12 Things in Travel You Need to Know Today (This is a recurring post, updated daily with new information):
Thursday, March 30
Yesterday’s TSA checkpoint numbers
TSA officers screened 2,206,337 people at airport checkpoints nationwide yesterday, March 29. Four years ago on the same day (pre-pandemic): 2,151,626. (TSA)
JetBlue is preparing to trim New York flights in response to FAA staffing shortage
JetBlue is preparing to cut scores of weekly flights in the New York City area this spring and summer in response to a shortage of air traffic controllers. Last week, the Federal Aviation Administration unveiled a new plan to help avoid a repeat of 2022’s flight disruptions. “We don’t want to pull down flights,” CEO Robin Hayes said in an interview with CNBC. “But if we don’t cut them the system is not going to be workable this summer.” CNBC
Italy: Unionized airport workers set to strike nationwide, April 2
Multiple unions representing airport staff plan to strike nationwide on April 2 over pay disputes and other working conditions. The strike is due to last from 13:00 to 17:00; however, some disruptions are likely before and after this period. The UGL-TA and UNICA, FILT-CGIL and Uiltrasporti, and FIT-CISL labor unions plan three separate national strikes. Separate local strike action is also scheduled at Bologna (BLQ), Naples (NAP), and Rome Urbe (No IATA Code) Airports. The industrial action will impact airport handling, security, aviation, and other support services. The cumulative impact of the actions is likely to vary at different airports. Garda
This low-cost airline has flights to Europe for as low as $139
The global low-cost carrier Norse Atlantic Airways has launched a new springtime sale for travelers looking to book a low-cost European getaway. The “Explorer’s Sale” — which ends April 6 — features flights as low as $139 one-way from New York City, Los Angeles, and other cities to major tourist destinations across Europe including London, Berlin, and Paris. T+L
Frontier Airlines is giving away a million miles
For lucky travelers, a million airline miles from Frontier could be in your future. The airline is hosting its first-ever jackpot giveaway, called “Lott-o Miles.” Similar to a traditional lottery, but with a Frontier spin, participants will choose five of the Frontier animal ambassadors instead of numbers. If a participant matches the five animals, they’ll win one million Frontier miles. T+L
Congress considers TSA no-fly list for unruly passengers after spike
The Protection from Abusive Passengers Act would prohibit individuals on the list from boarding any commercial aircraft flight, and would let the TSA determine the duration of the ban. The bill includes guidelines for notifying people that they’re on the list, and how to appeal it, according to lawmakers who proposed it. Axios
How one man went to all 12 Disney parks around the world in 12 days
It seems like an impossible vacation: Go on every ride at every Disney park in 12 days. That’s 216 rides, 12 parks, four countries and three continents. But an Atlanta man named Nathan Firesheets appears to have conquered the feat this month, gaining a modest global following as he documented the journey in a series of exuberant selfies, always giving a thumbs-up. USA Today
Airlines urge measures to curb French air traffic disruptions
European airline leaders called on Wednesday for measures to prevent chronic French air traffic control strikes penalising thousands of passengers using the country’s airspace for transit, as Paris warned of new protests on Thursday. Reuters
Private jet flights in Europe soar to record levels — and most were ultra-short journeys
Analysis published Thursday by environmental campaign group Greenpeace showed the number of private jet flights in Europe rose by a whopping 64% to reach a record high of 572,806 last year. It comes at a time when Europe is in the grip of a severe winter drought and shortly after the region’s driest summer in at least 500 years. CNBC
United Airlines reaches tentative deals with union for 30,000 ground workers
United Airlines Holdings Inc CEO Scott Kirby said on Wednesday the carrier has reached an agreement in principle with a workers union over new contracts that include higher wages for its nearly 30,000 ground workers. Shares of the airline rose 2.1% in afternoon trade. US News & World Report
Delta is dropping these popular international routes
Uh oh, Delta, we still want to go to Germany! (and Switzerland and Sweden and Denmark)…what gives? The Points Guy revealed this week that Delta is scrapping six of its transatlantic flights next winter. Guess not enough of us flew this winter to warrant the long haul flights. Timeout
The Queen Mary lives! Tours and overnight stays on the liner are back
For fans of cultural preservation and maritime history, the news is royally good. The world-famous Queen Mary,which has been closed for years, is lowering the gangway for visitors once again. Frommers
Wednesday, March 29
Yesterday’s TSA checkpoint numbers
TSA officers screened 2,033,766 people at airport checkpoints nationwide yesterday, March 28. Four years ago on the same day (pre-pandemic): 2,026,256. (TSA)
American and United cut spring flights due to pilot shortage, aircraft delays
Come June, Erie, Pa., will be a one airline town. United Airlines will end flights to the community on the shores of the lake of the same name leaving American Airlines as the community’s sole air carrier, a shift that comes as airlines struggle to recover and grow their schedules in a constrained market. Airlineweekly
American tourist shot by unidentified armed men in Mexico
A U.S. tourist was shot in the leg by unidentified assailants at a resort town on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, prosecutors in the coastal state of Quintana Roo said on Tuesday, March 28th. They said the shooting occurred in the low-key town of Puerto Morelos, just south of Cancun. Prosecutors said the American was approached by several suspects near midnight Monday and they shot him in the leg. The motive remains under investigation. The Cancun Post
United flight makes emergency landing in Houston over possible engine fire
A United Airlines flight that left Houston for Rio de Janeiro reversed course on Tuesday night, eventually making an emergency landing at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport after one of the plane’s engines reportedly caught fire, officials said. CBS News
Turks and Caicos is dropping Covid vaccine requirements
Turks and Caicos will lift its Covid vaccine requirements for visitors on April 1. The country was one of the last in the Caribbean to continue to enforce major, Covid-era travel restrictions. Most countries lifted their requirements on vaccinations, testing and quarantines in mid-2022, but Turks and Caicos maintained a strict policy, requiring all visitors over age 18 to show proof of vaccination. Travel Weekly
British Airways launches Aruba, Guyana flights
British Airways has added Aruba and Guyana flights to its route network. They become the latest destinations with the inaugural flights touching down this week. British Airways operates more routes to the Caribbean and Mexico than any other UK airline. Aruba and Guyana flights bring the total number of destinations served in the region to 17. Travelmole
Second airport may be needed to accommodate Las Vegas’ continued tourism growth
Since its inception more than two decades ago, Las Vegas-based Allegiant Air has grown to service hundreds of nonstop routes across the country, including several that fly in and out Nevada. Allegiant adds stops according to demand from customers, said Kristen Schilling-Gonzales, Allegiant’s vice president of planning. And, she said, that demand often includes one destination: Las Vegas. Las Vegas Sun Newspaper
Italy’s ban on cultivated meat could set the industry back
Just when the U.S. government was getting more comfortable with the concept of cultivated meat, the Italian government put forth a bill banning the use of lab-grown food. The process of making cultivated meat includes a method, like precision fermentation in a laboratory, that uses animal cells without slaughtering the animals. TechCrunch
Cargo handler at Miami airport accused of $1.2M cellphone theft
Last Monday, a cargo container from South Florida arrived in Colombia. It was supposed to be full of cellphones. Instead, it was full of sandbags. That led to a Miami-Dade police investigation and led detectives to arrest a cargo handler working out of a company based at the Miami International Airport. Thirty-seven-year-old Eduardo Miguel Rivera-Paz of Miramar is accused of committing the crime. He faced three grand theft charges. Local10
Erie, PA is down to one commercial airline
Erie International Airport will be served by just one airline beginning June 2. United Airlines has made the “strategic but difficult decision” to suspend service at Erie and at Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport in Springfield, Illinois, on that date, according to an announcement by the airline to airport staff. Erie International Airport Executive Director Derek Martin confirmed the suspension of Erie service Friday morning. Go Erie
Why Hawaii might release millions of mosquitos in Maui
On Thursday, National Park Service officials announced they would move forward with a plan to reduce the transmission of avian malaria to threatened and endangered forest birds by suppressing invasive mosquito populations. As NPS explained, the idea is to use an incompatible insect technique (IIT) which consists of repeatedly releasing incompatible male mosquitoes into the wild to reduce the reproductive potential of female mosquitoes in the project area. The Hill
Celebrity Cruises latest ship to offer methanol powered cruising
Celebrity Cruises newest ship will offer hybrid power with three fuel sources, including methanol. The fifth ship in the Edge Series will give unmatched fuel flexibility, it says. “As we innovate our ship design, we’re also focused on equally evolving the fuel and technology that powers them,” said Jason Liberty, CEO Royal Caribbean Group.Travelmole
Tuesday, March 28
Yesterday’s TSA checkpoint numbers
TSA officers screened 2,374,441 people at airport checkpoints nationwide yesterday, March 27. Four years ago on the same day (pre-pandemic): 2,360,053. (TSA)
Ski resorts in California got so much snow they’re going to be able to stay open through June
The slopes are open for summer, at least in California. Several California ski resorts have announced they have received so much snow that they plan to stay open until well into the summer months. Mammoth Mountain, a popular four-season resort located in the Eastern Sierra mountains, announced earlier this week it would be open for skiing at least until the end of July. This is the earliest in the year the resort has ever announced it would be open so late. CNN
US air travel is ‘overwhelmed’ and that’s putting off some flyers, industry group says
Travel is so busy this spring break season at Miami International Airport that officials are advising flyers to give themselves an extra hour – arriving three hours, rather than two – before a domestic flight. Miami International is the fastest-growing airport in the United States, setting monthly passenger records 12 of the past 13 months. CNN
Delta is spending $1.5 billion to upgrade New York’s largest airport — see the improvements so far
Delta Air Lines is investing $1.5 billion into New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. The carrier has already opened an upgraded check-in lobby, 10 new gates, and a new cargo building. Delta One flyers will eventually have a dedicated check-in lobby and an exclusive lounge at Terminal 4. Business Insider
NTSB: Former White House official died when jet pitched violently upward and downward during flight
The NTSB’s report details that the movement occurred after pilots responded to automated cockpit warnings and switched off the system meant to keep the private aircraft stable. The National Transportation Safety Board says in a preliminary report that a former staffer of both the Clinton and Obama administrations died in a private jet after pilots switched off an aircraft stabilizing system while in flight, causing the aircraft to pitch violently. People
United resumes services to Dubai with daily flight from New York
On Monday, United Airlines said that it had launched a new nonstop daily service between its New York/Newark hub and Dubai International (DXB). United is thus the only US airline to offer nonstop flights between Dubai and the US. The schedule of its new daily flights is below. Business Traveller
Hawaii hotels are strategically increasing their prices
If you feel like booking a hotel in Hawaii is becoming more expensive, you’re not wrong. Hotel room rates have increased greatly since 2019 ― in some cases by 50%. Though there was a post-pandemic surge of visitors to the islands that increased demand, arrivals have since softened. Hawaii is still recovering and seeing fewer visitors than before the pandemic. With that said, hotel occupancy levels are also still down, so there’s a larger supply of rooms than there was pre-pandemic. SF Gate
Sharks, tourists jostle for space around Thai destination island
On any given day in Thailand’s Maya Bay, up to 40 blacktip reef sharks cruise in the cyan shallows while about 4,000 tourists visit its white-sand beach flanked by towering cliffs. Shark numbers have improved since almost every last one was driven from the bay by the influx of tour boats and tourists keen to see the uninhabited idyll that was made famous as the set of Leonardo Di Caprio’s 2000 thriller “The Beach”. Reuters
Americans who have moved abroad are sharing their experiences
Is it just me, or do you also fantasize about packing up your life and moving abroad for a new adventure? Well, it can actually be done. And while moving to a new country can be amazing, it’s often also full of challenges. So I browsed the subreddit r/expats and rounded up a bunch of honest responses from Americans who have left the states for other countries. Here’s what they say about their own experiences. Buzzfeed
Trans flight attendant featured in United ad passes away
A United Airlines flight attendant who shared her transition journey in a United Airlines Ad has sadly passed away after she shared an emotional goodbye message to her social media pages. Kayleigh Scott from Denver took to her social media to speak with her loved ones and urge them to cherish the “good memories we have shared.” MSN
The latest travel threat the CDC is warning about is super gross
You’re either a person that brings wipes and hand sanitizer when you travel, or you just leave it in the hands of the gods and go about your business. Whether you hope for the best or clean every surface as much as possible, we’re going to add another thing to be scared of when you travel. According to the CDC travel guidelines, there’s a new gross reason that will make you rethink your vacation plans (or, at least, be more vigilant about washing your hands). MSN
What relief will airlines give FAA this summer?
There has been a shortage of air traffic controllers in the US building for ages, and things became more dire during the pandemic. Now, we’ve learned the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) still is unable to properly staff up, and so it has resorted to begging the airlines to help avoid disaster this summer. Will any of them help? Probably, but not all. Cranky Flier
Monday, March 27
Yesterday’s TSA checkpoint numbers
TSA officers screened 2,514,762 people at airport checkpoints nationwide yesterday, March 26. Four years ago on the same day (pre-pandemic): 2,510,294. (TSA)
Germany ‘mega strike’: Public transport network halted over pay
Germany’s transport network is at a near standstill as the country experiences one of its largest strikes in decades. Staff at airports, ports, railways, buses and subways walked out shortly after midnight for a 24-hour stoppage. Two of the Germany’s largest unions are demanding higher wages to help with the rising cost of living. The country’s Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said she was optimistic an agreement would be reached this week. BBC News
No flights leaving Ben-Gurion Airport in judicial reform strike
There will be no flights leaving Ben-Gurion Airport until further notice as part of widespread strikes announced by the Workers’ Union on Monday morning in protest of the judicial reform. The announcement of grounded flights was made by Israel’s Airport Authority Committee Chairman Pinhas Idan. The Jerusalem Post
Heathrow announces contingency plan for 10-day airport security strike
Heathrow has announced contingency plans to keep the airport operating during a 10-day strike by security guards. Members of the Unite union will walk out on Friday in a dispute over pay, with travellers warned to brace for disruption. The strike will continue until April 9 and involves security guards employed at Terminal Five. A Heathrow spokesman said: “We will not let these unnecessary strikes impact the hard-earned holidays of our passengers. Evening Standard
Air India, Nepal Airlines planes almost collide mid-air; 3 air traffic controllers suspended
On Friday, a major tragedy was averted when an Air India and a Nepal Airlines aircraft came close to collision mid-air but the warning systems alerted the pilots whose timely action prevented the disaster. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has suspended three employees of the air traffic controller department for “carelessness”, news agency PTI reported quoting CAAN spokesperson Jagannath Niroula as saying. BusinessToday
Delta restarts Los Angeles flights to Heathrow
Delta Air Lines has restarted daily Los Angeles flights from London Heathrow. The direct flights were last operated back in 2015. Los Angeles flights are operated by four-class A330-900neo aircraft, which includes Delta One Suites. Travelmole
Iconic Santa Monica hotel to relaunch
Santa Monica hotel The Georgian is set to officially reopen. A fixture of the Southern California coastline since 1933, the historic hotel will reopen on April 3. The famed Art Deco property has seen several iterations over the years, and hosted regular guests including Charlie Chaplin, Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe. The Georgian has been carefully restored by Jon Blanchard and Nicolo Rusconi of BLVD Hospitality. Travelmole
After Florida school uproar, Italy extends an invitation to parents and students to view Michelangelo’s ‘David’
The Florence museum housing Michelangelo’s Renaissance masterpiece the David on Sunday invited parents and students from a Florida charter school to visit after complaints about a lesson featuring the statue forced the principal to resign. Florence Mayor Dario Nardella also tweeted an invitation for the principal to visit so he can personally honor her. Confusing art with pornography was “ridiculous,” Nardella said. LA Times
Miami Beach declares state of emergency as mayor considers ending Spring Break
Officials in Miami Beach have declared a state of emergency as “massive crowds” of Spring Breakers descend on the Florida city causing mayhem, including the shooting deaths of two people. Alina Hudak, the city manager, signed the emergency declaration Wednesday which has allowed officials to impose measures “to protect the health and safety of persons and property.” The emergency declaration is in effect through Monday. UPI
Truck tire causes car to flip on highway in wild car wreck video
Sometimes L.A. freeways look like action movie scenes, but this car flying several feet into the air and flipping over after a tire popped off a truck … is painfully real, and crazy!!! TMZ
Yang Bing-yi: Founder of Din Tai Fung dumpling empire dies
The founder of one of the world’s biggest dumpling empires has died. Yang Bing-yi, who set up the Taiwanese restaurant chain Din Tai Fung, “passed away peacefully” at the age of 96, the company said in a statement Saturday. It did not mention the cause of death but said that private funeral arrangements were underway and that the family has asked for privacy. CNN Business
From crop dusting to the Widget: How one woman gave Delta its name
The true origin of the Delta name doesn’t lie solely in the Greek letter – it’s the brainchild of a woman named Catherine FitzGerald, who suggested the name to Delta’s founder as a way to pay homage to the agricultural region that was foundational to the airline’s success. Delta News Hub
Sunday, March 26
Yesterday’s TSA checkpoint numbers
TSA officers screened 2,208,254 people at airport checkpoints nationwide yesterday, March 25. Four years ago on the same day (pre-pandemic): 2,172,920. (TSA)
Technical issues at Lufthansa cause delays in Frankfurt
Lufthansa’s operations were disrupted Sunday at Frankfurt airport because of technical problems, German news agency dpa reported. Check-in systems on the airline’s website and at the counter, as well as boarding, were affected at Germany’s biggest airport, a Lufthansa spokeswoman told dpa. Some flights were delayed or would have to be canceled because of the problems. AP
Woman tracks Apple AirPod headphones left on plane to airport worker’s home
We’ve had people tracking their bags when airlines can’t find them. Now here’s something new: a passenger tracking an item she left on a plane — to an airport employee’s home. Earlier in March, Alisabeth Hayden, from Washington state in the US, was separated from her AirPods — Apple’s pricey micro headphones — while disembarking from a plane in San Francisco. She swiftly realized that they appeared to have been stolen. ABC7 Los Angeles
Photos show the Northern Lights made a rare appearance as far south as Phoenix, Arizona on Friday morning
A giant “hole” in the sun and solar eruptions blew strong electromagnetic winds toward Earth this week. That caused the Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, to make a rare appearance in skies across the US. The colorful lights were seen as far south as Arizona, much further than what was forecast. Business Insider
Uber driver carjacked, shot and killed after dropping off 2 passengers in L.A.
The search is on for two suspects after an Uber driver was carjacked and then shot and killed shortly after conducting a drop-off at a gas station in Lynwood, authorities said. The shooting was reported just after 1:30 a.m. Friday at a 7-Eleven, which just celebrated its grand opening the day before, on the 2800 block of Imperial Highway. FOX LA
Eric Garcetti sworn in as US ambassador to India
Former Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti was sworn in as the next U.S. ambassador to India Friday by Vice President Kamala Harris. Members of Garcetti’s family were on hand to witness the brief ceremony in Washington, D.C. FOX LA
American Airlines boosts seasonal transatlantic flights
American Airlines is expanding seasonal transatlantic flights this summer. It announced the return of popular European routes for the summer and boosts transatlantic flights by an extra 14% compared to last year. It represents an additional 240 flights each month to Europe. Next month seasonal service resumes to Madrid and Rome from its Charlotte base, and to Dublin from Dallas/Fort Worth. Travelmole
Two distressed sailors rescued by Princess Cruise Ship off the Australian coast
Two people were rescued by a Princess Cruises ship off the coast of Wilsons Promontory National Park in Victoria, Australia after their boat ran out of fuel earlier this week. A dive boat captain and his skipper were stranded after the boat ran out of fuel off the coast of a granite island known as Skull Rock. They were drifting and unable to anchor due to the water depth. The boat then began to take on water, but the pair didn’t have a bilge pump to get the water out. Cruise Radio
MSC’s newest ships will run on liquid natural gas
The MSC Cruise Division has just taken a giant step toward its ambitious goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050: They’ve launched MSC World Europa and are looking forward to MSC Euribia, two ships powered entirely by liquid natural gas (LNG). LNG is the cleanest, lowest-emission marine fuel yet developed.It releases only about half the CO2 of coal and drastically reduces nitrogen oxide emissions. And it emits zero soot, dust, or fumes. Porthole
Man guilty of sexually assaulting women on flight from LAX
A California man on Friday pleaded guilty to assault charges stemming from a groping incident aboard a Boston-bound plane last year, according to the District of Massachusetts U.S. Attorney. According to federal prosecutors, Jairaj Singh Dhillon, 43, of Modesto, Calif., assaulted two women sitting near him on a flight from Los Angeles to Logan Airport in May 2022. Patch
SoCal couple caused crashes for road rage Youtube channel
A Yucaipa couple faces multiple felony charges stemming from a YouTube channel that prosecutors allege documented dozens of intentional crashes and road rage incidents in the Southland. Investigators allege Christopher and Kimberly Phelps, both 40, caused collisions to receive insurance payouts and also used the incidents as fodder for their YouTube page, posting 162 clips showing crashes, near misses and road rage. In several instances, the couple’s child was in the vehicle, according to San Bernardino County District Attorney’s office. Patch
Get pregnant while staying at this resort, get rewarded with more than a baby
Couples looking to start a family often travel to luxury resorts because they tend to be conducive to romance and relaxation. In fact, so many past guests have contacted Tierra Magnifica in Costa Rica to let them know they were having babies that the resort decided to create a special package to celebrate. Forbes
Friday, March 24
Yesterday’s TSA checkpoint numbers
TSA officers screened 2,189,372 people at airport checkpoints nationwide yesterday, March 23. Four years ago on the same day (pre-pandemic): 2,273,811. (TSA)
German unions call for wide-ranging transport strike Monday
German unions are calling on thousands of workers across the country’s transport system to stage a one-day strike on Monday that is expected to bring widespread disruption to planes, trains and local transit. The Ver.di service workers’ union and the EVG union, which represents many railway workers, announced the 24-hour walkout in a joint appearance Thursday. Employees in many sectors have been seeking hefty raises to reflect persistently high inflation. Travel Weekly
FAA encourages airlines to cut New York schedules this summer
Because of a shortage of air traffic controllers, the FAA this summer will allow airlines to surrender 10% of their landing and departure slots at capacity-restricted Newark, LaGuardia and JFK airports without being subject to losing access to those slots in future years. The moratorium will be in effect May 15 to Sept. 15. Travel Weekly
The new Crystal extends an offer to guests impacted by the old Crystal’s collapse
The new Crystal has launched a program for guests who lost money after the collapse of the old Crystal Cruises. Eligible guests with a verified claim in the Crystal Cruises LLC case will be able to apply for a credit to use toward future sailings on the Crystal Serenity or Crystal Symphony. Travel Weekly
US tourist fined for driving Ferrari into Florence’s famous piazza
Getting behind the wheel of a bright red Ferrari sports car doesn’t mean you can drive anywhere – not even in Italy. That’s what one American tourist found to his cost when he drove a gleaming Ferrari Spider into the Piazza della Signoria, a famous pedestrianized square in the historic center of the city of Florence. The tourist was apprehended on Monday after he parked the Swiss-registered Ferrari Spider, having been seen motoring along the adjacent Via dei Gondi street in what local officials described as a “nonsensical” way. CNN
France pension reform protests turn violent following national day of action
More than a million people took to the streets across France on Thursday with protests turning violent in some areas as demonstrators voiced their fury at proposed pension reforms. Clashes between groups of protesters and police broke out after workers staged a national strike throughout Thursday, with flare-ups in Paris and regional capitals. French police said around 1,000 people acted “violently,” setting fires, launching smoke bombs and damaging property. In the southwestern city of Bordeaux, protesters set fire to the entrance of the city hall during ongoing clashes with police, according to CNN affiliate BFMTV. CNN Business
Passports: Blinken says State Department is working to deal with ‘unprecedented demand’
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Thursday the State Department is facing an “unprecedented demand” for passports, and has increased staffing and resources to deal with it. Blinken said the current wait time for a regular passport is “about ten to thirteen weeks, and for an expedited passport about seven to nine weeks.” CNN Politics
Tickets to Bruce Springsteen concerts are now so expensive in the US that American fans are flying to Europe
Music lovers are complaining that the price of concert tickets in the United States are now so expensive that it is cheaper to buy a plane ticket and see the show in Europe. Beyoncé fan Mercedes Arielle, from Dallas, announced on Instagram that she had saved money by booking a flight to Stockholm to see the Renaissance tour, rather than buying a ticket in her hometown. Daily Mail
Mammoth Mountain ski season extended through July
California skiing haven Mammoth Mountain will stay open through at least July. It could continue beyond July thanks to the huge amount of snowfall this winter. They haven’t yet to confirmed a closing date for the season. There has been unprecedented snowfall across the Golden State in recent weeks. Travelmole
I started my Turo side hustle in 2021 with one car. Last year, I earned $76,620 in passive income from 7 cars.
Camesha Whitmore is a 31-year-old Turo host in Phoenix. In 2021, she started a side hustle on the car-rental app hoping to earn passive income. Last year, she earned $76,620 in passive income from her fleet of seven cars. Business Insider
This couple bought and renovated a 14th-century Italian home
Buying and renovating a home in Italy was something Doug and Leah Johnson had often dreamed about. The couple, who are based in Gloucester, Massachusetts, say they’d sometimes go to view houses while vacationing in the European country. CNN
Finland has been named the happiest country in the world — again.
The Nordic country topped the “World Happiness Report 2023,” published this week by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network, which measures factors such as income, mental and physical health and societal generosity. CNBC
Thursday, March 23
Yesterday’s TSA checkpoint numbers
TSA officers screened 2,189,372 people at airport checkpoints nationwide yesterday, March 22. Four years ago on the same day (pre-pandemic): 2,273,811. (TSA)
FAA issues industrywide call to action following runway close calls
The Federal Aviation Administration told airlines in a rare industrywide bulletin Wednesday to step up vigilance at airports after a series of close calls on or near runways. The agency published an “aviation safety call to action,” urging carriers to “reinforce adherence to published processes and procedures.” “Operators should evaluate information collected through their safety management processes, identify hazards, increase and improve safety communications with employees and enact mitigations,” the safety alert says. CNN
U.S. FAA cuts airlines’ minimum flight requirements at NY, Washington airports
The U.S. aviation regulator said on Wednesday it will temporarily cut minimum flight requirements for airlines at congested New York City-area airports and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport to address summer congestion issues, citing air traffic controller staffing levels. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) agreed to the request of Delta Air Lines (DAL.N) and United Airlines (UAL.O) to temporarily return up to 10% slots and flights at New York airports and National with the condition they not be backfilled by other carriers. Reuters
Off-duty pilot helps Southwest Airlines flight after pilot’s emergency
A Southwest Airlines flight from Las Vegas to Columbus, Ohio returned to Las Vegas Wednesday morning after one of its pilots became ill, the carrier and Federal Aviation Administration say. A pilot from another airline who happened to be on board stepped up to help the second Southwest pilot in the cockpit, the airline says. CBS News
Tourist survives bungee jump fall in Thailand after cord snaps
Some thrill seekers describe bungee jumping as a near-death experience, but few come quite as close as one man who managed to survive his cord snapping in Thailand. Footage of the terrifying ordeal went viral this week after the 39-year-old tourist from Hong Kong went public with his story. CNN
Vote on Biden’s pick to run FAA delayed amid GOP opposition
A vote on President Joe Biden’s choice to run the Federal Aviation Administration was delayed indefinitely Wednesday in the face of an opposition blitz by Republicans, who say the nominee lacks enough experience in aviation to lead the agency, which is under pressure to stem a surge in dangerous close calls between planes. The Senate Commerce Committee was scheduled to vote on Denver International Airport CEO Phillip Washington, whose nomination has languished since Biden announced his choice last July. AP News
One of Europe’s busiest airports to be forced to cut flights due to planet-warming carbon pollution
Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, one of Europe’s busiest aviation hubs, is to be forced to limit the number of international flights and passengers it handles under the Dutch government’s plans to cut carbon emissions — a move that has triggered airline concerns. Dutch officials announced on March 17 that it would impose restrictions on all international flights leaving the Netherlands in order to reach its climate goals. CNN
United Airlines and Archer announce first commercial electric air taxi route in Chicago
United Airlines and Archer have selected O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to Vertiport Chicago as the next point to point route in which the two companies will utilize Archer’s electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft as part of their urban air mobility (UAM) network buildout Chicago has a long-standing reputation as a major transportation center and leader in mobility innovation and, with ORD being United’s largest operations hub, it provides an ideal location for United and Archer to ramp their UAM operations. Business Wire
Section of Highway 101 in Northern California sinks after storm
Nearly a mile of Highway 101 in Northern California is damaged by the the winter storms, including a section of the highway that became so waterlogged it caved in on itself, compromising both lanes. In response, Caltrans is directing one-way traffic over the eastern shoulder of the crucial roadway near the border of Mendocino and Humboldt counties. SF Gate
Nearly 90 percent of Americans have flown commercially
This spring, U.S. passenger airlines are expecting a record 158 million passengers – an average of 2.6 million every day throughout March and April. Carriers are making every effort – including operating larger aircraft to accommodate the increase in travelers while paring back schedules to reduce pressure on the system – to prioritize seamless travel. As travelers take to the skies, Airlines for America (A4A) is pleased to share the results of our annual 2023 “Air Travelers in America” survey conducted by Ipsos. Airlines For America
San Francisco’s travel industry is recovering slowly
San Francisco said the city drew 21.9 million visitors in 2022, a 29% increase over the prior year but still 16% down from 2019, when a record 26.2 million visitors arrived. Rebounds in international leisure travel from Europe and the city’s convention business fueled the 29% increase, according to the San Francisco Travel Association, the city’s destination marketing organization. Travel Weekly
Here’s what it’s actually like to find an apartment in Paris
In 2019, after nearly six years in New York City and on the verge of turning 30, I decided to take one of those impractical life plunges that only makes sense from an emotional standpoint. I packed up my structurally questionable East Village apartment, waved a reluctant goodbye to my local bodega, and moved to Paris. Blessed with dual EU citizenship, I was able to indulge in a bit of international whimsy, though the experience was still no walk in the…Luxembourg Gardens. Jobless and predominantly friendless, the weight of my decision didn’t fully hit until touching down on the tarmac at Charles de Gaulle Airport faced with the daunting task of finding somewhere to live. BI
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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.