Web: www.fishfoto.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
21/10/2008 – Mail From United Airlines That I Wish Was True : New Scam To Steal Frequent Flyer Miles
This morning I went to my PO Box to pick up my mail. My mail had the usual bills, a few catalogs and an envelope from United Airlines.
Inside the envelope was a single piece of paper with only the following information, in addition to my name and address
Frischling/Steven Mr.
03 Dec 08
Swiss 345 Coach Class
Lv: Lon / Heathrow 600a nonstop Confirmed
Ar: Zurich 835a
Snack
04 Dec 08
Swiss 1248 Coach Class
Lv: Zurich 650a nonstop Confirmed
Ar: Stkhlm/Arlanda 915a
Snack
05 Dec 08
Lufthansa 3001 Coach Class
Lv: Stkhlm/Arlanda 1005a nonstop Confirmed
Ar: Frankfurt 1215p
Snack
06 Dec 08
Lufthansa 3258 Coach Class
Lv: Frankfurt 820a nonstop Confirmed
Ar: Prague 925a
Snack
07 Dec 08
Swiss 1485 Coach Class Operated By-Helvetic Airways
Lv: Prague 950a nonstop Confirmed
Ar: Zurich 1110a
Snack
07 Dec 08
Swiss 638 Coach Class
Lv: Zurich 1235p nonstop Confirmed
Ar: Paris/DeGaulle 155p
Snack
I read this over and at first I said "Great!" Then of course reality set in when I noticed three glaring problems with receiving this itinerary in the mail.
Problem #1 : My frequent flyer number was no where to be found in the info
Problem #2: The itinerary showed no flights getting me to London or home from Paris
Problem #3: This was NOT my itinerary.
Of course the fact that this was not my itinerary should have been "Problem #1" and eliminated problems #2 and #3, but sometimes you have to just say "Hey, maybe they made a mistake and this is mine!"
After a 15-minute call with United Airlines I learned that this reservation was made on the 15th of October. The person who made the reservation had my old address, with a business phone number I have listed in various places online.
When the reservation was made, who ever made it gave incorrect billing information. Despite the incorrect billing information the seats remain "confirmed" without the tickets being issued.
So what is the point in all this? This appears to have been someone's attempt to steal my frequent flyer miles.
By creating a detailed itinerary and having a 'billing problem' whoever made the reservation would then call back in an attempt to get my frequent flyer information. Once they have my frequent flyer information they would call back and attempt to book the flights using my frequent flyer miles.
Anyone doing this would need to travel with my passport right? Wrong!
Flying on a forged boarding pass is not that risky. A flyer can check-in online, create PDFs of the boarding pass, and then insert 'their name' on the boarding pass using Photoshop. To be caught doing this would require someone visually scanning the boarding pass to actually read the name on the boarding pass while also reading the name that pops up on the screen to see if they match at the gate.
How often do gate agents read the name on the boarding pass while also looking at the name that pops up on the boarding pass scanner? Almost never.
Luckily for me, while I fly United Airlines often, nearly all my miles are credited to a Europe based Star Alliance airline. Should the person who made this reservation have pressed forward in an attempt to steal my miles they would not have gotten very far. I have used nearly all my United Mileage Plus miles and only have roughly 21,000 miles in my account.
FYI: 21,000 miles won't even get you an award seat between Washington Dulles (IAD) and Chicago O'Hare (ORD)
I have been in contact with United Airlines. The reservation is cancelled, my information has been flagged and unfortunately I am not spending four days bouncing around Europe.
New scams are created daily, and I am glad United Airlines sent me off this envelope with this itinerary. Without this letter in the mail I would have had no idea someone was created travel itineraries in my name.
For those of you who are known to fly often and rack up a lot of miles, check your accounts once in a while. Make sure all your miles are in your account and no one is trying to take vacations with your hard earned mileage!
Happy Flying!
21 October 2008
20 October 2008
TSA Rolls Out PDA Based Boarding Pass : A Security Double Standard
Web: www.thetravelstrategist.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
20/10/2008 – TSA Rolls Out PDA Based Boarding Pass : A Security Double Standard
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has begin a beta program that allows flyers to download their boarding pass to the Blackberry/iPhone/PDA and skip printing out a paper boarding pass.
When a flyer downloads the boarding pass to their PDA, the electronic boarding pass displays an encrypted bar code that contains the passengers basic travel information. This information includes the passenger’s name and flight information. When the flyer approaches the TSA travel document checker (TDC) the PDA based boarding pass is electronically scanned by a hand-held scanner. The information displayed on the hand-held scanner is then verified against the flyers valid photo identification.
With the ability to create, and alter, boarding passes printed at home (or at the hotel), changing a passengers name to bypass security measures is very easy to accomplish. Shouldn't all boarding passes have this 2-dimensional encrypted barcode?
If a potential flyer is on the 'No Fly' list, who is a legitimate threat to national security, really wants to fly, they will purchase a ticket in the name of someone who is not on the 'No Fly' list.
Once this ‘threat’ has purchased the ticket they will check in online, and get to the print page. Once at the print page they'll create a PDF and import the PDF into Photoshop. In Photoshop they will change the name on the boarding pass to their name. With their name on the boarding pass they can walk up to the TSA's TDC with their legal legitimate photo identification and the forged boarding pass. The names will match and they'll be on their way. Once at the gate they use a non-forged boarding pass and they board the plane.
..........no I am not giving away national security secrets here. What I am discussing is information that the Department of Homeland Security is well aware of.
By implementing a bar-code scanning system through the TSA's travel document checking system it would be extremely difficult to bypass the security measures in place. The system of checking encrypted boarding passes should not be limited to the use of PDA boarding passes at a total of 8 airport checkpoints.
This system is not at 8 airports, but at 8 airport checkpoints, specific to certain airlines. New York's LaGuardia Airport (LGA) for example has approximately 9 TSA check points. The PDA boarding pass program however is only available at one single checkpoint. You can only use the PDA boarding pass in the Delta/Northwest Terminal, and only if you are flying on Delta Airlines (not Northwest Airlines).
We need a secure system to keep a nation in transit safe. A system of positively checking boarding passes should be in place not only in the United States by around the world. A secure system of boarding pass verification should be in place not only at major airports, but at minor airports as well.
Why minor airports? Because if you seek to do harm and strike fear into the hearts and minds of the flying public, you won't risk dealing with security at a major airport such as Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). To make your job easier, you'll board your flight at a small regional airport such as New Haven (HVN), which is easier to pass through and connect to a full-loaded transcontinental or transatlantic flight out of PHL.
Checking photo identification against a piece of paper that cannot be verified is a waste of resources. Dealing with 21st century threats with mid-20th century technology is not staying one-step ahead of the threat. Current security measures react to past threats rather than looking forward towards new threats.
Having encrypted bar codes on all boarding passes is a 21st century answer to a 21st century threat and it should not be limited to an extremely small number of travelers who chose to use their PDA rather than a paper boarding pass.
Happy Flying!
20/10/2008 – TSA Rolls Out PDA Based Boarding Pass : A Security Double Standard
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has begin a beta program that allows flyers to download their boarding pass to the Blackberry/iPhone/PDA and skip printing out a paper boarding pass.
When a flyer downloads the boarding pass to their PDA, the electronic boarding pass displays an encrypted bar code that contains the passengers basic travel information. This information includes the passenger’s name and flight information. When the flyer approaches the TSA travel document checker (TDC) the PDA based boarding pass is electronically scanned by a hand-held scanner. The information displayed on the hand-held scanner is then verified against the flyers valid photo identification.
With the ability to create, and alter, boarding passes printed at home (or at the hotel), changing a passengers name to bypass security measures is very easy to accomplish. Shouldn't all boarding passes have this 2-dimensional encrypted barcode?
If a potential flyer is on the 'No Fly' list, who is a legitimate threat to national security, really wants to fly, they will purchase a ticket in the name of someone who is not on the 'No Fly' list.
Once this ‘threat’ has purchased the ticket they will check in online, and get to the print page. Once at the print page they'll create a PDF and import the PDF into Photoshop. In Photoshop they will change the name on the boarding pass to their name. With their name on the boarding pass they can walk up to the TSA's TDC with their legal legitimate photo identification and the forged boarding pass. The names will match and they'll be on their way. Once at the gate they use a non-forged boarding pass and they board the plane.
..........no I am not giving away national security secrets here. What I am discussing is information that the Department of Homeland Security is well aware of.
By implementing a bar-code scanning system through the TSA's travel document checking system it would be extremely difficult to bypass the security measures in place. The system of checking encrypted boarding passes should not be limited to the use of PDA boarding passes at a total of 8 airport checkpoints.
This system is not at 8 airports, but at 8 airport checkpoints, specific to certain airlines. New York's LaGuardia Airport (LGA) for example has approximately 9 TSA check points. The PDA boarding pass program however is only available at one single checkpoint. You can only use the PDA boarding pass in the Delta/Northwest Terminal, and only if you are flying on Delta Airlines (not Northwest Airlines).
We need a secure system to keep a nation in transit safe. A system of positively checking boarding passes should be in place not only in the United States by around the world. A secure system of boarding pass verification should be in place not only at major airports, but at minor airports as well.
Why minor airports? Because if you seek to do harm and strike fear into the hearts and minds of the flying public, you won't risk dealing with security at a major airport such as Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). To make your job easier, you'll board your flight at a small regional airport such as New Haven (HVN), which is easier to pass through and connect to a full-loaded transcontinental or transatlantic flight out of PHL.
Checking photo identification against a piece of paper that cannot be verified is a waste of resources. Dealing with 21st century threats with mid-20th century technology is not staying one-step ahead of the threat. Current security measures react to past threats rather than looking forward towards new threats.
Having encrypted bar codes on all boarding passes is a 21st century answer to a 21st century threat and it should not be limited to an extremely small number of travelers who chose to use their PDA rather than a paper boarding pass.
Happy Flying!
17 October 2008
17/10/2008 – The Weekly Round Up : Fuel Surcharges; Booking To Soon? : Baggage Theft Blame Game : TSA Approves Jewish Holiday! : etc etc etc
Web: www.fishfotoworldwide.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
17/10/2008 – The Weekly Round Up : Fuel Surcharges; Booking To Soon? : Baggage Theft Blame Game : TSA Approves Jewish Holiday! : etc etc etc
The leaves are turning, the air is cooling and when I look up in the sky I see long while contrails sweeping across the sky as flight pass by headed out over the Atlantic Ocean. This is the season when many begin to plan their winter vacation travel and long for their summer vacation.
This week I addressed the question of how far out is to far out to book flights with the instability of airlines these days. I also questioned when airlines might lower their fuel surcharges as the cost of fuel continues to drop. These issues are important when planning your winter and summer vacation plans.
Interested in my random short thoughts and insights on travel? Feel free to join me on Twitter at www.twitter.com/flyingwithfish . You don't need to post, join up and sign up to 'follow me.' No personal blather, no social commentary, just small travel tidbits....never longer than 140 characters in length.
My question of airline fuel surcharges just couldn't wait for Monday, so I kicked off this week on Saturday. After reading up on cost of fuel, the following airlines dropping fuel surcharges and others adding fuel surcharges, I started to crunch the numbers associated with Northwest Airlines' Cargo reducing its fuel surcharge. By the time I was done I decided I needed to write about it......so around 5:30am I got up and wrote the following post: 11/10/2008 – Some Airlines Reduce Fuel Surcharges : Will US Passenger Airlines Follow?
The airline industry is currently in flux is it wise to book your summer flights far in advance? British airlines Air Southwest is better on passengers booking their summer flights now,however I am cautious when booking flights so far in advance. For more info check out: 13/10/2008 – Book Early For The Best Prices? : Maybe Not The Best Idea
Theft from baggage is not only mentally upsetting , but it also frustrating when you try and fill out of claim. The airline blames the TSA, the TSA blames the airlines, at worst they both blame a third party contractor. To find out who you should contact if there is theft from your bag check here: 14/10/2008 – Missing Items From Checked Baggage : Who Do You Contact?
This week Verified Identity Pass (VIP) announced that they would be significantly raising the cost of using their Registered Traveler "Clear" card. As the costs of Clear go up, my confidence in the system has been going down. Find out why I think 'Clear' is not worth the costs: 15/10/2008 – Registered Traveler 'Clear' Card Fee Goes Up To US$199: Is This Worth It? I Think Not
What happens when two planes experience the nearly identical computer anomalies over a remote section of Australia? You look into some unusual potential causes.....such as looking at the electro-magnetic interference caused by a classified military radio tower that stands 20 feet taller than the Empire State Building. Interested? Read more here: 15/10/2008 – Can A 'Classified' Military Radio Tower Bring Down A Plane? : I Almost Has.....Twice
One of my favourite holidays as always been Sukkot. The Jewish holiday follows the 'high holy' holidays and it is a fun and happy festival. Last week the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Transportation Security Administration publicly stated that they do not believe the fruits and branches used while celebrating Sukkot posed security risk to commercial aviation. I have to tell you, I was worried that I might get busted for flying with a lulav branch and a ripe etrog.........OK, no I wasn't. For a good laugh read here: 16/10/2008 – The Jewish Holiday Of Sukkot Is Not A Threat To Airline Security According To The Department Of Homeland Security
Running late? Find out if your flight is as well with this week's iPhone 'App' Of The Week "Airport Status." The 'App' is easy to use and very reliable. Check Airport Status out here: 16/10/2008 – iPhone 'App' Of The Week : Airport Status
An airlines' primary responsibility is safety. The airline must operate its aircraft safely and make sure their passengers arrive safely. The FAA's job is to oversee the airlines and make sure they operate safely and their aircraft are safe. The NTSB's job is to investigate accidents and incidents. Well this week the NTSB has suggest that the FAA begin detailed inspections of one of the most widely used engines on Boeing 757-200/757-300 aircraft.....which is one of the most popular passenger planes operated in the United States. Find out what caused the NTSB to make its recommendation to the TSA in this entry: 16/10/2008 – NTSB Finds Missing Parts In Multiple 757 Engines
Virgin America was rated #1 by Conde Nast Traveler readers. There are many factors that lead me to question this ranking. Find out why I question this by clicking here: 17/10/2008 – Virgin America Top U.S. Airline According To Conde Nast......but how?
The seasons are changing so go grab your camera and explore the world around you.
Happy Flying!
17/10/2008 – The Weekly Round Up : Fuel Surcharges; Booking To Soon? : Baggage Theft Blame Game : TSA Approves Jewish Holiday! : etc etc etc
The leaves are turning, the air is cooling and when I look up in the sky I see long while contrails sweeping across the sky as flight pass by headed out over the Atlantic Ocean. This is the season when many begin to plan their winter vacation travel and long for their summer vacation.
This week I addressed the question of how far out is to far out to book flights with the instability of airlines these days. I also questioned when airlines might lower their fuel surcharges as the cost of fuel continues to drop. These issues are important when planning your winter and summer vacation plans.
Interested in my random short thoughts and insights on travel? Feel free to join me on Twitter at www.twitter.com/flyingwithfish . You don't need to post, join up and sign up to 'follow me.' No personal blather, no social commentary, just small travel tidbits....never longer than 140 characters in length.
My question of airline fuel surcharges just couldn't wait for Monday, so I kicked off this week on Saturday. After reading up on cost of fuel, the following airlines dropping fuel surcharges and others adding fuel surcharges, I started to crunch the numbers associated with Northwest Airlines' Cargo reducing its fuel surcharge. By the time I was done I decided I needed to write about it......so around 5:30am I got up and wrote the following post: 11/10/2008 – Some Airlines Reduce Fuel Surcharges : Will US Passenger Airlines Follow?
The airline industry is currently in flux is it wise to book your summer flights far in advance? British airlines Air Southwest is better on passengers booking their summer flights now,however I am cautious when booking flights so far in advance. For more info check out: 13/10/2008 – Book Early For The Best Prices? : Maybe Not The Best Idea
Theft from baggage is not only mentally upsetting , but it also frustrating when you try and fill out of claim. The airline blames the TSA, the TSA blames the airlines, at worst they both blame a third party contractor. To find out who you should contact if there is theft from your bag check here: 14/10/2008 – Missing Items From Checked Baggage : Who Do You Contact?
This week Verified Identity Pass (VIP) announced that they would be significantly raising the cost of using their Registered Traveler "Clear" card. As the costs of Clear go up, my confidence in the system has been going down. Find out why I think 'Clear' is not worth the costs: 15/10/2008 – Registered Traveler 'Clear' Card Fee Goes Up To US$199: Is This Worth It? I Think Not
What happens when two planes experience the nearly identical computer anomalies over a remote section of Australia? You look into some unusual potential causes.....such as looking at the electro-magnetic interference caused by a classified military radio tower that stands 20 feet taller than the Empire State Building. Interested? Read more here: 15/10/2008 – Can A 'Classified' Military Radio Tower Bring Down A Plane? : I Almost Has.....Twice
One of my favourite holidays as always been Sukkot. The Jewish holiday follows the 'high holy' holidays and it is a fun and happy festival. Last week the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Transportation Security Administration publicly stated that they do not believe the fruits and branches used while celebrating Sukkot posed security risk to commercial aviation. I have to tell you, I was worried that I might get busted for flying with a lulav branch and a ripe etrog.........OK, no I wasn't. For a good laugh read here: 16/10/2008 – The Jewish Holiday Of Sukkot Is Not A Threat To Airline Security According To The Department Of Homeland Security
Running late? Find out if your flight is as well with this week's iPhone 'App' Of The Week "Airport Status." The 'App' is easy to use and very reliable. Check Airport Status out here: 16/10/2008 – iPhone 'App' Of The Week : Airport Status
An airlines' primary responsibility is safety. The airline must operate its aircraft safely and make sure their passengers arrive safely. The FAA's job is to oversee the airlines and make sure they operate safely and their aircraft are safe. The NTSB's job is to investigate accidents and incidents. Well this week the NTSB has suggest that the FAA begin detailed inspections of one of the most widely used engines on Boeing 757-200/757-300 aircraft.....which is one of the most popular passenger planes operated in the United States. Find out what caused the NTSB to make its recommendation to the TSA in this entry: 16/10/2008 – NTSB Finds Missing Parts In Multiple 757 Engines
Virgin America was rated #1 by Conde Nast Traveler readers. There are many factors that lead me to question this ranking. Find out why I question this by clicking here: 17/10/2008 – Virgin America Top U.S. Airline According To Conde Nast......but how?
The seasons are changing so go grab your camera and explore the world around you.
Happy Flying!
Virgin America Top U.S. Airline According To Conde Nast......but how?
Web: www.fishfoto.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
17/10/2008 – Virgin America Top U.S. Airline According To Conde Nast......but how?
Every year Conde Nast Traveler surveys travelers to pick their top airline. This year Conde Nast Traveler readers placed Virgin America in the #1 slot.
On one hand I agree, Virgin America is a good airline. I have regularly chosen to fly Virgin Atlantic over all other airline combined over the years when flying certain Trans Atlantic routes. Virgin's brand of airlines has a long history of being top-notch carriers.
My problem with Virgin America taking the #1 slot is that the airline only services a total of seven cities, in a total of five states. Virgin America only currently offers a total of 18 non-stop routes nationwide, which are really 9 non-stop routes since I am counting the 'return leg' as a valid non-stop route (ie: I am counting IAD-LAX as two routes instead of one, since there is also obviously LAX-IAD).
The way I see airline travel, even the most top notch airline cannot rank as #1 if it fails to service the overwhelming majority of the flying public. Yes, Virgin America goes head to head with the 'legacy' airlines on the highly competitive, JFK-SFO/JFK-LAX routes. Virgin America launched these routes first to compete with United Airlines' P.S. service, American Airlines’ Flagship Service, and Delta Airlines who are go head to head daily competing for passengers on these two specific routes.
Virgin America is extremely popular on these two routes. I know at least half-a-dozen flyers who travel this route constantly who have left United and American Airlines to fly Virgin America as their primary carrier.
While these routes are popular, and are gaining the attention of frequent flyers on these routes, what about flyers from the remaining 45 states? Clearly Conde Nast's survey was not handed to those who do not fly Virgin America routes? What about the heavy amount of frequent flyers out of Chicago? Dallas? Minneapolis? The frequent business travelers who depart Appleton, WI, Rochester, NY? Sacramento, CA?
I'm not saying I fully question the validity of the survey, however I am saying a huge portion of the flying public was missed with the survey.
Yes, I think Virgin America offers a great product. Yes, I often fly out of JFK. Yes, my most commonly traveled to (and through) airport in San Francisco.........but for my 200,000 air miles flown last year and this year, I have primarily departed from Providence, RI or New Haven, CT, flying to at least 35 airport (by quickly flipping through my records and taking a quick count) that are not services by Virgin America. I'd bet that at least 95% of the frequent flyers in the United States have a similar scenario that does not allow Virgin America to be their top airline either (it's probably more than 95%).
Conde Nast's poll also placed Virgin Atlantic in the #3 slot for international airlines. No shock they'd be in the top 10, and certainly no surprise that Singapore Airlines took the #1 slot. Singapore Airlines has been voted #1 by Conde Nast readers 20 times in the past 21 years.
Happy Flying!
17/10/2008 – Virgin America Top U.S. Airline According To Conde Nast......but how?
Every year Conde Nast Traveler surveys travelers to pick their top airline. This year Conde Nast Traveler readers placed Virgin America in the #1 slot.
On one hand I agree, Virgin America is a good airline. I have regularly chosen to fly Virgin Atlantic over all other airline combined over the years when flying certain Trans Atlantic routes. Virgin's brand of airlines has a long history of being top-notch carriers.
My problem with Virgin America taking the #1 slot is that the airline only services a total of seven cities, in a total of five states. Virgin America only currently offers a total of 18 non-stop routes nationwide, which are really 9 non-stop routes since I am counting the 'return leg' as a valid non-stop route (ie: I am counting IAD-LAX as two routes instead of one, since there is also obviously LAX-IAD).
The way I see airline travel, even the most top notch airline cannot rank as #1 if it fails to service the overwhelming majority of the flying public. Yes, Virgin America goes head to head with the 'legacy' airlines on the highly competitive, JFK-SFO/JFK-LAX routes. Virgin America launched these routes first to compete with United Airlines' P.S. service, American Airlines’ Flagship Service, and Delta Airlines who are go head to head daily competing for passengers on these two specific routes.
Virgin America is extremely popular on these two routes. I know at least half-a-dozen flyers who travel this route constantly who have left United and American Airlines to fly Virgin America as their primary carrier.
While these routes are popular, and are gaining the attention of frequent flyers on these routes, what about flyers from the remaining 45 states? Clearly Conde Nast's survey was not handed to those who do not fly Virgin America routes? What about the heavy amount of frequent flyers out of Chicago? Dallas? Minneapolis? The frequent business travelers who depart Appleton, WI, Rochester, NY? Sacramento, CA?
I'm not saying I fully question the validity of the survey, however I am saying a huge portion of the flying public was missed with the survey.
Yes, I think Virgin America offers a great product. Yes, I often fly out of JFK. Yes, my most commonly traveled to (and through) airport in San Francisco.........but for my 200,000 air miles flown last year and this year, I have primarily departed from Providence, RI or New Haven, CT, flying to at least 35 airport (by quickly flipping through my records and taking a quick count) that are not services by Virgin America. I'd bet that at least 95% of the frequent flyers in the United States have a similar scenario that does not allow Virgin America to be their top airline either (it's probably more than 95%).
Conde Nast's poll also placed Virgin Atlantic in the #3 slot for international airlines. No shock they'd be in the top 10, and certainly no surprise that Singapore Airlines took the #1 slot. Singapore Airlines has been voted #1 by Conde Nast readers 20 times in the past 21 years.
Happy Flying!
16 October 2008
NTSB Finds Missing Parts In Multiple 757 Engines
Web: www.thetravelstrategist.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
16/10/2008 – NTSB Finds Missing Parts In Multiple 757 Engines
Today the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is recommending that the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration begin detailed inspections of certain Boeing 757-200 (752) engines. This urgent recommendation comes after an NTSB inspection of a Pratt & Whitney PW2037 revealed multiple missing lugs and cracks in the turbine hub of a Delta 752 engine. An Unrelated inspection of an American Airlines' 752 with the PW2037 engine also revealed the engine had been flying with cracks in its turbine hub.
These inspections were initially prompted when Delta Flight 624 was forced to abort its take off from Las Vegas McCarran International Airport, when the 757-232, powered by the PW2037, experienced power problems and was unable to lift off, on the 6th of August.
With additional similar problems found in the PW2037 engines that are operated and maintained by unrelated airlines, the NTSB ha suggested these engines be removed from service until further inspections and maintenance can be performed on each engine.
Currently there are 725 PW2037 engines in service for use with Boeing 757-200/757-300 aircraft around the globe.
With the FAA's recent record of aircraft inspection errors, could these problems have been found with closer inspection?
Recently both Southwest Airlines and American Airlines have been forced to ground aircraft due to FAA errors in aircraft inspections. In March of this year American Airlines was forced to temporarily ground its fleet of 133 MD-80 and MD-90 aircraft when the FAA inspections failed to uncover problems with the aircraft's wiring bundles.
Hopefully the PW2037 engine issues are minor manufacturing problems that are quickly located, repaired and dealt with, rather than an on going issue that should have been found during FAA inspections of the aircraft.
Happy Flying!
16/10/2008 – NTSB Finds Missing Parts In Multiple 757 Engines
Today the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is recommending that the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration begin detailed inspections of certain Boeing 757-200 (752) engines. This urgent recommendation comes after an NTSB inspection of a Pratt & Whitney PW2037 revealed multiple missing lugs and cracks in the turbine hub of a Delta 752 engine. An Unrelated inspection of an American Airlines' 752 with the PW2037 engine also revealed the engine had been flying with cracks in its turbine hub.
These inspections were initially prompted when Delta Flight 624 was forced to abort its take off from Las Vegas McCarran International Airport, when the 757-232, powered by the PW2037, experienced power problems and was unable to lift off, on the 6th of August.
With additional similar problems found in the PW2037 engines that are operated and maintained by unrelated airlines, the NTSB ha suggested these engines be removed from service until further inspections and maintenance can be performed on each engine.
Currently there are 725 PW2037 engines in service for use with Boeing 757-200/757-300 aircraft around the globe.
With the FAA's recent record of aircraft inspection errors, could these problems have been found with closer inspection?
Recently both Southwest Airlines and American Airlines have been forced to ground aircraft due to FAA errors in aircraft inspections. In March of this year American Airlines was forced to temporarily ground its fleet of 133 MD-80 and MD-90 aircraft when the FAA inspections failed to uncover problems with the aircraft's wiring bundles.
Hopefully the PW2037 engine issues are minor manufacturing problems that are quickly located, repaired and dealt with, rather than an on going issue that should have been found during FAA inspections of the aircraft.
Happy Flying!
iPhone 'App' Of The Week : Airport Status
Web: www.fishfotoworldwide.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
16/10/2008 – iPhone 'App' Of The Week : Airport Status
No one likes delays at the airport. Delays are not only annoying, but also potentially disastrous when flying on a tight schedule.
Over the past few months I have used a variety of iPhone 'Apps' that are designed to keep travelers updated on airport delays. I have previously written about the iPhone 'App' FAA Wait in this post : 11/09/2008 – iPhone 'App' Of The Week : FAA Wait, now I am introducing your to "Airport Status."
Having used half-a-dozen iPhone 'Apps' I have found only FAA Wait and Airport Status to be reliable and timely on a consistent basis.
Airport Status breaks out delays by Ground Delays, Ground Stop Programs, General Delays and Airport Closures.
Each section breaks out delays by airport, reason for delay and average length of delays.
If you are flying out of Newark (EWR) and there is weather Airport Status will display "WX: TSTMS" which stands for Thunder Storms, with a minimum delay time.
Having tested Airport Status side by side with live delay information I find it to be updated in a manner that is
I have found Airport Status' information extremely helpful when travel to or from an area experiencing severe weather, as well as through airports known for significant delays, such as New York's JFK International Airport (JFK ) and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
If you travel at all I suggest going to the iTunes App Store and downloading Airport Status before heading out to catch your next flight.
Below are two screen shots of the FAA Wait 'App" on my iPhone.
Happy Flying!
--Click Images To Enlarge--
16/10/2008 – iPhone 'App' Of The Week : Airport Status
No one likes delays at the airport. Delays are not only annoying, but also potentially disastrous when flying on a tight schedule.
Over the past few months I have used a variety of iPhone 'Apps' that are designed to keep travelers updated on airport delays. I have previously written about the iPhone 'App' FAA Wait in this post : 11/09/2008 – iPhone 'App' Of The Week : FAA Wait, now I am introducing your to "Airport Status."
Having used half-a-dozen iPhone 'Apps' I have found only FAA Wait and Airport Status to be reliable and timely on a consistent basis.
Airport Status breaks out delays by Ground Delays, Ground Stop Programs, General Delays and Airport Closures.
Each section breaks out delays by airport, reason for delay and average length of delays.
If you are flying out of Newark (EWR) and there is weather Airport Status will display "WX: TSTMS" which stands for Thunder Storms, with a minimum delay time.
Having tested Airport Status side by side with live delay information I find it to be updated in a manner that is
I have found Airport Status' information extremely helpful when travel to or from an area experiencing severe weather, as well as through airports known for significant delays, such as New York's JFK International Airport (JFK ) and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
If you travel at all I suggest going to the iTunes App Store and downloading Airport Status before heading out to catch your next flight.
Below are two screen shots of the FAA Wait 'App" on my iPhone.
Happy Flying!
--Click Images To Enlarge--
The Jewish Holiday Of Sukkot Is Not A Threat To Airline Security According To The Department Of Homeland Security
Web: www.fishfoto.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
16/10/2008 – The Jewish Holiday Of Sukkot Is Not A Threat To Airline Security According To The Department Of Homeland Security
Three days ago at Sunset, on the evening of the 13th of October, the Jewish festival of Sukkot began. Sukkot is the joyous holiday essentially celebrating the harvest.
With the holiday of Sukkot approaching the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) put out the following press release a few days before the start of this holiday.
Religious Events of Sukkot
TSA recognizes that the travel period for Sukkot, a significant event for persons of the Jewish faith, begins approximately on October 14, 2008, and ends approximately on October 20, 2008.
TSA’s standard operating procedures do not prohibit the carrying of the four plants – which include a palm branch, myrtle twigs, willow twigs, and a citron through the airport or the security checkpoints, or on aircraft. These plants are not on TSA’s Prohibited Items List.
TSA understands that this is a significant religious event for the Jewish faith and has reminded its security workforce that members of the Jewish faith may be observed engaging in religious practices or meditations and carrying the four plants.
I have read this press release and reread this press release, and for the life of me I cannot fathom why someone at the DHS or TSA though they needed to announce you could travel with the items customarily found in a Sukkah while celebrating Sukkot. None of these items are banned from carry-on baggage at any time during the year.
..............so with the TSA's blessing (so to speak).........To all the Jewish readers of Flying With Fish, L'shanah tovah, and happy and a healthy 5769!
Happy Flying!
16/10/2008 – The Jewish Holiday Of Sukkot Is Not A Threat To Airline Security According To The Department Of Homeland Security
Three days ago at Sunset, on the evening of the 13th of October, the Jewish festival of Sukkot began. Sukkot is the joyous holiday essentially celebrating the harvest.
With the holiday of Sukkot approaching the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) put out the following press release a few days before the start of this holiday.
Religious Events of Sukkot
TSA recognizes that the travel period for Sukkot, a significant event for persons of the Jewish faith, begins approximately on October 14, 2008, and ends approximately on October 20, 2008.
TSA’s standard operating procedures do not prohibit the carrying of the four plants – which include a palm branch, myrtle twigs, willow twigs, and a citron through the airport or the security checkpoints, or on aircraft. These plants are not on TSA’s Prohibited Items List.
TSA understands that this is a significant religious event for the Jewish faith and has reminded its security workforce that members of the Jewish faith may be observed engaging in religious practices or meditations and carrying the four plants.
I have read this press release and reread this press release, and for the life of me I cannot fathom why someone at the DHS or TSA though they needed to announce you could travel with the items customarily found in a Sukkah while celebrating Sukkot. None of these items are banned from carry-on baggage at any time during the year.
..............so with the TSA's blessing (so to speak).........To all the Jewish readers of Flying With Fish, L'shanah tovah, and happy and a healthy 5769!
Happy Flying!
15 October 2008
Can A 'Classified' Military Radio Tower Bring Down A Plane? : I Almost Has.....Twice
Web: www.thetravelstrategist.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
15/10/2008 – Can A 'Classified' Military Radio Tower Bring Down A Plane? : I Almost Has.....Twice
Last Tuesday, the 7th of October, Qantas Flight 72, an Airbus A330-300, flying between Singapore (SIN) and Perth (PER) experienced a computer malfunction that caused the aircraft to unexpectedly climb before plunging twice.
Normally this could be written off as a run-of-the-mill computer problem, however a Malaysian Airlines Boeing 777-200 experienced a similar computer malfunction in nearly the identical location in 2005.
What do these two reported potentially deadly incidents have in common? They both occurred while flying over a 'classified' United States military installation, 3 miles north of Exmouth, in Western Australia (FYI: The amount of info I can find on this classified radio tower online is extensive!). This military installation is home to a signal tower nicknamed "Tower Zero" that is taller than the Empire State Building. Tower Zero is 1,270 feet, while the Empire State Building is 1,250 feet. Tower Zero, and the additional 12 surrounding towers (six are 1,194 feet and six are 997 feet) were constructed to primarily handle naval communications for US and Australian submarines in the Southern Hemisphere.
This cluster of 13 radio towers is one of the powerful of its kind in the world, and it is known to cause electro-magnetic interference
The Australian Transportation Safety Bureau (ATSB) believes both the Qantas Airbus A330 and Malaysian Airlines Boeing 777 incidents centered on the aircrafts on-board 'Air Data Inertial Reference Unit' (ADIRU) computer. The chances of two unrelated aircraft, produced by two difference manufacturers, flown and maintained by two different airlines, having nearly identical mishaps in the same vicinity of the of Tower Zero is practically 'nil.'
With the military base technically being classified, and of significant interest to both the U.S. and Australian militaries, investigators are still unsure of the specific cause of the two incidents. Neither the U.S. military or Australian military is willing to discuss specifics which may aid the ATSB's investigation of the cause of Qantas Flight 72's recent incident.
The incident left more than 60 people injured.
Happy Flying!
15/10/2008 – Can A 'Classified' Military Radio Tower Bring Down A Plane? : I Almost Has.....Twice
Last Tuesday, the 7th of October, Qantas Flight 72, an Airbus A330-300, flying between Singapore (SIN) and Perth (PER) experienced a computer malfunction that caused the aircraft to unexpectedly climb before plunging twice.
Normally this could be written off as a run-of-the-mill computer problem, however a Malaysian Airlines Boeing 777-200 experienced a similar computer malfunction in nearly the identical location in 2005.
What do these two reported potentially deadly incidents have in common? They both occurred while flying over a 'classified' United States military installation, 3 miles north of Exmouth, in Western Australia (FYI: The amount of info I can find on this classified radio tower online is extensive!). This military installation is home to a signal tower nicknamed "Tower Zero" that is taller than the Empire State Building. Tower Zero is 1,270 feet, while the Empire State Building is 1,250 feet. Tower Zero, and the additional 12 surrounding towers (six are 1,194 feet and six are 997 feet) were constructed to primarily handle naval communications for US and Australian submarines in the Southern Hemisphere.
This cluster of 13 radio towers is one of the powerful of its kind in the world, and it is known to cause electro-magnetic interference
The Australian Transportation Safety Bureau (ATSB) believes both the Qantas Airbus A330 and Malaysian Airlines Boeing 777 incidents centered on the aircrafts on-board 'Air Data Inertial Reference Unit' (ADIRU) computer. The chances of two unrelated aircraft, produced by two difference manufacturers, flown and maintained by two different airlines, having nearly identical mishaps in the same vicinity of the of Tower Zero is practically 'nil.'
With the military base technically being classified, and of significant interest to both the U.S. and Australian militaries, investigators are still unsure of the specific cause of the two incidents. Neither the U.S. military or Australian military is willing to discuss specifics which may aid the ATSB's investigation of the cause of Qantas Flight 72's recent incident.
The incident left more than 60 people injured.
Happy Flying!
Registered Traveler 'Clear' Card Fee Goes Up To US$199: Is This Worth It? I Think Not
Web: www.fishfotoworldwide.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
15/10/2008 – Registered Traveler 'Clear' Card Fee Goes Up To US$199: Is This Worth It? I Think Not
A few days ago Verified Identity Pass (VIP) announced that it would be increasing the fee for registering for a "Clear" card
VIP issues the Clear Card in accordance with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Registered Traveler Program. The idea of the Registered Traveler is to perform background checks on applicants for the program, speed up their airport security process.
Having looked over the Clear program, and the Registered Traveler program in general, I see only one distinct advantage to holding a Clear card. This advantage is facing shorter airport security wait times, at a limited number of airports.
Back in December 2007 I discussed Clear, and explained that I did not see the value in spending $100 for a Clear card in this entry : 18-December-2007 : To Register Or Not To Register That Is The Question! Should You Be A Registered Traveler?
Now as we are nearing the end of 2008, and Clear raises it’s cost to US$199, I see less value for Clear on a number of levels.
For the US$199 fee a Clear flyer must submit to a lengthy and invasive background check. In this check you must disclose a significant amount of personal information. In addition to this information you must also submit your fingerprints and retina scan. Back in December 2007 I said that I did not believe in a conspiracy theory, I didn't think there were black helicopters circling my house. Although I am my conspiracy theorist, I like to keep my private information private.
In the past year VIP has proven that it is not ready to secure personal and sensitive data. The most notable glitch in VIP's Clear security was in August of 2008 (which I wrote about here: 5/08/2008 - 'Clear' Registered Traveler User Information Stolen) . A laptop, containing the personal information of more than 33,000 Clear applicants and users was stolen from an office at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). To make matters worse, the data on this computer was not encrypted. All the information was available for the taking. The laptop was mysteriously returned to the same office it as stolen from a few days later, with no explanation. VIP claims the computer was not tampered with, however it would be hard to tell if a non-encrypted computer's hard drive was cloned or not.
So with all this in mind what does paying US$199 to Clear get you as a Registered Traveler?
- You are still subject to TSA searches
- Your laptop must still be removed from your bag
- You still may not bring liquids through security
- You are still subject to random secondary searches
- You may still have "SSSS" printed on your boarding pass for secondary screening
......you will however be escorted to a machine that will scan your fingerprints and your retina; you will cut the entire security line; you may (in some airports) leave your shoes on.
Since Registered Travelers are subject to all the same security restrictions of every other traveler what is the benefit of being a registered traveler? That you can leave your shoes on?
Personally I don't mind taking my shoes off. I'd rather be able to leave my laptop in my bag. I am able to leave my laptop in my bag in many other countries. If I have submitted to an intensive background check and offered up a scan of my fingers and my eye, why can't I bring a bottle of Canada Dry ginger ale from home through security with me?
Given that companies that administer the Registered Traveler program are responsible for researching and carrying out the security background checks, rather than the Federal Government, how secure is this system? Since airport security was Federalized to create a uniform system of airport security (except the few airports, such as SFO that are private airport security) shifting the responsibility to a private company is detrimental to the overall security of commercial aviation.
The installation of the Registered Traveler program is profitable to the Department of Homeland Security, but should ‘Security Theater’ be acceptable? Should allowing companies that are not proven in handling secure personal data to determine who is and is not a potential threat?
With the way the Registered Traveler companies operate, can we just have a system in place where we pay US$100 and simply get to skip the line?
.......come on, the background check does NOTHING to alter our security screening anyway when we get to the TSA checkpoint.
Happy Flying!
15/10/2008 – Registered Traveler 'Clear' Card Fee Goes Up To US$199: Is This Worth It? I Think Not
A few days ago Verified Identity Pass (VIP) announced that it would be increasing the fee for registering for a "Clear" card
VIP issues the Clear Card in accordance with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Registered Traveler Program. The idea of the Registered Traveler is to perform background checks on applicants for the program, speed up their airport security process.
Having looked over the Clear program, and the Registered Traveler program in general, I see only one distinct advantage to holding a Clear card. This advantage is facing shorter airport security wait times, at a limited number of airports.
Back in December 2007 I discussed Clear, and explained that I did not see the value in spending $100 for a Clear card in this entry : 18-December-2007 : To Register Or Not To Register That Is The Question! Should You Be A Registered Traveler?
Now as we are nearing the end of 2008, and Clear raises it’s cost to US$199, I see less value for Clear on a number of levels.
For the US$199 fee a Clear flyer must submit to a lengthy and invasive background check. In this check you must disclose a significant amount of personal information. In addition to this information you must also submit your fingerprints and retina scan. Back in December 2007 I said that I did not believe in a conspiracy theory, I didn't think there were black helicopters circling my house. Although I am my conspiracy theorist, I like to keep my private information private.
In the past year VIP has proven that it is not ready to secure personal and sensitive data. The most notable glitch in VIP's Clear security was in August of 2008 (which I wrote about here: 5/08/2008 - 'Clear' Registered Traveler User Information Stolen) . A laptop, containing the personal information of more than 33,000 Clear applicants and users was stolen from an office at San Francisco International Airport (SFO). To make matters worse, the data on this computer was not encrypted. All the information was available for the taking. The laptop was mysteriously returned to the same office it as stolen from a few days later, with no explanation. VIP claims the computer was not tampered with, however it would be hard to tell if a non-encrypted computer's hard drive was cloned or not.
So with all this in mind what does paying US$199 to Clear get you as a Registered Traveler?
- You are still subject to TSA searches
- Your laptop must still be removed from your bag
- You still may not bring liquids through security
- You are still subject to random secondary searches
- You may still have "SSSS" printed on your boarding pass for secondary screening
......you will however be escorted to a machine that will scan your fingerprints and your retina; you will cut the entire security line; you may (in some airports) leave your shoes on.
Since Registered Travelers are subject to all the same security restrictions of every other traveler what is the benefit of being a registered traveler? That you can leave your shoes on?
Personally I don't mind taking my shoes off. I'd rather be able to leave my laptop in my bag. I am able to leave my laptop in my bag in many other countries. If I have submitted to an intensive background check and offered up a scan of my fingers and my eye, why can't I bring a bottle of Canada Dry ginger ale from home through security with me?
Given that companies that administer the Registered Traveler program are responsible for researching and carrying out the security background checks, rather than the Federal Government, how secure is this system? Since airport security was Federalized to create a uniform system of airport security (except the few airports, such as SFO that are private airport security) shifting the responsibility to a private company is detrimental to the overall security of commercial aviation.
The installation of the Registered Traveler program is profitable to the Department of Homeland Security, but should ‘Security Theater’ be acceptable? Should allowing companies that are not proven in handling secure personal data to determine who is and is not a potential threat?
With the way the Registered Traveler companies operate, can we just have a system in place where we pay US$100 and simply get to skip the line?
.......come on, the background check does NOTHING to alter our security screening anyway when we get to the TSA checkpoint.
Happy Flying!
14 October 2008
Missing Items From Checked Baggage : Who Do You Contact?
Web: www.fishfoto.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
14/10/2008 – Missing Items From Checked Baggage : Who Do You Contact?
It is all too common that I hear stories of people missing items from their checked baggage. I hear this more often from U.S. travelers than flyers from anywhere else in the world on a regular basis (then again, I don't know anyone who travels through Lagos on a regular basis).
When an item is missing from your checked baggage, whom do you contact? This is a very confusing question. This question leads to the round-robin finger-pointing extravaganza. Once you check your baggage, your bag passes through multiple hands before getting on the plane.
At most U.S. airports there are primarily two scenarios for checking your baggage with an airline to be placed in the aircraft's baggage hold for your journey.
Scenario #1: You check in you hand your bags to the airline counter agent. The counter agent tags your bag then takes your bag. From the counter the bag goes down a belt and passes into an area where the TSA has control of your bag for inspection. Following TSA inspection the bag is passed back to the airline for sorting to your flight.
Scenario #2: You check in and the airline counter agent tags your bag. Once your bag is tagged, you then take your bag to a TSA screening checkpoint. You personally deliver the bag to the TSA for inspection, and then wait for the TSA to screen your bag (in some airports you drop the bag off then walk away). Once your bag is inspected, the TSA hands the bag to a contractor who delivers the bags to a baggage-sorting belt, or back to your airline. Once the bags are dropped off they are then often screened a second time by the TSA while being sorted and delivered to your airline's ramp services. Following this secondary TSA screening, the bags are then returned to your airline for sorting to your flight.
Since checked baggage passes through the TSA and the airline, as well as a 3rd party at times, it is hard to pin-point who may have accessed your bag. Once you report it to your airlines chances are they will immediately inform you that you must contact the TSA. Upon contacting the TSA chances are they will tell you to fill out some forms, then deny your claim.
You can lock your bags using TSA Approved 'Sentry Locks." The problem with Sentry Locks is that not only do TSA agents have access to the Sentry Lock keys, but also others in the airport can somewhat easily gain access to these keys.
If you are traveling with anything of value in your checked baggage your best bet is to insure your bag and the contents. Should anything go missing, the cold hard truth is that you should contact your insurance company.
Until there is some sort of oversight in place for baggage screening, both the airlines and the TSA will continue to send travelers in long frustrating circles. I have a number of ideas for creating a security oversight system for checked baggage, however I'm sure the TSA is not interested in my opinions.
Check with you insurance carrier regarding your coverage and make sure you're covered.
Happy Flying!
14/10/2008 – Missing Items From Checked Baggage : Who Do You Contact?
It is all too common that I hear stories of people missing items from their checked baggage. I hear this more often from U.S. travelers than flyers from anywhere else in the world on a regular basis (then again, I don't know anyone who travels through Lagos on a regular basis).
When an item is missing from your checked baggage, whom do you contact? This is a very confusing question. This question leads to the round-robin finger-pointing extravaganza. Once you check your baggage, your bag passes through multiple hands before getting on the plane.
At most U.S. airports there are primarily two scenarios for checking your baggage with an airline to be placed in the aircraft's baggage hold for your journey.
Scenario #1: You check in you hand your bags to the airline counter agent. The counter agent tags your bag then takes your bag. From the counter the bag goes down a belt and passes into an area where the TSA has control of your bag for inspection. Following TSA inspection the bag is passed back to the airline for sorting to your flight.
Scenario #2: You check in and the airline counter agent tags your bag. Once your bag is tagged, you then take your bag to a TSA screening checkpoint. You personally deliver the bag to the TSA for inspection, and then wait for the TSA to screen your bag (in some airports you drop the bag off then walk away). Once your bag is inspected, the TSA hands the bag to a contractor who delivers the bags to a baggage-sorting belt, or back to your airline. Once the bags are dropped off they are then often screened a second time by the TSA while being sorted and delivered to your airline's ramp services. Following this secondary TSA screening, the bags are then returned to your airline for sorting to your flight.
Since checked baggage passes through the TSA and the airline, as well as a 3rd party at times, it is hard to pin-point who may have accessed your bag. Once you report it to your airlines chances are they will immediately inform you that you must contact the TSA. Upon contacting the TSA chances are they will tell you to fill out some forms, then deny your claim.
You can lock your bags using TSA Approved 'Sentry Locks." The problem with Sentry Locks is that not only do TSA agents have access to the Sentry Lock keys, but also others in the airport can somewhat easily gain access to these keys.
If you are traveling with anything of value in your checked baggage your best bet is to insure your bag and the contents. Should anything go missing, the cold hard truth is that you should contact your insurance company.
Until there is some sort of oversight in place for baggage screening, both the airlines and the TSA will continue to send travelers in long frustrating circles. I have a number of ideas for creating a security oversight system for checked baggage, however I'm sure the TSA is not interested in my opinions.
Check with you insurance carrier regarding your coverage and make sure you're covered.
Happy Flying!
13 October 2008
Book Early For The Best Prices? : Maybe Not The Best Idea
Web: www.thetravelstrategist.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
13/10/2008 – Book Early For The Best Prices? : Maybe Not The Best Idea
This morning Mike Coombes, the Deputy Chief Executive of British regional carrier Air Southwest began urging flyers to book early for the best possible airfares. Coombes' urging came with the release of Air Southwest's 2009 summer flight schedule, and Air Southwest’s prediction that British travels with choose to take their holiday vacations domestically next summer.
I understand Coombes' desire to have passengers purchase their flights now. Air Southwests' fares are fairly straightforward and simple. The further out you purchase your ticket the better chance you have for picking up a good airfare. The cash in the door 'now' from future flyers will help fund the airline immediately.
While purchasing your flights so far in the future may seem like a good idea to pick up the lowest airfares, however it may not be that good if you are unsure of the airline's financial future. While Air Southwest looks like it will survive financially through the year into the summer of 2009, I prefer to not book my flights so far in the future.
I don't expect most travelers to stop and read an airlines' financial news, cruise the forums on FlyerTalk or follow the headlines on Air Transport World's web site. However with airlines ceasing operations in record numbers, booking flights 60 days out may be a more cautious plan for vacation planning.
The airline industry is currently volatile on a global level. I have watched some airlines crumble for a long time; predicted the catastrophic failure of a Nation's flag carrier only to watch it survive; and seen airlines cease operations that I thought would be able to continue to fly. With the knowledge that I can be left out in the cold I generally purchase my seats 30-45 days away from the date of travel for the best fares. More often than not the lowest fares are available in the time frame.
I don't discourage travelers from flying. In fact I strongly encourage travelers to fly. I also encourage travelers to use well thought out travel plans.
When I was a kid my family flew from New York's JFK to Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood Int'l Airport every February to visit my Grandmother. Almost every year we flew on Delta Airlines (occasionally on National Airlines and Eastern Airlines.....and where are they now?). Often within a few days of return from our annual trip to Grandma my Mom would pick up the phone and book our flights for the next year. The flights on the JFK-FLL route rarely changed, the aircraft was a Lockheed L-1011 every year, so booking flights and choosing the seat selection was a safe bet.
Currently most airlines load their inventory no longer than 330 days from the date of departure, so my Mom could have never come home and booked next year's flights the way she did when I was growing up.
The fact that airlines are dropping like flies is why I mentioned that as a kid we sometimes flew National Airlines and Eastern Airlines. My Mom was lucky she chose to book with Delta Airlines so far in advance, year after year. Delta Airlines has remained constant while National Airlines and Eastern Airlines are no longer flying (in fact, National Airlines merged with commercial airline Goliath Pan Am, and Pan Am folded on the 4th of December 1991......selling most of its operations to Delta Airlines)
Given the current instability of the airline industry is it wise to book your flights 8-to-10 months in advance? I'd strongly advise against it................unless you're booking your flights on Delta Airlines, which is about to merge with Northwest Airlines and create the single largest airline on the planet.
Happy Flying!
13/10/2008 – Book Early For The Best Prices? : Maybe Not The Best Idea
This morning Mike Coombes, the Deputy Chief Executive of British regional carrier Air Southwest began urging flyers to book early for the best possible airfares. Coombes' urging came with the release of Air Southwest's 2009 summer flight schedule, and Air Southwest’s prediction that British travels with choose to take their holiday vacations domestically next summer.
I understand Coombes' desire to have passengers purchase their flights now. Air Southwests' fares are fairly straightforward and simple. The further out you purchase your ticket the better chance you have for picking up a good airfare. The cash in the door 'now' from future flyers will help fund the airline immediately.
While purchasing your flights so far in the future may seem like a good idea to pick up the lowest airfares, however it may not be that good if you are unsure of the airline's financial future. While Air Southwest looks like it will survive financially through the year into the summer of 2009, I prefer to not book my flights so far in the future.
I don't expect most travelers to stop and read an airlines' financial news, cruise the forums on FlyerTalk or follow the headlines on Air Transport World's web site. However with airlines ceasing operations in record numbers, booking flights 60 days out may be a more cautious plan for vacation planning.
The airline industry is currently volatile on a global level. I have watched some airlines crumble for a long time; predicted the catastrophic failure of a Nation's flag carrier only to watch it survive; and seen airlines cease operations that I thought would be able to continue to fly. With the knowledge that I can be left out in the cold I generally purchase my seats 30-45 days away from the date of travel for the best fares. More often than not the lowest fares are available in the time frame.
I don't discourage travelers from flying. In fact I strongly encourage travelers to fly. I also encourage travelers to use well thought out travel plans.
When I was a kid my family flew from New York's JFK to Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood Int'l Airport every February to visit my Grandmother. Almost every year we flew on Delta Airlines (occasionally on National Airlines and Eastern Airlines.....and where are they now?). Often within a few days of return from our annual trip to Grandma my Mom would pick up the phone and book our flights for the next year. The flights on the JFK-FLL route rarely changed, the aircraft was a Lockheed L-1011 every year, so booking flights and choosing the seat selection was a safe bet.
Currently most airlines load their inventory no longer than 330 days from the date of departure, so my Mom could have never come home and booked next year's flights the way she did when I was growing up.
The fact that airlines are dropping like flies is why I mentioned that as a kid we sometimes flew National Airlines and Eastern Airlines. My Mom was lucky she chose to book with Delta Airlines so far in advance, year after year. Delta Airlines has remained constant while National Airlines and Eastern Airlines are no longer flying (in fact, National Airlines merged with commercial airline Goliath Pan Am, and Pan Am folded on the 4th of December 1991......selling most of its operations to Delta Airlines)
Given the current instability of the airline industry is it wise to book your flights 8-to-10 months in advance? I'd strongly advise against it................unless you're booking your flights on Delta Airlines, which is about to merge with Northwest Airlines and create the single largest airline on the planet.
Happy Flying!
11 October 2008
Some Airlines Reduce Fuel Surcharges : Will US Passenger Airlines Follow?
Web: www.fishfotoworldwide.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
11/10/2008 – Some Airlines Reduce Fuel Surcharges : Will US Passenger Airlines Follow?
With the global cost of fuel reaching record highs during 2008 airlines were forced to add fuel surcharges to airline tickets. The cost of fuel has significantly altered every airlines cost of doing business. In some cases airlines were forced to completely reevaluate their business model and in more extreme cases many airlines completely collapsed due to the soaring cost of fuel.
As the cost of fuel continues to drop in recent weeks, the cost of jet fuel has also begun to come down. Jet-A fuel sold for US$181.85 per barrel as of 3-July-2008, while it now trades at US$94.35 as of 8-October-2008. Will the lowered cost of aviation fuel be passed onto the flyers?
Historically airlines have been hesitant to reduce or remove additional fees associated with fares. If an additional fee has becomes outdated, the airline can still collect the fee and use that fee as additional revenue to the airline.
Air Canada, instituted a fuel surcharge in May 2008 and has chosen to remove their fuel surcharge as of late September 2008 to adjust for the declining cost of fuel. Fellow Canadian carrier WestJet also removed their fuel surcharge fee at the same time. Airlines in the United States have neither removed their fuel surcharge nor indicated that these fees will be reduced either.
There is however a glimmer of hope for those who fly U.S. airlines. On the 20th of October Northwest Airlines Cargo will begin to reduce their fuel surcharge. Northwest Airlines operates a fleet of fourteen Boeing 747-200F aircraft for dedicated cargo operations. Northwest Cargo will reduce its fuel surcharge from US46¢ per pound to US42¢ per pound.
While 4¢ per pound may not seem like a lot of money, but adding up to the cargo capacity of a Boeing 747-200F, the reduction in costs can be significant. The maximum cargo capacity of a 747-200F is approximately 249,122.35lbs. A reduction of 4¢ per pound eliminates US$13,964.89 in fuel surcharges per loaded flight. On a daily basis, with a fleet of 15 747-200F in operation, this is at minimum a reduction of US$209,473.35 in fuel surcharges for Northwest Cargo's clients (based on aircraft only flying a single flight, many aircraft will fly two flights per day).
With airlines seeking additional revenue stream with the 'unbundling' of airfares hopefully they will reduce or remove the fuel surcharge. It is likely that the Northwest cargo fuel surcharge reduction will trickle over to the airlines passenger operations.
Northwest Airlines is currently bringing in an additional average of US$370,000 daily for the newly instated checked baggage fees for an estimated new revenue stream of US$150mil-to-US$200mil annually.
The new unbundled fees in place should help northwest, and other airlines that have instituted these fees, make up for their losses. As the current cost of Jet-A fuel is approximately 51.88% lower than it was in early July 2008, airlines should reduce or eliminate their fuel surcharges that are rapidly becoming outdated.
Happy Flying!
11/10/2008 – Some Airlines Reduce Fuel Surcharges : Will US Passenger Airlines Follow?
With the global cost of fuel reaching record highs during 2008 airlines were forced to add fuel surcharges to airline tickets. The cost of fuel has significantly altered every airlines cost of doing business. In some cases airlines were forced to completely reevaluate their business model and in more extreme cases many airlines completely collapsed due to the soaring cost of fuel.
As the cost of fuel continues to drop in recent weeks, the cost of jet fuel has also begun to come down. Jet-A fuel sold for US$181.85 per barrel as of 3-July-2008, while it now trades at US$94.35 as of 8-October-2008. Will the lowered cost of aviation fuel be passed onto the flyers?
Historically airlines have been hesitant to reduce or remove additional fees associated with fares. If an additional fee has becomes outdated, the airline can still collect the fee and use that fee as additional revenue to the airline.
Air Canada, instituted a fuel surcharge in May 2008 and has chosen to remove their fuel surcharge as of late September 2008 to adjust for the declining cost of fuel. Fellow Canadian carrier WestJet also removed their fuel surcharge fee at the same time. Airlines in the United States have neither removed their fuel surcharge nor indicated that these fees will be reduced either.
There is however a glimmer of hope for those who fly U.S. airlines. On the 20th of October Northwest Airlines Cargo will begin to reduce their fuel surcharge. Northwest Airlines operates a fleet of fourteen Boeing 747-200F aircraft for dedicated cargo operations. Northwest Cargo will reduce its fuel surcharge from US46¢ per pound to US42¢ per pound.
While 4¢ per pound may not seem like a lot of money, but adding up to the cargo capacity of a Boeing 747-200F, the reduction in costs can be significant. The maximum cargo capacity of a 747-200F is approximately 249,122.35lbs. A reduction of 4¢ per pound eliminates US$13,964.89 in fuel surcharges per loaded flight. On a daily basis, with a fleet of 15 747-200F in operation, this is at minimum a reduction of US$209,473.35 in fuel surcharges for Northwest Cargo's clients (based on aircraft only flying a single flight, many aircraft will fly two flights per day).
With airlines seeking additional revenue stream with the 'unbundling' of airfares hopefully they will reduce or remove the fuel surcharge. It is likely that the Northwest cargo fuel surcharge reduction will trickle over to the airlines passenger operations.
Northwest Airlines is currently bringing in an additional average of US$370,000 daily for the newly instated checked baggage fees for an estimated new revenue stream of US$150mil-to-US$200mil annually.
The new unbundled fees in place should help northwest, and other airlines that have instituted these fees, make up for their losses. As the current cost of Jet-A fuel is approximately 51.88% lower than it was in early July 2008, airlines should reduce or eliminate their fuel surcharges that are rapidly becoming outdated.
Happy Flying!
10 October 2008
10/10/2008 – The Weekly Round Up : Loyalty Can Save You Money : Stay Safe In New Places : TSA Thief Busted : Securing Checked Bags :Meals Goes Green
Web: www.fishfoto.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
10/10/2008 – The Weekly Round Up : Loyalty Can Save You Money : Stay Safe In New Places : TSA Thief Busted : Securing Checked Bags :Meals Goes Green
This week Flying With Fish has significantly been dedicated to staying safe while traveling. The common thread between Tuesday and Wednesday was not intentional; however with the single largest bust of a TSA Screener for theft lead me to stay on this topic.
Traveling with valuable items can be challenging and my goal this week has been to keep the readers of Flying With Fish informed on how to stay safe. These topics included working in an unfamiliar environment, staying informed on a TSA screener creating a one-man crime spree, and how to ensure your locked baggage stays locked when traveling with valuable items. Just be aware that the Lightsaber iPhone 'App' is not a viable option for protecting yourself on the road.
Before diving into this weeks weekly round up, I like to stick a reminder in that the Get Up & Fly Single Day Boot Camps scheduled for November 7th, departing early in the morning from JFK Airport and November 13th late in the evening from LAX, both still have space available. The cost of the Boot Camp is $1250 and includes all airfare expenses, an over priced airline snack box on the daytime flight, and a Mountainsmith Tour waist pack (which you'll receive before the Boot Camp to pack it up and bring it with you). For more detailed information please visit www.comeflywithfish.com
Not addressed this week on Flying With Fish is why I think American Airlines' new 'unbundled' fare structure will ultimately work against the airline. You can read excepts of my opinion exclusively on AeroChannel in this article a: http://aerochannel.com/features/4891678
..............now onto the week in review!
This week kicked off with a suggestion for flyers to choose a frequent flyer program and stick with it. With the rising cost of travel, loyalty to an airlines frequent flyer program can save you as much as 5%-to-7%. You don't even need to fly the airline of your frequent flyer program; you can fly any airline within the alliance and gain miles, and in the process reduce your travel expenses. To learn more about saving money through frequent flyer loyalty check out: 6/10/2008 - Save Money By Being A Loyal Frequent Flyer
Working in new and unfamiliar places is fun and exciting. The world is out there for you to explore and you should pack up and go! Working in an unfamiliar place can also cause you to stop paying attention and put you at risk for becoming the target of a thief. You can pick up some tips on ways to stay focused and reduce your chances of being the object of a thief's attention in this post: 7/10/2008 - Staying Safe In An Unfamiliar Environment: Don't Be A Lost Tourist
The big news this week on Flying With Fish was the reporting of the US Department of Homeland Security's Office of the Inspector General making the single largest theft bust in the Transportation Security Administration's six-year history. My reporting of this story has been picked up and reproduced in a number outlets, both travel and photography. Including Popular Photography and AeroChannel. To find out how many cameras were found in the TSA screeners house when it was raided visit : 7/10/2008 - Airport TSA Security Screener Busted For One-Man Theft Ring
Following the single largest theft bust in the TSA's history, surprisingly allegedly carried out by a single TSA screener, I detailed a last resort tactic for travelers (ONLY when traveling domestically within the United States) to securely lock their valuables in checked baggage when the need arises. You can find out what you can do here: 8/10/2008 - Protecting Your Sensitive Valuables In Checked Baggage: A Last Resort
This week's iPhone 'App' Of The Week is just pure whimsy. The 'App' Of The Week is Lightsaber. What does this iPhone 'App' do? Turns your iPhone into a Lightsaber. This may not be great for protecting your baggage, it probably won't help you be more productive while traveling, but so what? This 'App' will help you pass the time, and have some fun. Check it out in this post (you know you want to!): 9/10/2008 – iPhone 'App' Of The Week: Lightsaber
What can China Airlines do to help reduce its carbon emissions and create a smaller carbon footprint for its self? It can change its in-flight menu! This alternative thinking is brilliant. Curious how a changed menu can reduce China Airlines carbon footprint? Check here: 10/10/2008 – China Airlines Reduces Its Carbon Footprint In A Unique Way
Remember; for random updates on travel-photography, and travel in general, related information follow my Twitter. There is no social networking and new personal updates on Flying With Fish's Twitter. For my purposes, only snippets of information relevant to the topics discussed on Flying With Fish are sent out via Twitter. You can join in at www.twitter.com/flyingwithfish
Thats it for this week!
Happy Flying!
China Airlines Reduces Its Carbon Footprint In A Unique Way
Web: www.thetravelstrategist.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
10/10/2008 – China Airlines Reduces Its Carbon Footprint In A Unique Way
Flying With Fish has frequently discussed ways for travelers to reduce their carbon footprint. From purchasing carbon offsets to choosing smaller rental cars, Flying With Fish is an avid supporter of the reduction of a traveler’s carbon footprint.
So what has China Airlines to reduce their carbon footprint? China Airlines has partnered with MOS Burger to create an in-flight menu containing hamburgers comprised of rice, rather than beef. These new burgers include the Burdock Chicken Rice Burger, Pork Rice Burger and the Vegetarian Burdock Rice Burger.
The new rice based burgers reduce the overall carbon footprint in a number of ways. The largest factor is the reduction in beef, with beef cattle producing a significant amount of the world’s methane (methane is a leading problem with the effects of green house gases). In addition to the reduction of a dependence on beef cattle, the harvesting and delivery of rice requires a reduced use of trucking & transport. With the rice often being delivered over a shorter distance than the beef, requiring less vehicle emissions.
This new in-flight menu was design specifically for China Airlines by MOS Burger to work with the Airlines to not only promote their global efforts to reduce carbon emissions, but also allow the Airline to work with natural ingredients and local agricultural resources. By working with natural ingredients the Airline can both offer its passengers a healthier in-flight dining choice and support its local economy.
The new menu should be taking flight in the near future and will be available on selected long-haul routes.
Overall this is a smartly executed concept that will hopefully prompt other airlines to follow China Airlines' lead.
Happy Flying!
10/10/2008 – China Airlines Reduces Its Carbon Footprint In A Unique Way
Flying With Fish has frequently discussed ways for travelers to reduce their carbon footprint. From purchasing carbon offsets to choosing smaller rental cars, Flying With Fish is an avid supporter of the reduction of a traveler’s carbon footprint.
So what has China Airlines to reduce their carbon footprint? China Airlines has partnered with MOS Burger to create an in-flight menu containing hamburgers comprised of rice, rather than beef. These new burgers include the Burdock Chicken Rice Burger, Pork Rice Burger and the Vegetarian Burdock Rice Burger.
The new rice based burgers reduce the overall carbon footprint in a number of ways. The largest factor is the reduction in beef, with beef cattle producing a significant amount of the world’s methane (methane is a leading problem with the effects of green house gases). In addition to the reduction of a dependence on beef cattle, the harvesting and delivery of rice requires a reduced use of trucking & transport. With the rice often being delivered over a shorter distance than the beef, requiring less vehicle emissions.
This new in-flight menu was design specifically for China Airlines by MOS Burger to work with the Airlines to not only promote their global efforts to reduce carbon emissions, but also allow the Airline to work with natural ingredients and local agricultural resources. By working with natural ingredients the Airline can both offer its passengers a healthier in-flight dining choice and support its local economy.
The new menu should be taking flight in the near future and will be available on selected long-haul routes.
Overall this is a smartly executed concept that will hopefully prompt other airlines to follow China Airlines' lead.
Happy Flying!
09 October 2008
iPhone 'App' Of The Week : Lightsaber
Web: www.fishfotoworldwide.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
9/10/2008 – iPhone 'App' Of The Week : Lightsaber
This week's iPhone 'App' Of The Week comes from a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far, away………and it has absolutely nothing to do with photography or travel. In fact if I was pressed to come up with a useful application for this 'App' I could only say that it will bring a little joy to your life and that it might quench some boredom during long layovers.
Lightsaber is just what you think it is. This iPhone 'App' turns your iPhone into a Star Wars lightsaber. Five of the six Star Wars films have kept me company through countless flights (I am not a fan of one of the movies). I have watched Star Wars DVDs during long layovers on three continents, one sub-continent.
At one point in my office at my former magazine, where I served as the Director of Photography, I had six senior editors and my daughter crammed in my office (that at best should only accommodate two people) watching the original Star Wars film in its entirety.
.............maybe there is a tie between travel, photography and Star Wars for me!
What can Lightsaber do for you? You can pick your Star Wars character (this 'App' only primarily has unknown characters), flip on some 'App' supplied Star Wars theme music, fire up your lightsaber and have a lightsaber dual with a fellow iPhone user (or if you are really tired and delirious from jet lagged you can battle with no one..... who am I kidding I battle with no one all the time). As you move your lightsaber your iPhone gives off the familiar humming sound of a Star Wars light saber, when you strike something your iPhone emits the familiar clashing sound of a lightsaber.
My lightsaber never comes off of Darth Vader. Let's face it; there are few characters in the history of cinema that are nearly as cool of Darth Vader.
I think everyone should download Lightsaber. Even if you're not a Star Wars fanatic this is just a fun ‘App.’ Have two iPhones in your house? Friends have iPhones? Have them download Lightsaber as well and enjoy a friendly dual.
Below are five photos of the Lightsaber 'App' on my iPhone.
Happy Flying (in a galaxy far far away.........)!
--Click Images To Enlarge Them--
9/10/2008 – iPhone 'App' Of The Week : Lightsaber
This week's iPhone 'App' Of The Week comes from a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far, away………and it has absolutely nothing to do with photography or travel. In fact if I was pressed to come up with a useful application for this 'App' I could only say that it will bring a little joy to your life and that it might quench some boredom during long layovers.
Lightsaber is just what you think it is. This iPhone 'App' turns your iPhone into a Star Wars lightsaber. Five of the six Star Wars films have kept me company through countless flights (I am not a fan of one of the movies). I have watched Star Wars DVDs during long layovers on three continents, one sub-continent.
At one point in my office at my former magazine, where I served as the Director of Photography, I had six senior editors and my daughter crammed in my office (that at best should only accommodate two people) watching the original Star Wars film in its entirety.
.............maybe there is a tie between travel, photography and Star Wars for me!
What can Lightsaber do for you? You can pick your Star Wars character (this 'App' only primarily has unknown characters), flip on some 'App' supplied Star Wars theme music, fire up your lightsaber and have a lightsaber dual with a fellow iPhone user (or if you are really tired and delirious from jet lagged you can battle with no one..... who am I kidding I battle with no one all the time). As you move your lightsaber your iPhone gives off the familiar humming sound of a Star Wars light saber, when you strike something your iPhone emits the familiar clashing sound of a lightsaber.
My lightsaber never comes off of Darth Vader. Let's face it; there are few characters in the history of cinema that are nearly as cool of Darth Vader.
I think everyone should download Lightsaber. Even if you're not a Star Wars fanatic this is just a fun ‘App.’ Have two iPhones in your house? Friends have iPhones? Have them download Lightsaber as well and enjoy a friendly dual.
Below are five photos of the Lightsaber 'App' on my iPhone.
Happy Flying (in a galaxy far far away.........)!
--Click Images To Enlarge Them--
08 October 2008
Protecting Your Sensitive Valuables In Checked Baggage : A Last Resort
Web: www.fishfoto.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
8/10/2008 - Protecting Your Sensitive Valuables In Checked Baggage : A Last Resort
WARNING: THE FOLLOWING LAST RESORT SUGGESTION IS ONLY VALID FOR DOMESTIC TRAVEL WITHIN THE UNITED STATES
With the recent news of a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screener being caught and confessing to the theft of hundreds of expensive cameras, lenses, laptops, video equipment and other items at Newark Liberty International Airport (as I reported here on Flying With Fish : 7/10/2008 - Airport TSA Security Screener Busted For One-Man Theft Ring) I have received dozens of e-mails today asking how photographers can securely checked their equipment.
The subject of checking photographic equipment securely is one I have discussed in various online forums for quite some time. The bad news is that if someone wants to steal from you they will. The complex issue is that the most secure checked baggage scenario I am aware of is only available for travel domestically within the United States. The troubling issue is that in order to verify that your gear is securely checked you must travel with a firearm.
I have weighed the positives and negatives on discussing the last resort options to ensure a checked bag is locked upon check in and remains locked upon arrival. Ultimately I have decided that it is the best interest of photographers, and others traveling with sensitive valuables that must be checked, to know the one 'trick up the sleeve' that will ensure a bag can be visually checked, locked, never opened again by the TSA or anyone else while in transit, and be delivered via 'special handling' at your destination.
There is a little known rule in place by the TSA that allows a passenger to check an unloaded firearm in a securely locked hard-sided case. This rule applies to something as simple as a 'starter pistol' that requires no permit. If you slip a simple $30 starter pistol into your Pelican Case with your checked camera equipment, your camera case is now a 'gun case.'
How does this work? Let me explain
1) When you check in for your flight you declare that your checked case contains a firearm to the airline counter representative.
2) Once you have declared the weapon to the airline counter agent you must prove to them that the firearm has an empty chamber and is not loaded with any ammo.
3) Once you have satisfied the airline requirements you must present your hard-sided case, containing the firearm, to a TSA Agent.
4) The TSA screener will then visually inspect the contents of your case in front of you. By law you MUST be present as your case is inspected by the TSA Agent.
5) Following the inspection you must lock your case with a non-TSA Sentry Lock. This means that the lock you use will in no way be accessible to any TSA agents, or ramp agents, who have access to TSA Sentry Lock keys. Both key and combination locks are acceptable, however a combination lock is suggested, as is using two locks instead of one
6) Once the TSA accepts your hard-sided case, locked with two non-TSA Sentry Locks, it is identified in such a way that it will not be opened again until it delivered to your destination and is back in your hands, and you choose to unlock it.
You CANNOT check the case containing the firearm at curbside check-in. You should check with the airline you will be flying on to check what rules and regulations that may have for checking a firearm on their flights.
Personally, I strongly suggest making every effort to carry your gear on-board. Look into a combination of a backpack that can hold a significant amount of equipment. Choose a backpack that by design does not draw the attention of an airline representative and use it in conjunction with a full size roll-aboard to carry additional equipment and longer lenses.
If you cannot deal with a backpack and roll aboard for your gear, then look into the last resort and pack a starter pistol between your 400f2.8 and 600f4 inside your Pelican Case.
For the Official TSA information on traveling with a firearm check here:
www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/assistant/editorial_1666.shtm
Happy Flying!
8/10/2008 - Protecting Your Sensitive Valuables In Checked Baggage : A Last Resort
WARNING: THE FOLLOWING LAST RESORT SUGGESTION IS ONLY VALID FOR DOMESTIC TRAVEL WITHIN THE UNITED STATES
With the recent news of a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screener being caught and confessing to the theft of hundreds of expensive cameras, lenses, laptops, video equipment and other items at Newark Liberty International Airport (as I reported here on Flying With Fish : 7/10/2008 - Airport TSA Security Screener Busted For One-Man Theft Ring) I have received dozens of e-mails today asking how photographers can securely checked their equipment.
The subject of checking photographic equipment securely is one I have discussed in various online forums for quite some time. The bad news is that if someone wants to steal from you they will. The complex issue is that the most secure checked baggage scenario I am aware of is only available for travel domestically within the United States. The troubling issue is that in order to verify that your gear is securely checked you must travel with a firearm.
I have weighed the positives and negatives on discussing the last resort options to ensure a checked bag is locked upon check in and remains locked upon arrival. Ultimately I have decided that it is the best interest of photographers, and others traveling with sensitive valuables that must be checked, to know the one 'trick up the sleeve' that will ensure a bag can be visually checked, locked, never opened again by the TSA or anyone else while in transit, and be delivered via 'special handling' at your destination.
There is a little known rule in place by the TSA that allows a passenger to check an unloaded firearm in a securely locked hard-sided case. This rule applies to something as simple as a 'starter pistol' that requires no permit. If you slip a simple $30 starter pistol into your Pelican Case with your checked camera equipment, your camera case is now a 'gun case.'
How does this work? Let me explain
1) When you check in for your flight you declare that your checked case contains a firearm to the airline counter representative.
2) Once you have declared the weapon to the airline counter agent you must prove to them that the firearm has an empty chamber and is not loaded with any ammo.
3) Once you have satisfied the airline requirements you must present your hard-sided case, containing the firearm, to a TSA Agent.
4) The TSA screener will then visually inspect the contents of your case in front of you. By law you MUST be present as your case is inspected by the TSA Agent.
5) Following the inspection you must lock your case with a non-TSA Sentry Lock. This means that the lock you use will in no way be accessible to any TSA agents, or ramp agents, who have access to TSA Sentry Lock keys. Both key and combination locks are acceptable, however a combination lock is suggested, as is using two locks instead of one
6) Once the TSA accepts your hard-sided case, locked with two non-TSA Sentry Locks, it is identified in such a way that it will not be opened again until it delivered to your destination and is back in your hands, and you choose to unlock it.
You CANNOT check the case containing the firearm at curbside check-in. You should check with the airline you will be flying on to check what rules and regulations that may have for checking a firearm on their flights.
Personally, I strongly suggest making every effort to carry your gear on-board. Look into a combination of a backpack that can hold a significant amount of equipment. Choose a backpack that by design does not draw the attention of an airline representative and use it in conjunction with a full size roll-aboard to carry additional equipment and longer lenses.
If you cannot deal with a backpack and roll aboard for your gear, then look into the last resort and pack a starter pistol between your 400f2.8 and 600f4 inside your Pelican Case.
For the Official TSA information on traveling with a firearm check here:
www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/assistant/editorial_1666.shtm
Happy Flying!
07 October 2008
Airport TSA Security Screener Busted For One-Man Theft Ring
Web: www.thetravelstrategist.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
7/10/2008 - Airport TSA Security Screener Busted For One-Man Theft Ring
What happens when those charged with protecting the flying public become those stealing from the flying public? This has come up time-and-time again.
Nearly 300 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Transportation Screening Officers (TSO) have been discharged and arrested in the past, however a screener at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) went further than the rest.
This week Pythias Brown, a six year veteran of the TSA, was charged with dozens of counts of theft from passengers at EWR, and faces up to 10 years in Federal Prison according to Assistant US Attorney Jenny Kramer.
What ultimately caused Brown to be caught was this theft of a camera, from an HBO crew, valued at US$47,900. What does one do with a US$47,900 camera? They place it on eBay, where someone looking for the stolen camera found it.
A camera Brown had allegedly stolen from CNN was also listed on eBay at the same time Brown had the HBO camera listed on eBay.
According to lead investigator Special Agent Thomas Adams, of the US Department of Homeland Security's Office of the Inspector General, 66 camera, 12 GPS units, 11 MP3 players, 31 laptops, 8 camera lenses, 2 DVD players, 6 video cameras, 13 pieces of jewelry and 17 electronic video games were found in Browns house when it was raided last week.
When confronted with the evidence Brown confessed to the crimes. He has been placed on administrative leave from the TSA and will be terminated shortly.
I will say what I have always said; the vast majority of TSA agents do a good job. These agents do what they can to protect the flying public, and with approximately 43,000 TSOs working throughout the TSA, the number of criminal TSA TSOs is a small percentage. However there needs to be more oversight of screeners.
How does a TSA screener leave work with a large movie production camera? How does a screener leave work with 66 camera and 31 laptops with no one noticing? What else did this TSA TSO steal from passengers over the past few years? Check out his eBay feedback here: http://EWRTSOEBay.notlong.com
I am happy that HBO and CNN have received their equipment back. I am glad the US DHS stopped this one-man theft ring. Hopefully this will lead to the TSA creating a new system to check TSOs and deter future thefts from the flying public.
Happy Flying!
7/10/2008 - Airport TSA Security Screener Busted For One-Man Theft Ring
What happens when those charged with protecting the flying public become those stealing from the flying public? This has come up time-and-time again.
Nearly 300 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Transportation Screening Officers (TSO) have been discharged and arrested in the past, however a screener at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) went further than the rest.
This week Pythias Brown, a six year veteran of the TSA, was charged with dozens of counts of theft from passengers at EWR, and faces up to 10 years in Federal Prison according to Assistant US Attorney Jenny Kramer.
What ultimately caused Brown to be caught was this theft of a camera, from an HBO crew, valued at US$47,900. What does one do with a US$47,900 camera? They place it on eBay, where someone looking for the stolen camera found it.
A camera Brown had allegedly stolen from CNN was also listed on eBay at the same time Brown had the HBO camera listed on eBay.
According to lead investigator Special Agent Thomas Adams, of the US Department of Homeland Security's Office of the Inspector General, 66 camera, 12 GPS units, 11 MP3 players, 31 laptops, 8 camera lenses, 2 DVD players, 6 video cameras, 13 pieces of jewelry and 17 electronic video games were found in Browns house when it was raided last week.
When confronted with the evidence Brown confessed to the crimes. He has been placed on administrative leave from the TSA and will be terminated shortly.
I will say what I have always said; the vast majority of TSA agents do a good job. These agents do what they can to protect the flying public, and with approximately 43,000 TSOs working throughout the TSA, the number of criminal TSA TSOs is a small percentage. However there needs to be more oversight of screeners.
How does a TSA screener leave work with a large movie production camera? How does a screener leave work with 66 camera and 31 laptops with no one noticing? What else did this TSA TSO steal from passengers over the past few years? Check out his eBay feedback here: http://EWRTSOEBay.notlong.com
I am happy that HBO and CNN have received their equipment back. I am glad the US DHS stopped this one-man theft ring. Hopefully this will lead to the TSA creating a new system to check TSOs and deter future thefts from the flying public.
Happy Flying!
Staying Safe In An Unfamiliar Environment : Don't Be A Lost Tourist
Web: www.fishfotoworldwide.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
7/10/2008 - Staying Safe In An Unfamiliar Environment : Don't Be A Lost Tourist
A significant concern of many photographers when working in unfamiliar surroundings is protecting themselves and their equipment.
When working in an unfamiliar location many photographers have a tendency to either have a false sense of security or become hyper-paranoid. Neither of these tendencies does us any good and there are safe and easy ways to protect yourself and equipment from potential predators while on the road.
As a photographer I travel often, but I learned how to keep myself, and my gear, protected while shooting a wide variety of assignments. The assignments that have taught me the most about my personal security include some of the following: spending multiple-months walking around one of the worst crime ridden and drug infested housing projects in the United States ; photographing a few dozen riots; working in a city after massive natural disaster has devastated the area; working in environments where I have clearly been in the 'wrong place at the wrong time' intentionally.
When I travel with my gear, which can be the next city over or halfway around the world, I make sure my gear is secure in a few ways. For starters, my gear is almost always out on my shoulders. I can't work if my gear is hidden away. I travel with my lenses facing inward and the of my camera facing outward. I usually keep my longer lenses in front of my body so they can't be snatched off the body, and the smaller lenses stay tucked up under my body.
When I carry my bodies I keep my thumbs inside the straps so if someone tried to snatch-and-grab my camera they'd also be grabbing my thumb. This gives me a moment to pull back and allows the thief a moment to release. This can be effective for snatch-and-grab as well as the pseudo-pickpocket.
I NEVER NEVER NEVER use the OEM straps. I don't want a huge Nikon/Canon/Leica/Contax logo on my shoulder. My gear is used and beat, and I keep it looking that way. My longer 'white' lenses are taped black. The tape minimizes the visual attraction to my lens, and while it has been beaten around, even a brand new lens wrapped in black electrical tape will look like well worn and cause many thieves to look for another target.
I don't tape over the Nikon/Canon logo, but I do have tape on the body, it minimizes the glances from would-be thieves who want the newer nicer looking cameras (although some will grab whatever they can get.)
When I walk, I walk confidently. I make sure my body language does not make me an easy target.
If I am in an unfamiliar place I never pull out a map and read it on the street. If I need to use a map I step in some place. Pulling out a map is a big red arrow to thieves. I often e-mail myself directions and read a Blackberry while walking. Everyone reads a Blackberry so it does not draw any attention, plus my directions are clear in text without orienting myself with a map.
Very often when I am in an unfamiliar area I memorize a map the best I can. Being familiar with a city you have never been to can allow you to walk clearly through a city's streets, head up, looking for images rather than stopping to read directions.
My bag selection is key in not being a target. My photo backpacks either have the access flap facing my back (ie: a thief would need to get it off my back to access it) or they are locked with small locks making it difficult to unzip the backpack without me noticing it. I choose backpacks that are not obvious 'photo backpacks.' I never travel with a Nikon or Canon backpack and choose designs that do not look like traditional photo bags.
When I am not using a backpack, which is common, I use a waist pack or belt/pouch system. With these I waits packs/belt systems I keep my gear either directly in front of my body or under my arm, towards the front of my body. By having the pack in front of you it is very difficult for someone to access your gear in stealth like manner.
As for keeping a thief from slitting your camera strap I have moved to the PacSafe Carry Safe 100 straps. These straps are slash proof. I do remove the shoulder pad, leaving me with only the thin strap, but these straps are light, easy to use, comfortable and have a safety lock so they can't even be unlatched if the thief fails to slice the strap. You can find more info on the PacSafe CarrySafe 100 strap, as well as find a link to my write up on these straps, here:
http://www.pacsafe.com/www/index.php?_room=3&_action=detail&id=16
PacSafe may be releasing new versions of these straps in the future, but at US$20 a strap, pick up two!
Happy Flying!
7/10/2008 - Staying Safe In An Unfamiliar Environment : Don't Be A Lost Tourist
A significant concern of many photographers when working in unfamiliar surroundings is protecting themselves and their equipment.
When working in an unfamiliar location many photographers have a tendency to either have a false sense of security or become hyper-paranoid. Neither of these tendencies does us any good and there are safe and easy ways to protect yourself and equipment from potential predators while on the road.
As a photographer I travel often, but I learned how to keep myself, and my gear, protected while shooting a wide variety of assignments. The assignments that have taught me the most about my personal security include some of the following: spending multiple-months walking around one of the worst crime ridden and drug infested housing projects in the United States ; photographing a few dozen riots; working in a city after massive natural disaster has devastated the area; working in environments where I have clearly been in the 'wrong place at the wrong time' intentionally.
When I travel with my gear, which can be the next city over or halfway around the world, I make sure my gear is secure in a few ways. For starters, my gear is almost always out on my shoulders. I can't work if my gear is hidden away. I travel with my lenses facing inward and the of my camera facing outward. I usually keep my longer lenses in front of my body so they can't be snatched off the body, and the smaller lenses stay tucked up under my body.
When I carry my bodies I keep my thumbs inside the straps so if someone tried to snatch-and-grab my camera they'd also be grabbing my thumb. This gives me a moment to pull back and allows the thief a moment to release. This can be effective for snatch-and-grab as well as the pseudo-pickpocket.
I NEVER NEVER NEVER use the OEM straps. I don't want a huge Nikon/Canon/Leica/Contax logo on my shoulder. My gear is used and beat, and I keep it looking that way. My longer 'white' lenses are taped black. The tape minimizes the visual attraction to my lens, and while it has been beaten around, even a brand new lens wrapped in black electrical tape will look like well worn and cause many thieves to look for another target.
I don't tape over the Nikon/Canon logo, but I do have tape on the body, it minimizes the glances from would-be thieves who want the newer nicer looking cameras (although some will grab whatever they can get.)
When I walk, I walk confidently. I make sure my body language does not make me an easy target.
If I am in an unfamiliar place I never pull out a map and read it on the street. If I need to use a map I step in some place. Pulling out a map is a big red arrow to thieves. I often e-mail myself directions and read a Blackberry while walking. Everyone reads a Blackberry so it does not draw any attention, plus my directions are clear in text without orienting myself with a map.
Very often when I am in an unfamiliar area I memorize a map the best I can. Being familiar with a city you have never been to can allow you to walk clearly through a city's streets, head up, looking for images rather than stopping to read directions.
My bag selection is key in not being a target. My photo backpacks either have the access flap facing my back (ie: a thief would need to get it off my back to access it) or they are locked with small locks making it difficult to unzip the backpack without me noticing it. I choose backpacks that are not obvious 'photo backpacks.' I never travel with a Nikon or Canon backpack and choose designs that do not look like traditional photo bags.
When I am not using a backpack, which is common, I use a waist pack or belt/pouch system. With these I waits packs/belt systems I keep my gear either directly in front of my body or under my arm, towards the front of my body. By having the pack in front of you it is very difficult for someone to access your gear in stealth like manner.
As for keeping a thief from slitting your camera strap I have moved to the PacSafe Carry Safe 100 straps. These straps are slash proof. I do remove the shoulder pad, leaving me with only the thin strap, but these straps are light, easy to use, comfortable and have a safety lock so they can't even be unlatched if the thief fails to slice the strap. You can find more info on the PacSafe CarrySafe 100 strap, as well as find a link to my write up on these straps, here:
http://www.pacsafe.com/www/index.php?_room=3&_action=detail&id=16
PacSafe may be releasing new versions of these straps in the future, but at US$20 a strap, pick up two!
Happy Flying!
06 October 2008
Save Money By Being A Loyal Frequent Flyer
Web: www.fishfoto.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
6/10/2008 - Save Money By Being A Loyal Frequent Flyer
Did you know that loyalty to an airline, or airline alliance, can save you 5%-7% in travel expenses?
Each year there are nearly a dozen business travel forecasts I read. These annual travel forecasts vary widely and I am often left wondering if these analysts are looking at the same data to make their decisions.
This year, looking at the 2009 business travel forecast, there is one constant I am seeing. This one common cost increase is related to the 'unbundling' of services. Unbundling includes cost increases, such as the much talked about additional charges for checked baggage. The newly unbundled fees can increase the costs of airline travel by as much as much as 5%-7% (if you travel with extensive photographic equipment it can be more than a 50% cost increase on some routes).
Checked baggage fees bring significant revenue to airlines. Northwest Airlines reports a revenue of more than US$300,000 daily in checked baggage fees.
So what can loyalty to an airline, or an airline alliance, do to reduce your travel expenses? It can save you fees on your checked baggage, in some cases completely eliminating these fees.
The following are some US airline checked baggage fees, for domestic travel each way:
United Airlines : $15 - first bag / $50 - second bag / $125 - third bag
US Airways: $15 - first bag / $25 - second bag / $100 - third bag
Delta Airlines: $0 - first bag / $50 second bag
Northwest Airlines: $15 - first bag / $25 - second bag / $100 - third bag
Continental Airlines: $15 - first bag / $25 - second bag
American Airlines: $15 - first bag / $25 - second bag / $100 - third bag
For flyers who earn Star Alliance Star Silver or Star Gold ; SkyTeam Elite or Elite Plus ; OneWorld Ruby, Sapphire or Emerald can have some, or all, of these baggage fees can be waived.
Elite status with the above airlines begins at only 25,000 miles.
25,000 miles is equal to five round-trips between New York and Los Angeles; two and a half round trips between Washington-Dulles and Honolulu; three and a half round trips between Boston and Amsterdam; one round trip between Newark and Tokyo via Singapore.
For those who fly often and don't sort out the value of your loyalty, you may want to look at your estimated travel for the next year and sort out what airline, or airline alliance, may be best for you to pick up your elite status.
There are other perks to being a frequent flyer, but with the cost of living rising, many flyers are more interested in saving money that catching upgrades.
Happy Flying!
6/10/2008 - Save Money By Being A Loyal Frequent Flyer
Did you know that loyalty to an airline, or airline alliance, can save you 5%-7% in travel expenses?
Each year there are nearly a dozen business travel forecasts I read. These annual travel forecasts vary widely and I am often left wondering if these analysts are looking at the same data to make their decisions.
This year, looking at the 2009 business travel forecast, there is one constant I am seeing. This one common cost increase is related to the 'unbundling' of services. Unbundling includes cost increases, such as the much talked about additional charges for checked baggage. The newly unbundled fees can increase the costs of airline travel by as much as much as 5%-7% (if you travel with extensive photographic equipment it can be more than a 50% cost increase on some routes).
Checked baggage fees bring significant revenue to airlines. Northwest Airlines reports a revenue of more than US$300,000 daily in checked baggage fees.
So what can loyalty to an airline, or an airline alliance, do to reduce your travel expenses? It can save you fees on your checked baggage, in some cases completely eliminating these fees.
The following are some US airline checked baggage fees, for domestic travel each way:
United Airlines : $15 - first bag / $50 - second bag / $125 - third bag
US Airways: $15 - first bag / $25 - second bag / $100 - third bag
Delta Airlines: $0 - first bag / $50 second bag
Northwest Airlines: $15 - first bag / $25 - second bag / $100 - third bag
Continental Airlines: $15 - first bag / $25 - second bag
American Airlines: $15 - first bag / $25 - second bag / $100 - third bag
For flyers who earn Star Alliance Star Silver or Star Gold ; SkyTeam Elite or Elite Plus ; OneWorld Ruby, Sapphire or Emerald can have some, or all, of these baggage fees can be waived.
Elite status with the above airlines begins at only 25,000 miles.
25,000 miles is equal to five round-trips between New York and Los Angeles; two and a half round trips between Washington-Dulles and Honolulu; three and a half round trips between Boston and Amsterdam; one round trip between Newark and Tokyo via Singapore.
For those who fly often and don't sort out the value of your loyalty, you may want to look at your estimated travel for the next year and sort out what airline, or airline alliance, may be best for you to pick up your elite status.
There are other perks to being a frequent flyer, but with the cost of living rising, many flyers are more interested in saving money that catching upgrades.
Happy Flying!
03 October 2008
3/10/2008 – The Weekly Round Up : SWA's new threat to UA & AA; The Smell Of Jet-A; Pilot Pensions; Tripods As Carry-on; BA & Qantas iPho
Web: www.fishfotoworldwide.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
3/10/2008 – The Weekly Round Up : SWA's new threat to UA & AA; The Smell Of Jet-A; Pilot Pensions; Tripods As Carry-on; BA & Qantas iPhone Apps
I think I'll start this weekly round up with something not covered this week on Flying With Fish. Earlier this week Southwest Airlines announced it would begin service at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP). Southwest usually enters a market with 4, or more, destinations, they chose to enter MSP with only one. This route is non-stop MSP-Chicago. Many people are discussing how this will affect Northwest Airlines. I have bucked the trend and believe this move is not targeting Northwest Airlines but instead targeting United Airlines and American Airlines, and their customer base at MSP. You can read my opinion on this topic exclusively on AeroChannel.com here: http://www.aerochannel.com/features/4531349
This week on Flying With Fish I launched "Flying With Fish On Twitter." Twitter is designed to be a social networking tool, which I initially found to be quite annoying. After some looking into Twitter I decided to use it for a different purpose, as an 'info source.' As relevant information becomes available to me that I think may be of interest to the readers if Flying With Fish I simply send off a short message. To read more on this visit : 1/10/2008 - Flying With Fish On Twitter (or just sign up to follow me at www.twitter.com/flyingwithfish)
My first entry this week asked the question regarding what keeps me motivated to do what I do. Honestly, I love the challenges involved in traveling. For me, the point of the journey is not to arrive, and since I'll never have all the answers, I can never arrive. To read up on what keeps me motivated, and how I am working to try and work with the industry directly, visit:
29/09/2008 – I Love The Smell Of Jet A Fuel In The Morning
Last week I received a message from a reader with the user-name "walp" concerning the important topic of pilot pensions in regard to the Delta-Northwest Airlines merger. I planned to link that message to this weekly round up, but instead I decided to dedicate an entire post to it. I think this is an important piece of information and that everyone should take a moment and read it. You can find "walp"s message here: 30/09/2008 - From The Mail Bag : Pilot Pensions
What is the number one question I am asked by nature and landscape photographers? Can they get their tripod on-board as carry on? The answer is yes! For more info check here: 1/10/2008 - Can I Carry My Tripod On-board My Flight?
My iPhone 'App' of this week this week is a pair of 'Apps' from two OneWorld airlines. Both British Airways and Qantas have released proprietary iPhone 'Apps' that are excellent for their flyers. Every airline should take at look at these and explore the option of putting one out there! To read up on why I like BA Flights and Qantas Mobile read here: 2/10/2008 – iPhone 'Apps' Of The Week : BA Flights & Qantas Mobile (yes, there are two this week)
......last but not least I have relaunched Come Fly With Fish (www.comeflywithfish.com). On Come Fly With Fish I currently have two workshops up. The intense 'round-the-world' workshop, and the Single Day "Get Up & Fly" Boot Camp. The Get Up & Fly Boot Camps are scheduled for November 7th departing from New York's JFK and November 13th from Los Angeles' LAX.
As an incentive to the readers of Flying With Fish, each participant in the Get Up & Fly workshop will receive one of my favourite bags! If you read this site enough you may have a guess what bag I am talking about it. These bags will be sent out prior to our departure for you to pack up and work out of while attending the boot camp.
There has been significant interest in the Get Up & Fly Boot Camp but just a few more people are needed to meet the minimum required number to take off!
That's it for this week.
Happy Flying!
3/10/2008 – The Weekly Round Up : SWA's new threat to UA & AA; The Smell Of Jet-A; Pilot Pensions; Tripods As Carry-on; BA & Qantas iPhone Apps
I think I'll start this weekly round up with something not covered this week on Flying With Fish. Earlier this week Southwest Airlines announced it would begin service at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP). Southwest usually enters a market with 4, or more, destinations, they chose to enter MSP with only one. This route is non-stop MSP-Chicago. Many people are discussing how this will affect Northwest Airlines. I have bucked the trend and believe this move is not targeting Northwest Airlines but instead targeting United Airlines and American Airlines, and their customer base at MSP. You can read my opinion on this topic exclusively on AeroChannel.com here: http://www.aerochannel.com/features/4531349
This week on Flying With Fish I launched "Flying With Fish On Twitter." Twitter is designed to be a social networking tool, which I initially found to be quite annoying. After some looking into Twitter I decided to use it for a different purpose, as an 'info source.' As relevant information becomes available to me that I think may be of interest to the readers if Flying With Fish I simply send off a short message. To read more on this visit : 1/10/2008 - Flying With Fish On Twitter (or just sign up to follow me at www.twitter.com/flyingwithfish)
My first entry this week asked the question regarding what keeps me motivated to do what I do. Honestly, I love the challenges involved in traveling. For me, the point of the journey is not to arrive, and since I'll never have all the answers, I can never arrive. To read up on what keeps me motivated, and how I am working to try and work with the industry directly, visit:
29/09/2008 – I Love The Smell Of Jet A Fuel In The Morning
Last week I received a message from a reader with the user-name "walp" concerning the important topic of pilot pensions in regard to the Delta-Northwest Airlines merger. I planned to link that message to this weekly round up, but instead I decided to dedicate an entire post to it. I think this is an important piece of information and that everyone should take a moment and read it. You can find "walp"s message here: 30/09/2008 - From The Mail Bag : Pilot Pensions
What is the number one question I am asked by nature and landscape photographers? Can they get their tripod on-board as carry on? The answer is yes! For more info check here: 1/10/2008 - Can I Carry My Tripod On-board My Flight?
My iPhone 'App' of this week this week is a pair of 'Apps' from two OneWorld airlines. Both British Airways and Qantas have released proprietary iPhone 'Apps' that are excellent for their flyers. Every airline should take at look at these and explore the option of putting one out there! To read up on why I like BA Flights and Qantas Mobile read here: 2/10/2008 – iPhone 'Apps' Of The Week : BA Flights & Qantas Mobile (yes, there are two this week)
......last but not least I have relaunched Come Fly With Fish (www.comeflywithfish.com). On Come Fly With Fish I currently have two workshops up. The intense 'round-the-world' workshop, and the Single Day "Get Up & Fly" Boot Camp. The Get Up & Fly Boot Camps are scheduled for November 7th departing from New York's JFK and November 13th from Los Angeles' LAX.
As an incentive to the readers of Flying With Fish, each participant in the Get Up & Fly workshop will receive one of my favourite bags! If you read this site enough you may have a guess what bag I am talking about it. These bags will be sent out prior to our departure for you to pack up and work out of while attending the boot camp.
There has been significant interest in the Get Up & Fly Boot Camp but just a few more people are needed to meet the minimum required number to take off!
That's it for this week.
Happy Flying!
02 October 2008
iPhone 'Apps' Of The Week : BA Flights & Qantas Mobile (yes, there are two this week)
Web: www.fishfoto.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
2/10/2008 – iPhone 'Apps' Of The Week : BA Flights & Qantas Mobile (yes, there are two this week)
While I do not fly either British Airways (BA) or Qantas (QF), these two OneWorld Alliance airlines make up this weeks pair of iPhone 'Apps' Of The Week. These two intertwined global airlines had the foresight to release user friendly, highly functional and reliable iPhone 'Apps' to meet the needs of their customers.
There are quite a few travel 'Apps' I have played with that show schedules and flight status, however these pair of 'Apps' offer more detail and more reliable results in some cases for their respective flights
The BA Flights 'App' offers Arrivals/Departures, Online Timetables and a direct link to ba.com to book flights off of your iPhone. I have found that checking the Arrivals/Departures schedules against live flight data; the BA Flights 'App' is often slightly more accurate than other online sources. As another resource for travelers making their travel plans at a hurried pace, the Online Timetables time-and-time again offered me a more detailed choice of BA flights than most online booking sites when looking at uncommon routes, and short-haul routes. The information available for the flights listed on the Online Timetable loads rapidly, is easy to understand and offers quite a bit of detailed info on each flight, above what you'll find on many online booking sites.
Qantas Mobile not only offers Arrival/Departure and Timetable information, it also has a very useful resource for the business traveler........a complete list and detailed information for each lounge Qantas flyers may use around the world. This took is fantastic when traveling through an airport you are unfamiliar with, or using a lounge that is available to Qantas flyers but not operated by Qantas. The information for these airports is broken down to avoid confusion (such as listing LAX T4 and LAX Tom Bradley separately). For each lounge the Qantas Mobile 'App' lists the location in the terminal, the hours it is available to Qantas flyers, the lounge phone number & fax number, the facilities available in the lounge and the name of the airline that operates the lounge.
While these 'Apps' may not be useful for those who do not fly either British Airways or Qantas, these 'Apps' certainly are a must have for anyone who flies with either carrier.
Both BA Flights and Qantas Mobile are free in the iTunes Store.
Hopefully other airlines will follow the lead from these two OneWorld airlines and release their own 'Apps.' In an ideal world, maybe an airline alliance would be forward thinking and release a similar type 'App' covering all the airlines in their alliance.
Below are a few screen shots from both BA Flights and Qantas Mobile
Happy Flying!
--Click Images Below To Enlarge Them--
2/10/2008 – iPhone 'Apps' Of The Week : BA Flights & Qantas Mobile (yes, there are two this week)
While I do not fly either British Airways (BA) or Qantas (QF), these two OneWorld Alliance airlines make up this weeks pair of iPhone 'Apps' Of The Week. These two intertwined global airlines had the foresight to release user friendly, highly functional and reliable iPhone 'Apps' to meet the needs of their customers.
There are quite a few travel 'Apps' I have played with that show schedules and flight status, however these pair of 'Apps' offer more detail and more reliable results in some cases for their respective flights
The BA Flights 'App' offers Arrivals/Departures, Online Timetables and a direct link to ba.com to book flights off of your iPhone. I have found that checking the Arrivals/Departures schedules against live flight data; the BA Flights 'App' is often slightly more accurate than other online sources. As another resource for travelers making their travel plans at a hurried pace, the Online Timetables time-and-time again offered me a more detailed choice of BA flights than most online booking sites when looking at uncommon routes, and short-haul routes. The information available for the flights listed on the Online Timetable loads rapidly, is easy to understand and offers quite a bit of detailed info on each flight, above what you'll find on many online booking sites.
Qantas Mobile not only offers Arrival/Departure and Timetable information, it also has a very useful resource for the business traveler........a complete list and detailed information for each lounge Qantas flyers may use around the world. This took is fantastic when traveling through an airport you are unfamiliar with, or using a lounge that is available to Qantas flyers but not operated by Qantas. The information for these airports is broken down to avoid confusion (such as listing LAX T4 and LAX Tom Bradley separately). For each lounge the Qantas Mobile 'App' lists the location in the terminal, the hours it is available to Qantas flyers, the lounge phone number & fax number, the facilities available in the lounge and the name of the airline that operates the lounge.
While these 'Apps' may not be useful for those who do not fly either British Airways or Qantas, these 'Apps' certainly are a must have for anyone who flies with either carrier.
Both BA Flights and Qantas Mobile are free in the iTunes Store.
Hopefully other airlines will follow the lead from these two OneWorld airlines and release their own 'Apps.' In an ideal world, maybe an airline alliance would be forward thinking and release a similar type 'App' covering all the airlines in their alliance.
Below are a few screen shots from both BA Flights and Qantas Mobile
Happy Flying!
--Click Images Below To Enlarge Them--
01 October 2008
Can I Carry My Tripod On-board My Flight?
Web: www.thetravelstrategist.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
1/10/2008 - Can I Carry My Tripod On-board My Flight?
What is the #1 question I am asked by nature and landscape photographers? "Can I carry my tripod on board my flight?"
There is good news for those of you who like to travel with your tripod, monopod or light-stand as carry-on, tripods are most certainly allowed as carry-on when flying within the United States, and for international travel to and from most countries.
Be aware that your tripod may be counted as a 'carry-on' item should it cause your bag to exceed the maximum carry-on size allowances set forth by your airline. Making sure that you do not exceed carry-on weight or size is very important.
Give that tripods must conform to airline specified carry-on requirements, it is best to remove the head and pack that in your carry on, and bring only the legs through security separately. For some reason tripods with the head attached cause more problems from misinformed airport security screeners than those with the head removed.
While I don't often fly with a full-size tripod, I do often fly with light-stands as carry-on. When I fly with a tripod, monppod or light-stand I generally attach them to the outside of backpack, or roll-aboard bag. I made sure the tripod stays as compact and conforming to my bag as possible. Sometimes this requires using a smaller bag to make sure I stay within the carry-on restrictions depending on my equipment needs.
In one trip earlier this year, in the span of 3.5 days, I passed through security in Providence, Philadelphia, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Incheon, Tokyo and Chicago with a Manfrotto 3373 light stand attached to a North Face Surge backpack and no one blinked twice at any security checkpoint.
So next time you wonder if you bring your tripod, monopod or light stand on-board, chances are your fine. Relax, make sure your bag with tripod stays under the carry-on requirements.......then go head to the airport.
Below is a photo my Manfrotto 3373 light stand attached to the outside of my North Face Surge backpack on the ramp in Providence, next to a United Express CRJ-700 regional jet.
Happy Flying
--Click Image Below To Enlarge It--
1/10/2008 - Can I Carry My Tripod On-board My Flight?
What is the #1 question I am asked by nature and landscape photographers? "Can I carry my tripod on board my flight?"
There is good news for those of you who like to travel with your tripod, monopod or light-stand as carry-on, tripods are most certainly allowed as carry-on when flying within the United States, and for international travel to and from most countries.
Be aware that your tripod may be counted as a 'carry-on' item should it cause your bag to exceed the maximum carry-on size allowances set forth by your airline. Making sure that you do not exceed carry-on weight or size is very important.
Give that tripods must conform to airline specified carry-on requirements, it is best to remove the head and pack that in your carry on, and bring only the legs through security separately. For some reason tripods with the head attached cause more problems from misinformed airport security screeners than those with the head removed.
While I don't often fly with a full-size tripod, I do often fly with light-stands as carry-on. When I fly with a tripod, monppod or light-stand I generally attach them to the outside of backpack, or roll-aboard bag. I made sure the tripod stays as compact and conforming to my bag as possible. Sometimes this requires using a smaller bag to make sure I stay within the carry-on restrictions depending on my equipment needs.
In one trip earlier this year, in the span of 3.5 days, I passed through security in Providence, Philadelphia, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Incheon, Tokyo and Chicago with a Manfrotto 3373 light stand attached to a North Face Surge backpack and no one blinked twice at any security checkpoint.
So next time you wonder if you bring your tripod, monopod or light stand on-board, chances are your fine. Relax, make sure your bag with tripod stays under the carry-on requirements.......then go head to the airport.
Below is a photo my Manfrotto 3373 light stand attached to the outside of my North Face Surge backpack on the ramp in Providence, next to a United Express CRJ-700 regional jet.
Happy Flying
--Click Image Below To Enlarge It--
Flying With Fish On Twitter
Web: www.fishfotoworldwide.com -- E-Mail: fish@flyingwithfish.com
1/10/2008 - Flying With Fish On Twitter
It is a new month, and the start of the month that is home to one of my favourite holidays.....Halloween.
What does any of this have to do with Flying With Fish launching in Twitter? Well, this is the kind of information I will not be posting on Twitter. I know Twitter is a great social tool, however I am sure the readers of Flying With Fish are not interested in when I headed to Starbucks to pick up my next Izze's Sparkling Grapefruit Soda or when I am contemplating purchasing my next Red Sox t-shirt.
What is it I plan to use Twitter for? My intention is to send out quick updates on information that I believe can be of interest to travelers, photogs on the road, and general info on Flying With Fish and The Travel Strategist. My use of Twitter is not intended to be a streaming source of news, but just general information I find interesting and helpful.
The information I plan to distribute through Twitter is along the lines of:
"British Airways has announced a new two for one special on select routes!" ; "Check out this AeroChannel.com FlyGirl feature: http://aerochannel.com/features/4263521"
Sure I may do the occasional message saying, "I'm sitting here at Gate D40 at LAS and need a good movie to watch," but not very often.
Interested in Flying With Fish's Twitter updates? Feel free to sign up and follow me at www.twitter.com/flyingwithfish
Happy Flying!
1/10/2008 - Flying With Fish On Twitter
It is a new month, and the start of the month that is home to one of my favourite holidays.....Halloween.
What does any of this have to do with Flying With Fish launching in Twitter? Well, this is the kind of information I will not be posting on Twitter. I know Twitter is a great social tool, however I am sure the readers of Flying With Fish are not interested in when I headed to Starbucks to pick up my next Izze's Sparkling Grapefruit Soda or when I am contemplating purchasing my next Red Sox t-shirt.
What is it I plan to use Twitter for? My intention is to send out quick updates on information that I believe can be of interest to travelers, photogs on the road, and general info on Flying With Fish and The Travel Strategist. My use of Twitter is not intended to be a streaming source of news, but just general information I find interesting and helpful.
The information I plan to distribute through Twitter is along the lines of:
"British Airways has announced a new two for one special on select routes!" ; "Check out this AeroChannel.com FlyGirl feature: http://aerochannel.com/features/4263521"
Sure I may do the occasional message saying, "I'm sitting here at Gate D40 at LAS and need a good movie to watch," but not very often.
Interested in Flying With Fish's Twitter updates? Feel free to sign up and follow me at www.twitter.com/flyingwithfish
Happy Flying!
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