On March 30, the Open Skies agreement goes into effect making it easier for travelers to cross the Atlantic. Once before, airline carriers traveling from the US to Europe had to stop in their native country before continuing to their final destination. After the 30th, carriers will be able to offer more flight options and hopefully cheaper fairs for trans-atlantic travelers.

Unfortunately, this news comes on the heals of increased fuel prices forcing US airlines to squeeze flights and potentially jobs. Last week USA Today reported that fewer planes, fewer flights, and fewer jobs were how US airlines responded to the 30% rise in fuel prices over the past six weeks. So while options for international travel may increase, flight options domestically will probably shrink over the next few months.

Getting to Europe is About to get Easier

The New York Times discusses the Open Skies Agreement: “AIR travel to Europe is about to undergo a significant change, one that is likely to spell more choices and cheaper fares for travelers.”

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US Amends travel warning for Kenya

“The United States has amended its travel advisory cautioning citizens against going to parts of Kenya, saying threats of violence have receded dramatically following the country’s power-sharing deal.”

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DC airports get registered flier lanes

“After a brief test run, New York-based Verified Identity Pass officially opened registered traveler lanes last Wednesday at Reagan Washington National and Dulles International airports for passengers with Clear passes.”

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JetBlue joins others in charging for extra legroom

With jet fuel prices soaring, JetBlue will try to bring in extra revenue on April 1 when it begins charging extra for seats with more legroom.

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Fuel Prices force Airlines to Squeeze Flights and Jobs

“Fewer planes, fewer flights and fewer jobs — that’s how some U.S. airlines plan to cope with a 30% rise in fuel prices the past six weeks. Top executives from United, (UAUA) Delta, (DAL) JetBlue (JBLU) and US Airways (LCC) announced new fleet cutbacks Tuesday, while executives from other carriers, including both global No. 1 American (AMR) and top discounter Southwest, (LUV) left the door open for capacity cuts or further slowing of their growth.”

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