Web: www.fishfoto.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
15/09/2008 – Choosing A Frequent Flyer Program : Help A Photographer Maximize His Miles
Choosing a frequent flyer program can be challenging. There are many factors in choosing the best programs for each individual person. Many infrequent flyers only focus on "If fly airline X and want to earn free flights on airline X." Others focus on upgrades or other perks.
In the scheme of how frequent flyer programs work, and the current devalued state of the programs, sometimes looking at airlines other than the ones you fly may be the best choice. My choices are unconventional, but they allow me to fly who I want while matching my earned miles to a better earnings and rewards scheme.
In this post I am going to let the readers of Flying With Fish voice their collective opinion on choosing a frequent flyer program for a Phoenix based freelance photographer. My buddy Mark Rebilas is looking for a new home to park his miles.
While Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) is a major hub for US Airways, the current value of the US Airways' Dividend Miles program is not a viable program for most flyers. There is the obvious answer of putting Mark's miles and segments into United's Mileage Plus program, but are there better Star Alliance options than United for Mark's needs? Mark also uses Southwest Airlines for some routes, and has been adding some miles to the Delta SkyMiles program.
In an effort to maximize Mark's travel experience, as primarily an editorial sports photographer, I'd like to see him get more for his 'Butt-in-Seat' (BIS) experience. Flying approximately 90,000 miles a year, with an average of 60 segments per year, he is more likely to get more for his miles than his segments, which still leaves this question..........
What is the best program for Mark?
I know what my answers for Mark are, but I would love it if the readers of Flying With Fish would voice their opinions! Don't be shy; let me know what you think.
Have an opinion? Either comment here or if you prefer drop me an e-mail at fish@flyingwithfish.com
Need more information on Mark's flying habits? Drop by Mark's blog at www.markjrebilas.com/blog , and drop him an e-mail.
Want to know what my suggestions for Mark are? I won't withhold my answers, but you'll need to check back next week for my detailed response!
Happy Flying!
Showing posts with label Southwest Airlines. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Southwest Airlines. Show all posts
15 September 2008
11 July 2008
Southwest Airlines & WestJet Forge Code-Share Agreement : Is There A More Perfect Match For Two Airlines?
Web: www.fishfoto.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
11/07/2008 – Southwest Airlines & WestJet Forge Code-Share Agreement : Is There A More Perfect Match For Two Airlines?
Earlier this week two airlines I am fond of, that serve largely the same client base, came together to announce their intentions of forming a code-share agreement. One airline is a U.S. domestic airline that does not fly outside it's U.S. boarders, the other is the second largest airline in Canada that services Canada from coast-to-coast and popular US, Mexico and the Caribbean.
These two airlines are Southwest Airlines (WN) in the United States and WestJet (M3) in Canada. If I scoured the list of airlines that could compliment each other in a more fitting manner I'd be hard pressed to do so.
Southwest Airlines is the largest no-frills airline in the United States. Southwest Airlines flies an all Boeing 737 fleet. Southwest Airlines prides its self on its corporate culture of keeping their employees involved and empowering their employees to do what they need to do in order to make customer service a top priority.
WestJet was founded in 1996,and based heavily on Southwest Airlines' success and business model. Like Southwest Airlines, WestJet flies an all Boeing 737 fleet. West has a similar corporate culture to Southwest Airlines with more than three-quarters of the company stock being owned by its employees.
What does this code-share agreement offer flyers once it comes online? It will offer WestJet passengers access to U.S. domestic routes through Southwest Airlines focus cities such as Las Vegas (LAS), Phoenix (PHX), Los Angeles (LAX), Orlando (MCO), Fort Lauderdale (FLL)and Tampa Bay (TPA). Previously, WestJet passengers would fly other airlines to enter the US to avoid purchasing two separate tickets, and not being able to 'interline' baggage on flights.
What are the benefits to Southwest Airlines passengers? Oddly enough, it will give Southwest Airlines passengers access to not only Canada, but also other destinations such as Kona (KOA), Maui (OGG) and Honolulu (HNL). It is always fun flying internationally just to make a domestic connection. I am eager to see how Southwest Airlines and WestJet make this work.
Passengers should be able to fly through Southwest Airlines' hub in Las Vegas, to connect to a quick flight up to Vancouver, and then out to Hawaii. In reality this type of flying is not that much longer than other potential connection options, for flyers (like me) who must make connections to fly anywhere.
When two airlines so closely match each other in corporate culture, services offer, same aircraft type, with a very similar customer base it seems like a perfect match that was just waiting to happen.
I am excited for this code-share agreement and can't wait to test it out in the future!
Below is a photo I shot of a Southwest Airlines 737 with a WestJet 737......yes they are both toy planes I happen to have sitting on a shelf in my living room (they are my kids toy planes......I swear)
Happy Flying!
--Click Image Below To Enlarge It--
11/07/2008 – Southwest Airlines & WestJet Forge Code-Share Agreement : Is There A More Perfect Match For Two Airlines?
Earlier this week two airlines I am fond of, that serve largely the same client base, came together to announce their intentions of forming a code-share agreement. One airline is a U.S. domestic airline that does not fly outside it's U.S. boarders, the other is the second largest airline in Canada that services Canada from coast-to-coast and popular US, Mexico and the Caribbean.
These two airlines are Southwest Airlines (WN) in the United States and WestJet (M3) in Canada. If I scoured the list of airlines that could compliment each other in a more fitting manner I'd be hard pressed to do so.
Southwest Airlines is the largest no-frills airline in the United States. Southwest Airlines flies an all Boeing 737 fleet. Southwest Airlines prides its self on its corporate culture of keeping their employees involved and empowering their employees to do what they need to do in order to make customer service a top priority.
WestJet was founded in 1996,and based heavily on Southwest Airlines' success and business model. Like Southwest Airlines, WestJet flies an all Boeing 737 fleet. West has a similar corporate culture to Southwest Airlines with more than three-quarters of the company stock being owned by its employees.
What does this code-share agreement offer flyers once it comes online? It will offer WestJet passengers access to U.S. domestic routes through Southwest Airlines focus cities such as Las Vegas (LAS), Phoenix (PHX), Los Angeles (LAX), Orlando (MCO), Fort Lauderdale (FLL)and Tampa Bay (TPA). Previously, WestJet passengers would fly other airlines to enter the US to avoid purchasing two separate tickets, and not being able to 'interline' baggage on flights.
What are the benefits to Southwest Airlines passengers? Oddly enough, it will give Southwest Airlines passengers access to not only Canada, but also other destinations such as Kona (KOA), Maui (OGG) and Honolulu (HNL). It is always fun flying internationally just to make a domestic connection. I am eager to see how Southwest Airlines and WestJet make this work.
Passengers should be able to fly through Southwest Airlines' hub in Las Vegas, to connect to a quick flight up to Vancouver, and then out to Hawaii. In reality this type of flying is not that much longer than other potential connection options, for flyers (like me) who must make connections to fly anywhere.
When two airlines so closely match each other in corporate culture, services offer, same aircraft type, with a very similar customer base it seems like a perfect match that was just waiting to happen.
I am excited for this code-share agreement and can't wait to test it out in the future!
Below is a photo I shot of a Southwest Airlines 737 with a WestJet 737......yes they are both toy planes I happen to have sitting on a shelf in my living room (they are my kids toy planes......I swear)
Happy Flying!
--Click Image Below To Enlarge It--
12 June 2008
United Airlines Adds Baggage Fee : US Airways Takes Its Nickel & Dime Tactics To A Whole New Level!
Web: www.fishfoto.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
12/06/2008 – United Airlines Adds Baggage Fee : US Airways Takes Its Nickel & Dime Tactics To A Whole New Level!
The nickel-and-dime tactics started by American Airlines and their slide from 'legacy carrier' to 'low cost carrier’ has started a trend among other US based 'legacy carriers.'
As of this morning United Airlines has followed American Airlines' lead and will begin charging US$15 for the first checked bag as of the 18th of August. To make the even more complex, United Airlines now states that this will apply to all tickets purchased after the 13th of June for travel after the 18th of August.......rather than tickets purchased after the 18th of August.
Flying with two bags? Be prepared to pay US$15 for the first checked bag and $25 for the second checked bag....each way. This means 2 bags will cost you $80 round trip!
United Airlines has a somewhat complex schedule set up for baggage fees. If you're flying United Airlines I suggest reading this baggage fee charge: United Airlines Baggage Information
Keep in mind that baggage fees will not be assessed for international travel on United Airlines.
I have long since detailed the nickel-and-dime tactics of US Airways. While US Airways will also be instituting the $15 first checked bag fee, they are taking the nickel-and-dime game to a whole new level! How is US Airways taking these tactics in a whole new direction? Let me tell you
-US Airways will institute charging for all beverages in-flight in economy class. This means juice, water, coffee, and soda. It is expected this fee will be US$2.00 per beverage.
-US Airways will be raising its alcoholic beverage fee from US$5.00 to US$7.00
-US Airways will be soon be charging a US$25 fee for using you 'miles redemption tickets.'
-US Airways will be assessing a US$35 fee for flights to the Caribbean and Mexico using 'miles redemption tickets.'
-US Airways will be instituting an astounding fee of US$50 for booking flights to Europe and Hawaii when using 'miles redemption tickets.'
-US Airways will be eliminating all bonus miles awarded to 'elite frequent flyers' in its frequent flyer program. (I have to say I saw this one coming, which is one of multiple reasons why I ceased to be a US Airways 'Platinum' frequent flyer')
In an interesting twist, most US based Low Cost Carriers have yet to institute checked baggage fees on the first checked bag. JetBlue now charges for the second checked bag, while Southwest Airlines still allows for two checked bags.
As the divide between legacy carriers continues to blur it turns out that low cost carriers are rapidly offering more to their customers at more affordable rates.
Happy Flying!
12/06/2008 – United Airlines Adds Baggage Fee : US Airways Takes Its Nickel & Dime Tactics To A Whole New Level!
The nickel-and-dime tactics started by American Airlines and their slide from 'legacy carrier' to 'low cost carrier’ has started a trend among other US based 'legacy carriers.'
As of this morning United Airlines has followed American Airlines' lead and will begin charging US$15 for the first checked bag as of the 18th of August. To make the even more complex, United Airlines now states that this will apply to all tickets purchased after the 13th of June for travel after the 18th of August.......rather than tickets purchased after the 18th of August.
Flying with two bags? Be prepared to pay US$15 for the first checked bag and $25 for the second checked bag....each way. This means 2 bags will cost you $80 round trip!
United Airlines has a somewhat complex schedule set up for baggage fees. If you're flying United Airlines I suggest reading this baggage fee charge: United Airlines Baggage Information
Keep in mind that baggage fees will not be assessed for international travel on United Airlines.
I have long since detailed the nickel-and-dime tactics of US Airways. While US Airways will also be instituting the $15 first checked bag fee, they are taking the nickel-and-dime game to a whole new level! How is US Airways taking these tactics in a whole new direction? Let me tell you
-US Airways will institute charging for all beverages in-flight in economy class. This means juice, water, coffee, and soda. It is expected this fee will be US$2.00 per beverage.
-US Airways will be raising its alcoholic beverage fee from US$5.00 to US$7.00
-US Airways will be soon be charging a US$25 fee for using you 'miles redemption tickets.'
-US Airways will be assessing a US$35 fee for flights to the Caribbean and Mexico using 'miles redemption tickets.'
-US Airways will be instituting an astounding fee of US$50 for booking flights to Europe and Hawaii when using 'miles redemption tickets.'
-US Airways will be eliminating all bonus miles awarded to 'elite frequent flyers' in its frequent flyer program. (I have to say I saw this one coming, which is one of multiple reasons why I ceased to be a US Airways 'Platinum' frequent flyer')
In an interesting twist, most US based Low Cost Carriers have yet to institute checked baggage fees on the first checked bag. JetBlue now charges for the second checked bag, while Southwest Airlines still allows for two checked bags.
As the divide between legacy carriers continues to blur it turns out that low cost carriers are rapidly offering more to their customers at more affordable rates.
Happy Flying!
08 June 2008
Your Last Day To Enter 'Go Flying On Fish!' Don't Miss Your Opportunity Tell Me Why You Want To Travel & Win A $100 Southwest Airlines Gift Card!
Web: www.fishfoto.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
8/06/2008 - Your Last Day To Enter 'Go Flying On Fish!' Don't Miss Your Opportunity Tell Me Why You Want To Travel & Win A $100 Southwest Airlines Gift Card!
Today, Sunday the 8th of June, is your last day to enter 'Go Flying On Fish!'
I have a US$100 Southwest Airlines Gift Card up for grabs for one lucky reader of Flying With Fish. All you need to do is tell me the following
- Where You Want To Go
- Why You Want To Go
- What You Want To See
............and you could find yourself $100 closer to buying your airline ticket!
Entries must be submitted by 11:59pm EST (GMT -5) on Sunday the 8th of June. The winner will be announced on Monday the 9th of June.
For full details read this: 2/06/2008 - Go Flying On Fish! Tell Me Why You Want To Travel & Win A $100 Southwest Airlines Gift Card!
Happy Flying!
-Southwest Airlines/SWA Is NOT Involved In This Contest In Any Way Shape Or Form
-Announced Chosen Winner Is Final, No Ifs Ands Or Buts
-Enter ONCE (I'll be checking IP Addresses!)
-Entry must contain your legal name that will appear on ticket (so DON'T enter twice)
-Any ticket costs over $100 are the responsibility of the winner
-If you live outside the US you must travel to the US to fly Southwest Airlines
-YOU MUST HAVE FUN ON YOUR JOURNEY AND FEEL FREE TO E-MAIL ME PIX IF YOU WIN!!
8/06/2008 - Your Last Day To Enter 'Go Flying On Fish!' Don't Miss Your Opportunity Tell Me Why You Want To Travel & Win A $100 Southwest Airlines Gift Card!
Today, Sunday the 8th of June, is your last day to enter 'Go Flying On Fish!'
I have a US$100 Southwest Airlines Gift Card up for grabs for one lucky reader of Flying With Fish. All you need to do is tell me the following
- Where You Want To Go
- Why You Want To Go
- What You Want To See
............and you could find yourself $100 closer to buying your airline ticket!
Entries must be submitted by 11:59pm EST (GMT -5) on Sunday the 8th of June. The winner will be announced on Monday the 9th of June.
For full details read this: 2/06/2008 - Go Flying On Fish! Tell Me Why You Want To Travel & Win A $100 Southwest Airlines Gift Card!
Happy Flying!
-Southwest Airlines/SWA Is NOT Involved In This Contest In Any Way Shape Or Form
-Announced Chosen Winner Is Final, No Ifs Ands Or Buts
-Enter ONCE (I'll be checking IP Addresses!)
-Entry must contain your legal name that will appear on ticket (so DON'T enter twice)
-Any ticket costs over $100 are the responsibility of the winner
-If you live outside the US you must travel to the US to fly Southwest Airlines
-YOU MUST HAVE FUN ON YOUR JOURNEY AND FEEL FREE TO E-MAIL ME PIX IF YOU WIN!!
02 June 2008
Go Flying On Fish! Tell Me Why You Want To Travel & Win A $100 Southwest Airlines Gift Card!
Web: www.fishfoto.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
2/06/2008 - Go Flying On Fish! Tell Me Why You Want To Travel & Win A $100 Southwest Airlines Gift Card!
Today is the first day of the second-half of the year (well yesterday was, but I don't usually post on Sundays), and Flying With Fish would like to help one lucky reader get out at see the United States!
With readers of Flying With Fish ranging from first-time flyers to daily road-warriors, I wanted to offer something universal. I needed something to encourage everyone to participate. Something to encourage YOU to fly!
I know that novice travelers often want to explore the world and those who travel for the daily grind often want to take a weekend and go see something they missed on a trip (I often feel that although I've been all over the world I've never had a chance to "see the world"). So what could I offer..............
.........how about a US$100 gift card to spread your wings on Southwest Airlines?
Why Southwest Airlines? A few reasons in no particular order: I love their slogan "You Are Now Free To Move About The Country”; The airline has one of the best corporate attitudes of any airline I know or fly; the airline is a melting pot, with only economy class, no "elite lines," no frequent flyer "tiers," all flyers are equal.............lastly, you can go pretty far on $100 on Southwest Airlines!
How far can $100 take you? Well that changes day-to-day and requires some user legwork to find fares, but I've seen Philadelphia (PHL) to Ft Lauderdale (FLL) for $128 round-trip in the past few days! I've also flow Southwest's "Web Specials" pretty close to cross the continent for $120 round-trip!
What do you have to do for your journey on Southwest Airlines?
It's quite simple, you need to write me an e-mail, of less than 200 words, telling me where you want to go, what you want to see and why you want to see it. Once you have your 200 words or less, drop the e-mail to traveltips@flyingwithfish.com
To be fair, the top five e-mails will be selected by the end of the week and then re-read 'blind' so I have no idea who wrote them.
Entries must be submitted by 11:59pm EST (GMT -5) on Sunday the 8th of June. The winner will be announced on Monday the 9th of June.
Happy Flying!
-Southwest Airlines/SWA Is NOT Involved In This Contest In Any Way Shape Or Form
-Announced Chosen Winner Is Final, No Ifs Ands Or Buts
-Enter ONCE (I'll be checking IP Addresses!)
-Entry must contain your legal name that will appear on ticket (so DON'T enter twice)
-Any ticket costs over $100 are the responsibility of the winner
-If you live outside the US you must travel to the US to fly Southwest Airlines
-YOU MUST HAVE FUN ON YOUR JOURNEY AND FEEL FREE TO E-MAIL ME PIX IF YOU WIN!!
2/06/2008 - Go Flying On Fish! Tell Me Why You Want To Travel & Win A $100 Southwest Airlines Gift Card!
Today is the first day of the second-half of the year (well yesterday was, but I don't usually post on Sundays), and Flying With Fish would like to help one lucky reader get out at see the United States!
With readers of Flying With Fish ranging from first-time flyers to daily road-warriors, I wanted to offer something universal. I needed something to encourage everyone to participate. Something to encourage YOU to fly!
I know that novice travelers often want to explore the world and those who travel for the daily grind often want to take a weekend and go see something they missed on a trip (I often feel that although I've been all over the world I've never had a chance to "see the world"). So what could I offer..............
.........how about a US$100 gift card to spread your wings on Southwest Airlines?
Why Southwest Airlines? A few reasons in no particular order: I love their slogan "You Are Now Free To Move About The Country”; The airline has one of the best corporate attitudes of any airline I know or fly; the airline is a melting pot, with only economy class, no "elite lines," no frequent flyer "tiers," all flyers are equal.............lastly, you can go pretty far on $100 on Southwest Airlines!
How far can $100 take you? Well that changes day-to-day and requires some user legwork to find fares, but I've seen Philadelphia (PHL) to Ft Lauderdale (FLL) for $128 round-trip in the past few days! I've also flow Southwest's "Web Specials" pretty close to cross the continent for $120 round-trip!
What do you have to do for your journey on Southwest Airlines?
It's quite simple, you need to write me an e-mail, of less than 200 words, telling me where you want to go, what you want to see and why you want to see it. Once you have your 200 words or less, drop the e-mail to traveltips@flyingwithfish.com
To be fair, the top five e-mails will be selected by the end of the week and then re-read 'blind' so I have no idea who wrote them.
Entries must be submitted by 11:59pm EST (GMT -5) on Sunday the 8th of June. The winner will be announced on Monday the 9th of June.
Happy Flying!
-Southwest Airlines/SWA Is NOT Involved In This Contest In Any Way Shape Or Form
-Announced Chosen Winner Is Final, No Ifs Ands Or Buts
-Enter ONCE (I'll be checking IP Addresses!)
-Entry must contain your legal name that will appear on ticket (so DON'T enter twice)
-Any ticket costs over $100 are the responsibility of the winner
-If you live outside the US you must travel to the US to fly Southwest Airlines
-YOU MUST HAVE FUN ON YOUR JOURNEY AND FEEL FREE TO E-MAIL ME PIX IF YOU WIN!!
27 May 2008
Southwest Airlines Addresses The Airline "Nickel & Dime" Game
Web: www.fishfoto.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
27/05/2008 - Southwest Airlines Addresses The Airline "Nickel & Dime" Game
It's no secret that I like Southwest Airlines. While I tend to only fly Southwest on short-haul and point-to-point flights due to convenience and scheduling, Southwest has fairly consistent policies, (usually) friendly crews and staff, a 'media pre-board' policy and a fantastic on-time record.
When you fly Southwest Airlines you know what you are getting. There is no bait-n-switch. There is no upgrade game, no 'elite lines,' online check in is simple, and while I dislike the airline's new standby policy (and I sincerely hope they change it!) Southwest Airlines has always been the easiest airline to work with as a passenger.
You want pillows, blankets, an in-flight magazine, a soft drink and some pretzels? You've got it! You want an in-flight movie? Bring your own! Worried about an 'equipment swap'? Don't worry, you are guaranteed to end up on a Boeing 737 with a 3-3 seating configuration. .
In a recent television ad produced by Southwest Airlines taking a jab at the legacy airlines, that usually cost more and now offer less-and-less to their flyers, Southwest Airlines has created a very funny commentary.
I've watched the ad a few times and found myself laughing every time. So with the recent discussions about 'legacy airlines' and their growing nickel-and-dime tactics, I wanted to share the new Southwest Airlines ad with the readers of Flying With Fish.
Happy Flying!
--Click Image To Begin Video--
27/05/2008 - Southwest Airlines Addresses The Airline "Nickel & Dime" Game
It's no secret that I like Southwest Airlines. While I tend to only fly Southwest on short-haul and point-to-point flights due to convenience and scheduling, Southwest has fairly consistent policies, (usually) friendly crews and staff, a 'media pre-board' policy and a fantastic on-time record.
When you fly Southwest Airlines you know what you are getting. There is no bait-n-switch. There is no upgrade game, no 'elite lines,' online check in is simple, and while I dislike the airline's new standby policy (and I sincerely hope they change it!) Southwest Airlines has always been the easiest airline to work with as a passenger.
You want pillows, blankets, an in-flight magazine, a soft drink and some pretzels? You've got it! You want an in-flight movie? Bring your own! Worried about an 'equipment swap'? Don't worry, you are guaranteed to end up on a Boeing 737 with a 3-3 seating configuration. .
In a recent television ad produced by Southwest Airlines taking a jab at the legacy airlines, that usually cost more and now offer less-and-less to their flyers, Southwest Airlines has created a very funny commentary.
I've watched the ad a few times and found myself laughing every time. So with the recent discussions about 'legacy airlines' and their growing nickel-and-dime tactics, I wanted to share the new Southwest Airlines ad with the readers of Flying With Fish.
Happy Flying!
--Click Image To Begin Video--
23 May 2008
23/05/2008-Weekly Roundup: Safer Airline Seats? Flying With Fish Airs On TV!, Navigating Airport Security, American Airlines Nickel-&-Diming Bags
Web: www.fishfotoworldwide.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
23/05/2008-Weekly Roundup: Safer Airline Seats? Flying With Fish Airs On TV!, Navigating Airport Security, American Airlines Nickel-&-Diming Bags
This week’s Weekly Round Up is being written from Hong Kong International Airport's Terminal 2 (HKG), with a slightly stiff neck and semi-sore lower back, after 18 hours traveling from New York's JFK Airport (JFK) to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) , and Beijing to Hong Kong in the back of the plane.
Some people have accused me of losing touch with the "real flying experience," however this is not so. I fly all economy airlines, such as Southwest Airlines and United Airlines's "Ted" often, and fly many of my back-to-back North American transcontinental flights in 'the back.' This weekend I will fly more than 16,000 miles round-trip in 70 hours, while working for 18 hours during my brief time on the ground, and do all my flying in Air China's economy class. I have logged hundreds of thousands of miles cramped into narrow economy class seats on regional jets, turbo-props (my 'home' airport only flies turbo-props) and flown many long-haul flights in barely padded seats with no legroom.
When I say I feel your pain...trust me, I feel the pain of the "real flying experience."
This past week on Flying With Fish I addressed a question of choosing airline seats based on 'safety." In my opinion, all seats are equally as prone to risks should there be a "situation." One reader of Flying With Fish quoted an MSN/Best Life article on seat safety that lists seats specifically by row/seat according to different aircraft types. This article (which can be found in the comments section of my post) lists it's information is written by a well-known travel writer, who bases his opinions on "personal experience", not evidence. I have to wonder how many airliner crashes this person has been in for "personal experience." What makes the MSN/Best Life article even more confusing for potential flyers is that it lists rows/seats that are only in relation to a specific airline and it's seat configuration on one-type of aircraft. Some airlines have multiple seating configurations for the same aircraft, which makes the entire article's information not only baseless but also useless. You can read up on this subject at: 19/05/2008 - Are Some Seats On The Plane Safer Than Others?
This week I introduced the readers of Flying With Fish to a "Month In The Life." This look back at my last month of travel was posted on the same day I appeared on Good Morning America (I hope to have a clip on YouTube shortly, but you can read it here www.FishOnGMA.notlong.com), and takes you through 32,000+ miles traveled, 7 countries and 11 cities (well 10 cities and me sleeping in 1 city). One reader questioned this last photo in a "Month In The Life," asking how I can preach security yet leave a camera out on a timer. The answer is simple, my bags were all locked and secured to bar on the floor a few inches in front of the bench I was laying on. The camera I used to shoot me sleeping was placed inside a locked PacSafe 55. This camera, inside the PacSafe 55 was locked inside an open public locker at Amsterdam-Schiphol International Airport. This is how I can preach securing your bags, and property, and still create these types of images with my gear being secured. You can see the photos and read up on my "Month In The Life" here:
20/05/2008 - A Month In The Life Of A Flying Fish
I am frequently asked to detail step-for-step my procedure for securing my property, while maintaining my ability to quickly get through a TSA checkpoint. Having sent off a detailed response to more than 400 people since the start of the year I thought it might be time just to post it on Flying With Fish. So, for my detailed step by step procedures for getting through security checkpoints hassle free and problem free read this:
21/05/2008 - Airport Security Screening System : Get Through Security With Ease & Safety
This week on Flying With Fish ended with American Airlines announcing it would begin charging $15 for the first single checked bag on all US Domestic routes, with increasing charges after the first bag. This is not acceptable for an airline that often has some of the most expensive fares in the sky. American Airlines, a 'Legacy Carrier,' currently the largest airline in the United States, is now employing tactics not even used by Low Cost Carriers (except Spirit Airline in the U.S.). American Airlines' new baggage policy takes he top position in the Nickle-and-Diming of flyers, hands down. To read more about American Airlines is further blurring the lines between 'Legacy Carriers' and 'Low Cost Carriers' please check here: 22/05/2008 - American Airlines' New Baggage Policy: Is There A Line Between Legacy Airlines & Low Cost Carriers Anymore?
I'm going to wrap up this Weekly Round Up with a photo I shot around 11:00pm (GMT+8), I'm guessing I was somewhere over (or around) Shenzhen, between Beijing and Hong Kong. We had a lightening storm shortly after the wheels went up, it was bumpy, but beautiful, followed by a big beautiful moon shining in my window in seat 29A for the flight...I know the photo does not do the view justice, but it made me smile.
Happy Flying!
--Click Image To Enlarge It--
23/05/2008-Weekly Roundup: Safer Airline Seats? Flying With Fish Airs On TV!, Navigating Airport Security, American Airlines Nickel-&-Diming Bags
This week’s Weekly Round Up is being written from Hong Kong International Airport's Terminal 2 (HKG), with a slightly stiff neck and semi-sore lower back, after 18 hours traveling from New York's JFK Airport (JFK) to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) , and Beijing to Hong Kong in the back of the plane.
Some people have accused me of losing touch with the "real flying experience," however this is not so. I fly all economy airlines, such as Southwest Airlines and United Airlines's "Ted" often, and fly many of my back-to-back North American transcontinental flights in 'the back.' This weekend I will fly more than 16,000 miles round-trip in 70 hours, while working for 18 hours during my brief time on the ground, and do all my flying in Air China's economy class. I have logged hundreds of thousands of miles cramped into narrow economy class seats on regional jets, turbo-props (my 'home' airport only flies turbo-props) and flown many long-haul flights in barely padded seats with no legroom.
When I say I feel your pain...trust me, I feel the pain of the "real flying experience."
This past week on Flying With Fish I addressed a question of choosing airline seats based on 'safety." In my opinion, all seats are equally as prone to risks should there be a "situation." One reader of Flying With Fish quoted an MSN/Best Life article on seat safety that lists seats specifically by row/seat according to different aircraft types. This article (which can be found in the comments section of my post) lists it's information is written by a well-known travel writer, who bases his opinions on "personal experience", not evidence. I have to wonder how many airliner crashes this person has been in for "personal experience." What makes the MSN/Best Life article even more confusing for potential flyers is that it lists rows/seats that are only in relation to a specific airline and it's seat configuration on one-type of aircraft. Some airlines have multiple seating configurations for the same aircraft, which makes the entire article's information not only baseless but also useless. You can read up on this subject at: 19/05/2008 - Are Some Seats On The Plane Safer Than Others?
This week I introduced the readers of Flying With Fish to a "Month In The Life." This look back at my last month of travel was posted on the same day I appeared on Good Morning America (I hope to have a clip on YouTube shortly, but you can read it here www.FishOnGMA.notlong.com), and takes you through 32,000+ miles traveled, 7 countries and 11 cities (well 10 cities and me sleeping in 1 city). One reader questioned this last photo in a "Month In The Life," asking how I can preach security yet leave a camera out on a timer. The answer is simple, my bags were all locked and secured to bar on the floor a few inches in front of the bench I was laying on. The camera I used to shoot me sleeping was placed inside a locked PacSafe 55. This camera, inside the PacSafe 55 was locked inside an open public locker at Amsterdam-Schiphol International Airport. This is how I can preach securing your bags, and property, and still create these types of images with my gear being secured. You can see the photos and read up on my "Month In The Life" here:
20/05/2008 - A Month In The Life Of A Flying Fish
I am frequently asked to detail step-for-step my procedure for securing my property, while maintaining my ability to quickly get through a TSA checkpoint. Having sent off a detailed response to more than 400 people since the start of the year I thought it might be time just to post it on Flying With Fish. So, for my detailed step by step procedures for getting through security checkpoints hassle free and problem free read this:
21/05/2008 - Airport Security Screening System : Get Through Security With Ease & Safety
This week on Flying With Fish ended with American Airlines announcing it would begin charging $15 for the first single checked bag on all US Domestic routes, with increasing charges after the first bag. This is not acceptable for an airline that often has some of the most expensive fares in the sky. American Airlines, a 'Legacy Carrier,' currently the largest airline in the United States, is now employing tactics not even used by Low Cost Carriers (except Spirit Airline in the U.S.). American Airlines' new baggage policy takes he top position in the Nickle-and-Diming of flyers, hands down. To read more about American Airlines is further blurring the lines between 'Legacy Carriers' and 'Low Cost Carriers' please check here: 22/05/2008 - American Airlines' New Baggage Policy: Is There A Line Between Legacy Airlines & Low Cost Carriers Anymore?
I'm going to wrap up this Weekly Round Up with a photo I shot around 11:00pm (GMT+8), I'm guessing I was somewhere over (or around) Shenzhen, between Beijing and Hong Kong. We had a lightening storm shortly after the wheels went up, it was bumpy, but beautiful, followed by a big beautiful moon shining in my window in seat 29A for the flight...I know the photo does not do the view justice, but it made me smile.
Happy Flying!
--Click Image To Enlarge It--
22 May 2008
American Airlines' New Baggage Policy : Is There A Line Between Legacy Airlines & Low Cost Carriers Anymore?
Web: www.fishfoto.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
22/05/2008 - American Airlines' New Baggage Policy : Is There A Line Between Legacy Airlines & Low Cost Carriers Anymore?
Over the past few years the line between "Legacy Airlines" and "Low Cost Carries" (LCC) have been blurring. Yesterday American Airlines (AA) made an announcement that has further removed the barrier between a Legacy Airline and the LCCs operating in the United States.
Before I delve further into American Airlines stunning move in the US commercial airline market, let me quickly define what a "Legacy Airline" and an LCC are.
Legacy Airlines are those that flew interstate routes prior to the 1978 Airline Deregulation Act. There are currently 8 of these airlines operating in the United States, and once Delta (DL) and Northwest (NW) complete their merger there will be 7 left.
Low Cost Carriers (LCC) are discount airlines; they tend to operate with a lower operating structure than the Legacy Carriers. LCCs are most famous for being 'no frills.'
.......so what is American Airlines' stunning move? They announced that they would be implementing a $15 baggage fee for passengers FIRST checked bag, each way, as of June 15th 2008. Need to check two bags? Be prepared to hand over $40 each way for your bags to fly with you. (American Airlines is not charging baggage fees on full-fare tickets, for "elite flyers" and international routes. )
While airlines stared to charge $25 for a second checked bag to make up for losses earlier this year, charging for your first checked bag is one of the worst cases of passengers being nickel-and-dimed by a major airline.
Before you point out that some European LCCs have charged for any checked baggage for quite some time now (and that Spirit Airlines in the US charges for all checked bags), keep in mind that you can get fares as low as €1 + tax on some routes, whereas I tend to find American Airlines one of the most expensive airlines to fly with in the United States.
When you fly an LCC you expect to pay for everything. When you pay less than $100 for a flight of more than 1,000 miles, as I have seen available on Spirit Airlines web site quite a few times, you can shell out the baggage fee, expect a "BOB Meal" (BOB = Buy On Board) and the little missing frills.
Let's compare flight costs.
Looking at Spirit Airlines, flying from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport (FLL), departing on June 5 returning on June 9th, morning departure, evening return, I get a fare of $208 + tax.
Looking at American Airlines flying from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Miami International Airport (since MIA is an AA Hub), departing on June 5 returning on June 9th, morning departure, evening return, I get a fare of $668 + tax.
Both airlines serve 'BOB' meals, both airlines now charge for checked bags, neither airline offers me any great advantage over the other, so what does AA offer me for the additional $460? For a savings of $460 I am willing to pay Spirit Airlines for my bags, a sandwich and a soft-drink, I'll still be ahead around $425!
With the loss of perks on most legacy carriers, such as the charging for bags, the removal of movies on some routes, the elimination of in-flight meals, the elimination of pillows on some airlines (Southwest Airlines, the largest and most profitable LCC in the world, still offers both pillows and blankets!) and some carriers changing their operations to move closely match those of LCCs, I have to ask what separates one set of airlines from another? (I'll save that question for another entry on Flying With Fish)
My advice for everyone else? Learn to pack light, learn to pack in legal carry on, learn to use the reservations systems to shop your fares and say "NO!" to these practices by airlines.
Happy Flying!
22/05/2008 - American Airlines' New Baggage Policy : Is There A Line Between Legacy Airlines & Low Cost Carriers Anymore?
Over the past few years the line between "Legacy Airlines" and "Low Cost Carries" (LCC) have been blurring. Yesterday American Airlines (AA) made an announcement that has further removed the barrier between a Legacy Airline and the LCCs operating in the United States.
Before I delve further into American Airlines stunning move in the US commercial airline market, let me quickly define what a "Legacy Airline" and an LCC are.
Legacy Airlines are those that flew interstate routes prior to the 1978 Airline Deregulation Act. There are currently 8 of these airlines operating in the United States, and once Delta (DL) and Northwest (NW) complete their merger there will be 7 left.
Low Cost Carriers (LCC) are discount airlines; they tend to operate with a lower operating structure than the Legacy Carriers. LCCs are most famous for being 'no frills.'
.......so what is American Airlines' stunning move? They announced that they would be implementing a $15 baggage fee for passengers FIRST checked bag, each way, as of June 15th 2008. Need to check two bags? Be prepared to hand over $40 each way for your bags to fly with you. (American Airlines is not charging baggage fees on full-fare tickets, for "elite flyers" and international routes. )
While airlines stared to charge $25 for a second checked bag to make up for losses earlier this year, charging for your first checked bag is one of the worst cases of passengers being nickel-and-dimed by a major airline.
Before you point out that some European LCCs have charged for any checked baggage for quite some time now (and that Spirit Airlines in the US charges for all checked bags), keep in mind that you can get fares as low as €1 + tax on some routes, whereas I tend to find American Airlines one of the most expensive airlines to fly with in the United States.
When you fly an LCC you expect to pay for everything. When you pay less than $100 for a flight of more than 1,000 miles, as I have seen available on Spirit Airlines web site quite a few times, you can shell out the baggage fee, expect a "BOB Meal" (BOB = Buy On Board) and the little missing frills.
Let's compare flight costs.
Looking at Spirit Airlines, flying from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport (FLL), departing on June 5 returning on June 9th, morning departure, evening return, I get a fare of $208 + tax.
Looking at American Airlines flying from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Miami International Airport (since MIA is an AA Hub), departing on June 5 returning on June 9th, morning departure, evening return, I get a fare of $668 + tax.
Both airlines serve 'BOB' meals, both airlines now charge for checked bags, neither airline offers me any great advantage over the other, so what does AA offer me for the additional $460? For a savings of $460 I am willing to pay Spirit Airlines for my bags, a sandwich and a soft-drink, I'll still be ahead around $425!
With the loss of perks on most legacy carriers, such as the charging for bags, the removal of movies on some routes, the elimination of in-flight meals, the elimination of pillows on some airlines (Southwest Airlines, the largest and most profitable LCC in the world, still offers both pillows and blankets!) and some carriers changing their operations to move closely match those of LCCs, I have to ask what separates one set of airlines from another? (I'll save that question for another entry on Flying With Fish)
My advice for everyone else? Learn to pack light, learn to pack in legal carry on, learn to use the reservations systems to shop your fares and say "NO!" to these practices by airlines.
Happy Flying!
24 April 2008
Five Hidden Airline Fees That Really Annoy Me
Web: www.fishfotoworldwide.com -- E-Mail: fish@fishfoto.com
24/04/2008 - Five Hidden Airline Fees That Really Annoy Me
The nickel and diming of passengers grows worse each and every day. Airlines scramble to make more money and deal with the rising costs of fuel, and along the way some of their hidden fees have just become absurd. From checked baggage to choosing seats, to simply buying a ticket, the fees can all add up. When one airline adds a fee you can rest assured a few more airlines will soon follow close behind.
While there are dozens of fees that have shown up in the past few years, here are the top five that really annoy me and that exemplify the nickel and diming of passengers.
#5 - Fee To Use Frequent Flyer Miles At The "Last Minute."
I just cashed in some miles on Delta for a quick trip that I booked then than three weeks from the date of travel I was hit with a significant fee for using my miles for travel less than three weeks from the date of travel. Often more seats are available closer to the date of travel due to airlines trying to fill the seats, but now there is an administrative convenience fee. The airline is taking my miles, I am paying the taxes, I am paying the ticket fee, now I am punished for booking less than three weeks from the date of travel? I was also hit with an additional fee for using my miles on a Delta partner airline, other than Delta (although this airline is merging with Delta.....can I get my money back?)
#4 - Fee To Re-Deposit Miles Into Your Frequent Flyer Account
In the last week I had to reschedule a trip booked on miles. The obvious solution is to re-deposit the miles with the airline rather than lose the miles. The fee to put my miles back into my account? $100 in administrative costs. The airline now has my original booking fee of $75 and my $100 re-deposit fee, for a total of $175 for a flight I have not taken.
#3 - Fee To Choose Seats On Your Flight
Airlines allow their "elite" frequent flyers to choose select seats, and these flyers got preferential seat choices. After the "frequent flyers, " airlines generally used to have simple policy, first come first served for seating assignments. This policy was simple and it made sense. A while back Northwest Airlines (soon to be merged with Delta Airlines) started to charge for seat selection, this policy has been followed by other carriers. You'd expect to find this kind of policy with a "low cost carrier" (LCC), but Northwest Airlines is a "legacy" airline. Additionally this policy is also in place with Air Canada on certain fares and other "legacy" airlines.
#2 - Fee To Fly Same Day Standby
In the "old days" if you showed up at the airport early you could request a "stand-by" seat on an earlier flight , based on seat availability. This was easy, it costs the airline nothing, especially if you have no checked baggage and it made life easy. many airlines now charge heavy fees to fly stand-by on seats that will otherwise go out empty. Many U.S. airlines charge $25 to fly stand-by, while United and Delta currently charge $50. The biggest hit for flying stand-by comes from "low cost carrier" Southwest Airlines. Southwest will simply charge you the full fare difference between what you paid for your ticket and what the current walk-up fare ticket cost is of the flight you are seeking to get on. In early February I was flying from Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI) to Providence (PVD) and got to the airport 90 minutes early. I figured "why not go home early?" Well I had paid $119 for my flight from BWI to PVD, and the walk up fare for the flight 60 minutes earlier was $383, so Southwest wanted $264 for a seat on a flight that was going out 1/2 empty! My flight? Oversold and the airline was seeking volunteers to be bumped in exchange for an overnight hotel stay and bump-vouchers. The airline would have saved money by sending me home an hour early in an empty seat.
#1 - Fee To Talk To A Human When Booking A Ticket!
U.S. Airways takes the top slot for the nickel and diming of passengers by charging $10 to book your ticket over the over phone and $20 to book your ticket at the airport! That's right, you walk up to the counter at your local airport and you'll get slapped with a $20 "in person" booking fee. The folks at the airport need to be there, they must staff the desk during flight times, and if you want to pay for your ticket in person you must pay $20 for the privilege of speaking with a human. Other airlines charge service fees to book on the on the phone, generally around $10, but I know of no other airline besides U.S. Airways that charges you to pay in person at a desk!
Happy Flying (there's no fee to be happy yet)!
24/04/2008 - Five Hidden Airline Fees That Really Annoy Me
The nickel and diming of passengers grows worse each and every day. Airlines scramble to make more money and deal with the rising costs of fuel, and along the way some of their hidden fees have just become absurd. From checked baggage to choosing seats, to simply buying a ticket, the fees can all add up. When one airline adds a fee you can rest assured a few more airlines will soon follow close behind.
While there are dozens of fees that have shown up in the past few years, here are the top five that really annoy me and that exemplify the nickel and diming of passengers.
#5 - Fee To Use Frequent Flyer Miles At The "Last Minute."
I just cashed in some miles on Delta for a quick trip that I booked then than three weeks from the date of travel I was hit with a significant fee for using my miles for travel less than three weeks from the date of travel. Often more seats are available closer to the date of travel due to airlines trying to fill the seats, but now there is an administrative convenience fee. The airline is taking my miles, I am paying the taxes, I am paying the ticket fee, now I am punished for booking less than three weeks from the date of travel? I was also hit with an additional fee for using my miles on a Delta partner airline, other than Delta (although this airline is merging with Delta.....can I get my money back?)
#4 - Fee To Re-Deposit Miles Into Your Frequent Flyer Account
In the last week I had to reschedule a trip booked on miles. The obvious solution is to re-deposit the miles with the airline rather than lose the miles. The fee to put my miles back into my account? $100 in administrative costs. The airline now has my original booking fee of $75 and my $100 re-deposit fee, for a total of $175 for a flight I have not taken.
#3 - Fee To Choose Seats On Your Flight
Airlines allow their "elite" frequent flyers to choose select seats, and these flyers got preferential seat choices. After the "frequent flyers, " airlines generally used to have simple policy, first come first served for seating assignments. This policy was simple and it made sense. A while back Northwest Airlines (soon to be merged with Delta Airlines) started to charge for seat selection, this policy has been followed by other carriers. You'd expect to find this kind of policy with a "low cost carrier" (LCC), but Northwest Airlines is a "legacy" airline. Additionally this policy is also in place with Air Canada on certain fares and other "legacy" airlines.
#2 - Fee To Fly Same Day Standby
In the "old days" if you showed up at the airport early you could request a "stand-by" seat on an earlier flight , based on seat availability. This was easy, it costs the airline nothing, especially if you have no checked baggage and it made life easy. many airlines now charge heavy fees to fly stand-by on seats that will otherwise go out empty. Many U.S. airlines charge $25 to fly stand-by, while United and Delta currently charge $50. The biggest hit for flying stand-by comes from "low cost carrier" Southwest Airlines. Southwest will simply charge you the full fare difference between what you paid for your ticket and what the current walk-up fare ticket cost is of the flight you are seeking to get on. In early February I was flying from Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI) to Providence (PVD) and got to the airport 90 minutes early. I figured "why not go home early?" Well I had paid $119 for my flight from BWI to PVD, and the walk up fare for the flight 60 minutes earlier was $383, so Southwest wanted $264 for a seat on a flight that was going out 1/2 empty! My flight? Oversold and the airline was seeking volunteers to be bumped in exchange for an overnight hotel stay and bump-vouchers. The airline would have saved money by sending me home an hour early in an empty seat.
#1 - Fee To Talk To A Human When Booking A Ticket!
U.S. Airways takes the top slot for the nickel and diming of passengers by charging $10 to book your ticket over the over phone and $20 to book your ticket at the airport! That's right, you walk up to the counter at your local airport and you'll get slapped with a $20 "in person" booking fee. The folks at the airport need to be there, they must staff the desk during flight times, and if you want to pay for your ticket in person you must pay $20 for the privilege of speaking with a human. Other airlines charge service fees to book on the on the phone, generally around $10, but I know of no other airline besides U.S. Airways that charges you to pay in person at a desk!
Happy Flying (there's no fee to be happy yet)!
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