Upgrading on Hawaiian Airlines: Hawaii to/from the Continental U.S.

Upgrading on Hawaiian Airlines is relatively easy compared to the methods followed on the larger U.S. carriers. The most common way is to redeem miles for an upgrade (click HERE to view Hawaiian's redemption chart).

HAWAIIANMILES REDEMPTION
Since I'm flying to Las Vegas, let's look at the Hawaii to/from the U.S. mainland redemption offers. The choices are under two categories:

• First/Business Saver - the lowest mileage First/Business Class flight award. This award does not have to be purchased online.
• First/Business Flex - can be redeemed for travel on Hawaiian Airlines with twice the miles of a First/Business Saveraward when a First/Business Saver award is not available.
• Upgrades - must be processed through Hawaiian Airlines Reservations. All award upgrades must be ticketed 26 hours prior to the flight departure.

For a first class ticket, the mileage options are:
40,000 First Class Saver
80,000 First Class Flex

To upgrade from coach ticket, the mileage options are:
25,000 First Class Saver
50,000 First Class Flex

So depending on the miles you have in your account, you have your choice of using miles to upgrade or to redeem them for a first class seat. Hawaiian keeps it simple by allowing you to call HawaiianMiles customer service for redemption. The agent will confirm your available miles and which reward is available for redemption.

Naturally the closer you book to your departure and the availability of first class seats will be the factors on whether a "first class saver" or "first class flex" reward is necessary. The scarcer the number of first class seats, the option using more points is then required. Keep in mind that the upgrade must be ticketed 26 hours prior to departure.

STANDBY FIRST CLASS UPGRADE
This option is available on the day of departure and available to all coach passengers. First class upgrades on the day of departure are completed through online or airport check-in within 24 hours prior to departure.

The catch is the fee for standby upgrade varies by season and route for International and North American flights. The fee also varies depending if the passenger is a Puulani Platinum or Puulani Gold holder in the HawaiianMiles program or Hawaiian Airlines Visa Card Holder.

Click HERE to view Hawaiian Airlines fee chart. According to this chart, standby upgrades cost $349 to $449 each way on flights to/from North America.

MY EXPERIENCE USING BOTH METHODS
Last month when I flew from Honolulu to Las Vegas I upgraded using miles. It cost me 25,000 miles each way and I redeemed the miles by calling the HawaiianMiles Service Center (Toll-Free 1-877-426-4537; Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm HST). I called a week before to book the upgrade to Las Vegas and two days before to book the upgrade to return to Honolulu. The customer service rep handled the transaction, advised me which first class seats were available and sent an email to confirm the details.

Today I had the opportunity to use the "standby first class upgrade" option for my flight from Honolulu to Las Vegas. Since I am a Puulani Gold member in the HawaiianMiles program, the cost to upgrade is $270 including all taxes. This is much less than what is shown on Hawaiian's fee chart. I booked this upgrade at the self check-in kiosk at the airport. I confirmed a seat in the first class cabin and a receipt for the transaction is printed at the kiosk.

Using either option is easy on Hawaiian Airlines and I would use either method again. Of course upgrades are always debated based on the comfort, amenities and service that is provided. But that's a different article.

Hawaiian Airlines Check-In at Honolulu International

It's all about self check-in at the Hawaiian airlines terminal.
(photo: TheHopefulTraveler)

The ticket lobby of the inter-island terminal (or Terminal 2) is now exclusively used by Hawaiian Airlines. It is in this terminal where all passengers check-in for all of Hawaiian's flights regardless if it is overseas or inter-island.

Aloha Airlines used to occupy of half of the inter-island terminal before its demise in 2008. Mokulele Airlines used some of the gates here before it completely merged with go! which then had its flights relegated to the commuter terminal.

Four check-in pods at the overseas check-in lobby for Hawaiian Airlines.
(photo: TheHopefulTraveler)

The inter-island ticket lobby which was transformed in 2011 to remove the traditional ticket counters is divided into two parts. Lobby 2 (on the mauka or mountain side of the terminal) is used to check-in for Hawaiian's overseas flights. Lobby 3 (on the makai or ocean side of the terminal) is used to check-in for Hawaiian's overseas flights. Each lobby holds pods and at each pod is eight self check-in machines. But what's great is there are one or two Hawaiian agents per pod assisting customers.

Check-in, pay any fees and weigh your bags all in one spot.
(photo: TheHopefulTraveler)

Follow the instructions on the touch screen. Remember to have your confirmation code, e-ticket number or Hawaiian Miles number to access your reservation. Once you have confirmed the itinerary, passengers, seat assignments and weight of checked bags, your boarding passes and luggage tags are printed. Sharp eyed agents will be there to assist with tagging your bags correctly. If you need to pay for checked bags or upgrades, have your credit card ready to complete the transaction.

Agriculture inspection for bags on flights to the mainland or overseas
is moved to be completed after check-in.
(photo: TheHopefulTraveler)

Formerly all bags heading for the mainland or abroad had to pass through agriculture inspection. Now the bags pass through inspection after check-in and after the bags are tagged. As a reminder the purpose of the inspection is to protect the fragile eco-systems outside of the islands. From the check-in kiosk, walk over to the agriculture inspection station located where where the tickets counters used to line the back wall. Your checked bags are also inspected by the TSA at this point.

Gone is the row of check-in counters that used to line this wall.
(photo: TheHopefulTraveler)

Once your checked bag is accepted at agriculture, you can either head directly to security or you can watch your bag pass through the inspection as it rides along the conveyor belt until your bag is no longer in view. There is a separate counter to check-in odd sized bags and personal items such as surfboards. If you need an old-fashioned agent to assist with itinerary changes there is a small customer service counter located near the lobby entrance. But be aware the line at this counter can be long and move extremely slow.

Look for this sign if you need to do what is says.
(photo: TheHopefulTraveler)

Find that your bags exceed the weight limit, head to the "weigh and repacking station" which allows you to shift belongings between bags or remove them completely. If you have no bags to check, you can use any of the kiosks spread throughout the terminal before making your way directly to security. Many passengers not checking bags (usually fliers on inter-island flights) check-in online.

MY EXPERIENCE TODAY
Check-in at noon is crowded at the inter-island terminal. I am checking in for a direct flight to Las Vegas on Hawaiian Airlines so I head to the part of the lobby devoted to overseas flights check-in.

There is one small problem with the pods. Each kiosk at the pods has its own line so this means eight lines at each pod. The bothersome thing here is if you're behind someone who is slow or having problems at check-in you may have to jump to another line. I think at each pod station there should be one line. Then passengers will have any one of the eight available as they become free.

I have used these check-in kiosks before. But for some reason the machines are running very slow as it changes from screen to screen. By the time my boarding passes were printed a Hawaiian Airlines agent was there to help me tag my one checked bag.

The line to drop off the bags at agriculture was long stretching almost the entire length of the lobby. So I waited at one of the few places to sit in the lobby. As soon as the line shortened I dropped off my bag and then made sure it makes its way onto the conveyor belt. Now on to the gates.

HNL to LAS: Solving a Delayed Flight Problem

An Hawaiian Airlines and American Airlines jet.
(photo: WorldNews)

Eventually it was going to happen to me. My flight would be delayed by so many hours that the airline would get me to my destination a day after my original arrival date. That is unless I could get some help to fix it.

My originally itinerary was as follows:

Carrier	Flight Number	Departing		Arriving		Booking Code
		City	Date & Time	City	Time
American Airlines	270	HONOLULU	TUE 15MAY 7:20 AM	LOS ANGELES	3:40 PM	N
				Economy	Seat 21H	Food For Purchase
American Airlines	741	LOS ANGELES	TUE 15MAY 5:50 PM	LAS VEGAS	7:00 PM	N
				Economy	Seat 9D

So at 2am on May 15, I get one of those automated phone alerts from American Airlines that flight AA270 is delayed and that my itinerary has changed to depart at 1pm from Honolulu and arrive in Los Angeles after 10pm and connect on flight that leaves at 9pm. I'm not sure which magical world the airline lives on but I can't connect on a flight that leaves before I arrive in Los Angeles.

As a platinum member in their Aadvantage mileage program I call American Airlines customer service using the platinum elite number. The service rep finds a flight where I would overnight in L.A. and then connect on a flight to Las Vegas to arrive on the afternoon of May 16th. Keep in mind the agent is trying to keep me on an American Airlines flight. I say I have already prepaid for my hotel. At that point she is able to find other flights that could get me to Vegas sooner. The best she found was to fly American to L.A. then in a 45-minute layover switch to a United Airlines flight. There's still something wrong with this picture. The two airlines are at different terminals and with any slightest delay I may not make the connecting flight. Also what irks me is I'm not told why my original flight was delayed. The automated message did not tell me nor could the customer service rep.

Keep in mind this is still after 2am on May 15th. This is where it helps to know alternate flights that the customer service agent on the phone may not find right away. So I say Hawaiian Airlines flies non-stop from Honolulu to Las Vegas. Can you get me on one of those flights. Surprise. The customer service representative finds that Hawaiian does have seats available and after being on hold for over 15 minutes, I am confirmed on HA18 to Las Vegas to arrive four-and-a-half hours later than my original arrival time on American. However the agent cannot confirm any seats nor any fees I may incur while flying an alternate carrier.

At this moment all I know is this:

Carrier	Flight Number	Departing		Arriving		Booking Code
		City	Date & Time	City	Time
Hawaiian Airlines	18	HONOLULU	TUE 15MAY 3:00 PM	LAS VEGAS	11:45 PM	Y
				Coach

This is where I probably had an advantage. I call Hawaiian Airlines where I also hold a Puulani Gold elite status in their  HawaiianMiles program. The customer service representative confirms an aisle seat. I then ask that since I am elite member on Hawaiian would I still have to pay the fee to check a bag even though I was rebooked from an American flight. Less than a couple of minutes later the agent says I can use my Hawaiian gold benefits which means early boarding and no checked bag fee.

Though I'm arriving near midnight I'd much rather arrive at that time than after 12 noon the next day. Since I have an extra few hours before my 3pm departure, I can get some extra sleep.

Lesson Learned: Be familiar with flights and routes on your preferred airline and on other airlines, keep airline telephone numbers handy and know your rights. By the way Rule 240 is owed some thanks. Click HERE to read American's in depth interpretation of the rule.

Mobile App for Discrimination at U.S. Airports

Just when you think there can't be an app for that, there is one. Civil-rights groups led by the Sikh Coalition offers an app for mobile devices that allows airline passengers to report suspected discrimination at U.S. airport checkpoints.

One news report dubbed it the "discrimination app" but its development was in response to a serious issue. Sikhs have complained for years that they are targeted by the Transportation Security Administration because of their turbans, which they wear for religion. But the app is made for everyone who is interested in filing a formal report alleging discrimination based on gender, race, religion or disability directly to the TSA and the Department of Homeland Security.

The app is free and offers a user-friendly form to enter the details of the discrimination and to send the report as soon as possible. It also offer information about passenger rights.

In response to the app, a TSA official has said in a USA Today article that race and ethnicity are not factors taken into consideration when TSA officers are scrutinizing passengers for suspicious behavior. Passengers with concerns can ask to speak to a supervisor at the airport, submit feedback through the agency's website or file a civil-rights complaint.

Click HERE to download the FlyRights app for iPhone or visit fly-rights.org to download for Android phones.

The Sikh Coalition is a community-based organization that defends Sikh civil rights. It's broader mission is to provide direct legal services to persons whose civil or human rights are violated; advocate for law and policies that are respectful of fundamental rights; and promote appreciation for diversity through education.

Virgin Atlantic's New Upper Class Suites

(photos: Virgin Atlantic)

Sometimes a product seems so hip and now that it can't be ignored in the marketplace. It appears Virgin Atlantic Airways has found that product for its new Upper Class Suites that may be unrivaled in its design and look. Upper Class is the airline's premium business class product on their two-class Airbus A330 jets.

Introduced last weekend and currently flying exclusively between London Heathrow to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, the airline claims "We've re-engineered and reinvented our Upper Class Suite, creating a fabulous onboard experience with great new features":

• Recline increased up to 50% in the lounger configuration and 1.5 inches greater in width than the previous version.
• In lie-flat mode, the seats provide an 87-inch bed surface (at 7 feet 2 inches, it is longer than other airline's business class bed)
• New espresso color leather seats.
• A 12.1-inch touchscreen monitor with touchscreen remote.
• Adjustable reading light.
• A flip-down cocktail table and push panel armrest.
• Additional storage compartments featuring a new literature pocket and two ottoman storage areas.
• USB and other power port connections compatible with most international type plugs.
• Lumbar support functionality with "firm touch" buttons to prevent accidental activation.
• An "Aeromobile" system giving passengers the ability to make and receive phone calls and texts from their own mobile phones.
• In a herringbone pattern, four-seats across, all seats have direct aisle access.
• Each window seat has an one more window built into the wall that provides more light but opaque enough to allow privacy from passengers seated in adjacent rows.

The futuristic onboard bar is now separate from the cabin giving passengers not wishing to socialize more privacy. The bar has new mood lighting but still have the Virgin Atlantic accents of red and Swarovski crystal.

Estimated roundtrip airfares from the carrier's website for a weeklong trip in May varies from a low of $3,988.20 for a restrictive ticket to a high of $10,470.20 for a fully flexible and refundable reservation for flight VS003 (Heathrow to JFK) and VS004 (JFK to Heathrow) that are offered six days a week. As the airline takes possession of more Airbus A330 planes in 2012, additional destinations will be added offering the Upper Class Suites. The seats will be added to their order of Boeing 787s in 2014.

Click HERE for an interactive tour. Visit virgin-atlantic.com for more information. Virgin-Atlantic Airways is owned by Richard Branson's the Virgin Group and Singapore Airlines and operates between the United Kingdom and North America, the Caribbean, Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Australia.

America's Worst & Best Airports Ranked by T+L

La Guardia Airport (photo: jimcintosh/flickr)

Another report from Travel & Leisure reveals the best and worst airports in America. The magazine's readers rated the airports based on flight delays; design; amenities; food and drink; check-in and security; service; and transportation and location.

The worst list is always more interesting since we tend to argue because of how we vary in our determination of what constitutes a "best" airport. I'm disappointed that my favorite DFW is on the worst list and surprised that LAS is on the worst list.

Worst Airports in the USA:
1. New York (LGA)
2. Los Angeles (LAX)
3. Philadelphia (PHL)
4. New York (JFK)
5. Newark (EWR)
6. Chicago O'Hare (ORD)
7. Washington Dulles (IAD)
8. Boston (BOS)
9. Houston (IAH)
10. Atlanta (ATL)
11. Dallas Fort Worth (DFW)
The magazine reports regarding number one worst ranked La Guardia (LGA): "Dilapidated La Guardia hasn't aged well. The airport has the dubious honor of ranking the worst for the check-in and security process, the worst for baggage handling, the worst when it comes to providing Wi-Fi, the worst at staff communication, and the worst design and cleanliness. If there was a ray of hope, its location, was considered superior to six other airports."

Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.
(photo: rmpenguino/flickr)

Best Airports in the USA:
1. Minneapolis (MSP)
2. Charlotte (CLT)
3. Detroit Metropolitan (DTW)
4. Orlando (MCO)
5. San Francisco (SFO)
6. Baltimore (BWI)
7. Las Vegas (LAS)
8. Seattle (SEA)
9. Denver (DEN)
10. Miami International (MIA)
11. Phoenix (PHX)
The magazine reports regarding number one ranked best ranked Minneapolis-St. Paul International (MSP): "This may be the cheeriest and most welcoming airport in the nation. T+L voters loved the shopping and food and drink options at this mini-mall of an airport, and when it came to ease of check-in and security, Minneapolis also took the No. 1 spot. It came in second for design and cleanliness, baggage handling, staff communication, and airport location. Only its Wi-Fi offerings were lackluster (11th place), but that still left this midwestern oasis as the clear winner."

Click HERE to view the full article and analysis of each ranking on the Travel & Leisure website.

Hawaiian Airlines First Class on the A330-200 Part 2

Vegetable chips and lemongrass coconut soup.
(photo: TheHopefulTraveler)

Hawaiian operates at least three departures daily from McCarran International Airport. This flight from Las Vegas to Honolulu HA17 departs at 1:55am. Despite the unusual time, the gate agents announce its a full flight and would appreciate if passengers remain seated until their row number is called.

The business organization paid for the ticket but that doesn't mean I couldn't take advantage of situation and with a call a couple of days earlier to the airline, I upgraded again from a coach to a first class seat by redeeming 25,000 miles from my Hawaiian Miles account.

It should be noted that the call center for Hawaiian Airlines operates from the Philippines but the service is thorough and polite. Anybody expecting no waiting has never ever called a call center. But once I got a service agent, the request was expedited.

So unlike the first class meal service on HA18 that I flew to Vegas, the return trip had a different service. What do you serve at 2am in the morning? The flight attendants still distributed a menu but there was only one selection which reads as follows:

Moemoe menu
Light, quick and delicious, this snack features the tastes of Hawai'i and is perfectly proportioned to enjoy just before a restful sleep.

- CRISPY VEGETABLE CHIPS
  Featuring carrots and taro

- CREAMY LEMONGRASS COCONUT SOUP
  With chicken, mushrooms, green onions and brown rice.

There was something comforting about this snack. It's warmth and light flavors was satisfying for the remainder of this six hour flight. There is no dessert or salad course but drinks still are poured freely.

Adding to the comfort is the mood lighting in blues and purples. No harsh fluorescents. I attempted to watch a movie "The Descendants" in an attempt to pass the time. The Airbus A330 is Hawaiian's newest jet and every seat has a personal monitor. In coach they are located on the seat backs. In first class they are in the arm rest and pop out with a gentle push.

Soothing mood lighting fills the entire cabin.

The personal entertainment center in first class.
(above photos: TheHopefulTraveler)

Malaysia Airlines A380: Infant and Child Free Zone

Rendering of the Malaysia Airlines A380.

Malaysia Airlines has made a controversial announcement that the economy section on the upper deck of their forthcoming A380 super jumbo jet will be a kids-free zone. Last year the airline announced it will not accept infants in the plane's first class cabins.

The upper deck economy cabin hold 70 passengers. Also on the upper deck is business class and it is yet unclear if any infants or children will be allowed to fly in the part of the plan. If the same rules apply to business, then all infants will be only be allowed on the lower deck.  The airline's A380 is scheduled to make its debut on July 1st.

It's heated debate between parents who travel with their children and others who seek a respite on the plane away from any young ones. The airline already bans infants from the first class of their 747 jumbo jets.

Visit malaysiaairlines.com to learn about the Asian government-owned carrier. The airline is based in Kuala Lampur and flies in Southeast Asia, East Asia, South Asia, Middle East and between Europe and Australasia. The airline also operates transatlantic flights to Los Angeles via Tokyo.

Cruising Attitude: Tales of Crashpads, Crew Drama and Crazy Passengers at 35,000 Feet by Heather Poole

Author Heather Poole offers an insightful look at the career of a flight attendant and many any who will pick up this book will learn something new about the world of flying the friendly skies. Poole offers many amusing experiences starting from chapter one where she wonders who will be the "crazy" passenger on the flight. In her words, there is always one and the one she describes is quite a doozy.

As she describes flight attendant training, she gives up how strict rules had to be followed and how classmates would start disappearing once these rules were not observed. But it's what happens after graduation that is the most surprising: the life of a flight attendant is nowhere as glamourous as many of us would think. She describes how on many flights the food on board was only for passengers and crew would hope that there would be extra trays of food for them. She minces no words about the very low starting wages and how it was nearly impossible for them to enjoy a good meal and their free time without worrying about money.

One amusing observation she makes is about the difference between first class and business class. She mentions flight attendants like working first class because most of these passengers just sleep during the flight. She adds that business class has the most demanding passengers. This is exemplified by a story about how a flight attendant offers spoons to business class passengers which each one takes only for the same flight attendant to just collect the spoons afterwards without offering anything else or any use for the spoon.

Poole doesn't mention the airline for which she worked for during most of her career (I've come to learn it's likely American Airlines) but it's probably best she didn't so we can identity her as possibly the flight attendant we may have met once. Reading the book I'm recalling the many flight attendants who have worked the planes I've flown over the many years. I can only appreciate the smiling face they offer knowing now what kinds of things can happen behind the scenes.

The book does get bogged down in the later chapters when she talks about working with her mother who also became a flight attendant. But for the most part the book is a fun read. Pick it up and see if you don't start saying thank you more often to a flight crew.

"Cruising Attitude" by Heather Poole is available in softcover. Click the adds below to purchase a copy or Kindle version from Amazon. Click HERE to purchase eBook from iTunes.

World's Longest Flights Ranked by Hours

It's 9,500 miles between Los Angeles (left) and Singapore (right).
See below for the number of hours it takes to fly this route.
(photo credit: John Sullivan/Wikimedia Commons/and the Singapore
Toursim Board for U.S. News)

My achilles heel when I travel is it's at least 2,500 miles to the nearest continent from Honolulu, Hawaii. At its shortest the flight to the west coast of the United States is about five hours. That duration is considered a mere fraction of the time to fly some of the longest flights in the world ranked by hours. Now it would be amazing if anyone on these flights doesn't at least get up once to go to the restroom unless they're unconscious for the entire duration or seeking deep vein thrombosis as a goal.

Probably the best thing about these very long-haul flights is there's no layover and it helps to earn elite level on each airline that much easier.

The ranking is determined by U.S. News & World Report. Notice that the miles between destinations does not necessarily determine the longest flights.

16 Hours
New York to Hong Kong on Cathay Pacific (8,059 miles)
Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas to Brisbane, Australia on Qantas (8,584 miles)
Johannesburg, South Africa to New York on South African Airways (7,970 miles)
Newark, New Jersey to Hong Kong on United Airlines (8,065 miles)

16 Hours 15 Minutes
Atlanta, Georgia to Johannesburg, South Africa on Delta Airlines (8,433 miles)
Doha, Qatar to Houston, Texas on Qatar Airways (8,047 miles)

16 Hours 20 Minutes
Dubai, United Arab Emirates to Houston, Texas on Emirates Airlines (8,164 miles)

16 Hours 30 Minutes
Dubai, United Arab Emirates to Los Angeles, California on Emirates Airlines (8,335 miles)

17 Hours 30 Minutes
Los Angeles, California to Bangkok, Thailand on Thai Airways (8,260 miles)

18 Hours
Newark, New Jersey to Singapore on Singapore Airlines (10,371 miles)

18 Hours 30 Minutes
Los Angeles, California to Singapore on Singapore Airlines (9,500 miles)

It should be noted that Singapore Airlines operates a business-class only airplane for 100 passengers on this Los Angeles to Singapore route. The reason this flight is shorter than the Newark to Singapore flight is the route taken by the airline's jets. The Newark flight path across the North Pole subjects the aircraft to less wind resistance, allowing it travel faster than the flight from Los Angeles, which crosses the Pacific Ocean.

Click HERE to read the full article from U.S. News & World Report and learn more about these flights.

Airlines Expand Overhead Bins

(photo credit: msnbc)

In response to checked-bag fees and more passengers boarding with larger carry-on bags, many airlines have replaced overhead bins with larger ones or will usher in new jets with expanded bins.

The Associated Press reports the following:

• United will replace bin doors on all of its Airbus A320s. The doors curve out more to let passengers slide bags into bins wheels first. These planes will hold 106 roll-on bags, up from 64.
• New American Airlines 737 jets will hold 48 more bags than the planes they are replacing. These planes however hold 24 more seats. Older 737 are getting new bin doors that curve out more.
• Delta Air Lines is adding new bins to 767 jets on international routes which hold 26 more bags than the ones they are replacing.
• Boeing is designing the bins on its new 787 Dreamliner to hold a standard 9x14x22-inch roll-aboard bag wheels in first. It you bought your roll-aboard from Costco, it should fit as bags from the retailer were used to test out the fit of the bins.
• US Airways had already enlarged bins in 2008 on its 757 planes flying long-haul routes that allow bags to be stowed wheels in first.

At the same time airlines may be getting tougher in enforcing carry-on bag rules. It is reported that if you cannot find space for your carry-on bag in an overhead bin or under the seat in front of you, you may no choice other than to check your bag. Be careful because airlines may still be able to charge you a checked bag fee even if you have to check it at the gate. In the cabin, flight attendants may or may not be available to help you search for space for your carry-on bag in the cabin.

Note: The MSNBC video below may not play on mobile devices.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

American Airlines Announces Main Cabin Extra

In 2000, American Airlines implemented "more room throughout coach" that the airline heavily advertised which added extra leg room on several of their aircrafts by removing at least two rows of seats. By 2004 and with the difficult economy, American replaced the removed seats to squeeze in more passengers to generate more revenue.

This month the airline announced that select rows in the front of the coach cabin in their aircrafts will include extra legroom (approximately four to six inches) classified as Main Cabin Extra. The changes in American Airlines cabins will begin later this year. Those seated in these rows will also enjoy priority boarding privileges.

The first jets that will include Main Cabin Extra is the airline's new Boeing 777-300ER which will fly select international routes starting in December.

Main Cabin Extra will be complimentary to elite mileage members who hold Aadvantage Executive Platinum and Aadvantage Platinum status as well as those holding a full-fare economy ticket. Until December 2013, Aadvantage Gold members will be able to gain complimentary access to the cabin as well. After that date, Gold members and other passengers interested in Main Cabin Extra will be able to purchase the privilege when booking a flight or up until airport check-in cut-off time. Prices will range between $8 and $108 per segment. The longer the airline flight, the longer the segment and the higher cost for Main Cabin Extra.

As an elite member I'm looking forward to this change. Up to now the only way to get the extra leg room in coach on American was to reserve a seat in the exit row located mid-way in the coach cabin where some of the seats did not recline. This feature will allow extra leg room but access to the front of the coach cabin and allow not only early boarding but also allow these passengers to be among the first to deplane.

Visit aa.com for more information and FAQ about Main Cabin Extra.

Limiting Weight of Carry-On Bags for Safety

(photo credit: USA Today)

One of the effects of the common practice of charging for checked-bags by the airlines are heavier and an increased number of carry-on bags. These bags can be dangerous if they fall out of bins and most passengers are unaware that these bins have specific weight limits. If you damage the overhead bin, you'll receive the ire other passengers who can no longer use the bin either.

So far Hawaiian Airlines is the first among domestic carriers in enforcing a 25-pound weight limit for carry-on bags. Among other airlines, US Airways personnel may insist a bag be checked if it exceeds 40 pounds. Don't be surprised if Hawaiian personnel asks you to weigh carry-on bags at check-in or ask you to use the the luggage sizer (or portable luggage scales, if available) at the gate. One time on flight from Hilo, Hawaii to Honolulu, I noticed gate agents walking around the waiting area looking at passenger carry-on bags. They did have the courtesy to announce they would be doing so. However I have not seen this practice recently.

Foreign airlines are not immune either to the practice of limiting the weight of bags brought into the cabin. Some in fact have even more stricter carry-on limits:

• Emirates, 15 pounds
• Lufthansa, 17.5 pounds
• Qantas, 15 pounds
• Virgin Atlantic, 13 pounds

Click HERE to view each airline's carry-on weight limit from AirfareWatchDog.

Heavy carry-on bags presents a liability for the airline, the owner of the bag or the passenger who opens a bin should they be at fault for causing injury to another passenger. Also remember the flight crew is there for your safety and many flight attendants will not stow your bags for you. But on one American Airlines flight from Dallas-Fort Worth to Philadelphia, the flight attendants played what I would call the carry-on bag shuffle as they walked up and down the cabin trying to fit bags or moving them from bin to bin to accommodate the abundance of carry-on bags. Finally for your well-being, no passenger should attempt to bring a bag on board they cannot lift themselves and risk getting injured.

For myself, I try to pack light for short trips so I don't have to check any bags. For longer trips, my carry-on will hold only the valuables and some basic necessities just in case (such as an extra change of clothes) and travel size of some toiletries (toothpaste, toothbrush) for long layovers. But with the rising cost of checked-bag fees I don't blame passengers trying to save money especially in these days of rising airfares, fees and fuel.

Blood Clots & Flying: New Guidelines Issued

Blood normally flows through the legs by muscle contraction via movement
of the legs. During long periods of immobility, blood clots deep within
the veins of the legs causing swelling, stiffness and discomfort. The veins dilate
and blood pools and the pooling is that potential danger.
(image: innermostsecrets.com)

The American College of Chest Physicians have updated their guidelines for developing blood clots while flying. The organization's most controversial finding refutes that only people flying economy class have a greater chance of experiencing the potentially deadly condition.

In a USA Today report, Kate Hanni of FlyersRights.org says that's a bit disingenuous. It's simply easier to get up and move around in business and first class. She was on a flight where seats were so close together that she could not cross her legs because the person in front of her had reclined the chair. She said she was completely immobilized.

Dr. John Torres, health reporter for 9News Colorado, adds that flyers who have window seats tend to to develop blood clots because they are embarrassed to ask people next to them to move and therefore don't get out of their seat as much.

The common advice is to stay hydrated, get up an move around the cabin and do leg exercises at one's seat. It is when passengers sit without moving for long periods of time that can cause blood to clot in legs, also knows as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

The 2012 guidelines cover multiple potential causes for blood clots. The section regarding air travel indicates those at high risk are:

• Persons who had recent surgery or a broken bone
• People with active cancer.
• Pregnant women or women on birth control pills
• The elderly
• Those with limited mobility
• Those who have previously had blood clots
• The very tall who crammed into a seat where they can't move much
• The very short who have to sit in an odd position because the seat is too long and legs can't easily flex
• Obesity (but it is argued that if this is cause or the obesity tends to make people less mobile)

High risk passengers should talk to their doctor and see if blood thinners are recommended to use before flying.

Symptoms for blood clots in the leg:

• If one leg, but not the other, becomes sore and swollen
• If one but not the other feels heavy and may be red
• Getting very short breath and chest pains that last for more than 15 minutes

Click HERE to view the full article on USAToday.com.

American Airlines First to Take Delivery of New Boeing 777-300ER

American Airlines 777-300ER will feature mood lighting, archway
ceiling treatments and a walk-up bar offering snacks and drinks.
(images credit: American Airlines)

I always compare the introduction of a new wide-body passenger jet into service to the opening of a new house or condo. Especially on long-haul flights, and I'm talking about the ones that have flying times of eight to ten hours, the plane is your home away from home albeit up in the sky.

After experiencing all three cabins of service over the years to London, I have to admit it was definitely worth it to squander so many miles two years ago for a Flagship Suite on a round-trip flight between Los Angeles International and London Heathrow. I'm earning and saving my miles again to repeat the experience.

Last month American Airlines announced it will be the first air carrier to take delivery of the new Boeing 777-300ER beginning in 2012 and will continue throughout 2013. Customers in Dallas/Fort Worth, London Heathrow, New York's John F. Kennedy and Sao Paulo will be among the first passengers to experience the new aircraft. Additional markets are being planned.

Among the jet's new features are unique mood lighting and ceilings with archways to create a spacious feeling and, the first for any U.S. carrier, a walk-up bar in the premium cabin stocked with snacks and refreshments. Entertainment options will offer up to 120 movies, over 150 TV programs and 350 audio selections. Each seat will feature international Wi-Fi capability, a universal AC power outlet and a USB jack.

According to American Airlines these are the features of each cabin on their 700-300ER:

Updated First Class Flagship Suite

• Swivel seats that transform into a fully lie-flat 80-inch bed.
• Drop down armrests that allow for easier access and more sleeping space.
• Aisle access from every seat
• Privacy dividers
• Two universal AC power outlets
• One USB outlet
• Two large tray tables
• Water bottle holder and headset stowage
• Boise Quiet Comfort 15 Acoustic Noise Canceling headset
• 17-inch TV screen and touchscreen video handset that also serves as remote

Business Class Cabin

• Fully-lie flat seats
• Aisle access from every seat
• Large tray table in addition to a work surface
• Water bottle holder and headset stowage
• Boise Quiet Comfort 15 Acoustic Noise Canceling headset
• 14.5-inch touch screen monitor

Economy Class Cabin

• American is expecting to designate some economy rows with extra legroom (part of new seating product announcement)
• Seats will have a higher recline pivot providing increased knee room
• Seat bottom articulates producing a cradling motion increasing the recline angle of the setback while protection personal space for passengers seated in the row behind
• 9-inch touchscreen monitor

The Air Up There: Germs on Airplanes

(image: msnbc)

Air travelers suffer higher rates of disease infection and one study indicates the increased risk for catching a cold as high as 20%, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal.  One culprit to blame: the air that is recirculated thoughout the cabin.

Studies indicate that most jets today can capture 99.97% of bacterial and virus-carrying particles. It's when the air circulation is shut down which happens during long waits on the ground or when passengers are boarding or exiting is when infections can spread.

The report points out a study in 1979 that when a plane sat three hours with the engines off and no air circulating, 72% of 54 people on board go sick within two days. It was traced to one passenger who had the flu virus. In 2003 the Federal Aviation Administration issued an advisory that passengers should be removed from planes within 30 minutes if there's no air circulation but compliance is not required.

One thing passengers should be aware of are the "hot zones": beware of sick passengers who are two seats beside, in front of and behind you. But passengers should note that other factors come into play. The environment at 30,000 feet is extremely dry and because viruses tend to thrive in low-humidity conditions they can spread easier. The mucous membranes of people are not as effective in blocking infection when they are dry. In addition the body can tire at higher altitudes making passengers more susceptible to catching colds.

Germs can live for hours on airplane cabin surfaces. Everything from tray tables, seat-back pockets, pillows, blankets, latches, overhead bins and the lavatory can be contaminated.

The report suggests passengers take these precautions to keep germs at bay:

Hydrate - Drink water and keep nasal passengers moist with a saline spray.

Clean Your Hands - Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer frequently. Passengers often infect themselves by touching their mouth, nose or eyes.

Disinfecting Wipes - Use them to clean off tray tables before using.

Seat-Back Pockets - Avoid them. They get stuffed with used tissues, soiled napkins and trash.

Open Your Air Vent - Aim it so that air passes just in front of your face so the filtered air can direct airborne contagions away from you.

Change Seats - If you are seated near a cougher, sneezer or someone who looks like they may have a fever, changing seats may not be possible on full flights but it is worth a try. One sneeze can produce up to 30,000 droplets that be propelled as far as six feet.

Air Circulation - Notify the flight crew if the air is shut off for an extended period.

Pillows and Blankets - Avoid them.

Click HERE to view the complete article on wsj.com. The graphic below can also be viewed in the article or click on the graphic for a larger view.

Airplane Manners: High Road or Load Road

(image: terminalu.com)

This info is from a 2008 Newsday article but I find it's still relevant today. The author presents different scenarios in regards to applying airplane manners (or lack thereof). Have you taken the high road or low road?

IN THE WAITING AREA
Low Road: Cluster around the gate. Put your briefcase on the chair next to you so nobody can sit there. Talk loudly on your Bluetooth and gesture wildly.

High Road: Make sure other travelers know that the seat next to you is available. If someone elderly or pregnant walks up, offer your seat. You might also find a nearby gate that's empty and sit there (while keeping track of time).

FLIGHT ATTENDANTS
Low Road: Argue with them. Be demanding. They don't have anything to do but focus on your needs, right?

High Road: Develop empathy. Smile as you board. Say hello to them by name. Have eye contact, thank them when they serve you a beverage.

OVERHEAD BINS
Low Road: Put your carry-on bag in the first available bin toward the front, so you can jump up, grab it and exit quickly.

High Road: Put your carry-on above your own seat or, better, under your seat.

CRAMPED LEGROOM
Low Road: Aim your vent at the head of the person who is leaning into your lap.

High Road: Before you lean back, look behind you and ask eye-to-eye, "It is OK if I lean back just a little?"

TRAVELERS WITH KIDS
Low Road: Avoid eye contact with a harried parent assigned to a different row than his or her minor child. Is it your fault these leisure-travel losers were forced to take middle seats in separate rows?

High Road: Get over yourself! Be a mensch for three hours and give up your choice aisle or window seat. You'll be richly rewarded in heaven and, if not, you'll be richly rewarded by not having to sit next to the kid.

WINDOW ZEALOTS
Low Road: Drink lots of water (it's good for you when you're flying) and get out of your seat at least three times to use the bathroom.

High Road: Know that you drink a lot of water when flying and reserve an aisle seat.

AISLE ZEALOTS
Low Road: Create a trap for people seated in the middle and window seats. Bring on steaming coffee and footlong sub with chips. Spread out the food, paperwork and laptop on tray table, extend leg into aisle.

High Road: Adapt gracefully to your temporary environment. Discard food trash quickly. Work if you must, but don't forget to acknowledge your neighbors with a smile or small talk so they'll feel more comfortable asking to get past you to the restroom.

FOOD
Low Road: Pick up something in the airport food court that is really stinky. Spicy Italian is good, or onion rings, or maybe something with blue cheese.

High Road: Eat before the flight or pack healthful, smell-free snacks. Consider sharing with your famished seatmates.

Quick Tip: The Ultimate Mileage Calculator

For anyone who constantly tries to figure out how to meet airline mileage goals to earn a flight reward or to maintain elite status with a carrier may want to visit the mileage calculator on WebFlyer.com. Unlike other websites that offer similar applications, the calculator on WebFlyer allows the user to enter layover stops.

I live in Honolulu, Hawaii and my choice of airline is American so if I'm flying to the New York City, I will have layover at one of their hubs in Dallas-Ft. Worth, Los Angels or Chicago. The miles can differ depending on the the number of connections and the location of the layover.

Some flyers intentionally take longer airline routes for the purpose of earning those extra miles to reach airline elite levels. Based on the pre-landing announcement of connecting gates, I have to learn some passengers fly, for example, from Honolulu to Dallas to Los Angeles.

This mileage calculator also offers the option to calculate elite and class of service bonus miles. Enter the price of your ticket and learn what you are paying per mile. Click HERE to view the calculator on WebFlyer OR enter your flight information below and your browser will be re-directed to WebFlyer.

The ultimate Mileage Calculator. Find the distance between two locations using this air mileage calculator. 

Mileage Calculator

Just enter two cities (or airport codes) in the fields below and click How Far?

Departing from:
Then flying to:
OPTIONAL
And on to:
And on to:
And on to:
And on to:
Elite bonus:	None  25%  50%  75%  100% (double miles)  125%  150%  175%  200% (triple miles)  225%  250%
Elite bonus based on:	Actual miles. Minimum miles.
Class of service bonus:	None  25%  50%  75%  100% (double miles)  125%  150%  175%  200% (triple miles)  225%  250%
Class bonus based on:	Actual miles.  Minimum miles.
Special promotion bonus:	None  25%  50%  75%  100% (double miles)  125%  150%  175%  200% (triple miles)  225%  250%
Promo bonus based on:	Actual miles.  Minimum miles.
Minimum per segment:	None  100  200  300  400  500  600  700  800  900  1000     miles  km
Ticket price(in dollars):

      

Note: These air mile distances are approximate and are based on data provided by various outside sources. This mileage calculator is meant to aid in air mileage estimation and may not reflect the actual frequent flyer miles awarded by each airline.