12 Things in Travel You Need to Know Today
(This is a recurring post, updated daily with new information):
Friday, December 13
Yesterday’s TSA checkpoint numbers
TSA officers screened 2,566,989 people at airport checkpoints nationwide yesterday, December 12. One year ago on the same day: 2,502,604.
Federal Aviation Administration head Michael Whitaker to step down
Federal Aviation Administration chief Michael Whitaker said he will step down on Jan. 20, when President-elect Donald Trump is scheduled to be inaugurated. Whitaker, who was nominated to the top FAA role by President Joe Biden, began a five-year term in October 2023. Trump’s last appointed leader, ex-Delta captain Steve Dickson, stepped down in early 2022. CNBC
Pilots of turbulent Hawaiian Airlines flight should have gone around severe weather, report says
As they were coming in for a landing, a “plume” of bad weather suddenly appeared in front of Hawaiian Airlines pilots who hit severe turbulence just seconds later. Dozens of passengers were injured. Passengers experienced a “hard jolt” and then a “free fall” sensation. CNN
Boeing to spend $1 billion to expand 787 Dreamliner complex
Boeing Co. plans to invest $1 billion and hire 500 workers in South Carolina as it expands manufacturing of its 787 Dreamliner to capture surging demand for widebody jets. The project announced on Thursday includes an additional final-assembly plant at Boeing’s campus near Charleston International Airport, where it already builds the carbon-composite aircraft. Operations should be online by early 2027, the company said. Boeing also plans other projects in the region, including an expansion of a nearby interiors center. Bloomberg
‘Carry-On’ film conjures airport anxieties of the holiday season
For actor Taron Egerton, the Netflix action film “Carry-On” pays homage to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) workers and the on-the-job struggles they encounter, especially during the holiday season. “Our movie is absolutely a kind of spiritual salute to those guys, so I really hope that they feel good about it when they see it,” Egerton told Reuters. Reuters
Here’s how Airbnb is trying to block New Year’s Eve parties
Airbnb is stepping up to prevent unauthorized and disruptive parties this New Year’s Eve – or at least trying to. The short-term property rental company is rolling out new anti-party technology around the globe, aiming to block high-risk bookings and ensure a peaceful holiday for its hosts and neighbors. KTLA
Crystal Mangum, who accused three Duke lacrosse players of rape, now says she lied
Crystal Mangum, the former exotic dancer who accused three Duke men’s lacrosse players of rape in 2006, igniting a national firestorm, now says she lied about the encounter. “I testified falsely against them by saying that they raped me when they didn’t, and that was wrong. And I betrayed the trust of a lot of other people who believed in me,” Mangum said on the web show “Let’s Talk with Kat,” hosted by Katerena DePasquale. CNN
California couple killed while on holiday in Mexico, says local official
A California couple visiting Mexico for the holidays was shot and killed on Wednesday in the state of Michoacan, according to local authorities. The woman, 51, died inside the vehicle and the husband, 53, died in a nearby hospital where he was taken, Michoacan Prosecutor’s Office spokesperson Magdalena Guzman told CNN.
Blumenthal joins calls for New Jersey drones to be shot down “if necessary”
Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) has called for the drones spotted flying over New Jersey and other parts of the northeast to be shot down “if necessary” as the mystery continues over who is responsible for the unmanned aerial vehicles. Why it matters: The call for potential action comes as the White House said the drones have not been involved in any malicious activity, but lawmakers from the impacted states have grown frustrated by a lack of answers amid safety concerns. Axios
JetBlue will fly to Spain for the first time. See how its Airbus A321neo compares to the country’s flag carrier Iberia.
JetBlue flies its A321neo and A321LR variants across the Atlantic, the latter is a lower-ranged predecessor to Iberia’s A321XLR and is more premium-heavy. They host 160 and 114 seats, respectively. Each is equipped with lie-flat Mint seats, front-row Studios, and extra-legroom economy seats — the remaining are regular coach seats. Half of the A321LR cabin is premium seating. BI
Racist incidents led to a wakeup call for MSC
In February 2023 I wrote a column about racist incidents that travel advisor Margie Jordan and her Black guests encountered during an MSC cruise. Prior to its publication, I contacted MSC Cruises USA president Ruben Rodriguez to give him an opportunity to respond. He said, in part, that “these incidents are not consistent with our values, and we take them very seriously.” Travel Weekly
Boeing delays mean Trump won’t fly on a new Air Force One
President-elect Donald Trump didn’t get to fly on a new Air Force One during his first term. He likely won’t get to fly on a new presidential plane in his second term, either. The long-delayed project has fallen so far behind schedule that Boeing has told the Air Force that it expects to deliver the new jets after Trump leaves the White House, according to people familiar with the matter. That means the airplanes wouldn’t be ready until 2029 or later. WSJ
Train passenger fined £80 for sitting in wrong first-class carriage
A passenger was fined £80 for sitting in the wrong first-class carriage on a London-bound train. Theo Griffiths, 19, was handed a penalty fare while travelling on a Thameslink train to London on Tuesday. His punishment comes as tens of thousands of rail ticket prosecutions are being overturned by the courts following revelations that train companies have been misusing the law. The Telegraph
Thursday, December 12
Yesterday’s TSA checkpoint numbers
TSA officers screened 2,148,603 people at airport checkpoints nationwide yesterday, December 11. One year ago on the same day: 2,129,193.
Missing Hawaiian woman Hannah Kobayashi has been found safe, family says
Hannah Kobayashi has been found safe, her family said Wednesday. Through a family attorney, a statement said her family was “relieved and grateful” the 30-year-old Hawaii woman is safe after missing a flight in Los Angeles in November. “This past month has been an unimaginable ordeal for our family, and we kindly ask for privacy as we take the time to heal and process everything we have been through,” the statement, attributed to her mother Brandi Yee and sister Sydni Kobayashi, said. “We want to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported us during this difficult time. Your kindness and concern have meant the world to us.” USA Today
United, Apple rolling out new way to track lost luggage with AirTags
United Airlines travelers with lost luggage have a new tool to track their bags. If the lost bag has an Apple AirTag in it, that information can now be passed directly to United, the airline announced Thursday. The new feature, called Share Item Location, allows travelers with an AirTag or other Find My network accessory to share the location with the airline’s customer service team to help locate their luggage in the event it’s misplaced. The feature is now available with iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2 or macOS 15.2. CNN
FAA extends Haiti flight restrictions, barring most flights until March
The Federal Aviation Administration announced on Wednesday that it was extending flight restrictions for U.S. aircraft operating in Hatian airspace until March 12. The Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) prohibits flight operations below 10,000 feet in certain sectors of the sky over Haiti. The FAA initially announced restrictions on Nov. 11 after planes operated by JetBlue, American Airlines and Spirit Airlines were struck by gunfire at or near the airport in Port-au-Prince. Those restrictions were modified on Nov. 20 and were initially set to expire on Thursday, Dec. 12. USA Today
Free wi-fi for Aeroplan members coming to Air Canada flights
It’s about to get a lot easier to stay in touch at 35,000 feet. Air Canada says it plans to roll out fast, free streaming-quality Wi-Fi on many of its flights next spring. The service will be available to Aeroplan Members on Wi-Fi equipped aircraft for flights within North American and Sun markets beginning in May, 2025. The airline also plans to expand free Wi-Fi service to long-haul international routes in 2026. Jim Byers
Gas prices will soon hit their lowest rate in 3 ½ years, AAA says
U.S. residents lamenting soaring gas prices may soon be able to relax as the national average for gas is set to hit its lowest rate in 3 ½ years, according to a new announcement from AAA. AAA made the announcement Thursday morning and as of Tuesday, the national average for a gallon of gas is $3.01, company spokesperson Andrew Gross confirmed to USA TODAY.
Jonestown Massacre site to reopen as tourist destination in Guyana
A South American tour group is turning Jonestown into a travel destination, over four decades after it was the scene of the most notorious mass suicide and murder in modern history. The first group of tourists is already scheduled to visit the site, located in the rural interior of Guyana, in January, according to the tour operator. For a price tag of $650, they’ll have an overnight experience that is intended to provide a deeper understanding of the tragedy. NBC News
Korean Air completes Asiana takeover to form one of Asia’s biggest airlines
Korean Air said on Thursday it had completed its protracted purchase of South Korean rival Asiana Airlines, making it one of Asia’s biggest carriers. The 1.8 trillion won ($1.3 billion) deal, the longest-ever merger to complete between airlines, was first announced four years ago by South Korea’s largest carrier to rescue debt-laden Asiana, which was grappling with a plunge in demand during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reuters
Qantas is celebrating Christmas with these special touches
Qantas is tapping into the holiday spirit with festive airplane liveries, special inflight menus, and a refreshed beer offering. The airline is set for one of its busiest seasons ever, with millions taking to the skies aboard Australia’s national carrier. Each flight will be a veritable Christmas party, with unique offerings throughout. The Manual
British grandmother ‘fighting for her life’ in US hospital did not take out travel insurance
A British family is raising money for their grandmother after she fell ill while on holiday, after she travelled without insurance due to the cost being so high. Patricia Bunting, 76, booked a trip to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida along with her two sons and her grandson, flying out on 31 October. The Independent
Norwegian cancels 35 cruises sailing from Florida and LA
A few weeks ago it was announced that Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Star would be moved to Tampa at the end of 2025 Norwegian Jewel was also redeployed to PortMiami amid the cancellations. Now, 35 more cruises will be impacted by cancellations that include voyages from November of 2025 to April of 2026. Cruise Fever
American airlines upgrades million miler status: lifetime Platinum Pro and Executive Platinum arrive march 2025
Starting March 1, 2025 they’re revamping the AAdvantage Million Mile program. Currently, 1 million flown miles earns lifetime Gold and 35,000 miles. 2 million flown miles earns lifetime Platinum and 4 systemwide upgrades Each subsequent million miles flown earns 4 systemwide upgrades Going forward, they’re adding: 4 million flown miles earns lifetime Platinum Pro 5 million flown miles earns lifetime Executive Platinum. Platinum Pro is very much a sweet spot in the program, with oneworld emerald status and nearly all of the benefits of Executive Platinum. Adding this will be big for long-time loyal members. View from the Wing
Indian outbound travel will be ‘the story’ of the next decade, says Hilton executive
Indian travelers spent $34.2 billion on outbound travel in 2023, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council. But the current level of Indian travel is”minuscule” compared with what’s to come, Alan Watts, Hilton’s Asia-Pacific president, told “Squawk Box Asia” Monday. CNBC
Wednesday, December 11
Yesterday’s TSA checkpoint numbers
TSA officers screened 2,008,840 people at airport checkpoints nationwide yesterday, December 10. One year ago on the same day: 1,954,074.
JetBlue to bring ‘junior Mint’ first class to domestic flights in 2026
JetBlue Airways plans to add domestic first-class seats in 2026 on airplanes that don’t have its top-tier Mint class, the latest initiative to win over higher-paying customers and get back to profitability. All of JetBlue’s Airbus aircraft without Mint, the airline’s lie-flat seats, will have two or three rows of domestic first-class seats, Marty St. George, JetBlue’s president, said in a note to employees. CNBC
Record outbreak of Dengue fever in Central and South America
The number of cases of dengue fever in Central and South America has nearly tripled to a record high this year, the Pan American Health Organisation (Paho) said on Tuesday. More than 12.6m cases and 7,700 deaths were recorded in what Paho says is the biggest outbreak in the region since records began in 1980. BBC
‘Economy class syndrome’ is a medical issue that can happen on flights — no matter where you sit
Experts call it “economy class syndrome” — but it can happen to anyone in any class of an airplane. Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT as it’s known, occurs when blood clots in one or more veins. It can happen at any time, but people who travel on long-haul flights are at a higher risk because they sit for long periods of time, said Dr. Pinakin V. Parekh, a consultant cardiologist at Singapore’s Harley Street Heart and Vascular Centre. CNBC
‘Not for sale’: Anti-tourism protestors destroy hundreds of sunbeds in Tenerife
A wave of vandalism struck two popular beaches in Los Cristianos, Tenerife, last week. More than 230 sunbeds were defaced and sprayed with anti-tourism graffiti such as “Canarias se defiende” (The Canary Islands defend themselves) and “Canarias no se vende” (The Canary Islands are not for sale). Euronews
NFL to play regular-season game in Berlin for 1st time in 2025
The NFL will play a regular-season game in Berlin for the first time next season, the league announced Wednesday. The game will be played at the Olympic Stadium. It will be the fifth regular-season game played in Germany. The NFL has played games in Munich and Frankfurt since the 2022 season. ESPN
Airlines seen making $1 trillion for the first time in history
The global airline industry will likely rake in more than $1 trillion in revenue next year, as passenger numbers look set to hit an all-time high of 5 billion, the International Air Transport Association said Tuesday. IATA also predicted that airlines’ average profit per passenger would increase to around $7 next year, up sharply from just $2.25 18 months ago. This year, per-passenger profit is expected to be $6.40. CNN
‘Not for sale’: Anti-tourism protestors destroy hundreds of sunbeds in Tenerife
A wave of vandalism struck two popular beaches in Los Cristianos, Tenerife, last week. More than 230 sunbeds were defaced and sprayed with anti-tourism graffiti such as “Canarias se defiende” (The Canary Islands defend themselves) and “Canarias no se vende” (The Canary Islands are not for sale). Euronews
Snowball Express takes over 100 Gold Star families to Disney World
The ‘Snowball Express” returned to Fayetteville on Saturday, taking more than 100 family members of fallen soldiers to Orlando for five days at Disney World. The trip is part of the Gary Sinise Foundation Snowball Express organization. It is the 27th year the organization has held the event. The trip allows Gold Star families the chance to bond and share similar experiences. ABC11 Raleigh-Durham
Mick Fleetwood plays to the future in Maui
The island of Maui is a mere dot in the enormity of the vast Pacific Ocean, but it’s not hard to see why millions visit every year, and why there are some who never want to leave. Fleetwood Mac founder Mick Fleetwood fell in love with Maui decades ago, and put down deep roots. “Long story, a long love affair,” he said. CBS News
Can I bring my dog on a cruise? What to know
An upcoming dog-friendly cruise is giving passengers the chance to set sail alongside their furry friends. But that kind of sailing is the exception rather than the rule. Pets typically aren’t permitted on cruise ships. “Most cruise lines only allow service animals onboard,” Sally French, Travel Expert at NerdWallet, told USA TODAY. “Emotional support animals are generally not permitted as they are not classified as service animals under most regulations.” USA Today
Tired of Chicago winters, this Gen Xer retired at 46 and moved to Bangkok. It cut his monthly spending by half.
In 2018, at 46, Chris retired and left Chicago for Bangkok. He spent two years planning and saving for his move by investing in real estate. He enjoys the affordability of living in Bangkok and how easy it is to make friends. As he soaked in the pool of his Airbnb in Bangkok, Chris wondered, “How can I make this my home permanently?” BI
Tuesday, December 10
Yesterday’s TSA checkpoint numbers
TSA officers screened 2,438,005 people at airport checkpoints nationwide yesterday, December 9. One year ago on the same day: 2,313,610.
Alaska Airlines plans new nonstop flights to Japan, Korea in $1 billion postmerger profit push
Alaska Airlines plans to launch nonstop flights to Tokyo and Seoul from Seattle next year. The carrier closed its acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines in September, which gave it access to wide-body airplanes. Alaska will also launch a new “premium” credit card with Bank of America to chase high-spending customers. CNBC
Mexico postpones controversial $42 tourist tax
Facing strong pushback from the travel industry in general, and the cruise lines in particular, Mexico has postponed a new $42 tourist tax on cruise passengers by six months, from January to July 1. Mexico has long taxed hotel guests but exempted cruise passengers, who sleep on their ship. But a new bill that passed the Mexican Congress in December calls for a $42 tax on every cruise ship passenger entering Mexican waters, whether they disembark or not. Travel Research Online
JetBlue announces new direct flight routes to Europe in 2025
JetBlue has announced brand new routes connecting North America to Europe. The New York-based airline has announced new routes from Boston to Madrid, Spain and Boston to Edinburgh, Scotland. This marks the leisure airline’s first flight to Spain as it expands its presence in Europe. Newsweek
Japan Airlines doesn’t want you to take your luggage on the train when you visit Tokyo
Japan Airlines is offering a same-day luggage delivery service for visitors to Tokyo. The service costs $29, and the airline says it will help combat “congestion” on public transport. The weak yen has made Japan a popular destination for visitors from countries including the US. BI
United Airlines is now serving Magnolia Bakery desserts at 30,000 feet
On Thursday, United Airlines announced it’s teaming up with Magnolia Bakery to bring its Banana Pudding onboard select United flights across the United States. According to a statement provided to Food & Wine, Magnolia’s Banana Pudding Wafer Cookie Bits are now being served in United First on flights more than 901 miles. The bits are served in individual, three-ounce cups, and are made with “real bananas, whipped to perfection, and inspired by Magnolia Bakery’s World-Famous Banana Pudding.” It’s the first time Magnolia’s desserts are being served on a commercial airline. Food and Wine
North American climbers missing on NZ mountain presumed dead
Two American climbers and another from Canada are believed to be dead after attempting to summit New Zealand’s tallest mountain, police announced on Friday. The search began on Monday when Americans Kurt Blair, 56, 50-year-old Carlos Romero and an unidentified Canadian man did not show up for their return flight. Police said the three had flown to a camp on Aoraki/Mount Cook on Saturday. Travelmole
SFO introduces remote bag check to ease holiday travel
The new service is available at two designated locations: the long-term parking garage (Level 5, before the AirTrain station) and the rental car center (Level 1 hall). After checking in for their flights and dropping off their luggage, travelers can hop on the free AirTrain, which offers quick access to the terminal. SF Chronicle
San Diego has a new nonstop flight to Toronto — with no middle seats
Starting this week, San Diego has a new nonstop flight to Canada’s largest city. Porter Airlines began nonstop flights to and from Toronto on Monday, joining Air Canada, which also offers a nonstop flight. Porter Airlines, a Toronto-based airline formed in 2006, is new to San Diego International Airport and getting a lot of attention among travel experts for its lack of middle seats. The San Diego Union-Tribune
Air Canada’s new baggage fees spark government backlash
Air Canada has announced that it will no longer include larger carry-on luggage within its economy ticket prices, drawing criticism from transport officials. The Canadian flag carrier will be revising the terms of its ‘Basic’ and ‘Comfort’ economy fares, saying that these changes will align them with similar fare offerings by other Canadian airlines. MSN
Impersonators are claiming laptops at Apple stores before real owners can pick them up
Apple computer buyers are reporting that impostors have been using fake IDs and QR codes to steal their laptops before they can pick them up at several Apple stores across Southern California. The crime, reported to several media outlets in Southern California, occurs when consumers order Apple laptops online but find that when they arrive at the Apple stores to pick up the computers, they have already been claimed and taken. LA Times
Study ranks UK train fares highest in Europe – but praises passengers’ rights
Train travel in the UK is the most expensive in Europe, new analysis has shown. It’s unlikely to be a surprise to those who use rail travel frequently with the analysis of 27 European operators reporting that ‘travelling by rail in the UK is particularly costly’. Great Western Railway fares are two-and-a-half times higher than the average across European Union (EU) and Swiss operators for routes of similar lengths, the study by campaign group Transport & Environment (T&E) found. The Independent
‘Workers are suffering’ — Tourism workers hold hunger strike outside L.A. City Hall
More than 20 hotel and airport workers camped in front of Los Angeles City Hall vowed not to eat for three days starting Monday, demanding the City Council pass a pay raise for tourism workers. “It’s very bad. We’ve been waiting two years on this ordinance to get passed,” Jovan Houston, who works at LAX, told KNX News’ Emily Valdez. “Workers are suffering. Workers are sleeping in their cars. Workers are traveling outside of Los Angeles just to survive, to pay rent.” KNX News
Monday, December 9
Yesterday’s TSA checkpoint numbers
TSA officers screened 2,602,759 people at airport checkpoints nationwide yesterday, December 8. One year ago on the same day: 2,419,762.
Passenger attempted to divert domestic flight from Mexico into the U.S.
A passenger on a domestic flight in Mexico attempted to divert the plane into the United States before he was stopped by the crew, the airline said on social media on Sunday. Volaris said the crew on flight 3041 from El Bajio to Tijuana managed to detain the passenger before the flight was diverted to Guadalajara in central Mexico. Once it arrived there, the passenger was handed over to authorities. CBS News
Alleged stowaway who boarded flight to Paris released from federal custody with strict pretrial conditions
The woman who was federally charged with boarding a New York-to-Paris flight as a stowaway during the Thanksgiving holiday was released from U.S. custody on Friday with strict pretrial conditions. Svetlana Dali, 57, appeared Friday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joseph A. Marutollo in Brooklyn federal court, where he ruled that she must submit to GPS monitoring and a curfew and is banned from all airports pending trial. NBC News
American Airlines suspends flights to Haiti indefinitely
American Airlines is no longer resuming its daily service out of Miami into Port-au-Prince’s Toussaint Louverture International Airport. American had initially suspended flights through February 12. The suspension is now indefinite. A spokesperson for the U.S.-based carrier said that it will evaluate a possible resumption in late 2025 of the only daily service out of Miami International Airport into Haiti by a major U.S. airline. CBS News
2 Pearl Harbor survivors, ages 104 and 102, return to Hawaii to honor those killed 83 years ago
Ira “Ike” Schab, a 104-year-old Pearl Harbor survivor, spent six weeks in physical therapy to build the strength to stand and salute during a remembrance ceremony honoring those killed in the Japanese bombing that thrust the U.S. into World War II 83 years ago. On Saturday, Schab gingerly rose from his wheelchair and raised his right hand, returning a salute delivered by sailors standing on a destroyer and a submarine passing by in the harbor. LA Times
Hawaii notches busiest October since the pandemic
The Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism released preliminary statistics for October, which counted 774,617 visitor arrivals in the Islands. “The October 2024 visitor statistics are encouraging,” James Kunane Tokioka, the department’s director, said in a statement. “With a recovery rate of 97.3 percent from prepandemic October 2019, this is the highest recovery rate since April 2023 (not counting February 2024, which had a leap day).” Travel Weekly
South African Airways flights resume as pilot strike ends
South African Airways has returned to its normal flight schedule after more than 100 striking pilots secured a pay increase from the airline and returned to work, spokesperson Vimla Maistry said by phone on Sunday. Unionized pilots for the airline went on strike on Thursday, causing the state-owned carrier to cancel about 60% of its flights. The industrial action ended on Saturday after the South African Airways Pilots Association and the company’s management reached an agreement, SAA said in a statement on Saturday. Bloomberg
Pakistan’s state-run airline to resume flights to Europe in January after EU agency lifted ban
Pakistan’s state-run airline is preparing to resume direct flights to European countries early next month, officials said Thursday, days after the European Union’s aviation safety agency lifted a ban on Pakistan International Airlines flying to Europe over compliance with its safety standards. AP
Congo government says it’s ‘on alert’ over mystery flu-like disease that killed dozens
Public health officials in Africa urged caution Thursday as Congo’s health minister said the government was on alert over a mystery flu-like disease that in recent weeks killed dozens of people. Jean Kaseya, the head of Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, told reporters that more details about the disease should be known in the next 48 hours as experts receive results from laboratory samples of infected people. LA Times
The best countries for American expats in 2025
Since the US presidential election, there’s been a spike in Americans’ interest in moving abroad. “It’s been such a gut reaction of, ‘I want to move, but I don’t know where, and I don’t know how,’ ” says Arielle Tucker, a Switzerland-based certified financial planner who specializes in assisting US citizens in moving abroad and says her business has seen a massive uptick in inquiries. CNN
Associated Press 100 Photos of 2024: An epic catalog of humanity
In nearly 100 countries and all 50 U.S. states, visual journalists with The Associated Press are eyewitnesses to the world’s news, and have won 36 of AP’s 59 Pulitzer Prizes since the award was established in 1917. AP News
These extreme travelers plan to visit every country in the world
I tagged along on a surreal trip to a conflict zone in Azerbaijan with a group of explorers known as the world’s Most Traveled People. No matter that the war there wasn’t over yet. It’s a pleasantly warm afternoon in Azerbaijan, a former soviet republic sandwiched between Russia and Iran, and the tank crewmen of the Qubadli regional Border Detachment are hosting a party. For hours they’ve been working to raise a wedding-style tent and set a dozen tables with cartons of fruit nectar, bowls of nuts, and plates of pale pink meats. The Azerbaijanis have been fighting off and on for more than 30 years with Armenia, another ex-Soviet state a grenade toss to the west, but tonight the war can wait. Outside
Sunday, December 8
Top 12 Travel Stories of the Week
Woman accused of hiding on plane appears in court
The Russian woman accused of sneaking onto a Delta Air Lines flight from New York to Paris has been charged with knowingly and intentionally secreting herself aboard an airplane. Svetlana Dali, 57, was arrested by the FBI on Wednesday after returning to New York. She made her first court appearance Thursday. ABC News
United CEO predicts Spirit Airlines will liquidate
Filing for bankruptcy and restructuring may not be enough to save Spirit Airlines. At least that’s the way United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby sees it. “I think the current business plan is not going to work and, if they pursue it, Chapter 11 will be a brief pit stop on the way to Chapter 7,” Kirby said at a recent event at Washington’s Dulles International Airport, according to Travel + Leisure. TravelPulse
American Airlines picks Citi as sole credit card partner, drops Barclays
American Airlines has completed a long-awaited credit card deal with Citigroup, dropping its other partner, Barclays. The airline said Thursday that it expects payments it receives from its co-branded credit card and other partners to grow 10% a year. In the 12 months through Sept. 30, American brought in $5.6 billion from these deals. American said it would start transitioning its Barclays cardholders to Citi in 2026 but didn’t provide details. CNBC
Hannah Kobayashi case: LAPD says missing woman traveled to Mexico on own accord, has not been victimized
Hannah Kobayashi, the Hawaii woman who had been believed to be missing in Los Angeles, crossed the border into Mexico on her own accord four days after landing at LAX and is not the victim of any crime, the LAPD said Monday. “To date the investigation has not uncovered any evidence that Kobayashi is being trafficked or is the victim of any foul play,” LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said. ABC7 San Francisco
72-year-old believed to have gone overboard on Princess Cruise ship
A 72-year-old man is believed to have gone overboard during a five-day Princess Cruise trip to Mexico, company officials said. The Ruby Princess ship arrived in San Francisco on Monday at 6:50 a.m. at the culmination of a round-trip voyage to Ensenada that departed on Nov 27. When the ship returned to California, he was no longer aboard. ABC News
US judge rejects Boeing plea deal in conspiracy case stemming from fatal plane crashes
A federal judge on Thursday rejected a deal that would have allowed Boeing to plead guilty to a felony conspiracy charge and pay a fine for misleading US regulators about the 737 Max jetliner before two of the planes crashed, killing 346 people. The ruling by US District Judge Reed O’Connor in Texas creates uncertainty around the criminal prosecution of the aerospace giant in connection with the development of its bestselling airline plane. Boeing and the Justice Department could try to negotiate a new plea agreement. The Independent
JetBlue cuts more unprofitable routes, tweaks Europe flights
JetBlue said it will cut flights from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Jacksonville, Florida; from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport to Austin, Texas; Houston, Texas; Miami; and Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and from Westchester, N.Y. and Milwaukee. It will also end service to San Jose, California. CNBC
Airline executives defend seat fees before Senate panel
U.S. airline executives are defending their seating fees before a Senate panel Wednesday after the subcommittee accused the industry of charging “junk” fees to bring in billions in revenue. American, Delta, United, Spirit and Frontier brought in $12.4 billion in seating fees between 2018 and 2023, according to a report released Nov. 26 by the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations. CNBC
A record 3 million travelers screened at US airports on Sunday
Travelers heading home after the Thanksgiving holiday set a record on Sunday, as airport officers screened more than 3 million people. The Transportation Security Administration said Monday that it handled 3.09 million travelers on Sunday, breaking the previous record by about 74,000. That mark was set on July 7, also a Sunday after a holiday. AP News
Frontier Airlines to add first-class seating
Frontier Airlines announced Tuesday it will revamp its aircraft to include first-class seating. The carrier said the planned first-class seats, set to roll out late next year, will “provide unmatched comfort and space at Frontier’s trademark affordable prices.” They will be located in the two rows at the front of Frontier’s planes. The carrier operated more than 150 aircraft as of the end of September. Fox News
Thailand, US to resume direct flights
Thailand and the United States are expected to resume direct flights in February of next year when the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the US Department of Transportation upgrades Thai aviation safety from Category 2 to Category 1, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit. Bangkok Post
2 Delta flight attendants fail breathalyzer in Amsterdam
Two Delta flight attendants were removed from their flight after failing a breathalyzer test in Amsterdam, officials said. The crew members were scheduled to fly to New York City’s John F. Kennedy International Airport when they failed the breathalyzer test on Friday, according to the airline and Dutch police. ABC News
Friday, December 6
Yesterday’s TSA checkpoint numbers
TSA officers screened 2,443,525 people at airport checkpoints nationwide yesterday, December 5. One year ago on the same day: 2,385,629.
Woman accused of hiding on plane appears in court
The Russian woman accused of sneaking onto a Delta Air Lines flight from New York to Paris has been charged with knowingly and intentionally secreting herself aboard an airplane. Svetlana Dali, 57, was arrested by the FBI on Wednesday after returning to New York. She made her first court appearance Thursday. ABC News
United CEO predicts Spirit Airlines will liquidate
Filing for bankruptcy and restructuring may not be enough to save Spirit Airlines. At least that’s the way United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby sees it. “I think the current business plan is not going to work and, if they pursue it, Chapter 11 will be a brief pit stop on the way to Chapter 7,” Kirby said at a recent event at Washington’s Dulles International Airport, according to Travel + Leisure. TravelPulse
What happened inside a Denver International Airport restroom led to suspension of food services worker
An employee of Gate Gourmet, a catering company serving airlines at Denver International Airport, is under investigation by Denver police after an airline passenger said he caught the worker trying to secretly take a picture of the passenger in a bathroom stall. “Sick” and “gross” are how the 24-year-old passenger described the Nov. 22 incident to CBS News Colorado. CBS News
American Airlines picks Citi as sole credit card partner, drops Barclays
American Airlines has completed a long-awaited credit card deal with Citigroup, dropping its other partner, Barclays. The airline said Thursday that it expects payments it receives from its co-branded credit card and other partners to grow 10% a year. In the 12 months through Sept. 30, American brought in $5.6 billion from these deals. American said it would start transitioning its Barclays cardholders to Citi in 2026 but didn’t provide details. CNBC
Disneyland is turning 70, debuting 90s Nite, reviving Paint the Night
2025 is going to be a big year for Disneyland and a particularly great time to visit. Not only will the Happiest Place on Earth turn 70 years old, but guests will find 340 days of special celebrations, festivals or other limited time offerings throughout the year, the California resort announced Thursday. Those include a new after-hours 90s Nite, the return of the beloved Paint the Night nighttime parade, and the debut of the first ever audio-animatronic of Walt Disney. USA Today
Universal Studios Hollywood reveals 2025 lineup
Apparently, one new event isn’t enough for Universal Studios Hollywood. Earlier this year, the Southern California theme park announced Universal Fan Fest Nights, a new limited-time, after-hours springtime celebration of fandoms across anime, cosplay, fantasy, gaming and science fiction. On Thursday, Universal teased another new item on its 2025 calendar. No details were released beyond the timeframe – summer. The park also confirmed the return of fan favorites like Halloween Horror Nights in the fall and holiday celebrations. USA Today
Biden administration renews a push for airline-consumer protections
The Biden administration said Thursday it will take steps toward requiring airlines to pay cash compensation and cover lodging and meals for passengers who are stranded when an airline causes flights to be canceled or changed. Such a rule would go far beyond the current requirement for airlines to pay ticket refunds. It would make U.S. policy more closely resemble airline consumer protections in Europe. AP News
Thanksgiving travelers exposed to positive measles case at LAX, Public Health says
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has confirmed a measles case involving a person who traveled through LAX while contagious on the day before Thanksgiving. The non-resident traveler arrived at LAX on Qatar Airways flight QR 0739 at Terminal B on Nov. 27, and was in the airport from 12:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. KTLA
Schiphol airport cancels hundreds of flights due to storm Darragh
The Netherlands’ Schiphol airport cancelled more than a hundred flights on Friday due to heavy winds caused by storm Darragh, the airport, one of Europe’s main hubs, said in a statement. Other flights have been delayed, some up to an hour. “Due to strong winds caused by storm Darragh, fewer flights are expected to take off and land Friday 6 December,” Schiphol said, urging passengers to take delays and cancellations into account today. Reuters
Delta taps into Olympic sponsorship for new Brisbane route
How soon is too soon? There are three and a half years to go until the Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games begin, but that isn’t stopping Delta from leveraging its sponsorship. The Atlanta-based carrier is the official airline of Team USA and an inaugural founding partner of the Los Angeles 2028 Games. Delta hasn’t disclosed the commercial terms of the deal, but similar sponsorships typically cost at least $100 million. The Sports Business Journal reports that Delta’s contract for the 2028 event is worth upwards of $200 million. Skift
Carry-on baggage fees: Air Canada summoned by transport minister
Transport Minister Anita Anand says she will be calling Canadian airline CEOs to a meeting in mid-December after Air Canada says it will charge some passengers for carry-on bags in the new year. “Let’s just say I’m not very happy today with what I’ve heard from Air Canada,” Anand said in an interview with CTV Power Play with Vassy Kapelos on Wednesday. “I think they need to take a look at the persons that they are targeting with these excess fees. It is not acceptable.” CTV News
US judge rejects Boeing plea deal in conspiracy case stemming from fatal plane crashes
A federal judge on Thursday rejected a deal that would have allowed Boeing to plead guilty to a felony conspiracy charge and pay a fine for misleading US regulators about the 737 Max jetliner before two of the planes crashed, killing 346 people. The ruling by US District Judge Reed O’Connor in Texas creates uncertainty around the criminal prosecution of the aerospace giant in connection with the development of its bestselling airline plane. Boeing and the Justice Department could try to negotiate a new plea agreement. The Independent
Hi, I came across this blog very helpful I am happy to know that we have such great community. I also have passion of drawing, sketching and painting. You may also share my artwork on your own blog here you will see my art work too in the link. Many thanks so much please lets support eachother.
I have searched your site but can find nothing on the refund policy at Air France which recently sent out a letter to customers announcing an extension of the policy until 30 September 2021.
How good is this promise by Air France? Is there fine print travelers should know about?
I received an email this morning from a friend who knows that I have stopped reading your news letter due to you “political comments”. He informed me that several others must have felt as I do and wrote to you stating their positions regarding your “Political Comments” regarding the attack on the Capital. We use to live in a country that allowed and encouraged open debate and discussion. Unfortunately, today we live an America where this is not allowed. Your comments on the Capital were the result of either your closed mine or your inability to receive the facts due to the major news sources blocking and presenting only one side of the issue. I know you do not like President Trump – this is something I should not know about you, but it does not allow you to provide only one side of a story as the “Truth”. I hope you will give this and the other comments you have received on this subject full consideration as you continue to publish your newsletter. I am willing to give you a second chance – Good Luck. Don’t blow it.
Its his blog..he can say whatever he wants..if you don’t like it…move on
He doesn’t need your validation nor your threat to not read the blog. Just don’t do it if you don’t want to . And it’s closed “mind” not mine.
The evidence of truth for the January 6 riots is in all the footage especially the sound. That’s all one needs to hear and see.
Where is the Map App Every Traveler should have? I’ve looked through your site and not seen it. Thanks.
Hi! Sorry. I forgot to highlight it. It was under Friday’s tip but the direct link is
https://johnnyjet.com/the-map-app-every-traveler-needs-to-download-now/
No android version? Boooooo!
Looks like there is. From a reader
On Android:
• Press and hold the power and volume down buttons at the same time.
• Screenshot (full screen) will be saved to the “Screenshots” folder
The process may vary if you have a more ‘skinned Android phone (Samsung, etc.).
I have read the whole thing looking for the map and never found it. This has happened before. When you put a clickbait headline on your email please let us find it when we click through.
Hi! Sorry. I forgot to highlight it. It was under Friday’s tip but the direct link is
https://johnnyjet.com/the-map-app-every-traveler-needs-to-download-now/
Thanks for sharing your tips with us.
5,800 people getting COVID after vaccinations is a ridiculously small number – .005 percent. And the vaccines were never “bulletproof”, it’s always been known that they are about 90% effective according to the manufacturers. This is the kind of statistical b.s. that serves to keep people needlessly afraid when the situation nationally is significantly improving.
How Can I Copyright Protect Stories and Articles on My Website?
Amazing guide…. Thanks for sharing this wonderful article.
I agree with B Manoogian. Keep politics out of Johnny Jet.
Great Information , Thanks For haring such a informative blogs.
I value and appreciate this newsletter’s comments about the January 6, 2021 attack on our Capital. Hundreds of hours of video taken by hundreds of people, including those involved in the attack themselves, show just what happened. There is no legitimate doubt and no room for speculation. I am a patriot and will never, ever, forget the lawlessness of that day and the cries to “Hang Mike Pence” and “Kill Pelosi.” For now, we can only debate who was behind the attack, but eventually we will know, thanks to the bipartisan House investigation.
Johnny Jet has every right to state the facts in *his* own newsletter. There is no requirement for him to give voice or space to any perspective. If there were such a requirement, Fox News would not exist. If you benefit from the information in this newsletter – which you get for free – you can endure an occasional comment with which you disagree. Big deal. It’s not like you’re being maced or hit with bear spray, or being crushed between doors, while trying to protect the Capital and *all* our elected representatives. It’s not like you risked your own life to protect our elected politicians, then were badly treated by half of them, who even denied anything happened. It’s not like you were driven to suicide by these terrible events, like four officers were.
Thanks, Johnny!
This is a good list of things that are rarely found on regular travel checklists.
Especially now, we are planning our corporate trip to the anniversary of our company, so it was very interesting to read your article!
WorkTime team
So TSA processed 1.6 M travelers yesterday, without a single suicide bomber. In fact, I don’t recall the last time they had a suicide bomber.
Perhaps the Government should have used TSA to process Afghanistan travelers, instead of the Taliban.
I have a question about VeriFLY… I understand how to input my personal information, but I don’t know how to upload my travel info or vaccine or test info and I can not locate anyplace with steps to help. American Airlines and British Air both keep sending emails to sign up, but I no instructions on how to connect the flights. Can you help?
Many thanks
Ann
Hi Ann,
Try this post https://onemileatatime.com/verifly/
The wife and I are flying away for 5 weeks on back to back OAT trips to Sicily and Turkey early next week. Got our Covid vaccination booster shots thanks to your tip and our flu shots as well. Also our KN95’s. Wish us luck!
Doug Lock – a few blocks east of you.
Good luck! Let me know how it goes
I’m looking for a job stop trip from Ontario CA to Boise Id. I checked Expedia which showed non of the major airlines having a non-stop. How do I find the odd named smaller airlines to see if they have the flight? All I could think of is Jet Blue and Spirit and they didn’t have it. Thanks.
Try Avelo
I can no longer read your articles because of the constant pop ups that won’t go away and just lead from one pop up to another. The stable ones between articles were manageable, these other invasive species are infuriating. Also trying to hit that little “x” the size of a pin head is impossible on a phone screen, tiny. I will unsubscribe if this continues. What’s the point, teaser titles I can’t get to open without playing duck hunt with the ads.
Hi Lonn,
Thank you for bringing this to my attention. We don’t have pop up ads just the newsletter signup once every 30 days. There is also a small video player at the bottom and the X is in the upper right. I can see if they can make it bigger.
In January I sent you comments regarding your politics getting in the way of your impartial reviews and reporting. At that time I told you that I had stopped reading you newsletter because of you political comments, but I had been told by several friends that you had changed and this was no longer happening. I have been enjoying your newsletter since. Well that all changed in mid-November when you posted a special review on the sale of the Trump Hotel in Washington DC. In this article you tell of your special tour of this INFAMOUS hotel. You went on to say “The hotel is arguably one of the most beautiful hotels in the United States”. Why is it that you wait until Trump is selling this hotel that you tell of your wonderful visit and this beautiful hotel? It looks to me that once again your political leanings have entered into your reviews and once again I am out of here. Just how many other GREAT hotels are out there that you will not report on because the owners have political views contrary to yours? Or how many average hotels get superb reviews because you agree with the political leaning of the owners. I feel sorry for you and anyone else that puts politics above the truth and honest reporting.
Canadians flying from Bellingham to Las Vegas by Allegiant Air, will we be required to show a negative Covid test for this flight? Does TSA require same? Thank you.
Flying to the USA does require a negative test but not within the USA
Hi Johnny Jet,
Love your newsletter. Since you are featuring opinions from Bill Gates, it might we a good idea to watch this to get a perspective that about 35% or more of Americans have of his opinions:
https://www.bitchute.com/video/yJ3AP778FuPR/
Hi Johnny, Great for informing and sharing us 12 Things in Travel You Need to Know Today. As going back to be a traveler. I want to know on what new in traveling so that I’ll thankful I found this. Keep sharing and keep it up.
Hey Johnny,
Just wondering, TSA officers screened 1,200,580 yesterday, Same number a week ago and 2019?????
Good catch! I will fix. It’s 1,059,741
Love your newsletter, Johnny! Do you have a source that you recommend for reviews or ratings of international airports? I have found a few websites, but there either have ratings based on very few reviews, or they seem very outdated.
Thanks! They’re all pretty bias but this is the most popular one https://skytraxratings.com/a-z-of-airport-ratings
One or more of our advertisers’ goods are mentioned in this post. When you click on links to such items, we may gain commission. lovely newsletter thank you
thanks for an amazing blog.
Johnny,
You have some good information on your website. I have been reading your 12 things in travel section for several years. Your suggested items for travel have been very helpful.
Unfortunately, it appears that you just can’t help including politics into your blog.
Your dislike for President Trump has no place in a travel blog if you want to keep 50% of your audience.
Just a Thought
Hi Johnny,
Recently, you posted something about United extending their ETCs that were scheduled to expire 12/31/22 to 12/31/2023. I have 5 from a cancelled quarantine period wedding, but haven’t received notice from United. I tried finding your post or something on United’s site that would verify the extension, but can’t. Can you point me in the right direction? If I can’t, I have to start booking travel quickly! Thank you!
You sure it was me? Can’t even remember but I know Delta extended theirs and I wrote about it
Thank you for this informative article! I hope all travelers could read this wonderful article of yours.
Hi Johnny! Traveling around the globe is very beautiful but now a days have a little changes because of the changes of flight ticket increases due to the economic sustainability. But when you touch down to your destinations, it’s priceless and the beauty of the places is exquisite. Thank you for sharing this blog. I remember those days. Keep sharing!
Crime in Philadelphia has soared with Larry Krasner as the DA. Refuses to prosecute criminals, refuses to support the police and thus more crime, more death and in general lawlessness. Put blame for the rise in crime in Philie wear it belongs, it belongs to “communist” DA Larry Krasner.
More detail here: https://www.heritage.org/crime-and-justice/commentary/meet-larry-krasner-the-rogue-prosecutor-wreaking-havoc-philadelphia
I signed up for program to get Global Entry appointment faster.
I was delighted to get a few messages this AM about possible dates in next few weeks (GREAT!)
I clicked on desirable date
It took me to LOGIN.gov and I completed some non-related comments re: date I had chosen (July 27). [IS IT CORRECT THAT I SHOULD GO TO THIS SITE?. I DIDNT SEEM TO HAVE OPTIONS)
When I left that page the process dropped
I got no feedback about the date I had chosen and when I went back to the email, it was still there. I don’t feel that johnnyjet has advanced my cause.
Please explain. Should I have done anything differently. Thanks David Fleischer
*** My application is pending but I haven’t completed background check. Can I still apply for interview?
Hi Johnny, I’d really appreciate more posts like this. Being updated on recent news is something I’m not too good at so I enjoy posts like this that keep big scoops compact and neat. Thanks a lot, Johnny.
Be careful when posting TSA numbers. Very often, the same number is posted for 2019 and pre-pandemic. It happened in newsletter of July 16.
Good catch! I just fixed it
Very detailed post
My mom is 94 today also. They were made of good stock back in those days! I’m sending up prayers for your dad’s recovery and health ?
That’s AMAZING! HBD to your mom. Thank you for the prayers
Where can I find tour informtion for Portugal, would like togo to Lourdes next year with my wife and sister in-law.
Johnny, why am I suddenly getting a pop-up asking me to sign in with my email when I’m reading your weekly newsletter? It’s never happened before…
Sorry for the delay. Are you still getting it?
If you have any information about the Westjet proposed pilots strike we would like to hear about it pls. Also what are our options should our flight be cancelled due to such a strike? Our options are different in Canada and do not have the same rules as U.S.A and often not clear.
Many thanks for your wonderful information
Love your newsletters but I used the TA you recommend for cruising and was very disappointed. He was supposed to issue a $200 OBC and it never showed up. I sent an email a week before we left and he never responded. I called and he was out of the office. No out of office reply to email or an emergency contact by phone when we wasn’t available.
It was our first cruise and we loved it but I would recommend this agent.
I’m sorry to hear this. I will email him to find out what happened.
Well that’s true, it’s better to use the companion fare on more expensive tickets. I was trying to say that long flights are not necessarily more expensive. Short flights can be expensive too. It really depends on the cities you fly between and when you book.
I think that it is interesting that oversized people think that airlines should offer then free seats. Perhaps the airlines could do what the cruise ships do which is offer seats at 150% similar as to what cruise lines do for singles. (I really don’t think that there is an easy answer to this question, This proposal opens a pandoras box of issues – I suspect that a lot of people can think of why they might benefit from an extra free seat, e.g. people flying with babies/small children; people flying with medical equipment; people flying with service animals; people working; etc.)
On the issue of cruise ships, I often feel not appreciated as a cruiser because not only do I often have to pay 150% but the single rooms that are available to single cruisers are often on the lowest deck with no balcony/veranda (with very few exceptions) and often at a higher rate.
Such a great article! Thanks for sharing.
Hello –
I just read the article titled “Woman in tears after being blocked from luxury cruise due to little known rule”. After reading this, I am still not clear as to why she was denied to board. It says something about an invalid issue date. What is an “invalid issue date”. How can you have a valid passport with an expiration date 7 months in the future if the Passport has an “invalid issue date”? Please explain.
Thanks
I wasn’t clear either.
What’s your recommended VPN
Why would anyone care about yesterday’s TSA numbers? This is silly.
A lot of people do. Shows how the economy is doing especially for the airlines.
TSA numbers of no value. Who cares?
On Sunday, July 14, 2024 you wrote –“Crazy times and as former President Obama said on Threads, “There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy.” I assume this is in reference to the assassination attempt on President Trump. Your HATE for the former President has been clear for many years, but never cleared that in this paragraph. You refused to mention President Trump’s name and do what all decent people have done – thanked God for his survival and hope him a rapid recovery. An innocent member of the crowd was killed and 2 others put in the hospital with critical injuries. You make no mention of this.
It has been clear for a long time throughout your newsletter that you have very left leaning views that skew what should be forthright reporting, but never more evident that in this short article.
I feel so sorry for your wife and children who must live with your hate.
“TRUMP’S PLANE GROUNDED AFTER EMERGENCY LANDING—NOW HE’S FLYING JEFFERY EPSTEIN’S JET”. Jeffery Epstein died 5 years ago, almost to the day, therefore could not be the current owner of this jet. If you want to play that game, I am sure you have flown on air craft owned, leased, or occupied by notorious individuals and in a timeframe much less than 5 years. What exactly does that have to do with improving my traveling experience? How do you know where Trump is obtaining the funds to repair his regular air craft? According to most independent financial reviewers, Trump’s current net worth is approximately $7.5 Billion. What does any of this have to do with travel?
Your headline is obviously false and also misleading. Instead of printing an accurate headline that Trump was flying an aircraft formally owned by Jeffery Epstein, as the “HONEST” media has done, you went for the jugular knowing you were providing false information to your readers.
Your hatred for Trump is so strong you are going to destroy what you have worked so hard to build. Do you know anything about Michael Jordans political views? I think not. As Mr. Jordan often says, “I never discuss my political leanings – both Republicans and Democrats by shoes”.
So, you hate Donald J. Trump. Partisan politics does not belong in a Travel News Letter. Keep this up and you will end up like your friend and idol – Leo Laporte. His politics have driven him out of the radio business and now out of a studio and into his attic, for his Podcasts. You can look forward to the same.
Creditability is paramount in all business – especially yours. Your have lost a great deal of you waning creditability through bush-league actions such as these.
I and many others find your actions of publishing such an article to be highly degrading to us, the readers of your newsletter. I hereby request a written apology for publishing false information and treating us in such a disgusting manner and turning this into a political publication.
Thanks for your comment! It wasn’t false. His campaign confirmed it to be true: https://www.thedailybeast.com/trump-campaign-confirms-he-chartered-epsteins-old-jet
Hello Mr. Jet:
I must agree completely with Mr. Allen. You absolutely crossed the line and presented to your readers false information regarding the airplane Mr Trump used to fly after his primary plane broke down. You said that Mr Trump flew in Epstein’s plane. Than is not true and unless you believed that Mr. Epstein was alive and stilled owned this plane, you deliberately set out to mislead you readers and defame Mr Trump.
This is not of any concern to me as a reader of your newsletter. I read it to gain information that may enhance my traveling experience. I cannot see how this could in anyway do that, I think you would agree.
Your response to Mr Allen is laughable, in your response you show that your source correctly identified the plane as epsteins-old-jet and you still think you did nothing wrong?
I should no nothing of your political view. Why would you do such a thing other than you have a great hate for Mr Trump. At this time over have of the people who will be voting in November will be voting for Mr Trump, You risked alienating so many of your readers for what?
I am now looking for a replacement newsletter to yours. I will not stop the search until I find one. The author my have similar political views to yours, and that is fine with me, as long as I never know. I also buy Air Jordans for my kids.
I hope you have learned from this, but it is too late for me.
Hello again Mr. Jet:
The other day I wrote and sent you the following reply to your short article regarding Trump flying on Epstein’s former Jet. It has been a couple of days and it has not been published on the web page. Have you now taken to censoring your readers who call you to task for printing false information? If so, you have reached a very low in your life. If you cannot explain why, you made such a dangerous mistake, you are admitting you are guilty of the misdeeds Mr Allen and I have claimed. I would have expected Mr Allen to have called you out on your pathetic and incorrect response. Perhaps he has, and you have blocked his reply as well. I hope for your sake you have just been busy and not had time to correct this issue. An issue like this should not ruin your career.
Hello Mr. Jet:
I must agree completely with Mr. Allen. You absolutely crossed the line and presented to your readers false information regarding the airplane Mr Trump used to fly after his primary plane broke down. You said that Mr Trump flew in Epstein’s plane. Then is not true and unless you believed that Mr. Epstein was alive and stilled owned this plane, you deliberately set out to mislead you readers and defame Mr Trump.
This is not of any concern to me as a reader of your newsletter. I read it to gain information that may enhance my traveling experience. I cannot see how this could in anyway do that, I think you would agree.
Your response to Mr Allen is laughable, in your response you show that your source correctly identified the plane as epsteins-old-jet and you still think you did nothing wrong?
I should no nothing of your political view. Why would you do such a thing other than you have a great hate for Mr Trump. At this time over have of the people who will be voting in November will be voting for Mr Trump. You risked alienating so many of your readers for what?
I am now looking for a replacement newsletter to yours. I will not stop the search until I find one. The author my have similar political views to yours, and that is fine with me, as long as I never know. I also buy Air Jordans for my kids.
I hope you have learned from this, but it is too late for me.
Hi Mary,
Thanks for the reminder to approve comments. I always approve them unless they have swear words or are anonymous. I just didn’t get around to it since it was my daughter’s 5th birthday was on Wednesday and then she broke her arm so we were in the hospital most of the day yesterday. I don’t engage in political banter because I know I could never change your mind on who to vote for and vice versa. But the story I linked to was factually correct. I didn’t write it so if you have a problem with it go after the author. I will leave you with https://www.instagram.com/p/C8jxWO9hxwQ/ Peace and love
On August 13th or 14th, I sent you a response to your reply to my original response in which you claim your Headline Trump flew on Jeffery Epstein’s Jet. You have never printed this response just as you had not printed the reply from Ms. Carlson. I am relieved to read that you are not intentionally blocking my reply. This unpublished reply appears below.
It appears you are very confused with what was contained in my original response to you. You, just confirmed your Headline statement was false and misleading. In your response to me you state “Thanks for your comment! It wasn’t false. His campaign confirmed it to be true: https://www.thedailybeast.com/trump-campaign-confirms-he-chartered-epsteins-old-jet.
I never questioned whether or not Trump has flown on a plane formerly owned by Jeffery Epstein. If you had properly read what you responded to, I was pointing out that your Headline was false and misleading in that Jeffery Epstein did not own the plane the Trump Campaign Chartered.
In your response you say “epsteins-old-jet. That is a far cry from what you said in your article. I know you can read and you wrote – “NOW HE’S FLYING JEFFERY EPSTEIN’S JET”. You must obviously see the difference. In my original email to you I wrote “Your headline is obviously false and also misleading. Instead of printing an accurate headline that Trump was flying an aircraft formally owned by Jeffery Epstein, as the “HONEST” media has done, you went for the jugular knowing you were providing false information to your readers.”
You verified that thedailybeast.com did the correct thing and pointed out that the plane the Trump Campaign Chartered was Epsteins Old Jet. You clearly stated that Trump is flying Jeffery Epstein’s Jet. No modifier – former, old, etc. Do you believe that the plane the Trump Campaign Chartered was owned by Jeffery Epstein at the time Trump Chartered the plane last week? You must have – that is what you said. You wanted to give the impression Trump was associated with Epstein and now flying in his jet. Why else would you print this? Why do this and discredit yourself?
I also asked several other simple questions which you have chosen to ignore. You have made a big mistake and should own up to it. You have many readers who do not want to read about your political views and probably more important to you, you act as an ambassador to many companies that do not want their product or representatives to be involved in the political world. You may soon find out how quickly these companies cut ties with those who bring unwanted notice to them.
I wrote this original response as a word to the wise, it appears you have not learned from it and only compounded your problem. I suggest you re-read my original comments and compare you misguided response to what I originally wrote.
I do truly wish the best for you and your lovely family. Please take some time and think this over, your actions are extremely important to your future. I/we are still awaiting an explanation and apology.
Hi Richard,
As I told Mary, I didn’t write the story (https://viewfromthewing.com/trumps-plane-ground-after-emergency-landing-now-hes-flying-jeffrey-epsteins-old-jet/) I included it in my roundup of the day’s travel story and it was travel news. I will leave you with https://www.instagram.com/p/C8jxWO9hxwQ/ Peace and love
On August 13th or 14th, I sent you a response to your reply to my original response in which you claim your Headline Trump flew on Jeffery Epstein’s Jet. You have never printed this response just as you had not printed the reply from Ms. Carlson. I am relieved to read that you are not intentionally blocking my reply. I just tried to resubmit this reply and received a message that you already have this information. I therefore request that you print the reply is submitted on either August 13th or 14th. Thank your for you courtesy.
Arthur Frommer, RIP, was a particular inspiration to me, and I am honored that, as one of his authors, our names will be linked together for posterity.