Pro-X-Travel

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.

Delta Air Lines Expands BusinessElite Service from New York

New flat bed seats now available on all flights to London-Heathrow, U.S. BusinessElite added to Los Angeles, San Francisco

Delta Air Lines today announced a significant expansion of BusinessElite service from New York. The airline has added full-flat beds to all flights between New York-JFK and London-Heathrow, and in September will begin to introduce new BusinessElite service on transcontinental flights between Delta's JFK hub and Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Today's announcement is part of Delta's continued focus on the New York market including the recently announced plans to create a domestic hub at LaGuardia and the re-launch of the revitalized Red Coat program that began at Delta's international hub at JFK.

With the expanded service, Delta will offer customers:

• Fully flat beds with 180 degrees of recline and 77 to 82 inches of legroom in the BusinessElite cabin of all flights between New York and London. The new seats are arranged in a one-two-one configuration, allowing each customer direct aisle access and enhanced privacy.
• Popular cradle-style seats with 150 degrees of recline and 55 inches of pitch in the BusinessElite cabin on all transcontinental flights between New York and San Francisco and Los Angeles. These seats are the same as Delta's business class offering on 757-200ER international flights and offer personal on-demand games, music and movies at every seat.
• Wireless Internet access for both business- and economy-class customers on all flights between New York and Los Angeles and San Francisco by the end of the year.

"Delta's frequent business travelers tell us that the comfort of a flat bed seat with direct aisle access is a must-have on flights to and from London, and that a true BusinessElite experience is critical when flying to and from the West Coast," said Ranjan Goswami, Delta's director of Customer Experience. "Today, we are responding to our road warriors' requests with a significant enhancement of the level of business class service offered from our JFK hub."

Delta customers in Atlanta and Detroit also benefit from the BusinessElite enhancements with full-flat bed seats available on all flights between these hubs and London-Heathrow and Minneapolis routes will be added in September. Routes served with Boeing 777-200LR aircraft already feature full-flat seats, including flights between Atlanta and Dubai, Johannesburg, and Sydney (via Los Angeles).

More information on Delta's new full flat bed seats is available at delta.com.

Since making a strategic decision to build New York into a hub earlier this decade, Delta has made major investments across the tri-state region, boosting its economic impact to more than $13 billion annually. Along with adding more than 30 new international routes at JFK, Delta has created more than 2,000 jobs across the state, invested heavily in New York sponsorships and advertising and completed more than $70 million in facility upgrades at JFK's Terminals 2 and 3.

Delta Air Lines is the world's No. 1 airline. From its hubs in Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Memphis, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York-JFK, Salt Lake City, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Amsterdam and Tokyo-Narita, Delta, its Northwest subsidiary and Delta Connection carriers offer service to 376 destinations in 67 countries and serve more than 170 million passengers each year. Delta's marketing alliances allow customers to earn and redeem either SkyMiles or WorldPerks on more than 16,000 daily flights offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta's more than 70,000 employees worldwide are reshaping the aviation industry as the only U.S. airline to offer a full global network. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes, check bags and flight status at delta.com.

Virgin America Announces Bag Fee Changes

Virgin America today announced changes to the airline’s baggage fees. Effective for all bookings made on or after Aug. 21, 2009, for travel starting on or after Sept. 10, 2009, the airline has changed its baggage fee to a flat $20 rate for all checked items (excluding the first and second bag for First Class travelers; and the first bag for Main Cabin Select and Refundable Fare travelers).  Previously, the airline’s fee was $15 for these checked items. Virgin America maintains one of the most generous first bag weight limits in the industry – up to 70 lbs.

Beginning today, any Main Cabin guest who books a non-refundable ticket for travel starting on or after Sept. 10, 2009, will be charged a flat rate of $20 for each checked bag ($20 for a first checked bag and $20 for the second through the tenth checked bag).   Guests who purchased Virgin America tickets before today or who book and travel before Sept. 10, 2009, will be charged per the airline’s previous bag fee rate.   Guests can pay checked bag charges when they check in at airport kiosks, on-line or at any airport ticket counter.

The fee changes are as follows:

Fee Changes	New Fee-Main Cabin	New Fee-Main Cabin Select and Refundable Fares	New Fee-First Class
First checked bag,   up to 70 pounds	$20 (previously $15)	No fee	No fee
Second checked bag fee	$20 (previously $15)	$20 (previously $15)	No fee
Third-tenth checked bag fee	$20 (previously $15)	$20 (previously $15)	$20 (previously $15)

Under the new fee rules, First Class guests will continue to receive up to two checked bags for free.  Guests in the carrier’s premium Main Cabin Select service or those who purchase Fully Refundable Main Cabin fares will also continue to receive one checked bag for free.  All weight and size policies remain the same, and the airline’s carry-on baggage policy has not changed. 

Virgin America’s fee structure remains competitive with, or lower, than its major network competitors.  The airline continues to invest in the innovative amenities and low fare, award-winning service for which it is known – including beautifully designed new planes, power outlets at every seat, and Red™ – the most advanced entertainment system in the U.S. skies.  Software upgrades made this month to the touch-screen Red system allow for even greater functionality and speed – and expansion of its already robust entertainment library.  In May, Virgin America became the first U.S. airline to offer WiFi on every flight.

Virgin America flies to San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C., Seattle, Las Vegas, San Diego, Boston, Orange County and as of Nov. 18, 2009 – South Florida (Fort Lauderdale).  The airline currently offers daily flights from: SFO to LAX, SFO to JFK, SFO to SAN, SFO to IAD, SFO to LAS, LAX to JFK, LAX to IAD, SFO to SEA, SEA to LAX, JFK to LAS, BOS to LAX, BOS to SFO, SFO to SNA and as of Nov. 18, 2009 – SFO to FLL and LAX to FLL.  Virgin America has flown close to five million guests since its inaugural flights in August 2007 and now counts over 950,000 Elevate loyalty program members.

American Airlines Announces Changes to Checked Bag Policy for Travelers to, From or Through Europe and India

Changes to Bag Policy Apply to Tickets Purchased On or After Sept. 14

American Airlines is implementing revisions to its baggage policy for customers traveling between certain locations in Europe, India and the United States, including U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The revised policy takes effect for tickets purchased on or after Sept. 14, 2009. The changes apply to transatlantic travelers on any flight operated by American Airlines for travel to, from or through India, as well as the following European countries - Belgium, England, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain and Switzerland.

Customers who purchase certain economy class tickets on or after the effective date will be able to check one bag for free and will pay $50 for a second checked bag.

Here are some examples of exceptions for travelers who will not pay any checked bag charge (other exemptions may also apply - see www.aa.com/bag for details):

• American's AAdvantage program members who have achieved AAdvantage Gold, AAdvantage Platinum and AAdvantage Executive Platinum levels, as well as oneworld Alliance Emerald, Sapphire or Ruby members;
• Passengers booked in First and Business Class cabins, as well as those who purchase full-fare tickets in the Economy Class cabins;
• Active U.S. Military personnel traveling on orders or personal travel;
• Active U.S. Military dependents traveling on orders.

Customers may pay checked bag charges at an airport Self-Service machine or at any airport ticket counter.

More information about American's checked baggage policies for domestic and international itineraries is available at www.aa.com/bag.

Southwest Airlines Takes Next Step Toward Wi-Fi

Southwest Airlines and Row 44 are continuing plans to roll out wi-fi beginning in the first quarter of 2010. Beginning this fall, Southwest will be moving to the next step of certifying Southwest's full fleet with plans to begin fleetwide rollout of the Row 44 satellite service in the first quarter of 2010. The airline has been testing the service on four aircraft since Feb. 2009 and has received fantastic Customer feedback on the product.

"We have concluded our testing for inflight wi-fi and are very happy with both the technical performance of the system and the response of Customers who have used it," said Dave Ridley, Southwest Airlines Senior Vice President of Marketing and Revenue Management. "We are pleased to be continuing with our plans to offer satellite-enabled broadband access through California-based Row 44."

"Row 44 is thrilled to be the in-flight wi-fi service of choice for one of the most Customer-focused airlines in the world," said John Guidon, Row 44 Chief Executive Officer. "We are excited about moving forward and delivering Southwest's Customers a rich menu of in-flight connectivity and entertainment options."

During the testing phase, Customers have been utilizing the service for anything from e-mail to streaming video. Those interested in using the service during the test period have had the opportunity to log on to the service via their own personal wi-fi enabled device (laptops, iPhones, wi-fi enabled smart phones, etc). Additionally, the airline has been testing a variety of price points for the service and will continue testing price points through the end of 2009.

Air Canada becomes first North American airline to release an App for Apple iPhone and iPod Touch devices

New application advances strategy to give travelers convenient mobile options

Air Canada today became the first North American airline to release an Apple iPhone/iPod touch application. The free App will make it convenient for travelers with Apple devices to retrieve electronic boarding passes, track flight information in real-time, receive notification of itinerary changes and obtain other details about Air Canada flights.

iPhone Applications now available on iTunes.com! Shop Now!

"Air Canada continues to be an industry leader in offering customers mobile and wireless services that provide real-time information and convenient functions for people who are on the move. We are significantly expanding these options with the release of our Air Canada App, which will enable travelers using an Apple iPhone or iPod touch device to check-in, board and obtain other details about Air Canada flights. This is only the first iteration of our App and we will continue to add new features in response to customer demand," said Ben Smith, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. "In addition to our Apple App, Air Canada is introducing more cutting-edge technical innovations that will enhance and simplify our self-service and mobile options for customers who like the freedom of managing their own travel."

Available free on-line from the Apple App Store on iPhone or iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore/, the new App was developed for Air Canada by IBM Canada. It will among other things enable users of Apple iPhone and iPod Touch devices to: keep track of and update all of their Air Canada and Jazz flights from a single location; receive messages and link to their electronic boarding passes; access Air Canada Mobile check-in to select a seat and retrieve an electronic boarding pass; book flights using an Air Canada Flight Pass; rent a car or access other convenient travel links; and find and track any Air Canada or Jazz flight.

iPhone Applications now available on iTunes.com! Shop Now!

Air Canada, recognized as an industry leader in self-service and mobile technology - it was the first airline in the world to introduce 2-D Electronic Boarding Passes in 2007 - is also refining and expanding its existing products to better meet the needs of customers. Among other things Air Canada is:

• Adding new functions to airport kiosks, offering customers the option to purchase an upgrade, reprint boarding passes, and obtain an electronic boarding pass, including at international airports.
• Enhancing its boarding passes to provide more and new travel information such as check-in and baggage drop-off times.
• Offering easy-to-use, personalized flight notification so customers can be automatically updated through their mobile devices about changes to their itinerary. For greater ease, customers can also create a "My Message" in-box on computer and mobile devices to receive all Air Canada communications in a single, convenient location.
• Providing additional mobile detail about the status of Air Canada flights, including gate information, flight status, diversions, arrivals and local weather conditions.

Montreal-based Air Canada provides scheduled and charter air transportation for passengers and cargo to more than 170 destinations on five continents, including 58 communities across Canada and 57 destinations in the United States - by far the most of any carrier within Canada or between Canada and the United States. Canada's flag carrier is the 13th largest commercial airline in the world and serves 33 million customers annually operating a modern fuel-efficient fleet with an average age of just nine years.

Air Canada is a founding member of Star Alliance, providing the world's most comprehensive air transportation network for Canadian domestic, transborder and international travel. Air Canada aircraft offer customers individualized seat-back in-flight entertainment systems with hundreds of hours of complimentary digital audio-visual entertainment. As well, customers can collect Aeroplan miles for future rewards through Canada's leading loyalty program.

In 2008, the readers of Business Traveler magazine voted Air Canada "Best In-Flight Services in North America," "Best Airline for Business Class Service in North America" and "Best North American Airline for International Travel."

EPA Recognizes Southwest Airlines (Dallas & Houston Operations) for Leading Green Power Purchase

Southwest Airlines' Dallas and Houston operations were recognized today by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its leading Green power purchase and for its support and participation in the Agency's Fortune 500 Green Power Challenge. The Dallas and Houston operations are purchasing nearly 16 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of Green power, which is enough to meet 30 percent of the facilities' purchased electricity use. Southwest Airlines' Dallas and Houston operations are buying renewable energy certificates (REC) from Reliant Energy.

Earlier this week, the EPA updated each of its National Top Partner lists, highlighting some of America's largest Green power purchasers. Southwest Airlines (Dallas & Houston Operations) currently ranks No. 32 on EPA's Fortune 500 List. Each list highlights EPA Green Power Partners that have completed the largest annual voluntary purchases through July 7, 2009. EPA updates its Top Partner Lists quarterly at http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/toplists/.

Southwest Airlines (Dallas and Houston operations) is purchasing Green power in support of EPA's Fortune 500 Green Power Challenge. EPA is challenging Fortune 500 Corporations to collectively exceed 10 billion kilowatt-hours Green power purchasing by year end 2009.

"This was a wonderful initiative by our Green Team, and we are proud to be recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency," said Gary Kelly, Southwest Airlines Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. "Purchasing Green power helps our Company become more sustainable, and it helps us in our mission to do the right thing by Our Planet, Our Communities, and Our People."

Green power is electricity that is generated from environmentally preferable renewable resources, such as wind, solar, geothermal, biogas, biomass and low-impact hydro. These resources generate electricity with a net zero increase in carbon dioxide emissions, while offering a superior environmental profile compared to traditional power generation sources. Green power purchases also support the development of new renewable energy generation sources nationwide.

"EPA commends our leading partners for their continued commitment to protecting the environment by using green power," said Kathleen Hogan, Director of the Climate Protection Partnerships Division at EPA. "By supporting green power, Southwest Airlines is reducing its greenhouse gas emissions, supporting clean energy technologies, and contributing to a clean energy future."

About Southwest Airlines

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, engine washing, and aircraft performance management. 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.

Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) currently serves 67 cities in 35 states, and announced service to Boston Logan beginning Aug. 16, and service to Milwaukee beginning Nov. 1. Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,300 flights a day and has more than 35,000 Employees systemwide.

About EPA's Green Power Partnership

The Green Power Partnership is a voluntary program that encourages organizations to buy green power as a way to reduce the environmental impacts associated with purchased electricity use. The Partnership currently has more than 1,100 Partner organizations voluntarily purchasing billions of kilowatt-hours of green power annually. Partners include a wide variety of leading organizations such as Fortune 500 companies, small and medium sized businesses, local, state, and federal governments, and colleges and universities. For additional information, please visit http://www.epa.gov/greenpower.

Continental Airlines to Join Star Alliance on Oct. 27, 2009

Continental Airlines has announced that it plans to join Star Alliance on Oct. 27, 2009. As previously announced, Continental will end its participation in SkyTeam after its last scheduled flight on Oct. 24, 2009.

Continental's transition from SkyTeam to Star Alliance is a strategic change, originally announced in June 2008, that will enhance travel options and competition. Continental's network will have a distinct fit in Star Alliance, with Continental's New York hub at Newark Liberty International Airport playing a particularly important role for Star Alliance travelers.

Continental's OnePass members do not need to make any changes to their OnePass accounts and will continue to utilize their mileage as normal. Mileage balances will not be affected by the transition.

Through Oct. 24, 2009, OnePass members can continue to earn and redeem miles and make reward reservations on SkyTeam partners.

When the transition to Star Alliance occurs on Oct. 27, 2009, OnePass members will begin earning base miles and Elite Qualification Miles/Points and be able to redeem miles on Star Alliance airlines.

Continental provides alliance updates on its web site at: continental.com/alliancenews.

Southwest Airlines Launches Nationwide Fare Sale

Don't miss out on one-way fares as low as $59!

Ready, set, go! It's On with Southwest Airlines' newest fare sale! Southwest is offering Customers additional discounts with airfares starting as low as $59 one-way to select destinations nationwide. Fares must be purchased by Sept. 3, 2009, and are available for travel everyday except Fridays and Sundays from Sept. 9, 2009, through Jan. 7, 2010. To get these special fares online, visit www.southwest.com. Examples of fares include (see Additional Fare Rules below):

• $59 one-way between Las Vegas and Phoenix
• $59 one-way between Baltimore/Washington and Manchester
• $89 one-way between Los Angeles (LAX) and Seattle
• $89 one-way between Cleveland and Minneapolis/St. Paul
• $109 one-way between Dallas Love Field and Chicago Midway
• $109 one-way between New York LaGuardia and Ft. Myers

After 38 years of service, Southwest Airlines, the nation's leading low-fare carrier, continues to differentiate itself from other airlines--offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service. The first two checked bags fly for free (size and weight limits apply), there are no fees for a window or aisle seat, and, as always, snacks, sodas, and smiles are all complimentary!

Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience. Southwest offers all premium leather seats and plenty of legroom with a young all-Boeing 737 fleet. Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) currently serves 67 cities in 34 states with service to Milwaukee starting Nov. 1. Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,300 flights a day and has more than 35,000 Employees systemwide.

ADDITIONAL FARE RULES

Southwest Airlines sale fares are available for purchase Aug. 18, 2009, through 11:59 p.m. PDT on Sept. 3, 2009, and travel must take place between Sept. 9, 2009, and Jan. 7, 2010. Blackout dates apply from Nov. 24, 2009, through Dec. 1, 2009, and Dec. 18, 2009, through Jan. 4, 2010. Fares do not include a federal excise tax of $3.60 for each flight segment. A flight segment is defined as a takeoff and a landing. Fares do not include airport-assessed passenger facility charges (PFC) of up to $9.00 and U.S. government-imposed September 11th Security Fee of up to $5.00 one-way. Travel to/from Washington, D.C. (Dulles) starting at $69 one-way. Seats are limited. Fares may vary by destinations, flight, and day of the week. Fares may vary by flight and day of travel and will not be available on some flights that operate during very busy travel times and holiday periods. Fares are available for one-way travel. Fares may be combined with other combinable fares. When combining fares, all rules and restrictions apply. Fares are nonrefundable but may be applied toward the purchase of future travel on Southwest Airlines. Fares are not available through the Group Desk. Any change in the itinerary may result in an increase in fare. Standby travel requires an upgrade to the Anytime fare. Fares are subject to change until ticketed. Offer applies to operated published, scheduled service only.

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Southwest Airlines Begins Boston Logan Service

Carrier Now Operates Ten Daily Nonstop Flights to Two Destinations: Chicago Midway and Baltimore/Washington International

Southwest Airlines today celebrated the airline's new service at Boston Logan with a uniquely Boston-flavored celebration. Southwest Customers and Employees dined on New England clam chowder and enjoyed the patriotic music of a Minuteman Marching band and a Town Crier who officially proclaimed the opening of Southwest's Logan service. Southwest Airlines Chairman, President and CEO Gary Kelly joined Massport CEO and Executive Director Thomas J. Kinton, Jr., Massport Aviation Director Ed Freni, and Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO Patrick Moscaritolo in a morning news conference at Logan to launch the airline's new service.

"Today is a great day for the people of Southwest Airlines as well as New England travelers. With our new service here at Logan, Southwest can fully serve the entire Boston area," said Kelly. "Finally all Bostonians can experience our unmatched record in Customer Service, our low fares, and our legendary ontime service, all with the convenience of being located at Logan's Terminal E."

Southwest Airlines is now serving Boston travelers from Logan with ten daily nonstop flights - five daily nonstops to Chicago Midway and five daily nonstop flights to Baltimore/Washington International. In addition to the ten daily nonstop flights, Southwest Airlines' new service out of Boston Logan will offer direct or connecting service to 48 other destinations, including: Las Vegas, Phoenix, Denver, Los Angeles, Houston, and San Francisco, just to name a few. Southwest Airlines will operate from gates E1A and E1B in Terminal E at Logan. To view all of Southwest's destinations from Boston Logan, visit http://gallery.swamedia.com/imageSingle/ImageID=SWA2009041418016/tpl2=images/t ype=jpg.

"Good things come to those who wait, and Boston Logan has waited some time for Southwest,'' said Kinton, CEO of Massport , which owns and operates Logan. "We are thrilled that the nation's busiest airline based on domestic departures is here, but more importantly, their presence and the 'Southwest effect' of lowering fares will benefit the millions of passengers who use Logan."

"We are excited to partner with Southwest Airlines to grow our corporate and leisure visitor markets. The power of Southwest's brand and the desirability of Boston as a visitor destination is a terrific opportunity for our visitor industry," said Moscaritolo, of the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau.

This morning's press conference was one of the many activities organized to commemorate Southwest Airlines' new service to Logan. Throughout the weekend, dozens of Southwest Employees from Boston and across the country celebrated with Customers at its gates and also rolled up their sleeves at a volunteer activity at the Curtis Guild School in East Boston. Approximately three dozen Southwest Employees participated in such projects as planting flowers and bushes; cleaning and organizing, with the help of their community partners at The Container Store, the teachers lounge and classrooms; and painting an enormous 12'x80' mural located along the school's playground.

When shopping for Southwest online, it's important to know that Southwest Airlines low fares are only available at www.southwest.com. Not only will Customers find Southwest's great rates online at www.southwest.com, but the site also hosts Southwest's Travel Guide where Customers can check out Boston travel tips posted by travelers who frequent Beantown.

Southwest Airlines will continue to celebrate this momentous occasion with a special offer--a bonus Rapid Rewards frequent flyer credit each time you fly into or out of one of our three Boston Area airports between now and September 16, 2009. Visit www.southwest.com/rapid_rewards/rr_promotions.html for more information and to register.

Virgin America Named Travel + Leisure World's Best U.S. Airline for Food Menu

New Airline Takes Top Honors as Best Domestic Airline for Food in Annual World's Best Awards

Virgin America, the California-based airline that is reinventing domestic air travel, today took the top honors as "Best Domestic Airline for Food" in the prestigious Travel + Leisure Annual World's Best Awards readers' survey. Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards highlight the results of an annual, impartial survey that allows Travel + Leisure readers to share their opinions of their favorite travel experiences.* For the first time this year, the survey results include reviews of key service categories which will be highlighted in the magazine's September issue. Virgin America's industry-leading in-flight dining experience will be profiled in Travel + Leisure's first annual food and travel issue in September.

"We're honored to receive this feedback from Travel + Leisure readers - those who fly the most and expect the very best," said Virgin America Senior Vice President of People and In-flight Frances Fiorillo. "Virgin America's goal is to bring travelers more choices in-flight. In keeping with our California roots, our fresh, seasonal meal items and snacks offer guests convenient, tasty and reasonably priced options they can order any time right from their seatback - without having to worry about grabbing something ahead of time."

With award-winning service and a host of innovative amenities, Virgin America has captured a list of travel industry best-in-class awards since launching service in August 2007 including, Travel + Leisure's World's Best Domestic Airline Award in 2008 and 2009. Virgin America is also 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 choices.

Virgin America's in-flight dining is featured in Travel + Leisure's first annual food and travel issue in September and is available on newsstands on August 28. The special issue will contain a list of the top five World's Best Airlines for Food, both domestic and international. It will be posted on Travel and Leisure's Web site.

"Our goal as a new carrier is to reinvent the flying experience for the better by listening to what our guests want, so we're constantly seeking real-time feedback, whether through the Red seatback screens or now via in-flight WiFi," added Fiorillo. "We've even implemented suggestions received about our menu from some of our very first guests and their feedback will continue to be an essential ingredient in creating the best customer experience in the U.S. skies."

Virgin America's market research and feedback received from guests via Red(TM), the airline's in-flight entertainment system, has shown that guests want fresh, high-quality food options - and that travelers are seeking out convenient buy onboard options over having to purchase food on the go at the airport that is usually at a higher price.

Main Cabin menu options available for purchase at the touch of a button via Red's on-demand ordering system include (prices range between $7 - $10 for meals in Main Cabin, and options are complimentary in Main Cabin Select):

• Fruit and Cheese: Hand-cut imported brie, pepper Monterey Jack and aged cheddar paired with clusters of sweet red seedless grapes, sun-dried cranberries, pecans and crisp multigrain crackers.
• Hummus and Pita Chips: A healthy selection of Mediterranean hummus and baba ganoush served with crisp fresh carrot batons, broccoli and cauliflower florets, sweet red bell pepper, cucumbers, red radish, sugar snap peas and a stuffed grape leaf, served with Stacy's Pita Chips.
• Wild Berry Parfait: A light yogurt parfait layered with vanilla yogurt, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries, served with a crunchy chocolate granola.
• Southwestern Chicken Hand Roll: Zesty roasted red pepper tortilla rolled around strips of grilled chicken, green leaf lettuce, chipotle cream cheese spread, fire roasted corn and black beans, and a colorful trio of red, yellow and green bell peppers. Served with a side salad of orzo pasta with Southwestern vegetables and red pepper pesto and a Toblerone chocolate for dessert.
• Black and Blue Steak Sandwich: Basil and cheese focaccia loaded with blackened flat iron steak, gorgonzola cheese spread, balsamic glazed onions, arugula, sliced Roma tomatoes and fresh red and yellow roasted tomatoes. Served with a Toblerone chocolate for dessert.
• Turkey Florentine Hand Roll: Spinach tortilla wrapped around hand shaved turkey breast, herb cream cheese spread, feta cheese, fresh baby spinach, romaine leaf lettuce, sliced artichoke bottoms, yellow bell pepper strips, Roma tomato, and Belgian endive. Served with a side salad of gemelli pasta with Italian vegetables, sun dried tomatoes and creamy basil pesto, with a Toblerone chocolate for dessert.
• Muffaletta Sandwich: Hearty Focaccia bread stuffed with shaved honey ham, Genoa salami, shaved turkey, Swiss and provolone cheese, spicy olive salad, green leaf lettuce, and sliced tomatoes, paired with Italian dressing on the side, and a Toblerone chocolate for dessert.
• Thai Vegetable Salad: Refreshing Asian-style salad of romaine lettuce, Napa cabbage, julienne carrots, curly daikon radish, sliced cucumber, green onion, julienne tomato, red and yellow bell pepper strips, cilantro, mint, and chopped cashews. Served with sesame ginger vinaigrette dressing on the side and a Toblerone chocolate for dessert.

In addition to Virgin America's food menu, beverages and cocktails are also available for purchase. Guests can always order drinks, like Illy iced cappuccinos, eco-friendly cocktails made with VeeV Acai Spirit and Le Tourment Vert "Mile High Cocktails" from their seatback, and watch as they are mixed on-demand.

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 and Orange County. The airline offers daily flights from: SFO to LAX, SFO to JFK, SFO to SAN, SFO to IAD, SFO to LAS, LAX to JFK, LAX to IAD, SFO to SEA, SEA to LAX, JFK to LAS, BOS to LAX, BOS to SFO, SFO to SNA and starting November 18, 2009, SFO to FLL and LAX to FLL. Virgin America has flown more than 4.5 million guests since its inaugural flights in August 2007 and now counts over 925,000 Elevate loyalty program members.

TSA's Secure Flight Program Enters Next Public Phase

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced today that beginning August 15 U.S. airlines participating in the Secure Flight passenger vetting program may begin asking passengers to enter their date of birth and gender when making airline reservations. TSA has already begun to phase the airlines into the Secure Flight program and will complete domestic implementation by early 2010. If a passenger is not prompted to provide this additional information by a particular airline, they should not be concerned as it will not impact their travel. Since Secure Flight is a behind-the-scenes watch list matching process that happens before passengers arrive at the airport, current security checkpoint procedures remain the same.

This is the second publicly-noticeable step in implementing the Secure Flight program which shifts pre-departure watch list matching responsibilities from individual airlines to TSA. The first public phase began on May 15 when airlines began asking passengers to provide their name - as it appears on the government issued identification they will be traveling with - when making airline reservations.

"Secure Flight is a key tool in confirming that someone identified as a 'No Fly' does not receive a boarding pass," said TSA Acting Administrator Gale Rossides. "Secure Flight will make travel safer and easier for passengers."

Once Secure Flight's advanced technology is fully implemented for domestic flights in early 2010, enhanced watch list matching will be done by TSA. Airlines or travel agencies acting on their behalf will gather a passenger's name, date of birth and gender when making an airline reservation to determine if the passenger is a match to the No Fly or Selectee lists. By providing the additional data elements of gender and date of birth, Secure Flight will more effectively help prevent misidentification of passengers who have similar names to individuals on a watch list and better identify individuals that may pose a threat to aviation.

Individuals requesting access to secure areas in U.S. airports to assist a passenger to the gate will also be asked to provide their full name, date of birth and gender when requesting a gate pass from the airline ticket agent.

The Secure Flight program satisfies a key recommendation of the 9/11 Commission, congressional requirements from the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004, and the 9/11 Commission Act signed into law in 2007.

TSA's goal is to vet 100 percent of passengers on all domestic commercial flights by early 2010 and 100 percent of passengers on all international commercial flights into, out of, or over the U.S. by the end of 2010.

WHY Secure Flight: TSA must ensure known or suspected terrorists are unable to obtain a boarding pass. To mitigate this risk, TSA is implementing its Secure Flight program - a behind-the-scenes watch list matching process that vets passengers against government watch lists before a boarding pass is ever issued. For more information about Secure Flight please visit www.tsa.gov.

Introducing JetBlue's All-You-Can-Jet Pass! One Month of Unlimited Travel Available for Only $599(a)

August 13 through Aug. 21*, customers can purchase a flight pass to visit as many destinations as often as they like between Sept. 8 and Oct. 8, 2009(a) -- Jetters will have access to every available seat, on every flight and can book travel or make changes up to three days before departure --

What would you do with an All-You-Can-Jet pass on JetBlue Airways? Today through August 21*, customers can purchase an unlimited travel pass for only $599(a), which will allow them to visit any of the airline's 56 international and domestic destinations as often as they like between September 8 and October 8, 2009. Pass holders will have access to every available seat on every flight with no blackout dates, and can book travel up to three days prior to departure through October 5(a). Thirty-five TrueBlue points from the airline's customer loyalty program will also be awarded with the purchase of an All-You-Can-Jet pass.

"The All-You-Can-Jet pass gives jetsetters access to a bigwig lifestyle, with 56 destinations and more than 150 jets available at a moment's notice," said Robin Hayes, executive vice president and chief commercial officer for JetBlue Airways. "Get extra face time with an important client; become a groupie for your favorite band; grab a ticket to the away games; extend summer with some extra rays in the Caribbean; take a spontaneous trip to see the extended family; or grab some genuine jambalaya or clam chowder. You can do it all as often as you like in a month without emptying your pockets. It's our answer to the ultimate road trip."

Customers who purchase a pass can book new travel or make changes or cancellations to previous pass reservations without penalty up to three days before departure. All travel using the All-You-Can-Jet pass must be booked between Aug. 12 and Oct. 5(a). Changes or cancellations made less than three days before departure will be subject to JetBlue's $100 change/cancel fee. All pass purchases can be made by calling 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583). Customers must be TrueBlue members to take advantage of the pass. For more information about TrueBlue, or to register to become a member, visit www.jetblue.com/trueblue.

All-You-Can-Jet pass holders can book flights by calling 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583) and providing reservations crewmembers with their pass holder number, which they will receive after purchasing the pass. The pass is inclusive of taxes and fees for all domestic flights. Additional taxes and fees for Puerto Rico and international flights are not included. Customers can upgrade to Even More Legroom seats on each flight for an additional $10, $25 or $40, depending on the flight length. Other terms and conditions apply(a). Additional information is available at http://www.jetblue.com/deals/all-you-can-jet/tc.pdf.

TAM and Air China Sign Codeshare Agreement

Customers from both companies can enjoy an integrated network and outstanding service on their flights

TAM and Air China will begin operating codeshare flights that connect Sao Paulo and Beijing this month. The agreement will provide greater comfort and convenience to passengers of both companies.

Departing from Brazil on TAM, passengers will be able to purchase tickets to Beijing, with a connection in Madrid's Barajas International Airport. There, they will have the services and support of Brazilian TAM personnel to make connections on flights operated by Air China, which will use the code JJ to Beijing.

From the Chinese capital to here, Air China passengers will have the same benefits in creating their itineraries, also making a connection in the Spanish capital for our direct flight to Sao Paulo.

For TAM, the partnership is very strategic. "This is the first agreement we have made with an Asian company, a fact made more significant by being made with a company that has such an extensive network and high service standard as Air China, our Star Alliance partner," states Paulo Castello Branco, TAM's Commercial and Planning Vice President.

"TAM is a new member of the Star Alliance. We are happy to establish this partnership with them, which lets the passengers travel more comfortably with our own operations or with codeshare partners," says Zhang Lan, Air China's Vice President.

American Airlines Celebrates the Admirals Club 70th Birthday

Airline Begins 70 Days of Celebration with Birthday Sweepstakes, Special $70 Savings Offer

Seventy years ago, in 1939, American Airlines opened the airline industry's first VIP lounge at LaGuardia Airport in New York. In honor of the occasion, American is kicking off 70 days of celebration with a birthday sweepstakes and a $70 savings offer on annual memberships. Additionally, customers on one lucky flight will receive two one-day passes to use at any of American's more than 40 Admirals Club(R) lounge locations worldwide.

On Thursday, Aug. 13, visitors to the Chicago O'Hare H/K Admirals Club lounge are in for a treat. Chef Duff Goldman from the popular television program Ace of Cakes will present a birthday cake, which he will bake especially for the occasion, to the Admirals Club. Customers are invited to enjoy a piece of cake and meet Chef Duff as the Admirals Club 70th birthday celebration continues.

"For seven decades, the Admirals Club has been known for exceptional hospitality and outstanding service, providing travelers with a quiet place to relax or conduct business," said Nancy Knipp, President - Admirals Club. "We're very appreciative of our customers and look forward to showing our gratitude during our 70 days of celebration and the years to come."

Through Oct. 19, customers are invited to experience the Admirals Club legacy and help American commemorate 70 years of Admirals Club service by registering to win one of seven prizes in the birthday sweepstakes. Prizes include a Lifetime Admirals Club Membership; a weeklong luxury vacation in Maui; one night at a Hollywood movie premiere; a ski trip in Vail, Co.; and more. Just for registering, customers will receive a $70 savings offer on an annual Admirals Club membership, whether it's new or a renewal. No purchase is necessary to enter the sweepstakes. Complete sweepstakes rules, Offer Terms and Conditions, and other details - including how to enter, a look back at the Admirals Club history, and much more - can be found at the Admirals Club birthday celebration Web site, www.aa.com/AC70years.

Customers are encouraged to join the fun by sharing their Admirals Club experiences via text, photo or video on the birthday Web site, where they will also find a calendar of celebration activities and a 70-day Admirals Club birthday party blog.

American, a founding member of the global oneworld(R) Alliance, offers annual Admirals Club memberships for new members ranging from just $350 to $500. One-day passes are available for $50 and may be purchased online, at self-service check-in machines, or at any Admirals Club location.

American's Admirals Club lounges heighten the airport experience and set American apart from other airlines. Amenities vary by location, and include:

• conference rooms
• a multi-functional business center with individual work stations
• personal computers with complimentary high-speed Internet access, PC data ports, telephones, printers, copier and fax service
• a walk up cyber cafe
• music rooms
• spa-like shower facilities
• complimentary coffee, tea, soft drinks, juices and light snacks, in addition to bar service and food for purchase through the enhanced food and beverage program, Amora(TM)
• children's rooms featuring age appropriate computer and TV programming

To learn more, visit American's Admirals Club Web site at www.aa.com/admiralsclub.

Virgin America Celebrates Second Year Anniversary

Start-up Airline Celebrates Year-Two with Award Wins and Virgin America Day in San Francisco; Thanks Community and Guests with Elevate Contest and Special Offer at Virgin America San Francisco Giants Home Game 

This weekend, Virgin America, the California-based airline that is making flying good again, is marking its second birthday with a special contest to thank its current Elevate Loyalty Program members and welcome its one-millionth member. The airline currently counts 950,000 Elevate members to date and is due to cross the one-million marker later this month. To celebrate the milestone, the one-millionth member will win 100,000 Elevate points - the equivalent of a year* of free flights on Virgin America (up to 20 short haul roundtrips or eight long hauls). Current Elevate members also have a shot at winning a year** of free flights by sharing their favorite "Virgin" experience at: www.virginamerica.com/onemillion.

Elevate is Virgin America's first-of-its-kind loyalty program, which offers guests the ability to redeem points for any unsold seat - on any Virgin America flight, at any time. Elevate offers Web-based redemption with dynamic pricing and no black-out dates, so guests don't have to jump through hoops to find or book the flights they've earned. When the one-millionth Elevate member is announced later this month, Elevate members will also receive a special discount offer for travel on the airline - in appreciation of their loyalty.

"Virgin America was launched to reinvent flying in the domestic skies, by offering innovative amenities and top-notch service for low fares," said Virgin America President and CEO David Cush. "In the past two years, we've marked a number of milestones en route: first to full fleet WiFi; creation of a 1400-strong team; a growing list of travel industry best-in-class awards; and expansion to nine destination cities. Through it all, we've been humbled by the outpouring of support from our community and guests. We couldn't be more pleased to celebrate our second anniversary than by thanking the people who believed we could change the way people fly -- our hometown, guests and teammates."

For the second year in a row, San Francisco Mayor Newsom has declared Aug. 8 "Virgin America Day" in the City of San Francisco. Virgin America teammates, top fliers and community supporters will continue the celebration Saturday evening at a San Francisco Giants home game at AT&T Park, where Cush will throw out the ceremonial first pitch. In special thanks to their hometown fans, Virgin America is giving all 42,000 attendees at AT&T Park on Saturday a special two-for-one deal on flights to any of Virgin America's destinations.***

"Congratulations to the only California-based airline - Virgin America, and its more than 1400 teammates on its second-year anniversary," said San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom. "As SFO continues to grow, while other airports report shrinking traffic - the addition of your low-fare, high-tech service has had a major impact on the Bay Area economy and has resonated with travelers. We look forward to many, many more anniversaries to come."

With just two years under its belt, Virgin America has much to celebrate with a list of travel industry best-in-class awards, including "Best Domestic Airline" in Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards in 2008 and 2009 and "Best Domestic Airline" in the Conde Nast Traveler 2008 Readers' Choice Awards. In May, the airline became the first to offer Gogo In-flight Internet service on every flight.

"Our teammates have accomplished a lot during our first two years, and it is great to know from the awards we've won that our guests think we're moving in the right direction as well," said Cush. "We built an airline from the ground-up by focusing on what guests actually want and now more than ever people are looking for value in their travel choices. As we grow, we hope that we'll continue to push the industry towards delivering lower fares, better service and more amenities in the markets we enter."

Virgin America has proven to be one of the fastest growing U.S. start-up airlines of all time. Since launching on Aug. 8, 2007, the airline has grown to more than 1400 teammates and more than 100 flights a day with service to nine destinations from its home-base at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). The only airline based in California, Virgin America has a brand new 28-aircraft Airbus A320-family fleet and has completed more than 45,000 flights, welcomed more than 27 million visitors to its Web Site, and served nearly 5 million guests since its launch. Operationally, Virgin America continues to excel, achieving a consistently high and impressive 83.2 percent A-14 on-time performance for the year-to-date in 2009. The carrier's mishandled baggage rate is also industry-leading, with an average of 1.25 bags per 1000 guests year-to-date in 2009, versus the industry average of 4.29 bags per 1000 guests.

In its first two years of flying, Virgin America has marked a few other notable highlights:

• First airline to offer GoGo In-flight Internet fleetwide in May 2009, via a live SKYPE chat with Oprah Winfrey and her studio audience;
• First airline to capture Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards "Best Domestic Airline" in its first years flying - for 2008 and 2009;
• Only U.S. airline with power outlets at every seat;
• First U.S. airline to offer carbon offsets in-flight;
• First domestic airline to join the Climate Registry, a nonprofit organization that sets consistent standards to calculate, verify and report greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions;

• Partnered with world-renowned chef, Luke Mangan, to design a new health-focused, gourmet menu in First Class;

• Won high ratings in the 2008 Zagat Airline Survey;

• Named "Best Domestic Airline" in the Conde Nast Traveler 2008 Readers' Choice Awards;
• First in-flight premiere of a television series with episode one of "Entourage" season five launching the airline's LAS-JFK route;
• First commercial passenger airline to be accepted into the Environmental Protection Agency's Climate Leaders program;

• First U.S. airline with a "food button" or touch-screen seatback food ordering system at every seat;
• First domestic airline to offer more than 30 on-demand movies at every seat;
• Newest domestic fleet in U.S., which is up to 25 percent more carbon and fuel efficient than other domestic airlines;
• First U.S. airline to offer loyalty member an opportunity to fly their way to a seat on a Virgin Galactic flight;
• First U.S. airline to launch a loyalty program where members could earn points from the day the airline launched. 

Virgin America flies to San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C., Seattle, Las Vegas, San Diego, Boston and Orange County. The airline is one of the fastest growing of all time, with a new 28-aircraft Airbus A320-family fleet and daily flights from: SFO to LAX, SFO to JFK, SFO to SAN, SFO to IAD, SFO to LAS, LAX to JFK, LAX to IAD, SFO to SEA, SEA to LAX, JFK to LAS, BOS to LAX, BOS to SFO, and SFO to SNA.

Air China Launches China's First Business Travel Card

Travel card offers business travelers exclusive services and promotions 

Air China has launched the 'Air China Business Travel Card', becoming the first airline in China's civil aviation industry to introduce such a service.

In order to meet business passengers' needs, Air China has integrated the services offered through e-commerce and frequent flyer programs to launch the 'Air China Business Travel Card'. There are four types of card available -- The Distinguished Travel Card, The Clear Travel Card, The Smooth Travel Card and The Easy Travel Card. These cards can be used to store credit, book tickets, collect frequent flyer miles and utilize complimentary services. The cards come with a credit value of between RMB 20,000 and 300,000.

Air China has launched several promotions and limited edition versions of the business travel cards. The first 99 customers to purchase a limited edition Distinguished Travel Card will receive a complimentary first-class roundtrip ticket to any of Air China's international destinations. The first 500 customers to purchase a limited edition Distinguished Travel Card will receive a Gold PhoenixMiles Card.

The first 199 customers to purchase a limited edition Clear Travel Card will receive a complimentary first-class roundtrip ticket to any of Air China's domestic destinations. The first 1000 customers to purchase a limited edition Clear Travel Card will receive a silver PhoenixMiles Card.

The first 299 customers to purchase one of the 10,000 limited edition Smooth Travel Cards, will receive a complimentary economy roundtrip ticket to any of Air China's domestic destinations, plus complimentary credit of RMB 3,000.

The first 399 customers to purchase one of the 200,000 limited edition Easy Travel Cards, will receive a complimentary economy one-way ticket to any of Air China's domestic destinations, plus complimentary credit of RMB 1,000.

The promotion is valid from August 6, 2009 to December 31, 2009. Passengers can call +86-4008-986-999 and then press 6 to order their Business Travel Card. Once ordered, the card can be used starting September 16, 2009. Once the card's credit is used, it can be recharged. If lost, a new card can be issued at the appointed Air China sales offices. For more product information, please visit http://www.airchina.com.cn or call the booking hotline at +86-4008-986-999 and press 6 for details.

Continental Airlines Begins New Nonstop Service From Honolulu and Guam to Nadi, Fiji

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

Continental Airlines today announced new service from its Guam hub and Honolulu to Nadi, Fiji beginning Dec. 18, 2009. The flights will also offer convenient connections from the U.S. mainland, Japan and Continental's Micronesian network to Nadi.

"We are pleased to add Nadi to our portfolio of Pacific destinations," said Jim Compton, Continental's executive vice president of marketing. "Fiji is a popular vacation spot that attracts visitors from around the world, and we see a strong demand for leisure travel to the area."

The service will be operated by Continental Micronesia using two-cabin Boeing 737-800 aircraft with 155 seats.

The flights from Guam's A.B. Won Pat International Airport (GUM) will operate on Mondays and Fridays departing at 10:55 p.m. and arriving at Nadi International Airport (NAN) at 7:30 a.m. the next morning. Return flights will operate on Wednesdays and Sundays departing Nadi at 12:40 a.m. and arriving in Guam at 5:10 a.m. the same day.

The flights from Honolulu International Airport (HNL) will operate on Mondays and Fridays departing at 6:55 p.m. and arriving in Nadi at 11:40 p.m. the following day. Return flights will operate on Tuesdays and Saturdays departing at 8:50 a.m. and arriving in Honolulu at 5:25 p.m. the previous day, after crossing the International Date Line.

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 2,750 daily departures throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia, serving 133 domestic and 132 international destinations. More than 750 additional points are served via current alliance partners. With more than 43,000 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.

JetBlue Unveils an Even More Rewarding TrueBlue Customer Loyalty Program.

JetBlue Airways set out to bring humanity back to air travel when it launched service nearly a decade ago, and this fall the airline plans to bring a bit of sanity back to the business of frequent flier programs with a complete revamp of TrueBlue, its customer loyalty program.

The new program is scheduled to launch Sept. 28, 2009, and makes TrueBlue more rewarding, more flexible, and more valuable for the airline's jetters - whether they're road warriors or occasional travelers. It also turns the traditional frequent flier model on its tail by changing the way points are earned and redeemed.

Earning Points

Points in the redesigned TrueBlue program will be based on dollars spent with JetBlue , instead of flight length. Customers will be rewarded with three TrueBlue points for every eligible dollar they spend with JetBlue, plus double points (six per dollar) will be awarded for purchases made through www.jetblue.com (a). Customers can also continue to accrue points by using the JetBlue Card from American Express: every $1 of eligible spending will equal 1 TrueBlue point, as well as double points for purchases made at JetBlue .

Customers will also enjoy bonus points after reaching specific thresholds in TrueBlue. The "Go Big Bonus" offers customers more points the more they jet:

        You will receive a

Once you reach* "Go Big Bonus" of

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

3,000 points 500   points

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

6,000 points 1,000 points

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

9,000 points 2,000 points

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

12,000 points 4,000 points

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

For every 3,000 4,000 points

points above 

12,000 points

*Restricted to points earned solely from purchasing air travel on jetblue.com and within a twelve month period. "Go Big Bonus" points do not count towards your next point threshold trigger.

A "Go Long Bonus" will offer customers who jet on ten one-way long-haul flights (2,000 miles in distance or longer, the equivalent of only 5 transcontinental roundtrips) within a year a whopping 10,000 bonus points -- enough for a roundtrip award flight (b). Example of eligible "Go Long" routes include Boston to Los Angeles or San Francisco; Long Beach, Calif. to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., or Washington, D.C.; and New York to Barbados or Saint Lucia.

Redeeming Points

In an industry reversal, JetBlue will make every seat on every flight available for TrueBlue redemption (c). Just as regular fares vary, the points required for a TrueBlue award flight will also vary according to the specific flight chosen and factors including the destination, day of the week, season, and advance booking window, making TrueBlue points currency you can use to "buy" your award flight.

One-way award flights will be available starting at a mere 5,000 points and will increase in increments of 100 points based on the above factors. As an added bonus, there are no blackout dates when redeeming TrueBlue awards (c).

"Frequent flier memberships are commonplace these days, but they're frequently a point of frustration," said Dave Canty, JetBlue's director of loyalty marketing. "Airlines have made miles easy to earn but not always easy to use. At JetBlue, we knew there had to be a better way to reward loyalty. That's why we're thrilled to launch a completely redesigned TrueBlue that makes points just as easy to redeem as they are to accrue. It's just another way JetBlue is continuing to work hard to be the most customer-friendly airline in the Americas."

TrueBlue points will not expire as long as a customer takes 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).

Current TrueBlue customers will be moved seamlessly to the redesigned program in September, and all existing points and awards will remain valid through their indicated expiration date. To enroll in TrueBlue or to learn more about the program, visit www.jetblue.com/trueblue/newprogram.

JetBlue will continue improving the TrueBlue program, including introducing enhancements throughout the fall that will make the program richer and even more rewarding, including hotel, car and retail partners.

(a) Points will be awarded based on dollars spent on the published base fare paid on your own individual eligible flight. Airport or Passenger Facility Charges, the September 11 Security Fee, Federal Segment Taxes (a segment is a takeoff and landing), US Departure Tax, APHIS fee, Customs and Immigration fees, and other taxes and fees are not eligible to earn Points. The base airfare purchase price for the flight portion of the Getaways and Cruise Vacation Packages will be eligible to earn TrueBlue Points. All other travel services or products purchased as a part of such vacation packages, including but not limited to, hotels, rental cars, and cruises, shall be ineligible for TrueBlue Point accrual.

(b) Certain flights will require more points to redeem award travel based on, among other things the flight chosen and peak travel periods. TrueBlue Members are responsible for (a) Passenger Facility Charges of up to $9.00 each way, (b) September 11th Security Fees of up to $2.50 per enplanement at a U.S. originating airport, (c) Federal Segment Taxes of $3.60 per domestic segment (a segment is a takeoff and landing), (d) in the case of Puerto Rico and international travel, government fees and taxes of up to $127.60, and (e) any other fees, taxes or surcharges applicable to Award travel.

(c) No blackout dates apply to JetBlue operated flights only. Blackout dates apply to code share and interline flights.