December 10, 2024
In This Edition… Many Air Canada updates and basic fare changes, credit card surcharge for Air France and KLM tickets, gas prices low, holiday travel survival tips, Air France-KLM boost data capabilities, and much more!
Dans cette édition… plusieurs mises à jour d’Air Canada et des changements aux tarifs de base, des frais de carte de crédit supplémentaires pour les billets d'Air France et de KLM, la baisse du prix du pétrole, des conseils de survie pour les voyages pendant le temps des fêtes, le renforcement des capacités en matière de données d’Air France et de KLM, et bien plus encore!
Navigator Blog
Why Access to Unbiased Content Matters for Your Travel Program
Here are three reasons why having access to a wide array of content is critical to the success of your travel program.
Key Changes International Travelers Should Prepare For In 2025
Here are the changes travelers can expect in the coming months.
Airline & Flight Updates
Air Canada’s Changes to Basic Fares Will Cost Consumers More in 2025
Air Canada — Good-bye carry-ons...
Air Canada to Launch Flights to the Philippines in 2025
OpenJaw — Air Canada will begin non-stop service between Vancouver and Manila in April 2025, part of its expanding Southeast Asia network.
United’s Dulles Hub to Get $500M Revamp
Business Travel News — United Airlines’ hub at Washington Dulles International Airport is about to get an upgrade of more than $500 million, the airline announced.
Air Canada Expands Vancouver-U.S. Routes for Summer
OpenJaw — Air Canada is bumping capacity to U.S. from YVR as of summer, including year-round Tampa service, seasonal to Raleigh, and Nashville, and increased frequency to other US destinations.
Air Canada First to Launch Facial Recognition Boarding
OpenJaw — Air Canada rolls out its facial recognition program as a boarding option for most domestic flights from YVR starting 03DEC. The program is also available at YYZ lounges.
WestJet to Launch Vancouver-Austin Service
Business Travel News — WestJet on May 11, 2025, will launch nonstop service between Vancouver, B.C., and Austin, Texas, the carrier announced.
Air Canada, Star Alliance Receive World Travel Awards
OpenJaw — Air Canada was recognized as the World’s Leading Airline to North America at the World Travel Awards, with its Vice President, Lisa M. Pierce, thanking the travel trade for the vote.
Etihad to Launch Atlanta Service
Business Travel News — Etihad Airways beginning July 2, 2025, will launch flights between Abu Dhabi and Atlanta, the carrier announced Monday. It also will introduce service in 2025 to several other locations in Asia and Africa.
New Surcharge for Air France and KLM Tickets Purchased on Corporate Credit Cards
afkl.biz — Air France and KLM introduced a new surcharge for corporate credit cards in Canada when used for payment of an Air France (057) or KLM (074) ticket.
Safety & Security
These Are the Busiest Travel Days, According to TSA
Afar Magazine — The holidays and holiday weekends often bring some of the most congested days at the country’s airports and on the roads.
Government Travel Warnings
U.S. Department of State — Information on current government issued travel warnings and alerts.
Ground Transportation
Gas Prices Hit Three-Year Low
Travel Pulse — Gas prices have hit a three-year low, with the national average dropping to $3.03 per gallon, and 32 states already seeing prices below $3.
Amtrak Plans to Double Ridership by 2040
Fast Company — Amtrak had a record 32.8 million riders in 2024, pointing to Americans’ growing interest in traveling by train.
Traveler Tips, Trips & Convenience
Americans Will Need to Do This to Visit Britain Next Year
Fodor’s Travel — The ETA process essentially moves those checks further out, before passengers board their flight to Britain, meaning the process can be expedited once they arrive.
U.S. Considers New Rules to Protect Passengers During Airline Meltdowns
NBC News — The Transportation Department launched a rulemaking process, billed as a measure to “protect passengers stranded by airlines,” that is now open for public comment.
Flight Attendants Share Secrets to Surviving Holiday Travel
CNN — Travel stress can hit new heights over the busy holiday period, but it doesn’t have to. CNN Travel spoke to cabin crew to learn their top tips for surviving holiday travel.
What Happens to Airlines’ Unclaimed Baggage?
Afar Magazine — If a suitcase gets lost on a flight, does it end up in luggage heaven? Sort of. Here’s what happens to the unclaimed bags that get left behind.
The Longest Flight in the World Is Getting a Luxurious Upgrade
Afar Magazine — This nearly 19-hour flight will soon be a lot more comfortable for some.
Air France-KLM Partners with Google Cloud to Boost Data Capabilities
PhocusWire — Google Cloud has partnered with Air France-KLM to help the airline group make better use of its data and generative artificial intelligence as well as drive innovation. Air France-KLM hopes to improve the travel experience and deliver more personalized products and services, as well as optimize operations, by boosting data and AI capabilities.
A Celebrity Chef Makes His First Foray Into Airport Lounge Dining—and It’s Worth the Layover
Afar Magazine — Enjoy tapas, craft cocktails, a roving cart of caviar-filled ice cream cones, and more irresistible Spanish cuisine.
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