Pro-X-Travel

Delta Continues to Build Asian Gateway in Detroit

Flights connecting Detroit to Seoul, Hong Kong begin this week

Delta Air Lines this week begins nonstop flights from its Detroit Metropolitan Airport hub to Seoul-Incheon and Hong Kong. The new routes, along with expanded service to Shanghai, continue Delta's development of Detroit as a major gateway to Asia thanks to its strategic geographic position for millions of customers who travel between the U.S. East Coast and Asia. On a year-round basis, Delta offers Detroit customers service to 158 nonstop destinations, including 28 international destinations and five in Asia.

"Delta's development of Detroit as a major international hub and gateway to Asia has been a boon for our customers and this community," said Andrea Fischer Newman, Delta's senior vice president – Government Affairs. "With service to 12 small- and medium-sized Michigan communities, Delta connects not only Detroit but customers statewide to the world with one convenient connection at one of the world's top-rated airports for customer satisfaction."

Delta in October will inaugurate twice weekly service from Detroit to Sao Paulo, South America's largest business market. The new Detroit service will create a second competitive gateway to Brazil from the Midwest region. Delta plans to add service from Detroit to Tokyo's Haneda Airport complementing the airline's current service connecting Detroit to Tokyo at Narita. Service to Tokyo-Haneda is pending final U.S. government approval.

The new and expanded service from Detroit is part of Delta's summer 2010 schedule, the first fully consolidated schedule published following Delta's merger with Northwest. Compared to Northwest's 2007 schedule, Delta has introduced 15 new nonstop destinations from Detroit including eight new international destinations. The merger combined Delta's broad network to Europe, Middle East, Africa and Latin America with Northwest's Asian network providing single airline access to the world.

New nonstop service between Detroit and Hong Kong begins June 2.
Flight	Departs	Arrives	Frequency
27	Detroit at 3:30 p.m.	Hong Kong at 7:15 p.m.*	Five times weekly
26	Hong Kong at 9:15 a.m.	Detroit at 12:10 p.m.	Five times weekly

Expanded nonstop service between Detroit and Shanghai, China begins today.
Flight	Departs	Arrives	Frequency
19	Detroit at 4:35 p.m.	Shanghai at 7:20 p.m.*	Daily
18	Departs Shanghai at 10 a.m.	Detroit at 12:05 p.m.	Daily
*Flight arrives the following day.

Delta customers flying at Detroit Metropolitan Airport enjoy 579 peak-day departures from the state-of-the-art, 121-gate terminal designed specifically for international connections. Detroit's airport recently was ranked No. 1 among large airports in overall customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates.

Customers on the new flights will have the opportunity to experience Delta's award-winning BusinessElite service, including innovative food offerings from celebrity chef Michelle Bernstein and original wine selections chosen by Delta's Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson. BusinessElite also features on-demand personal in-seat entertainment boasting more than 20 first-run and popular classic movies, a variety of TV programs, thousands of music titles and a suite of video games.

Routes operated with Delta's new Boeing 777-200LR aircraft, including Detroit to Hong Kong, offer BusinessElite customers a fully flat, six-foot, three-inch bed in a one-two-one configuration, which provides every customer with direct aisle access.

As previously announced, Delta will invest $1 billion, or about $300 million per year, through mid-2013 to improve the customer experience in the air and on the ground. The product investment includes installing full flat-bed seats in BusinessElite on 90 trans-oceanic aircraft, including 14 Boeing 767-400ERs, 52 Boeing 767-300ERs, 16 Boeing 747-400s and eight Boeing 777-200ERs. Upon completion, each of these fleets will have full flat-bed seats on all aircraft. Delta also will add in-seat audio and video on demand throughout Economy Class on 16 Boeing 747-400 and 52 Boeing 767-300ER aircraft. With these additions, Delta will offer personal, in-seat entertainment for both BusinessElite and Economy class customers on all wide-body aircraft. Additional information about these product investments is available at http://news.delta.com/index.php?s=43&item=870.

The new service in Detroit is part of a series of Delta schedule enhancements this summer to strengthen its international network for summer 2010. The changes - which will expand service for customers in 17 cities - leverage Delta's industry-leading joint venture with Air France-KLM, growing alliance relationship with Alaska Air Group and increased fleet flexibility gained from its merger with Northwest. A complete list of Delta's summer 2010 seasonal service is available at http://news.delta.com/index.php?DB=mr4enh_delta&s=11. The airline's expanding global network also benefits Delta Cargo customers, opening up more opportunities to ship directly to more markets than any carrier in the world. More information is available at deltacargo.com.

SOURCE Delta Air Lines

The go-to airport for diverted flights

JetBlue to Launch Service at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

New low fare competition set to begin in November - - Initial schedule of eight daily flights planned - - JetBlue's third airport in the Baltimore-Washington metro area

JetBlue Airways today is proud to announce plans to serve the popular Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) beginning in November 2010 (a). Customer-favorite JetBlue intends to initially offer travelers at least eight daily departures from DCA to select East Coast destinations, complementing its existing low fare service from Washington Dulles International Airport and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. JetBlue's new DCA flights are expected to go on sale at www.jetblue.com at a later date, pending schedule confirmation and final airport negotiations.

"Capital-area travelers who prefer the ease of traveling from Reagan National have waited far too long for JetBlue's award-winning, low fare service," said Robert Land, JetBlue's Senior Vice President of Government Affairs and Associate General Counsel. "We are thrilled to finally be entering the DCA market, injecting high-quality competition into this centrally located airport."

JetBlue's access to Reagan National is part of an agreement with American Airlines announced today and through which JetBlue will also acquire slots for additional daily service at Westchester County Airport in suburban White Plains, N.Y.

Terms of the slot transfer were not disclosed, and regulatory approval is not required for this transaction.

In addition to the access to Reagan National outlined today, last week JetBlue filed for approval from the United States Department of Transportation on a proposed slot transfer transaction with US Airways that would result in JetBlue securing a further five in-perimeter slot pairs at Reagan National. In order to offer a robust schedule that provides even more value for Reagan National customers, JetBlue today petitioned the FAA for access to unused slot pairs in the early morning and late-evening hours.

SOURCE JetBlue

(a) Subject to negotiations with Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, operator of DCA.

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

New York Loves New York's Hometown Airline

JetBlue support center to move to Long Island City, Queens

JetBlue Airways, New York's hometown airline, announces today the decision to keep its headquarters in New York City, and to combine the current Forest Hills, NY and Darien, CT corporate offices, with nearly 1,000 crewmembers and business partners in total, into one main support center to be located in Long Island City, Queens.  In addition, recognizing JetBlue as New York's Hometown Airline, JetBlue and the State will begin joint branding of the world-recognized I Love NY logo, an unprecedented partnership with the State's iconic brand.

"New York and JetBlue are made for each other," said Dave Barger, JetBlue Chief Executive Officer.  "After an exhaustive study to determine the best location for our corporate offices, we have decided that remaining in our hometown of New York makes the most sense for our company.  The city is an important part of our heritage and culture, our brand and our customer connection, as well as our operation, with our base at JFK's Terminal 5.  As we enter our second decade, we are proud to be New York's Hometown Airline, and look forward to welcoming our customers locally and across our network with our award-winning service and the high-value JetBlue Experience."

"JetBlue engaged cities around the country in a selection process to determine where to build a central corporate office and grow jobs over the long term. New York City prevailed, and both our city and the airline are better off for it," said Mayor Bloomberg. "There was a time when New York might have taken such an exercise lightly, relying on the city's reputation to win out. But cities across the country and around the world are engaged in an increasingly competitive environment to attract growing companies, and – while we can't always compete on cost – we've worked extremely hard to strengthen and highlight New York City's competitive advantages. The 200 jobs the company will move to and add in New York City and the new Long Island City headquarters it will build will be significant contributions to the local and citywide economies. We wish the company much success in the years ahead, and look forward to our continued partnership."

"The relationship between New York State and JetBlue is exactly the kind of innovative economic partnership that we have fought to deliver, especially now, at a time when our State needs it most," said Governor Paterson. "JetBlue's plans to invest millions directly into New York's economy will create more jobs and provide more opportunities for all New Yorkers. As our State and City work to create strategic economic opportunities, we will continue to help companies like JetBlue develop and grow right here – in the great State of New York."

"JetBlue is New York's hometown airline and they made the right call in choosing to stay right here where they belong – in the Big Apple," said Senator Charles Schumer.  "From Buffalo to Rochester to Syracuse to Stewart Airport I have enjoyed watching JetBlue develop into a terrific organization that is a vital part of the Empire State's economic vibrancy.  New York State and New York City via ESDC and EDC have crafted a creative package that makes sense for JetBlue, for its employees and for the people of New York.  I look forward to many more years of JetBlue's first-class service and affordable travel options and to this dynamic company staying and growing here in New York."

"I'm very pleased that JetBlue is cleared for landing. The airline's decision to keep their world headquarters here in New York City is welcome news," said Senator Gillibrand. "JetBlue has grown into the seventh largest airline in no small part due to the hard work of the nearly 1,000 local employees at its world headquarters that are among the more than 5,000 crewmembers that also work at airports and maintenance facilities across New York State. I was proud to work with officials at all levels to present JetBlue with a very strong offer. I look forward to working with them in the years to come as they remain one of New York City's premier corporations."

"As the only airline whose corporate headquarters is located in New York City I am extremely pleased that JetBlue's headquarters will remain in our great city," said Congressman Meeks. "This decision by JetBlue Airways has allowed nearly 1,000 jobs to remain in New York City and its continuing commitment to growing at JFK airport shows that they are a true partner to the people of the city of New York.  I look forward to their continued growth at JFK and throughout the city in creating jobs and opportunities for New Yorkers."  

"We are delighted that JetBlue, a company that started in Queens and employs many Queens residents, is staying right here in America's most diverse county," said Borough President Marshall. "This decision saves hundreds of jobs during a difficult economic period and represents JetBlue's commitment to Queens and the City of New York. We couldn't be happier. I also thank Mayor Bloomberg and the City's Economic Development Corporation and all the elected officials and parties who worked together to bring about this wonderful announcement today."

"New York City's unrivaled infrastructure, economic potential, and access to top-tier talent make it an ideal location for companies that what to expand their competitive edge," said NYCEDC President Seth W. Pinsky. "JetBlue's decision to relocate to Long Island City and grow there not only solidifies the company's incredible entrepreneurial vision, but also underscores the City's position as the business and innovation capital of the word."

"Today's announcement that JetBlue will remain and expand its headquarters in New York City illustrates what we know to be true—that New York State is the number one location to grow a business," said Empire State Development Chairman and CEO designate Dennis M. Mullen.  "Not only does this project create jobs and investment in New York, it affords us the opportunity to align the iconic I Love New York brand with JetBlue.  This renewed partnership will no doubt bolster the state's tourism economy and demonstrate that New York State is open for business, as well as for leisure travel."

"This is a huge win for our passengers and for the Port Authority's entire regional airport system. It is also a real credit to JetBlue and its CEO Dave Barger for continuing to believe in New York, as well as Mayor Bloomberg, Governor Paterson, Senator Schumer and all of the leaders who played a key role in keeping JetBlue here at home," said Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Executive Director Ward. "We are also pleased to learn that JetBlue's new flagship terminal at JFK, which the Port Authority financed, was a critical factor in JetBlue's decision. We look forward to our ongoing partnership."

After an extensive multi-year review of several cities around the country, JetBlue narrowed its focus on New York City and Orlando.  While both locations have tremendous synergies with JetBlue, New York, among other reasons, means JetBlue can now truly lay claim as New York's Hometown Airline.  

JetBlue's Darien, CT support center will be combined with the current New York office sometime in 2011.  Seventy jobs will be relocated to New York.  The carrier's Darien office provides transactional financial support for the value airline since 2000 and has been a key ingredient of the airline's success in its first decade.

Orlando, which remains a significant city for JetBlue's network, is the airline's "home away from home" for more than 1,000 crewmembers and boasts JetBlue University, a world-class training facility, and support center.  The airline continues to grow operations at Orlando International Airport offering 23 nonstop destinations, including six international cities.  

New Address: 27-01 Queens Plaza North, Long Island City, New York

Subject to execution of a lease with Metropolitan Life Insurance Co. (MetLife), JetBlue expects to occupy approximately 200,000 square feet by mid-2012 in the historic Brewster Building in Long Island City Queens.  The Brewster Building, owned by Brause Realty, a New York City-based real estate company, is just six miles down the road from JetBlue's current support center location in Forest Hills, and is situated at the foot of one of the main gateways to Manhattan -- the Queensborough Bridge.  

The Brewster Building has a relevant aviation history.  It was built in 1911 and is where the Brewster Aeronautical Company manufactured the Brewster F2A (a.k.a. The Brewster Buffalo), the first monoplane fighter airplane used by the U.S. Navy in World War II.  In addition, the building is recognized by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) as having achieved Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design for Existing Buildings (LEED EB) Silver certification, which designates operation of high performance buildings that are environmentally responsible.  JetBlue will be subleasing the space from MetLife, who will continue to maintain a significant presence at the location with approximately 800 associates.

"We are pleased that JetBlue, has made their decision to join us and establish their headquarters at our class A Long Island City facility," said John M. Vazquez, Vice President, Chief Procurement Officer, Vendor Sourcing and Corporate Services for MetLife.  "Our mutual commitment to Long Island City is evidence that the area continues to grow and prosper with significant residential and business development.  We are confident that JetBlue crewmembers will feel right at home in our headquarters quality building and will enjoy the full array of amenities available.  We value this partnership with JetBlue and appreciate having such a well regarded and customer focused organization complement MetLife."

David Brause, President of Brause Realty Inc. and Chairman of the Long Island City Business Improvement District (BID), said, "We are very pleased that JetBlue Airways has chosen to lease our family's building in Long Island City for its new headquarters location.  In partnership with our tenant, MetLife, Brause Realty looks forward to many years together with JetBlue as we accommodate this vibrant company's present space needs and their growth into the future."

"We look forward to creating an exciting new home that is welcoming to our crewmembers, customers and business partners," Mr. Barger said.  "In making an announcement today, it was important to for us to announce not just our hometown, but also the location.  We are very pleased with our new space and the Brewster Building, with its rich history in transportation.  It offers many opportunities to design a space that is flexible and adaptable to suit our needs, making it a clear winner for JetBlue.  We look forward to our new home and a strong partnership with MetLife and Brause Realty."

JetBlue aims to be the Americas' Favorite Airline by delivering superior customer service, the award-winning JetBlue Experience and the best domestic coach product in the skies.  The airline inaugurated service between New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with two daily nonstop flights on Feb. 11, 2000.   JetBlue offers the most nonstop departures from JFK and the most domestic departures from the New York metro area of any major domestic carrier.  JetBlue is also the single largest airline operating nonstop between New York and Florida (a) and the 7^th largest passenger carrier in the United States (b), serving 60 destinations in 20 states, Puerto Rico and 11 countries in the Caribbean and Latin America. 

JetBlue's home base of operations is Terminal 5 at New York's JFK, a state-of-the art terminal that opened in October of 2008.  T5 focuses on efficiency and customer comfort. The 635,000-square-foot terminal boasts 26 gates distributed throughout three concourses and includes a 55,000-square-foot central retail and concession Marketplace. T5 is designed to accommodate up to 20 million annual customers with up to 250 daily departures.

SOURCE: JetBlue

Travelers Can Now Book Airport Vans From iPhone

The GO Group has launched a new web-based application that allows travelers to book a GO airport shuttle from their iPhones.

The app is designed also to work with Apple's web-enabled iPod Touch and the soon-to-be released iPad.

"Frequent travelers, in particular, will appreciate the ability to book ground transportation quickly from any location on their mobile device," says John McCarthy, president of The GO Group, which is comprised of 28 ground transportation companies, serving 52 airports in the United States, Canada and Europe.

To make a reservation, the iPhone user accesses the GO website www.goairportshuttle.com, and clicks on the iPhone icon on the home page to reach a special reservation page.  By bookmarking the site and clicking the "add to home screen" option, an icon will appear on the phone's home screen to expedite future bookings.

The mobile application was developed by The Hudson Group, a Lawrence, MA, reservation systems technology company.

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

T5 takes home the titles of Terminal with the 'Best Concessions Program Design,'

'Most Unique Services,' 'Best Overall Concessions Program,' and

'Best Concessions Management Team'

JetBlue Airways today announced it has received top honors in four categories in Airport Revenue News' (ARN) 2010 Best Airport & Concessionaire Awards in the Single Terminal Division for its state-of-the-art home base at New York's Terminal 5 at JFK, including: 'Terminal with the Best Concessions Program Design;' 'Terminal with the Most Unique Services;' 'Terminal with the Best Overall Concessions Program;' and, 'Terminal with the Best Concessions Management Team.'

"JetBlue is thrilled to receive four individual awards for our T5 concession program in ARN's airport survey this year, and we thank the many business partners and crewmembers that have helped us revolutionize the airport experience for JetBlue customers," said Mitch Nadler, Director of Concession Management at JetBlue Airways. "We would also like to congratulate our individual concessionaires who also took home awards from ARN this year. We are extremely proud of Terminal 5 and all it has to offer, and we will continue to strive for high customer satisfaction and optimal revenue performance."

Several individual operators that have locations at JetBlue's T5, as well as other airports across the nation, also received awards honoring their achievements in the airport concession industry, including:

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

For the second year in a row, nominating and judging for the 2010 awards was conducted entirely online and resulted in unprecedented industry participation. Consistent from previous years, more than 200 airport executives voted for concession companies and concessionaires voted for airport programs, eliminating any conflict of interest issues from the process.

JetBlue's T5 at JFK was inaugurated in October, 2008. T5 has the ability to handle up to 20 security lanes, 26 gates, free Wi-Fi, 22 restaurants and food outlets, 25 retail stores, and a large children's play area. The 635,000-square-foot building was designed to handle up to 20 million passengers per year.

Travelers Willing to Trade Convenience for Security But Are Not Sold on New TSA Rules

Half Believe the TSA is Not Doing a Good Job of Increasing Security 

82% of Respondents in Favor of Security "Profiling"

 

TripAdvisor, the world's most trusted source of travel advice, today announced the results of its Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security guidelines survey of more than 1,100 U.S. respondents. Although recent incidents have spurred new security guidelines and concerns, 96 percent of respondents are still planning to fly this year. Only eight percent of travelers said they have changed their 2010 flight plans at all in light of new security guidelines.

Familiar, But Not Feeling It

Seventy-two percent of travelers said they are either completely or mostly familiar with the latest TSA airport security guidelines. When asked if the new measures are appropriate, though, 42 percent said yes, 34 percent said the TSA was overreacting and 24 percent said the new guidelines are not strict enough.

TSA Doesn't Get an "A" from Travelers

Despite new security initiatives being undertaken by the TSA, 50 percent of travelers believe the agency is not doing a good job of increasing security. Twenty percent of respondents said the TSA was doing a good job, while 30 percent were unsure. About a third of respondents (33 percent) think the TSA should focus on improving airport security by providing better training for staff, while 25 percent cited increased coordination with foreign airport security officials.

Suspicions Rise

Eighty-two percent of respondents support the security "profiling" of certain passengers based on their race, ethnicity, religion, or national origin, and subjecting them to additional airport security screenings.

Security Over Convenience

Seventy-seven percent of travelers said they would rather have enhanced airport screenings, even if it meant longer lines at the airport. Thirty-five percent of travelers said they would favor a ban on carry-on luggage if it would make flights more secure.

Excited About Deals, But Dreading Delays

When asked what they were most excited about in air travel for 2010, 41 percent of travelers said great online airfare deals, followed by 15 percent for in-flight Wi-Fi and eight percent for increased airport security. When asked what they were most concerned about in air travel for 2010, 28 percent cited longer security lines, 23 percent higher airfares and 22 percent more airline fees.

Ready to Act

Ninety-nine percent of travelers said that they would take action if they observed suspicious activity on their flight. Ninety-one percent would alert a flight attendant to the suspicious behavior, while nine percent would take matters into their own hands.

Erring at Airports?

Ninety-six percent of travelers think that the level of security varies from airport to airport across the U.S. Only 37 percent of respondents think that U.S. airports are more secure than foreign airports.

Don't Tinker with In-Flight Toilets

Seventy-six percent of travelers do not think airlines should ban in-flight bathroom use during the first and last hours of flights, as was the case on some flights following December 25, 2009. Twenty-two percent of respondents would support the ban as long as there were reasonable exceptions in place, such as for travelers flying with young children.

Dressing for Airport Security Success

Sixty-four percent of respondents said they dress differently when going to the airport in order to avoid setting off the metal detector. Despite the precautions, however, 70 percent of travelers said they have set off the metal detector at the airport.

More Screenings, But Still Flaws

Thirty-seven percent of respondents said they have made it through security with a prohibited item. Seventy-two percent of travelers said they have been selected for additional screening at an airport security checkpoint, with eight percent of those respondents reporting their secondary screening took place after December 25, 2009.  

"Despite recent events and airport security changes, the vast majority of travelers aren't changing any flight plans for 2010," said Bryan Saltzburg, general manager of new initiatives at TripAdvisor. "Travelers appreciate the need for increased security at airports so they can have safe and enjoyable flights. Ideally, enhanced security won't come with added hassle at the airport."

SOURCE TripAdvisor

AT&T Launches Wi-Fi Service at Tulsa Airport

Travelers Can Stay Connected With Wireless Internet Service in the Gates and Terminals

Travelers who will be making their way through the Tulsa International Airport will now have the added convenience of having access to AT&T's wireless Internet service at their fingertips. AT&T* -- an industry leader in Wi-Fi with the nation's largest Wi-Fi network -- and the Tulsa International Airport today announced that AT&T Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.

AT&T Wi-Fi service will be available at all gates, ticket counters and baggage claim areas, enabling travelers to use their smartphones, laptop computers, and other Wi-Fi enabled devices to stay connected. Tulsa International Airport adds to the growing list of AT&T Wi-Fi venues in popular locations where people have a need to stay connected.

"By providing Wi-Fi service to Tulsa International Airport visitors, we're making travel easier than ever before, which is especially priceless for those who are always on the go," said Alexis Higgins, director of marketing for Tulsa Airport Authority. "You'll be able to surf the Web and e-mail while waiting to depart or as soon as you land."

The airport Wi-Fi service is available to more than 27 million AT&T customers who have Wi-Fi included in their AT&T broadband, smartphone and 3G LaptopConnect plans. Other travelers can purchase access for $7.99 for a 24-hour session.

"Tulsa Airport is a great addition to our network of more than 20,000 Wi-Fi hotspots nationwide," said Steve Gray, vice president and general manager, Oklahoma and Arkansas, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets. "Reliable and convenient Internet access is a must-have for travelers, and AT&T Wi-Fi makes it easy to find an online connection."

The new airport Wi-Fi service is expected to see high usage, as consumer demand for Wi-Fi is surging. AT&T has reported a record year for Wi-Fi connections on its network -- more than 51 million Wi-Fi connections in 2009, as of the third quarter. AT&T's Wi-Fi network complements its wired broadband and wireless 3G networks, offering Wi-Fi connectivity in more than 20,000 U.S. locations -- including retail stores, restaurants and coffee shops from coast-to-coast.

A full list of AT&T Wi-Fi locations, including airport locations, is available at www.attwifi.com.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

SOURCE AT&T Inc.

SuperShuttle to Open Airport Transportation in Paris

 SuperShuttle, the largest shared ride airport transportation service in the U.S., just launched its first international service in Paris, France. The new service is available from Charles de Gaulle (CDG) - main international airport, ORLY (ORY) and the local airport Beauvais (BVA) to anywhere in Paris including hotels, local residences, and Disneyland Paris.

1. Service: all three Paris airports, seven train stations and Disneyland Paris
2. Shared ride and private transfer
3. Comfortable new, air-conditioned vehicles
4. Service is by reservation only
5. Currently reservations can be made online through the French website www.supershuttleparis.fr or by phone during the hours of 1:00 AM - 3:00 PM Eastern Standard Time: Tel: +33 1 43 65 55 55
6. Reservations must be made 24 hours prior to travel

US customers traveling to Paris will be able to book reservations through the U.S. SuperShuttle website and call center in early 2010.

Pricing for Paris will be the same whether your destination is a hotel, residence, office or train station. The fare to or from Charles de Gaulle and Paris city center is 27 EUR for the first passenger and 17 EUR per additional adult in the same party. Children under 12 are priced at 12 EUR per child. Veolia Transport, headquartered in Paris, bought SuperShuttle International in 2006 and started Veolia Transportation On Demand headquartered in Scottsdale, AZ. This is the first expansion for SuperShuttle in the international market and Veolia chose its hometown of Paris for the first international rollout.

SuperShuttle International, based in Phoenix, AZ, is a division of Veolia Transportation On Demand and a subsidiary of Veolia Environment (Euronext: VIE, VE). SuperShuttle serves 33 airports, carrying more than eight million passengers a year. Airports served by SuperShuttle include some of the largest in the country including Los Angeles, New York, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Washington, D.C. and Miami. Please go to www.supershuttle.com for more information.

SOURCE SuperShuttle International

SeatGuru Picks the Top Five U.S. Airports to Get Stranded In

When Flights are Cancelled, Massages, Spray Tans, Showers & More Keep Travelers Happy

SeatGuru, the web's most comprehensive resource for airline information, today released its pick of the top five domestic airports to be stuck at, should travelers experience flight delays in their upcoming holiday travel season. SeatGuru founder Matt Daimler says, "We've picked these airports because of their amenities and attractions designed to help travelers relax and be entertained and pampered during any unfortunate, extended layovers."

Top Five Airports:

1. San Francisco International Airport (SFO). SFO's highlights include the famous Boudin's Bakery (and their sourdough bread), upscale shopping at Burberry, Coach and Gucci, XpressSpa services including massages and facials, museum exhibits throughout, shower facilities and a play area for children.
2. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). Among other offerings, SLC offers free Wi-Fi throughout the airport, views of the Wasatch Mountains, numerous restaurants and has won awards in pollution prevention, recycling and as the best on-time airport for departures in the past.
3. Portland International Airport (PDX). Named Nation's Best Airport by Conde Nast Traveler three years in a row, PDX is eco-friendly (new solar panels produce electricity and the Best of Nike store is powered by 75% solar energy), has free Wi-Fi, no sales tax and local restaurants have a strong presence with eateries such as Pizza Schmizza, Rose City Cafe and Laurelwood Brewing Company calling it home.
4. McCarran International Airport (LAS). In addition to countless slot machines, LAS also boasts an aviation museum, massage locations, free Wi-Fi, the Jose Cuervo Tequileria, storage lockers to stash belongings, an oxygen bar, hotel souvenir shops, room check in for the MGM Grand and for long delays, it's just 5 miles from the strip.
5. Miami International Airport (MIA). At MIA, travelers can get manicures, pedicures, massages and even spray tanning at the JetSetter Spa, view ongoing art exhibitions, enjoy a hair cut at the salon, rent a mobile phone, and for members of the U.S. military, there's an Armed Services center for personnel that serves food and refreshments. There are also 30 dining choices including cuisine from Cuba, the Caribbean, Japan and more.

SOURCE SeatGuru

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.

AT&T Enhances Wireless Coverage at Boston Logan International Airport

Investment Provides Additional Capacity and Faster Data Speeds for Travelers

AT&T* today announced it has enhanced wireless coverage at Boston Logan International Airport by upgrading the Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) serving the airport terminals.

The upgrades include the addition of twelve antennas, each approximately the size of a box of chocolates, strategically placed throughout Terminals B, C, and E, providing expanded wireless signals for travelers, ground transportation workers and airport personnel. The unique and visually unobtrusive antenna systems add capacity to areas with a high density of mobile wireless device users. This will be especially helpful on peak travel days as we enter the holiday season.

This DAS expansion, which is also open to other wireless providers, is part of AT&T's ongoing investment to build the broadband networks that will fuel economic growth and create jobs, and enable its customers to quickly access the content, applications and services that matter most to them.

"Demand for wireless bandwidth is growing," said William Leahy, vice president, AT&T Atlantic Region legislative and regulatory affairs. "We're always looking for new opportunities to provide enhanced coverage and our investment in the local wireless network is just one way to accomplish this."

"Our goal is pretty simple: we want you to have an extraordinary experience when you make a call, check e-mail, download a song or video, or surf the Internet on your AT&T device," said Steve Krom, vice president and general manager for AT&T New England. "With this equipment upgrade, our customers can continue to ride the leading edge of mobile broadband with emerging devices and thousands of mobile applications."

The AT&T 3G network opens the door to a new era of advanced mobile services, devices and feature-rich content. With 3G speeds, you can surf the Web, download files faster than ever, and enjoy the very latest interactive mobile applications.

AT&T's 3G mobile broadband network is based on the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) family of technologies that includes GSM and UMTS, the most open and widely used wireless network platforms in the world. AT&T offers 3G data roaming in more than 100 countries, as well as voice calling in more than 215 countries.

AT&T offers unsurpassed choice in the range of devices, services and applications compatible with its 3G network. AT&T offers a wide variety of devices from more than a dozen manufacturers, including handsets that are compatible with six different operating systems and five different e-mail applications. AT&T's Media Mall 2.0 offers more than 90,000 content options, and customers can download virtually any application over the Internet. Additionally, AT&T supports a community of more than 20,000 application developers via its devCentral portal.

For more information about AT&T's coverage in western Massachusetts or anywhere in the United States, consumers can visit http://www.wireless.att.com/coverageviewer/. The online tool can measure the quality of coverage based on a street address, intersection, ZIP code or even a landmark.

For updates on the AT&T wireless network, please visit www.att.com/networknews.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

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

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.

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.

TSA to Begin Testing Imaging Technology at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced today that it will begin testing two types of advanced imaging technology at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. Imaging technologies quickly and unobtrusively screen passengers for metallic and nonmetallic threats without physical contact.

Millimeter wave and backscatter imaging technologies provide enhanced detection capabilities and are 100 percent optional for all passengers. Both technologies have privacy protections in place for the traveler. The security officer who assists the passenger through the screening process never sees the image the technology produces. The image is viewed by a remotely located security officer who never sees the traveler. Further, these technologies cannot save, print, or transmit images. Once the image is deleted it cannot be restored. To further protect passenger privacy, millimeter wave technology blurs all facial features and backscatter has an algorithm applied to the entire image.

"Imaging technologies are a critical layer of security that allows TSA to screen passengers for a wide range of threats," said Michael Young, Federal Security Director, Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, Transportation Security Administration. "TSA is committed to implementing new technologies that combine privacy protections with a high level of detection to ensure the safety of the traveling public."

Millimeter wave technology uses harmless electromagnetic waves and 10,000 times less energy than a cell phone to perform a single scan. Backscatter technology uses low-level X-ray's and a single scan is the equivalent of flying on an airplane for approximately two minutes. These technologies produce an image that allows TSA to remotely screen passengers for threats without physical contact.

At Cleveland, TSA will assess the operational efficiency and public acceptance of these technologies as the primary screening technology in lieu of the traditional metal detector. Both technologies are 100 percent optional for all passengers. Passengers that choose not to be screened by imaging technology will receive a physical pat down. It is anticipated the test will last approximately 60 days.

Imaging technology not only enhances security, it reduces the need for pat-down searches for passengers with joint replacements and other medical conditions.

Alaska Airlines Announces New San Jose-Austin Service

Carrier also adds flight between Portland and San Jose 

Alaska Airlines announced today it will inaugurate daily service between San Jose, Calif., and Austin, Texas, starting Sept. 2, 2009. The new flight will be available for purchase starting Thursday, June 25, at alaskaair.com and by calling 1-800-ALASKAAIR (1-800-252-7522).

Earlier this year, Alaska announced plans to link Seattle and Austin with a daily roundtrip flight starting Aug. 3, 2009.

"The San Jose-Austin route is a natural extension of our network, providing a vital link between two high-tech hubs," said Andrew Harrison, Alaska Airlines' vice president of planning and revenue management. "We are excited to offer this new market to our customers."

The new flight will depart San Jose at 8:55 a.m. Pacific time and arrive at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport at 2:15 p.m. Central time. The return flight will depart Austin at 3 p.m. Central time and arrive in San Jose at 4:40 p.m. Pacific time.

The flight will originate in Portland, Ore. An Alaska Airlines jet will replace one of five existing Horizon Air flights between Portland and San Jose, increasing capacity in the market. The Alaska flight will depart Portland at 6:20 a.m. Pacific time and arrive in San Jose at 8:10 a.m. Pacific time. The return flight will depart San Jose at 5:25 p.m. and arrive in Portland at 7:10 p.m.

Alaska Airlines will operate the flights with Boeing 737-800s, accommodating 16 passengers in first class and 141 in the main cabin.

LAX to Unveil New Warning System on Taxiways, Runway - Los Angeles Times

LAX to unveil new warning system on taxiways, runway - Los Angeles Times

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