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Travel Updates - Weekly Edition

May 20, 2010

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Airline News | Airport News | Miscellaneous

Alaska Airlines

Alaska announced it is offering passengers free wireless Internet through July 31 as the airline launches Wi-Fi service on six Boeing 737-800s. Alaska plans to expand Aircell's Gogo Internet service to its entire fleet by the end of this year. The service allows passengers with wireless laptop or mobile devices to browse the Web and send and receive e-mail while in the air. Gogo will be installed first on the airline's 737-800 and -900s, the majority of its fleet. The remaining 737-400s and -700s will be equipped later this year. Currently available within the U.S. lower 48 states, the service will be expanded by early 2011 to provide Internet access on flights from key destinations within Alaska. After July 31, cost on flights within the continental United States will be $4.95 per flight for flights up to 1.5 hours; $9.95 for laptops and $7.95 for mobile devices for flights of 1.5-3 hours; and $12.95 for laptops and $7.95 for mobile access for flights longer than three hours.

British Airways

British Airways cabin crews plan to go on strike for five days beginning May 24 if a dispute with management is not settled. Unite made the announcement after a Court of Appeal decision on Thursday overturned an injunction restraining strike action by the crews. That injunction had forced the union to cancel the first strike, planned for this week. The union said British Airways has already been notified that further strike action will take place for five days from May 30 and five days from June 5 if there's no settlement to the dispute. Meanwhile, British Airways has published contingency plans for Unite's threatened strike next week. British Airways has advised that flights at Gatwick Airport will operate as normal, as will flights to and from London City Airport during the entire strike period. The schedule at Heathrow Airport will be similar to that previously announced ahead of the canceled first strike period.

At Heathrow, British Airways said it intends to operate more than 60 percent of long-haul flights and more than 50 percent of short-haul flights in the May 24-to-May 28 strike period and it will add to this schedule where possible. At this stage, British Airways expects to fly more than 70 percent of customers who hold a booking from May 24 to May 28. The airline said it will operate most of its revised short-haul schedule at Heathrow using its own aircraft and cabin crews, but will supplement its schedule by leasing up to eight aircraft with pilots and cabin crews from other UK or European airlines. People will be able to use seats British Airways has secured on more than 30 other airlines to reach their destination, if the traveler still wishes to travel or be rebooked onto an alternative flight leaving within the next 355 days. Refunds are also available for customers whose flights have been cancelled.

Travel and Transport will continue to monitor this situation and will keep you updated with any new information or changes as they arise.

	Delta Air Lines
	Delta Air Lines announced it has received final Chinese government approval to launch nonstop flights between Seattle, WA and Beijing, beginning June 4. The new route will operate five times weekly. Flights from Seattle to Beijing will be operated with 216-seat Boeing 767-300ER aircraft featuring 35 seats in BusinessElite and 181 seats in Economy.

	Frontier Airlines
	Frontier Airlines announced it will end its frequent-flyer partnership with AirTran Airways, effective July 16, 2010. The partnership, which was established November 2006, allowed frequent flyer members of both airlines to earn and use their miles on both carriers.

	JetBlue Airways
	JetBlue announced its new daily nonstop service between Boston, MA and Phoenix, AZ will begin September 2

State Dept. Travel Warnings and Public Announcements

For the full announcements or further detail on Travel Warnings and Public Announcements, please see http://http://travel.state.gov/

Burundi - On May 19 the U.S. Department of State issued an updated Travel Warning for Burundi, which reads in part as follows: "The State Department warns U.S. citizens of the risks of travel to Burundi before, during, and after nationwide elections scheduled from May to September 2010. This notice replaces the Travel Warning for Burundi, dated July 22, 2009, to provide information regarding travel to and within Burundi during the election period, as well as revised information on security restrictions for Embassy personnel. "Burundi was plagued by a civil war from 1993 to 2006 that often involved non-governmental and non-combatant targets. In December 2008, the government and the last rebel group, the PALIPEHUTU-FNL, signed their final cease-fire agreement. The rebels have since demobilized and were transitioned into an officially-recognized political party known only as the FNL. In the past, Burundi has experienced violence in Bujumbura and other areas of the country throughout campaign seasons, elections, and in the weeks following the announcements of election results.

"Between May and September, Burundi will conduct five, possibly six, nationwide elections. These include: May 21 - Communal Councils; June 28 - President, with a possible runoff election three weeks afterward; July 23 - National Assembly Deputies; July 28 - Senate; and September 7 - local 'colline' councils. As the political situation intensifies, the U.S. Embassy expects sporadic incidents of violence to occur. The U.S. Embassy has requested curtailment of official U.S. government travelers on temporary duty (TDY) to Burundi from May 1 to September 15, 2010, while Burundi is conducting elections. Although U.S. citizens are unlikely to be targeted, the possibility of being caught in violence remains. The U.S. Embassy encourages all U.S.citizens living and working in Burundi to exercise prudence; citizens considering travel to Burundi should avoid arriving before mid-September 2010.

"U.S. citizens should be aware that even peaceful gatherings and demonstrations can turn violent. U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Burundi during this period are reminded to maintain a high level of security awareness at all times and avoid political rallies, demonstrations, and crowds of any kind. Even seemingly peaceful sporting events can become politicized and turn violent. U.S. citizens are strongly advised to avoid polling places on election days. All election days are recognized national holidays; U.S. citizens are encouraged to stay home. U.S. citizens should monitor the situation via local media sources and the internet. Significant traffic congestion, shortages of lodging availability, and large crowds throughout the country, particularly in Bujumbura, are likely to inconvenience travelers. "Crime, often committed by groups of armed bandits or street children, poses the highest risk for foreign visitors to both Bujumbura and Burundi in general. Common crimes include muggings, burglaries, robberies, and carjackings. Visitors should keep vehicle doors locked and windows up, and be careful when stopped in heavy traffic due to the threat of robbery. The U.S. Embassy has received reports of armed criminals ambushing vehicles, particularly on the roads leading out of Bujumbura. U.S. Government personnel are prohibited from walking on the streets after dark and from using local public transportation at any time. Due to a lack of resources, local authorities in any part of Burundi are often unable to provide timely assistance during an emergency.

"The U.S. Embassy continues to caution U.S. citizens that travel outside the capital, Bujumbura, presents significant risks, especially after nightfall. The U.S. Embassy restricts travel of its personnel in Burundi: within 30 km of the city, employees may travel in single vehicles, but must check in and out with the Embassy. The Embassy's Regional Security Officer (RSO) must pre-approve all embassy personnel travel outside this approximately 30-km radius of Bujumbura, and employees must travel by an approved itinerary in two-vehicle convoys equipped with satellite phones and emergency equipment. All employee movement outside the city after dark is forbidden; the Embassy recommends that U.S. citizens not travel on national highways from dusk to dawn. The RSO may also place further restrictions on employee movement due to changing security conditions during the electoral period. ..."

Ethiopia - On May 17 the U.S. Embassy issued a Warden Message, which reads in part as follows: "The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens of the existing Travel Alert for Ethiopia regarding the national election period from May 23 to July 1, 2010. "As of May 10, 2010, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) requires all diplomats and international organization staff living in Addis to receive a pass from the MFA if they plan to travel outside of Addis Ababa between May 10 and June 30, 2010. These official travelers must inform the MFA of the names of the travelers, the purpose of travel, the date of travel, and means of transport. A sample request form has been posted on the Embassy website and can be obtained through the American Citizens Services section at consacs@state.gov or, obtained directly from the MFA at +251-11-515-8928. Forms should be submitted to Room 303 of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for approval…"

Pakistan - On May 19 the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad released the following Warden Message: "This warden notice is to advise U.S. citizens about the possibility of a dangerous outflow flood in the upper Hunza Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan Province. On January 4, 2010, a major landslide occurred near the village of Atabad, 19 kilometers east of Karimabad. The landslide took the lives of 20 villagers and left many more homeless. The Karakorum Highway leading to China remains blocked while teams work to clear the debris and repair the road. The landslide blocked the flow of the Hunza River and a lake currently over 16 kilometers long and 100 meters deep has formed upstream of the site. Pakistani and Chinese engineers have constructed a spillway to reduce the possibility of a sudden outflow of water, which could potentially cause severe damage to villages located downstream. As a precaution, evacuation of several downstream villages is ongoing. Official sources and international experts have differing opinions as to the likelihood of a catastrophic outflow flood. Because a life-threatening flood could occur with little or no warning, the Embassy advises U.S. citizens to exercise caution and consult with local authorities before traveling on the Karakorum Highway between Hunza and the border or trekking in the Hunza district. "The Embassy reiterates its advice to all U.S. citizens to take measures for their safety and security at all times. These measures include maintaining good situational awareness, avoiding crowds, and keeping a low profile. The Embassy reminds Americans that even peaceful demonstrations may become violent and advises Americans to avoid demonstrations. Americans should avoid setting patterns by varying times and routes for all required travel. Americans should ensure that their travel documents and visas are valid at all times."

Tajikistan - On May 18 the U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe issued the following Warden Message: "The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Tajikistan would like to share the following information with American citizens residing or traveling in Tajikistan: "With a polio outbreak in Tajikistan, the World Health Organization (WHO) is carrying out a polio vaccine campaign for all Tajik children in the country six years and under. Due to concerns about the possible lack of efficacy of earlier local rounds, WHO is recommending that even children previously vaccinated get another booster. "Given that the polio outbreak might raise questions regarding polio inoculation, we are providing a summary of information from the World Health Organization and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regarding polio vaccination for travelers. The Embassy is not making a specific medical recommendation. As with any medical decision, before seeking treatment, you should contact your personal health care provider. "The World Health Organization and U.S. Centers for Disease Control encourage overseas travelers in Tajikistan to follow the polio booster vaccination recommendations listed below, regardless of which country your previous inoculations were administered in.

"Children under age six should receive a booster, even if the child has had all vaccinations on schedule. The booster is not necessary for children between the ages of six and eighteen who have received the full schedule of vaccinations. "Adults over age eighteen should receive a booster if they have not had one since their eighteenth birthday. "Anyone unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated or whose polio vaccination status is unknown should receive the complete series of the polio vaccine. "Further updates on the polio outbreak situation in Tajikistan may be found on the WHO website. For a list of doctors and hospitals in the Dushanbe Consular District, visit the U.S. Embassy Dushanbe's website. The U.S. Embassy in Tajikistan can be reached 24/7 at 992-37-229-2000. The Consular Section can be reached directly at 992-37-229-2300. Non-emergency services for American citizens: Mon, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. and Tue - Fri, 2 - 4 p.m. In the event of emergency, you may reach the Duty Officer at 992-98-580-10-32 or call Post One at 229-29-50 or 992-98-580-50-04. You may also reach the Consular Officer via the Embassy main phone number: 992-37-229-20-00."

Thailand - On May 15 the U.S. Department of State issued a Travel Warning for Thailand, which reads in part as follows: "The Department of State warns U.S. citizens traveling to and residing in Thailand of ongoing political demonstrations and unrest in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Due to escalating violence in central Bangkok, including gunfire near the U.S. Embassy, demonstrations in Chiang Mai, and other incidents throughout Thailand, U.S. citizens should defer all travel to Bangkok and defer all non-essential travel to the rest of Thailand. The Department of State has authorized the departure of all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members from Bangkok. This replaces the Travel Alert dated April 28, 2010, and is in response to updated information on increased violence and security concerns. The Department of State recommends against travel to Bangkok and non-essential travel to Thailand at this time.

"The United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (aka UDD or "red-shirts") continues to demonstrate in central Bangkok. The UDD may change or expand its demonstration locations at any time. Various other groups have engaged in pro-government or counter-demonstrations in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. There have been several clashes between security forces and the UDD and other demonstrators. These clashes may escalate with no warning. For areas currently affected by demonstrations, please refer to local media.

"The Royal Thai Government through the Center for the Resolution of the Emergency Situation has announced its plans to close off the demonstration area at the Ratchaprasong rally site in an attempt to disperse the protesters. Authorities are taking the following measures: --limiting transportation services, including the BTS Skytrain, MRTA, canal routes, and possibly bus routes; --setting up checkpoints at all access routes in order to control and limit access to the rally site for details on what routes may be affected, please refer to local media; --cutting off telephone service to the rally site; --possibly cutting off electricity and water to the rally site and surrounding areas. "The U.S. Embassy, including visa operations, was closed on Friday, May 14 and will be closed on Monday, May 17. If security issues persist, the U.S. Embassy may continue to close. American Citizen Services (ACS) will be available for emergencies only. To find out the current operating status of the U.S. Embassy, please go to the Embassy's website at http://bangkok.usembassy.gov. The U.S. Embassy recommends against coming to this area. If U.S. citizens currently have appointments with ACS, they may go online or call us once we have reopened at 02-205-4049 to reschedule.

"U.S. citizens should avoid travel to and lodging in this area and the areas in and around all demonstrations. If U.S. citizens must travel to these areas, they should exercise special caution and remain vigilant with regard to their personal security. U.S. Embassy personnel who live in affected areas are being relocated to housing outside of the affected areas until the situation is resolved. The Department of State has authorized the departure of all non-emergency U.S. government personnel and eligible family members from Bangkok. The U.S. Embassy is restricting the travel of official visitors to Thailand.

On May 16 the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok issued a Warden Message that reads in part as follows: "This warden message alerts U.S. citizens traveling to and residing in Thailand that the Royal Thai Government through the Center for the Resolution of the Emergency Situation (CRES) has announced that a curfew is in place from 8:00pm to 6:00am starting, Wednesday, May 19. This curfew applies to the Bangkok metropolitan area and to all Thai provinces under the State of Emergency (see details below). Early morning flights may be impacted because of the curfew and the inability of crews and passengers to arrive at the airport before their scheduled flight. If you will be flying out of Bangkok in the next several days, we recommend that you confirm your flight with your airline before you leave for the airport. Reports indicate that troops have authority to shoot on sight in response to acts of inciting unrest. American citizens should maintain a low profile and refrain from nighttime outside activity until the situation improves. "The U.S. Embassy, including visa operations, will be closed Thursday, May 20 and Friday, May 21. American Citizen Services (ACS) will be available for emergencies by phone only at 02-205-4049. For after-hours emergencies, please call 02-205-4000. The U.S. Embassy recommends against coming to the area near the U.S. Embassy. ACS has opened a temporary location at the Westin Grand Sukhumvit. ...

"U.S. citizens should avoid travel to and lodging in the area of the U.S. Embassy and the areas in and around all demonstrations, if possible. If U.S. citizens must travel to these areas, they should exercise special caution and remain vigilant with regard to their personal security. U.S. Embassy personnel who live around this area have been given the option to relocate to housing outside of the affected area until the situation is resolved. U.S. citizens are reminded to exercise caution and vigilance at all times. "A State of Emergency has been declared in the following provinces: Bangkok metropolitan area, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Nan, Nakhon Sawan, Samut Prakan, Chon Buri, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Si Sa Ket, Kalasin and Mukdaharn. "U.S. citizens are reminded that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence with little or no warning. U.S. citizens are urged to avoid the areas that may be targeted for demonstrations and to exercise caution in their movements around Bangkok. ..."