United Business cabins aboard all transoceanic B767 flights enjoy United's International Premier Travel Experience, which includes lie-flat seats, iPod connectivity, more than 150 hours of movies and television shows on-demand, and a selection of appetizers and entrees designed by world-renowned chef Charlie Trotter. United's B777 aircraft will be outfitted with new United First and United Business cabins in 2010 and 2011.

Source: United Airlines

JetBlue Airways Announces Major Expansion in Boston

30% increase in Boston departures planned -- Schedule includes double daily service to four California cities -- 1,300 award-winning local crewmembers and counting

JetBlue Airways today announces a major expansion of service from its focus city at Boston Logan International Airport. The airline, which already offers service to the most nonstop destinations of any carrier from Boston, plans to boost daily departures by 30% by summer 2010. With its expanded schedule, JetBlue and its growing base of 1,300 Boston crewmembers will offer travelers up to 78 daily flights to 33 top destinations.

Key schedule highlights:

• Two additional daily flights to Chicago/O'Hare (for a total of three)
• Two additional daily flights to Raleigh/Durham (for a total of three)
• One additional daily flight to Baltimore/Washington (for a total of five)
• One additional daily flight to Charlotte (for a total of three)
• One additional daily flight to Denver (for a total of two)
• One additional daily flight to Fort Lauderdale (for a total of four)
• One additional daily flight to San Diego (for a total of two)
• One additional daily flight to San Francisco (for a total of two)
• One additional daily flight to Washington/Dulles (for a total of seven)
• Four additional weekly flights to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (for a total of one daily)
• One weekly flight to Montego Bay, Jamaica (for a total of one weekly) (a)
• And more to come!

Flights and fares for JetBlue's expanded Boston service will be available on Wednesday, Nov. 4 at www.jetblue.com.

"Here at JetBlue we are officially declaring Summer 2010 the Summer of Boston," said Robin Hayes, Chief Commercial Officer for JetBlue. "Today's added flights represent an important next step in our commitment to offering Boston travelers the most robust schedule as well as the most destinations of any airline. Whether you're a road warrior or an occasional sun-seeker, JetBlue has a great fare and 78 great flights for you in Boston -- that's no small peanuts!"

"We cannot wait for next summer to get here," said Ed Freni, director of aviation for Massport, which owns and operates Boston Logan International Airport. "JetBlue's growth at Logan has been extraordinary and speaks to the strength of both the Boston market and the loyalty of JetBlue's customers."

All JetBlue flights from Boston are operated aboard spacious full-size jets and include premium amenities like unlimited free snacks and drinks, all-leather seating, the most legroom in coach of any U.S. airline (b), 36 channels of free DIRECTV(r) programming, more than 100 channels of XM Satellite Radio (c), plus the convenience of assigned seating and a free first checked bag.

Cape Air Connections

Customers traveling through Boston from most domestic destinations may also take advantage of convenient connecting service operated by JetBlue's marketing partner, Cape Air, to fly onward to some of New England's most beautiful destinations including Hyannis, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, and Provincetown, Mass., and Rutland/Killington, Vt. (d). Cape Air and JetBlue are co-located at Boston's Terminal C, offering travelers fast, same-terminal transfers.

A Revamped TrueBlue Program

Boston travelers will soon be able to reap the benefits of JetBlue's enhanced TrueBlue loyalty program, which is set to relaunch later this year. The revamped TrueBlue turns the traditional frequent flier model on its tail by changing the way points are earned and redeemed, offering customers a richer and more rewarding recognition for their loyalty. For more details visit www.jetblue.com/trueblue.

(a) Subject to receipt of government operating authority.

(b) Based on average fleetwide economy class seat pitch for U.S. airlines.

(c) Live satellite TV and radio programming is not available on flights outside the continental U.S.

(d) Service between Boston and Hyannis, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, and Provincetown, Mass., and Rutland/Killington, Vt. is operated by Cape Air.

SOURCE JetBlue Airways

The Pro-X-Travel blog and ProXTravel Media Corp. is based in Boston.

Continental Airlines Joins Star Alliance

Strategic Network Expansion in the Americas, Asia and Europe -- New York/Newark Becomes New Star Alliance Hub

The CEOs of the Star Alliance member carriers today welcomed the alliance's 25th member: Continental Airlines. Continental's joining Star Alliance will further enhance the alliance's three main customer benefits: global reach, worldwide recognition and seamless travel. Continental's membership follows last year's announcement of a strategic partnership between Continental and United Airlines. Experts from both airlines and Star Alliance have been working together over the last 18 months in order to ensure the first successful transition of a major airline from one global alliance to another.

"Bringing Continental Airlines into Star Alliance has been a truly unique experience. This is the first time an airline has moved directly from one alliance to another and I would like to thank all those involved in ensuring a smooth switch," said Jaan Albrecht, CEO Star Alliance. "Our travelers can now begin to appreciate the advantages Continental brings to the Star Alliance network, while Continental's customers now enjoy enhanced alliance benefits."

"Continental's transition to Star Alliance is one of the most important strategic moves we have accomplished in my career at Continental," said Chairman and CEO Larry Kellner. "Our membership in Star Alliance positions us to deliver a broader network to our customers, and to achieve better business results and a stronger future for my co-workers, our customers and communities as a result of the benefits from participating in the world's largest airline alliance."

"Continental's joining makes the Star Alliance network even more extensive, offering our customers the broadest global access and greatest choice of service," said Glenn Tilton, chairman and CEO of United Airlines. "We welcome our partner, Continental, which brings tremendous value to our customers, our employees and the communities we serve."

Global Reach

Due to the limited overlap between Continental's and Star Alliance's networks, Star Alliance customers now have a choice of 19,500 daily flights serving some 1,071 airports in 171 countries. The main network enhancements are taking place in North America, to and from Latin America, as well as across the North Atlantic and the Pacific.

In North America, Continental adds its three hubs - New York/Newark, Houston and Cleveland - to the network, providing more choice to Star Alliance customers. Continental's extensive Latin America network will increase travel options for Star Alliance customers to Mexico, Central America, South America and the Caribbean.

Across the North Atlantic, Continental will also add choice for Star Alliance travelers, especially on the very important New York to London market. Options in the Pacific region are enhanced by Continental's trans-Pacific flights to mainland China, Hong Kong and Japan, and by Continental Micronesia flights centered on Guam.

In addition to the network benefits, Continental flights can now be used to create itineraries for the Star Alliance Round the World fare as well as for the North American Airpass. Moreover, Continental will sell all 13 Star Alliance fare products as well as participate in the Star Alliance Conventions Plus product.

Worldwide Recognition

As part of its Star Alliance membership, Continental OnePass members will now be able to earn and redeem miles on all other Star Alliance member carriers. OnePass Gold and Platinum Elite members automatically have Star Alliance Gold Status, and will receive benefits such as access to more than 954 lounges, extra-baggage allowance, priority baggage delivery, dedicated check-in counters and priority waitlist (reservation) and airport stand-by. OnePass Silver Elite have automatic Star Alliance Silver Status, entitling them to priority waitlist (reservation) and airport stand-by.

Participants in any of the existing Star Alliance Frequent Flyer Programs can now earn and redeem miles on Continental. Moreover, OnePass members will be able to use their miles as part of Star Alliance Upgrade Awards for a one cabin upgrade when traveling on participating* Star Alliance member carriers.

Seamless Travel

The Star Alliance network aims to provide fast and convenient connections for customers needing to transfer between flights of different Star Alliance member carriers. Effective immediately, through check-in from the originating airport is available for any itinerary involving a Continental flight in conjunction with another Star Alliance flight. In addition, all Star Alliance Connection Centers will now also encompass all flights operated by Continental. These special behind the scene centers look after passengers and baggage transferring between Star Alliance member carriers, in case of flight irregularities. These centers are currently in operation at selected airports across the network like, Frankfurt, Munich, Chicago, Los Angeles, Tokyo-Narita and Bangkok. Moreover, plans are already underway to co-locate member carriers in the same airport area or terminal at numerous destinations served by Continental. By the end of this year Continental will have physically moved airport operations at 11 airports around the world. For instance, on October 27, Continental moves to Terminal 1 at Frankfurt and on November 1, to the South Wing of Terminal 1 at Tokyo/Narita. Other airports where co-location moves have been made include: Beijing, Chicago, Honolulu and Shanghai.

About Star Alliance

The Star Alliance network was established in 1997 as the first truly global airline alliance to offer worldwide reach, recognition and seamless service to the international traveler. Its acceptance by the market has been recognized by numerous awards, including the Air Transport World Market Leadership Award, Best Airline Alliance by both Business Traveller Magazine and Skytrax. The member airlines are: Adria Airways, Air Canada, Air China, Air New Zealand, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian, Blue1, bmi, Continental Airlines, Croatia Airlines, EGYPTAIR, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, Shanghai Airlines, Singapore Airlines, South African Airways, Spanair, SWISS, TAP Portugal, Turkish Airlines, THAI, United and US Airways. Aegean Airlines, Air India, Brussels Airlines and TAM have been announced as future members. Overall, the Star Alliance network offers 19,500 daily flights to 1,071 airports in 171 countries.

* the following member carriers currently offer Star Alliance Upgrade Awards: Air China, Air New Zealand, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian, Continental Airlines, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, Shanghai Airlines, Singapore Airlines, SWISS, TAP Portugal, Turkish Airlines, THAI and United

SOURCE Continental Airlines

Southwest Airlines Debuts 'Green Plane' With Environmentally Friendly Interior Materials

Southwest Airlines today announced at its annual Media Day a "green plane," an innovative idea that marries efficiency, environmentally responsible products, Customer comfort, and reduced waste and weight. This plane, a Boeing 737-700, will serve as a test environment for new environmentally responsible materials and Customer comfort products.

It is a flying testament to the airline's philosophy that environmental decisions make good business sense. All of the initiatives being tested on this Green Plane, when combined, will equate to a weight savings of almost five pounds per seat, thus saving fuel and reducing emissions, along with adding recyclable elements to the cabin interior and reducing waste.

"Southwest is committed to continuing to lead the industry in emissions reductions through fuel efficiency. Efficiency in fuel consumption benefits our Company as well as the environment, and this has been part of our business model since the beginning," said Gary Kelly, Southwest's Chairman, President, and CEO. "As we look to the future, we know climate change remains of vital importance to our industry, our Company, and our Customers, so Southwest works hard every day in every area to be a responsible steward of the environment."

Southwest has designated one aircraft to serve as a test for eco-friendly products, which include:

• InterfaceFLOR Carpet - this carpet reduces labor and material costs because it is installed in sections, thus eliminating the need for total replacement of areas such as aisles, where Southwest currently uses one single piece of carpet. The 100 percent recyclable carpet is returned to the manufacturer at the end of its service life and completely re-manufactured into new carpet; the process is completely carbon neutral.
• Seat covers - two new products that will be tested on the aircraft seats, offering more than twice the durability than the current leather seats as well as a weight savings of almost two pounds per seat.
   - On one side of the aisle, e-Leather is an eco-friendly, lightweight and scuff resistant man-made alternative to traditional leather. It is made from recycled materials that have been discarded by the leather industry. It is then upgraded utilizing eco-friendly technology, resulting in composition leather, a man-made material.
   - On the other side of the aisle, IZIT Leather, a new breed of premium leather alternative, is an evolutionary step beyond calf skin that offers a lightweight product that is both economical and durable, but with the genuine appearance and touch of luxurious leather.
• Life Vest Pouch - more environmentally friendly because it offers a weight savings of one pound per passenger, replacing the current metal container with lighter durable canvas. The smaller pouch also creates more room under the seat for carryon items and offers productivity improvements due to design change.
• Foam Fill - A lighter weight fill from Garnier PURtec in the back of the seats that reduces weight while providing increased Customer comfort.
• Passenger Seat Rub Strips - switching from plastic to aluminum will help with durability, which reduces waste, as well as being recyclable.

"Southwest is proud to lead the aviation industry in environmental stewardship and honored to be working with these eco-friendly vendors and our partners at Boeing," Kelly says. "We are excited to test their forward-thinking products and expect these green products to not only help the environment, but also create a fuel and materials cost saving for Southwest."

In addition to the green plane, Southwest also announced the Nov. 1 kickoff of its more robust onboard recycling program, which is a co-mingled system that will allow the airline to capture more recyclable material and divert it from the waste stream. This 18-month process involved team work from all areas of the Company to implement the program on the ground at its Provisioning Bases and re-working of waste collection procedures in the cabin.

"The initiative by the Southwest Airlines Green Team, Facilities Maintenance, Inflight Department, and Provisioning Department was a truly heroic effort; when you serve nearly 68 cities there are often 68 different ways to implement a program," Kelly says. "We appreciate the hard work of our recycling vendor, Republic Services, and we are excited to take a very effective recycling program and make it even better."

Environmental Stewardship is a responsibility Southwest takes seriously, and efficient operations are the hallmark of our Company and the foundation of our environmental commitment. Over the decades, Southwest has been at the forefront of such efficiencies as paperless tickets, quick turnarounds, installation of winglets, and, more recently; the installation of fleet-wide advanced avionics. This focus on efficiency not only makes good business sense, it is the right thing to do. For more information on how Southwest Airlines cares for the environment, visit www.southwest.com/cares.

SOURCE Southwest Airlines

JetBlue Airways Increases Flights from Boston to Baltimore After Successful Launch of Service

With 32 nonstop destinations and 20 connecting cities to choose from, JetBlue Airways, Boston's largest domestic carrier, today announces even more expansion of its daily service from Boston's Logan International Airport (BOS). Five daily nonstop flights from BOS to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), one of the airline's newest destinations on its growing route network, will begin on March 1, 2010. On September 9, JetBlue launched new service to Baltimore with four daily flights to complement its existing six daily flights between Boston and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD).

"Customers in Baltimore have discovered what those in Boston have known for years: JetBlue offers more than just an unassigned seat and a handful of peanuts to their destination," said Scott Laurence, vice president of network planning for JetBlue Airways. "With five straight J.D. Power awards received for our customer service, we also provide our customers with lots of legroom, unlimited free snacks and drinks and pre-assigned leather seats on brand new airplanes -- all at the cost of your airfare. In addition, JetBlue flights offer 36 channels of DirecTV programming and more than 100 channels of XM Satellite radio on personal seatback screens. Check out the live TV -- it's on, it's always on, and it's free!"

JetBlue's everyday low fares start at just $39 (a) each way with a 21-day advance purchase.

JetBlue's Baltimore service is operated by its full-size EMBRAER 190 jets, with seating for 100 customers. The E190 is outfitted with all-leather seats in a spacious 2 x 2 configuration -- with no middle seats!

With its new service to Baltimore/Washington, JetBlue now offers customers service to more destinations than any other carrier at Boston's Logan, with a choice of 32 nonstop business and leisure destinations across the United States and into the Caribbean and Mexico. Maryland customers also have the opportunity to seamlessly connect to L.A./Long Beach; San Diego; Seattle; and San Francisco from the airline's growing network in Boston. In addition, customers can take advantage of convenient connecting service operated by JetBlue's marketing partner, Cape Air, to fly onward to some of New England's most beautiful destinations including Hyannis, Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, Provincetown, Mass. and Rutland/Killington, Vt.

SOURCE: JetBlue Airways

Virgin America Teams Up With Google to Offer Free In-Flight WiFi for the Holidays

Airline and Web Technology Company Give Holiday Travelers the Gift of Connection with Free Gogo Inflight Internet

Virgin America, the airline that is reinventing domestic travel, today announced an exclusive partnership with Google to offer free in-flight WiFi to all of its guests during the holidays. The two California-based companies known for innovation, entrepreneurialism and for connecting people in new ways, have again joined forces to give Virgin America fliers the gift of in-flight connection during the holiday travel season. From Nov. 10, 2009-Jan. 15, 2010, guests on all Virgin America flights will be able to check email, gift shop online, stay in touch with family and friends via social media, or just go wherever the web takes them - all for free. In May, Virgin America became the first airline to offer Gogo® Inflight Internet service on every flight.

"Since the launch of WiFi on all of our planes, we've seen an overwhelmingly positive response from travelers," said Porter Gale, Vice President of Marketing at Virgin America. "We've found that both business and leisure travelers are using the service at a growing rate, and many consider the availability of in-flight WiFi one of the key factors in their booking decision. We're thrilled to team up with Google to deliver this special holiday gift to our loyal guests. We also hope it persuades more new users to try out the service -as once people try Gogo, they rarely go back."

Virgin America is the first airline to offer both standard power outlets near every seat and fleet-wide Gogo Inflight Internet service. The airline estimates that currently 12-15 percent of its guests are using the Gogo service. On some of the airline's long-haul routes (like BOS-SFO), the carrier is reporting that up to 20-25 percent of guests on a given flight are logging in.

"As millions of people pass through airports this holiday season in order to celebrate with their families, we wanted to give our users a gift - one that makes their travel easier and more convenient," said Marissa Mayer, Vice President of Search Products and User Experience at Google. "The fundamental power of the Internet is in connecting people, and we hope that having a free WiFi connection while enroute will make home and family seem that much closer."

A recent survey of Virgin America frequent fliers showed that guests are using WiFi in a variety of ways and consider the ability to stay connected a key in-flight amenity. Top-line results from the survey* include:

• More than half of respondents said that the availability of WiFi would influence their choice of airline.
• The availability of in-flight power outlets is also a factor for many in choosing to fly with Virgin America.
• 72% agreed that VOIP should continue to be blocked to keep the cabin environment quiet.
• 53% of respondents carry a laptop on board. Of those that connected to Gogo, 88% used a laptop.
• Email is the most popular activity while using in-flight WiFi, followed by working remotely and social media.

Although guests traveling on any of Virgin America's over 100 daily flights from Nov. 10, 2009-Jan. 15, 2010, will enjoy free web access via their laptops or PDAs, the Gogo service is normally available for $12.95 for flights of over three hours; $9.95 for flights between 1.5 and three hours; $5.95 for short haul flights of less than 1.5 hours and handheld/PDA pricing of $7.95 for flights over 1.5 hours.

Since launching in August 2007, Virgin America has captured a list of travel industry best-in-class awards, including "Best Domestic Airline" in Conde Nast Traveler's 2008 and 2009 Readers' Choice Awards and Travel + Leisure's 2008 and 2009 World's Best Awards. Virgin America offers travelers unrivalled amenities, low fares and high-tech features. Virgin America's mood-lit, custom-designed new cabins feature more comfortable, ergonomically correct leather seats and Red (TM) - the most advanced entertainment system in the U.S. skies. Red is a touch-screen seatback entertainment platform that offers 25 films, live TV, interactive Google Maps, music videos, video games, a 3000 MP3 library and more.

In November 2008, Virgin America launched Gogo Inflight Internet on its first flight with a first ever "air-to-ground" video stream to YouTube Live - YouTube's first official real-world user event. In May of 2009, the airline completed the roll-out of its WiFi service across its fleet and celebrated the milestone with a live streamed chat between Oprah Winfrey in her studio audience and a Virgin America plane at 35,000 feet over the California coast. In June 2009, the airline also teamed up with Google for the first-ever online and "in the clouds" web-based scavenger hunt, using in-flight WiFi.

SOURCE Virgin America

GREEN AND FRIENDLY SKIES from CNN

CONNECTED IN THE AIR from CNN

JetBlue Airways Reveals 'Blueberries,' The Latest Livery Design

JetBlue Airways yesterday revealed the latest livery design in the airline's LiveTV hangar at Orlando International Airport. The new livery, called "Blueberries," sports a tailfin design of concentric circles in the airline's trademark colors, as well as a new white-cap on the tail. The fuselage has also been updated: The JetBlue logo is entirely dark blue and featured prominently. All future livery refresh cycles will convert the fuselage logo to the new JetBlue logo. The new Blueberries paint scheme will be scheduled into the airline's current paint-refresh timeline. JetBlue expects to have five aircraft painted in the new Blueberries livery by year end.

"Over the years we've made our mark on the industry with a distinctive look -- from stylish uniforms, clear and distinctive signage, to tailfin patterns like Mosaic, Stripes, Harlequin and Windowpane," said Dave Barger, JetBlue's Chief Executive Officer. "To keep our look fresh as we approach our 10th birthday, we are proud to introduce Blueberries to our fleet."

In addition to introducing the Blueberries livery, the airline also announced the JetBlue Crewmember Tailfin Design Contest (a) in which JetBlue crewmembers will have the opportunity to submit up to three proposed designs for another new tailfin on or before November 17, 2009. A panel of independent JetBlue judges will select 15 semi-finalists, from which a panel of independent "celebrity" judges will select between three and five finalists. The winning design will be chosen from among the finalists by public voting between December 8, 2009 and January 31, 2010, and the winning design will be announced on February 11, 2010 as part of the value airline's 10 year anniversary celebration. More details will be made available via JetBlue's Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/JetBlue and via Twitter at http://twitter.com/JetBlue. Crewmembers: for entry instructions and complete Official Rules, visit the JetBlue intranet homepage.

JetBlue was recently honored by AIGA, the professional association for design, with the Corporate Leadership award for "reimagining the air-travel experience and building its revered brand from a people-centered, value-driven, design-based approach."

SOURCE JetBlue Airways

Continental Airlines to Move Tokyo Flights, Check-In to South Wing of Terminal 1 at Narita International Airport

Move follows harmonization of services with United Airlines at Beijing, Shanghai

Continental Airlines and United Airlines today announced that Continental will move its Tokyo operations to the South Wing osf Terminal 1 at Narita International Airport, effective Nov. 1, with Continental flights departing and arriving at the terminal's south gates and the check-in counter relocating to the South Wing main lobby.

The relocation will enable customers to connect seamlessly at Narita between Continental's five daily transpacific and Micronesia flights and United's 11 daily transpacific and intra-Asia flights departing from Tokyo. In addition, when Continental joins Star Alliance at the end of October, the relocation will facilitate connections with ANA and other Star Alliance member airlines, including Air China, Asiana Airlines, Singapore Airlines and THAI, all of which operate from the South Wing of Terminal 1. Star Alliance airlines offer a total of 77 daily departures from Narita.

Continental customers in Tokyo will receive the same airport services currently offered for all of Continental's long-haul international flights including designated OnePass Elite and BusinessFirst check-in and priority baggage handling and BusinessFirst concierge service.

Continental Presidents Club members and BusinessFirst customers will have access to United's Red Carpet Club located in Airside Satellite 3, as well as to two lounges operated by ANA.

"This move will occur right after we join Star Alliance and will give our customers better connections to more destinations throughout Asia with United and other Star Alliance member airlines," said Mark Erwin, Continental's senior vice president of corporate development and alliances.

"Continental's move to the South Wing of Terminal 1 at Narita will give United's customers in Asia additional options for travel throughout Asia and Micronesia, and more convenient service to New York, Houston, the southern U.S. and Latin America," said Mark Schwab, United's senior vice president of alliances, international and regulatory affairs.

Continental's move in Tokyo follows a similar aligning of customer service and ground operations at Beijing International Airport and Shanghai's Pudong International Airport.

SOURCE Continental Airlines; United Airlines

Lufthansa Flights from 12 JetBlue Cities Now Available for Sale

Fly from Buffalo to Budapest, Tampa to Tel Aviv, or San Juan to St. Petersburg

Lufthansa codeshare flights from a dozen JetBlue cities in the U.S. and Puerto Rico are now available for sale at www.lufthansa.com. The codeshare agreement, which was recently approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), provides JetBlue customers with convenient connections to Lufthansa's worldwide network of over 400 destinations in 100 countries. JetBlue travelers will enjoy one-stop reservations and seamless baggage transfers on flights departing from:

• Austin, Texas
• Buffalo, NY
• Fort Lauderdale, FL.
• Fort Myers, FL
• New Orleans, LA
• Pittsburgh, PA
• Raleigh/Durham, NC
• Rochester, NY
• San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Syracuse, NY
• Tampa, FL
• West Palm Beach, FL

Travelers flying JetBlue from these cities will be able to connect via New York/JFK or Boston onto Lufthansa flights bound for Germany and beyond, including top cities like Delhi, Madrid, Rome, Tel Aviv and Zurich. Flights are bookable on lufthansa.com, via a link on www.jetblue.com, or through local and online travel agencies. Codeshare operations will commence November 11, 2009.

"We look forward to welcoming JetBlue customers onboard with exciting international fares and our high-quality service -- two things which perfectly complement the JetBlue travel experience," said Jens Bischof, Vice President, the Americas at Lufthansa. "Travelers of both airlines now have even more travel options available to them with a more convenient transfer process at JFK and Boston airports," Bischof added.

Sample round-trip fares include: (*valid for purchase Oct. 1-5, 2009; includes fuel surcharge, excludes taxes and fees - restrictions apply)

"We're thrilled to be partnering with Lufthansa to give JetBlue customers even more choice in international travel," said Robin Hayes, JetBlue's Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. "As Europe's largest airline, Lufthansa offers unrivaled connections throughout the continent and onward to Africa, the Middle East and Asia. No matter where you're headed, JetBlue and Lufthansa can now take you there in comfort and style."

In January 2008, the two airlines entered into an agreement under which Deutsche Lufthansa AG purchased an ownership interest in JetBlue Airways Corporation. For reservations, visit lufthansa.com, JetBlue, or your local travel agency.

Southwest Airlines Introduces EarlyBird Check-In, a New Customer Convenience That Simplifies Travel

EarlyBird Check-in Automatically Assigns and Confirms Customers' Boarding Positions in Advance of General Check-in

Don't race. We'll save your place! Southwest is proud to announce its newest product, EarlyBird Check-in, which gives Customers the option to score an early boarding position by adding an additional $10 to the price of a one-way fare. The low-cost service automatically reserves a boarding position for Customers prior to general check-in, allowing EarlyBird Customers to begin boarding the plane after Southwest's Business Select and Rapid Rewards A-List Customers. EarlyBird Check-in is available for purchase beginning today, Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2009, for travel beginning Thursday, Sept. 3, 2009. For additional information on EarlyBird Check-in, visit http://www.southwest.com/flight/early-bird-retrieve-reservation.html or the Company Blog at www.nutsaboutsouthwest.com.

"With EarlyBird Check-in, you no longer need to watch the clock or set your alarm to be one of the first Customers to check in for a Southwest flight. EarlyBird Customers can relax, and let us do the work for them," said Kevin Krone, Southwest's Vice President of Marketing, Sales and Distribution.

An early boarding position provides Customers with the opportunity for a better seat selection and earlier access to overhead bin space, giving Customers the option to enhance their travel experience while creating incremental revenue opportunities for Southwest. Early boarding privileges are already included in the purchase of a Business Select fare and are a benefit of being on the Rapid Rewards A-List. All Customers are required to print their boarding pass prior to their scheduled departure.

Customers can purchase EarlyBird Check-in through a link in the Travel Tools section of southwest.com. They also can select EarlyBird Check-in from their southwest.com confirmation page online and from their confirmation e-mail. EarlyBird Check-in can be purchased up to 25 hours prior to the scheduled departure time of the Customer's flight.

After 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines, the nation's leading low-fare carrier, continues to stand above other airlines--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 premium leather seats and plenty of legroom. Southwest recently updated its gate areas and improved its boarding procedure to make flying Southwest Airlines even more convenient. Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), the nation's largest carrier in terms of domestic passengers enplaned, currently serves 67 cities (adding Milwaukee later this year) in 33 states. Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,300 flights a day and has more than 34,000 Employees systemwide.

JetBlue and Lufthansa to Begin Codeshare Operations

JetBlue Airways and Lufthansa have signed a codeshare agreement under which JetBlue would be allowed to place the Lufthansa code (LH) on JetBlue flights. Initially, the airlines plan to offer connecting service between 12 JetBlue destinations in the U.S. and Puerto Rico and Lufthansa's network of 180 destinations in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia. The agreement was filed today for authorization from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).

Once a statement of authorization is issued by the DOT, Lufthansa and JetBlue plan to offer convenient connections between the airlines' networks, beginning first with the following U.S. cities:

•Austin, Texas
•Buffalo, N.Y.
•Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
•Fort Myers, Fla.
•New Orleans
•Pittsburgh
•Raleigh/Durham, N.C.
•Rochester, N.Y.
•San Juan, Puerto Rico
•Syracuse, N.Y.
•Tampa, Fla.
•West Palm Beach, Fla. 

Customers traveling from these U.S. cities on JetBlue will be able to connect via New York/JFK or Boston onto Lufthansa flights bound for destinations throughout Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

Both airlines are looking forward to the commencement of codeshare operations, which will allow them to provide their customers with an extended route network and a seamless flight experience. Pending authorization, codeshare flights will be available for sale by early October, and will be bookable on lufthansa.com, via a link on jetblue.com, or through local and online travel agencies.

In January 2008, the two airlines entered into an agreement under which Deutsche Lufthansa AG purchased an ownership interest in JetBlue Airways Corporation.