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DOT FIRES BACK AFTER AIRLINE TARMAC DELAY BACKLASH
(source: The News Tribune)
The Department of Transportation ("DOT) fired back at two airline consultants who say the rule that puts a three-hour limit on tarmac delays is harming travelers.
DOT said the study released Tuesday "offers a misleading and premature assessment of the impact of the new passenger protections."
The consultants, Darryl Jenkins and Joshua Marks, say the rule is hurting travelers because it leads the airlines to cancel more flights in an effort to avoid fines. The DOT can fine airlines up to $27,500 per passenger for holding them more than three hours.
The study looks at data for May, the first month the rule was in effect. The DOT said the study is "far too narrow to yield defensible conclusions about future airline trends." But the consultants say the impact to passengers is clear: more cancellations and possibly a trickle down financial toll from tarmac violations.
The government thinks airlines can avoid tarmac delays by scheduling better. But the consultants argue that a bulk of long tarmac delays are unavoidable.
Thunderstorms are one of the main causes of flight delays because they are difficult for airlines and airport officials to predict.
There were five flights stuck on the tarmac for more than three hours in May - all five were weather-related. The DOT hasn't said whether it will fine United and Delta, the airlines that operated those flights.
Tarmac delays have fallen significantly since the government announced the new rule. The five flights stuck for more than three hours in May compares with 35 three-hour delays in May 2009. Tarmac delays also dropped in April compared with a year earlier.
Cancellations went up and the consultants argue that the ripple effect of cancellations are more harmful to consumers than extended delays. Airlines canceled about one-third more of their scheduled domestic flights in May compared with May 2009. Cancellations nearly doubled from April.
The consultants say that while 110,000 passengers a year will be spared long tarmac delays, at least 200,000 passengers will be on a flight canceled to comply with tarmac delay regulations.
They predict that in the long run, the rule will affect even more passengers. For every tarmac delay that is prevented by the rule, they forecast another four flights will be canceled. In summer months, when airlines are busiest and spare seats are rare, Jenkins and Marks estimate that it may take as long as 18 to 22 hours for passengers to find new flights.
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AIRPORT CHECK-IN: CUSTOMS TO EXPAND REGISTERED TRAVELER PROGRAM
(source: USA TODAY)
Expect to see more ads from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, enticing travelers to join its Global Entry.
Global Entry, launched in 2008, is designed for international travelers who are considered low terrorism risks. It promises quicker U.S. Customs clearance at kiosks for travelers arriving in the U.S.
Membership totals about 58,000, and the agency is ready to expand the program with a new marketing campaign, says Alan Bersin, Customs and Border Protection commissioner. "In order to have the security and trade promotions benefits, we have to go way beyond 60,000 members."
The agency will buy ads in airline magazines and airports and encourage federal employees to sign up. Bersin hopes to increase membership to 100,000 by the end of the year. Applicants pay a one-time $100 fee.
Members scan their machine-readable passport or permanent-resident card at the kiosks in customs, then authenticate identification via fingerprints. Users then answer several questions. A receipt is printed, and members can proceed to baggage claim or a luggage-inspection booth.
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BUSINESS TRAVELERS BEHAVE
(source: The Wall Street Journal, featuring Michael Steiner, Executive Vice President of The Lawyers' Travel Service)
Several studies examining business-travel trends show that employees are attempting to cut costs during business trips by flying economy class and booking flights early. Other travelers are driving their own cars or cutting back on hotel stays.
A Forrester study found that more travelers are using their own cars for an entire work trip and that the average number of business trips involving hotel stays declined by 11% in 2010 from 2008.
While business-travel spending is still down compared to 2008, it has seen a boost from last year, according to Ovation Travel Group's Business Travel Index for the first quarter. The average amount spent on a flight increased to $753 in the first quarter from $690 in the first quarter of 2009. Meanwhile, the number of travelers flying first class decreased to 7.4% in the first quarter from 8.3% in the first quarter last year.
"The indicators are that certainly business travel is up, no question, over last year," says Michael Steiner, executive vice president for Ovation Travel Group. "But at the same time I do think employees and companies are looking to maximize their travel spending."
Some companies are offering employees incentives for cutting costs by awarding them cash amounting to a portion of the savings they earn if they fly coach instead of business class on an international flight or if they purchase a flight using frequent-flyer miles, says Mr. Steiner.
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SECURE FLIGHT PASSENGER DATA DEADLINE APPROACHING
The U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced this month that after November 1, 2010, air passenger reservations without full Secure Flight Passenger Data (SFPD) will be rejected by Secure Flight and will not be processed. This policy will apply to all passenger records regardless of source, aircraft operator, or air carrier.
To facilitate the collection of the SFPD, Ovation has created a secure, encrypted web form which travelers can use to input this information. When the information is submitted, the traveler profile will be updated.
If you have not already done so, please click on the URL directly below to complete the collection process: https://secureflight.ovationtravel.com
reservations.
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THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
FAIRMONT WASHINGTON
2401 M Street, NW
Washington, DC
Located in Washington's fashionable West End and adjacent to historic Georgetown, The Fairmont Washington hotel welcomes guests in capital style. A sunlit urban oasis that soothes the spirit, the Fairmont, perfect for business or leisure travel, celebrates many local Washington traditions. Known for its engaging service and stylish surroundings, this Washington, DC hotel offers 415 spacious guest rooms and suites that provide guests with a welcome retreat. A relaxing visit to the hotel's fitness center, indoor pool and serene courtyard garden also provide guests with an array of rejuvenating experiences.
Discerning travelers will enjoy the Fairmont Gold floor, a luxurious exclusive lifestyle hotel experience. Guests will savor a private check-in and attentive, personalized service when staying on the Washington Gold Floor. Spacious and luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites will be paired with the Gold Floor's exclusive lounge which offer guests a complimentary breakfast and evening hors d' oeuvres, an honor bar and private computer workstations.
The finest meeting space, accommodations, and personal service will draw guests back to The Fairmont's 4-diamond hotel in Washington, DC time and again.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Fairmont Washington is $249 through September 6, 2010 (compared to a corporate rate of $350).*
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THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
HOTEL ICON
220 Main Street
Houston
Steps away from the site of Houston's founding, Hotel ICON is uniquely perched in the center of Houston's vibrant downtown. Here, the city's history and contemporary culture converge for an experience like no other with proximity to the city's business, government, legal, sports and performing arts districts. And, of course, Houston's burgeoning downtown night scene is steps away from the Hotel ICON's front door.
Hotel ICON's central location makes for a quick trip to or from either of Houston's airports or to the city's celebrated shopping venues. In addition, it is the only downtown hotel along the city's Metrorail. Houston's Museum District, Rice University, Hermann Park, the Texas Medical Center and Reliant Center convention center and stadium sports complex are just minutes away.
For Work or For Play
Hotel ICON is perfect for guests who want proximity to Houston's primary financial, energy and legal districts for work, and to the city's exciting nightlife after hours.
A Good Sport
Houston's growing sports district, home to the Rockets basketball at Toyota Center and Astros baseball at Minute Maid Park, within walking distance of Hotel ICON. Football fans can catch Metrorail for easy transport to a Texans football game at Reliant Stadium.
Curtain Call
Second only to Manhattan, Houston boasts more live theater seats than any other U.S. city. Hotel ICON is a stroll away from the performance halls that showcase the Houston Symphony, the Houston Ballet, the Houston Grand Opera, the Alley Theatre and The Hobby Center for Performing Arts.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Hotel ICON is $159 (compared to a corporate rate of $170).*
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THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
INTERCONTINENTAL STEPHEN F. AUSTIN
701 Congress Avenue
Austin
The InterContinental Stephen F. Austin Hotel is an historic Austin icon located in the heart of one of America's most culturally vibrant cities. Within the hotel, one will find world class dining, complimentary health facilities, and 6000 sq ft of banquet/meeting space. A preferred downtown Austin hotel among the local business community, the InterContinental Stephen F. Austin Hotel is only three blocks from the State Capitol Building, one block from the Austin entertainment district, and only one block to most downtown businesses and law firms. The Concierge will also guide travelers to the best hidden gems in restaurants, shopping, theatre, sporting, and cultural events in this exciting city.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the InterContinental Stephen F. Austin is $159 (compared to a corporate rate of $185).*
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THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
LOEWS REGENCY
540 Park Avenue
New York City
Loews Regency distinguishes itself by capturing a quintessence of New York, one of understated elegance and intimacy. The hotel's design, décor and extraordinary level of service enable guests to feel at home both in the hotel and in the city. Centrally located in the heart of the city's most exclusive Park Avenue neighborhood, Loews Regency is steps from the boutiques of Madison and Fifth Avenues, Central Park and the central midtown business district. The hotel is 15 miles from LaGuardia Airport and just blocks away from Grand Central Terminal. 353 spacious guestrooms including 86 suites are designed to convey the comfort and intimacy of a private home. The blend of contemporary and traditional elements, the integration of rich deep tones and plush silk and velvet fabrics create a sense of warmth and comfort. Furniture is custom-designed and artwork is hand-selected.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Loews Regency is $275 (compared to a corporate rate of $333).*
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THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
MANSION ON PEACHTREE
3376 Peacthree Road N.E.
Atlanta
Located in the heart of Buckhead, Atlanta's premier dining, shopping and entertainment sector, The Mansion on Peachtree, A Rosewood Hotel & Residence, offers luxury accommodations for a variety of client needs. The Mansion's location is unmatched, a convenient distance from Monarch Tower, Atlanta Financial Center, Terminus, Pinnacle and Sovereign. Named as one of the top ten "Best Hotels of 2010" by Trip Advisor, The Mansion boasts creative meeting space options, a complimentary hotel car service within a two mile radius and 29 Spa by Lydia Mondavi. The property also is home to Craft Atlanta, Tom Colicchios's renowned Atlanta outpost and upscale dining establishment ideal for entertaining clients.
Recognized by Condé Nast Traveler: 2009 Hot List & 2009 50 Hot Spas
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Mansion on Peachtree is $199 (compared to a corporate rate of $299).*
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THE LAWYERS' TRAVEL SERVICE PREFERRED HOTEL PARTNERS PROGRAM
TAJ BOSTON
15 Arlington Street
Boston
A Crown Jewel of Boston Hotels, renowned for its cherished traditions, classic style and award-winning service, Taj Boston has welcomed guests from around the world since it first opened its doors in 1927. Located at the corner of the fashionable Arlington and Newbury streets Taj Boston overlooks the charming Public Garden acclaimed for its lagoon used for swan boat rides and ice-skating frog pond. Taj Boston is only 4.8 miles from Logan International Airport and is also close to major highways and railroad stations.
The hotel underwent a complete restoration in 2002 to celebrate its 75th anniversary. New services and amenities were added and a prized collection of original art and antiques is now on display throughout the hotel.
Surrounded by art galleries, boutiques and restaurants, Taj Boston is in the heart of it all. The hotel is close to the Theatre District, historic sites and shopping at Copley Place and the Hynes Convention Center.
Taj Boston offers guests accommodations, dining experiences, recreational activities and business facilities.
The hotel has 273 guestrooms, including 45 exquisitely designed suites, some with wood-burning fireplaces (available for use from October 15th to April 15th). Windows open to stunning views of the Public Garden and the Commonwealth Avenue Mall.
The Dining Room, embellished with cobalt blue and crystal chandeliers, has been impressing guests with culinary classics for over 79 years.
Taj Boston offers impeccable service and the finest amenities, including a Fireplace Butler and a Children's Suite. The hotel also has a Fitness Center.
The Lawyers' Travel Service Preferred Hotel Partners Program rate at the Taj Boston is $250 (compared to a corporate rate of $330).*
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* All rates are subject to availability.
______________________________________________________________
The Lawyers' Travel Service
www.lawyerstravel.com
info@lawyerstravel.com
800.431.1112 |
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