Ovation's weekly client e-newsletter, the Informed Traveler, keeps readers updated on travel industry news and trends.
Following is a recap of April's Top 5 (most clicked by Ovation clients) e-newsletter stories.
1. TSA Completes Rollout of Stronger Carry-On Screenings
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced the completed rollout of enhanced screening procedures for carry-on baggage at all U.S. federal airports. The enhanced measures require travelers to place all personal electronics larger than a cell phone in bins for X-ray screening in standard lanes. In addition to screening personal electronic devices, TSA officers may instruct travelers to separate other items from carry-on bags such as foods, powders and any material that can clutter bags and obstruct images on the X-ray machines. The enhanced carry-on screening procedures have been phased in over the past several months at several airports across the country. To read the full press release from TSA's website, click here.
2. American Airlines' New Flagship Experience Raises Bar for Passengers
American Airlines is providing its premium passengers a glimpse of its new Flagship experience both in-flight and on the ground, reports Skift. American's Flagship First Check-in service provides premium customers with access to personalized service and a dedicated security line through a private check-in area away from busier sections of the airport. From there, premium customers have access to buffet style meals with full-size hot and cold entrees, specialty cocktails and premium wine, along with shower suites, workspace areas and luggage storage. Onboard the flight, American has partnered with Cole Haan, Bose and Casper, as well as award-winning chefs to offer premium passengers a curated experience in-flight. To read more, click here.
3. Delta Reveals Cyber Incident
On March 28th, Delta Air Lines was notified by [24]7.ai, a third-party company that provides online chat services for Delta and many other companies, that [24]7.ai had been involved in a cyber incident. The incident occurred between September 26 and October 12, 2017; during that time, certain Delta customer payment information may have been accessed, although Delta says no other customer personal information, such as passport, government ID, security or SkyMiles information, was impacted. Delta engaged federal law enforcement and forensic teams who have confirmed that the incident was resolved by [24]7.ai last October. Delta recommends that customers who believe they could have been impacted by the data breach should visit https://delta.allclearid.com to enroll in the free protection services being offered. For more information from Delta's website, click here.
4. U.S. to Seek Social Media Details From All Visa Applicants
The U.S. State Department wants to require all visa applicants to submit their social media usernames, previous email addresses and phone numbers during the visa application process, reports Bloomberg. Previously, social media, email and phone histories were only sought from applicants identified for extra scrutiny, such as those who have traveled to areas controlled by terrorist organizations. The new rules would apply to all applicants for immigrant and non-immigrant visas, affecting approximately 710,000 immigrant visa applicants and 14 million non-immigrant visa applicants, including those who are traveling to the U.S. for business or education. To read more, click here.
5. House Debates FAA Bill Banning Passenger Bumping, In-Flight Calls
The House of Representatives will debate the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) legislation this week including a variety of popular consumer provisions such as bans on bumping passengers who are already aboard the flight and in-flight phone calls, reports USA Today. The legislation also includes the requirement of airlines to post prominent messages on their websites explaining how travelers will be affected during widespread disruptions, an order of the installation of secondary barriers on new airliners to block access to the cockpit during flights and the requirement of an FAA report within one year about evacuation standards. The current FAA legislation expires Sept. 30, while the latest House version would run until 2023. The Senate must still consider its own version and reconcile it with the House over the coming months. To read more, click here.
