Non-Revenue (Airline Staff) Travel by Kerwin Mckenzie

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McKenzie Ultimate Guides: A Guide to Non-Revenue (Airline Staff) Travel By Kerwin McKenzie

McKenzie Ultimate Guides: Non-Revenue (Airline Staff) Travel

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First published May 6, 2005. Revised May 10, 2005. Revised October 25, 2009. Revised February 3, 2010. Revised October 28, 2011. Revised November 26 2011. Revised October 18 2013.

Table of Contents

Copyright ...... 1 About the Author ...... 3 Chapter 2 ...... 8 Other Airlines’ Policies and Procedures ...... 8 Chapter 3 ...... 14 Getting your Tickets; Prepare to be Bumped! ...... 14 Discount Airfares ...... 15 Chapter 4 ...... 17 Documentation ...... 17 Chapter 5 ...... 19 Chapter 6 ...... 21 Before You Go ...... 21 Chapter 7 ...... 26 Lodging ...... 26 Airport/ Airline Lounges ...... 31 Chapter 10 ...... 32 Safety ...... 32 Chapter 11 ...... 33 Make Friends ...... 33 Appendix ...... 34 Airline Directory (Africa – Asia) ...... 35 Airline Directory (The Caribbean – Europe) ...... 36 Airline Directory (Europe) ...... 37 Airline Directory (Middle East – North America) ...... 38 Airline Directory (The Pacific – South America) ...... 39 Online Travel Agency Directory ...... 40 Rail Directory ...... 40

About the Author

Kerwin is a commercial aviation enthusiast living in the United States. He has worked in the airline industry for 16.5 years. He holds a Masters degree in Aeronautical Sciences from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University known as the “Harvard of the Skies.”

He still remembers his first airplane flight in the summer of 1974 as if it were yesterday. His flight was on a Cessna SkyMaster from the Tinson Pen Aerodrome in Kingston, Jamaica, to Boscobel, Jamaica, lasting a little under two hours. He was elated as his dream to fly on an airplane had finally come true!

His first commercial airplane flight was during the summer of 1980 on BWIA (now Caribbean Airlines), from Kingston, Jamaica to Fort-de-France, Martinique. He spent 17 days there as a French Exchange student. On his way back, he stopped in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti, for two days.

In a typical year, he flies about 350,000 miles so he’s almost always on the road visiting friends and family.

Dedication

This volume is dedicated to my loving grandmother, Florence McKenzie nee McKnight who passed away on December 20, 2004 at the age of 96 years young. She made me who I am today; thanks Mama.

The volume is also dedicated to my grandaunt, Elizabeth McKnight who turned 104 years old in May, 2013.

Acknowledgements

Thanks to everyone who provided support and input.

We Want to Hear from You!

If you have any comments, please go to http://www.passrider.com/contact-us, we want to hear from you.

Chapter 1

Your Airline’s Pass Travel Program

If you are familiar with your airline’s pass travel program, you have won half the battle of flying space available; the other half is actually getting on the flights once you’ve made a decision. Your familiarity helps you to plan routings and maximize your dollars and travel time. For example, if you know that you have a zonal program (ZED) with one carrier as opposed to an ID90 or a service charge with another, then this may influence your decision on the carrier to fly. Of course flight availability will perhaps be the overriding factor, but knowing your program rules is the first step.

If you do not have an agreement with a particular carrier, then you may either have to choose a different routing, don’t go or heaven forbid, just purchase a revenue ticket (there are many low fare carriers out there so this may not be such a bad decision, see the Discount Airfares section).

I wanted to go to Colombo, Sri Lanka (CMB) to meet a friend of mine there, but I had no agreement with Sri Lankan Airlines (UL). However, there was an agreement with Emirates (EK), so the itinerary that worked was to connect over Dubai, United Arab Emirates (DXB) from London-Gatwick, England (LGW). It took a little longer, but would still accomplish my goals. As it turns out I never took the trip, but it was fun planning the routing.

Knowing your airline’s pass travel program rules also helps when you go to purchase your tickets. Some of the ticket agents are new or are not familiar with the individual pass travel agreements and if you can help them to find the information quickly, then you can complete that transaction quicker; don’t come off as a know it all though, as they will be less apt to listen to what you have to say. You should also ensure that you let the ticket agents know if you are connecting or staying more than 24 hours in a particular city/country. This will affect the taxes that you pay on your tickets. For the most part, if you are connecting or staying less than 24 hours in a country, the taxes are usually non-existent or reduced.

When all else fails and you have a question, call your airline’s pass office and they will be more than happy to clarify any misconceptions you may have. Also, your fellow employees are an excellent resource as they may have already done something you are trying to do and can help you with the rules and/or agreements with the carriers on that route.

You can check with your airline or with the country (the airport Web site or the consulate office) you are visiting or transiting for details. I recommend just having about 50 USD with you and that should just about cover it for the majority of countries, except the U.K. where you need between 90GBP to 160GBP depending on the cabin in which you fly and your destination. Germany is also pretty expensive with taxes in the 67 EUR range. Not to mention France with a 20 EUR to 56 EUR range.

Chapter 2

Other Airlines’ Policies and Procedures

You should try to familiarize yourself with how the airline that you are planning on flying operates. This is really a learned trait from successive flying, but there are things that you can find out beforehand.

Listing procedures Usually, your own airline will be able to assist you with how to make a meal listing when traveling on another airline. If not, call the airline at the designated number for pass travelers for the airline in question. See Table 2 for a partial list of reservation/ listing numbers. If the airline does not have a designated pass travel number, then contact the airline using the local revenue reservations number. I suggest using your discretion when calling the local reservation number. Have all your facts ready and try calling during off-peak times if at all possible, as the agents will have more time to assist you. Here is a partial list of numbers for your review. The information is subject to change without notice.

Local Non-Rev U.S. Non-Rev Local Revenue U.S. Revenue Airline Number Number Number Number Hours Aer Lingus (EI) 0818 365000 1-800-474-7424 0818 365000 1-800-474-7424 8:00a - 8:45p Mo.-Fr./ 9:00a - 6:15p Sa.-Su. ET Aeroflot (SU) 1568019, 7538030 1-888-340-6400 1568019, 7538030 1-888-340-6400 9:00a - 6:00p ET Mo.-Fr.

Aerolineas Argentinas Buenos Aires, 1-800-333-0276 Buenos Aires, 1-800-333-0276 4:00a - 9:00p ET Daily (AR) Argentina Argentina 0810-222-86527 0810-222-86527 Mon. – Fri. 9:00a – Mon. – Fri. 9:00a – 7:00p, Sat. 9:00a – 7:00p, Sat. 9:00a – 12:30p 12:30p Aeromexico (AM) 01 800 433 4000 1-800-247-3737 01 800 021 4010 1-800-237-6639 8:00a - 8:00p CT Mo.-Fr.

Agean Cronus Airlines 801 11 20000 30 210 6261000 801 11 20000 30 210 6261000 (A3) Air Asia (AK) +603 2171 9333 +603 2171 9333 +603 2171 9333 +603 2171 9333 8:00a - 9:00p GMT+8

Air Canada (AC) 1-800-413-1113 1-800-413-1113 1-888-247-2262 1-888-247-2262 24

Air Europa 1-800-238-7672/1 Air France (AF) 0 820 820 820 1-800-237-2747 0 820 820 820 1-800-237-2747 8:00a - 5:30p ET http://gp.airfrance.fr http://gp.airfrance.fr http://gp.airfrance.fr gp.airfrance.fr Air India (AI) 1800227722 1-800-223-7776 1800227722 1-800-223-7776

Air Jamaica (JM) 1-888-359-2475 1-800-523-5585 1-888-359-2475 1-800-523-5585 24

Air New Zealand (NZ) 0800 737 000 1-800-262-1234 0800 737 000 1-800-262-1234 24

Air Tahiti Nui (TN) 16864 1-877-824-4846 16864 1-877-824-4846 6:00a - 5:30p Mo.-Fr./ 8:30a - 5:00p Sa.-Su. PT

AirTran Airways (FL) 1-800-247-8726 1-800-247-8726 1-800-247-8726 1-800-247-8726 24

Alaska Airlines (AS) 1-877-677-2566 1-877-677-2566 1-800-252-7522 1-800-252-7522 24

Table 2. A partial list of reservations/ meal listing numbers.

Local Non-Rev U.S. Non-Rev Local Revenue U.S. Revenue Airline Number Number Number Number Hours

Alitalia (AZ) 06-65.642 1-800-223-5730 06-65.642 1-800-223-5730

5:30a - 6:00p Mo.-Fr./ All Nippon Airways - ANA 5:30a - 2:00p Sa., Su. & (NH) 0120-029-333 1-800-235-9262 0120-029-333 1-800-235-9262 Holiday PT

American Airlines (AA) 1-888-933-5922 1-888-933-5922 1-800-433-7300 1-800-433-7300 24 American Eagle/ AMR Eagle (AA*) 1-888-933-5922 1-888-933-5922 1-800-433-7300 1-800-433-7300 24

Asiana Airlines (OZ) 1588 8000 1-800-227-4262 1588 8000 1-800-227-4262 24 Azul - Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras (ZQ) 3003 2985 3003 2985

British Airways (BA) http://ba.idtravel.com http://ba.idtravel.com 0800 850 9850 1-800-247-9297 24 9:00a - 5:30p Mo.-Fr./ 9:00a - 12:30p Sa.-Su. POS 7:00a - 7:00p Mo.-Fr./ Caribbean Airlines (BW) 1-868-625-7200 1-800-920-4225 1-868-625-7200 1-800-920-4225 8:00a - 6:00p Sa.-Su. ET 6:00a - 9:00p Mo.-Sa./ Cape Air (9K) 1-800-352-0714 1-800-352-0714 1-800-352-0714 1-800-352-0714 7:00a - 9:00p Su. ET Cathay Pacific Airways 6:00a - 5:30p Mo.-Fr./ (CX) 2747-1888 1-800-233-2742 2747-1888 1-800-233-2742 6:00a - 4:0p Sa. PT 6:00a - 6:00p Mo.-Fr. China Airlines 886-2-2715-1212 1-800-227-5118 886-2-2715-1212 1-800-227-5118 7:00a - 3:30p Sa-Su. PT

China Southern (CZ) 1-888-338-8988 1-888-338-8988 8:00a - 5:00p Mo.-Fr. PT

Comair (OH) 1-800-221-1212 1-800-241-4141 1-800-221-1212 1-800-241-4141 24 Copa Airlines (CM) 507-217-2672 1-800-359-2672 507-217-2672 1-800-359-2672 24

Czech Airlines (OK) (420) 239 007 007 1-800-223-2365 (420) 239 007 007 1-800-223-2365 24 Delta Air Lines (DL) 1-800-221-1212 1-800-241-4141 1-800-221-1212 1-800-241-4141 24 1-800-225-2525 1-800-447-4747 1-800-225-2525 1-800-447-4747 6:00a - 5:30p Mo.-Fr./ Dragonair (KA) (852) 3193-3888 1-800-233-2742 (852) 3193-3888 1-800-233-2742 6:00a - 4:00p Sa. PT

8:00a - 3:00p Sa.-Th. Cairo 9:00a - 5:30p Mo.-Fr./ Egyptair (MS) 002 (02) 24830888 1-212-581-5600 002 (02) 24830888 1-212-581-5600 9:00a - 5:00p Sa. ET

El Al (LY) 03.9771111 1-800-223-6700 03.9771111 1-800-223-6700 9:00a - 5:00p Mo.-Fr.

Emirates (EK) 04 214 4444 1-800-777-3999 04 214 4444 1-800-777-3999 24

Ethiopian Airlines (ET) +251-11-665 6666 1-800-445-2733 +251-11-665 6666 1-800-445-2733 505 8084 or 621 7:30p - 3:30p Mo.-Fr. in Etihad Airways (EY) 3323 1-212-554-1300 800 2277 1-888-838-4423 AUH

Frontier Airlines (F9) 1-877-302-8804 1-877-302-8804 1-800-432-1359 1-800-432-1359 24

Table 2. A partial list of reservations/ meal listing numbers.

Local Non-Rev U.S. Non-Rev Local Revenue U.S. Revenue Airline Number Number Number Number Hours Great Lakes Airlines (ZK) 1-800-554-5112 1-800-554-5112 1-800-554-5111 1-800-554-5111 8:00a - 5:00p Mo.-Fr. MT go! 1 888 435 9462 1 888 435 9462 1 888 435 9462 1 888 435 9462 8:00a - 2:00a MT

Hawaiian Airlines (HA) 1-888-899-9875 1-888-899-9875 1-800-367-5320 1-800-367-5320 3:00a - 9:30p HT

Horizon Air (QX) 1-800-252-7522 1-800-252-7522 1-800-252-7522 1-800-252-7522 24 9:00a - 5:00p Mo.-Fr./ 9:00a -12noon Sa./ Icelandair (FI) (+354) 5050 300 1-800-223-5500 (+354) 5050 300 1-800-223-5500 9:00a -11:00a Su. ET 6:30a - 10:00p in Japan Japan Airlines (JL) 0120-25-5971 1-800-525-3663 0120-25-5971 1-800-525-3663 5:00a - 6:00p PT in U.S.

Jet Airways (9W) 3989 3333 1-877-835-9538 3989 3333 1-877-835-9538 24 jetBlue (B6) 1-888-538-2583 1-888-538-2583 1-800-538-2583 1-800-538-2583 24

JetStar Airways (JQ) 131 538 1-866-397-8170 131 538 1-866-397-8170 24 +254-(0)20- Kenya Airways (KQ) +254-(0)20- 3274747 1-866-536-9224 3274747 1-866-536-9224

KLM Cityhopper (WA) 020-648-7101 1-800-225-2525 020-4747747 1-800-225-2525 24 KLM Royal Dutch 020-648-7101 1-800-374-7747 020-4747747 1-800-374-7747 24 Airlines (KL)

Korean Airlines (KE) 1588-2001 1-800-438-5000 1588-2001 1-800-438-5000 5:00a -11:00p South Korea 9:00a - 5:30p Mo.-Fr./ Kuwait Airways (KU) 24345555 1-201-582-9222 24345555 1-800-458-9248 9:00a - 5:00p Sa.

LAN (LA) 600 526 2000 1-866-435-9526 600 526 2000 1-866-435-9526 24

Lufthansa German Airlines (LH) 1805 805 805 1-800-645-3880 24

Malaysia Airlines (MH) 1300 88 3000 1-800-552-9264 1300 88 3000 1-800-552-9264

Malev 06-1-235-3888 1-800-223-6884 06-1-235-3888 1-800-223-6884 9:00a – 5:00- Mo.-Fr. ET 9:00a - 7:00p Mo.-Fr./ Martinair Holland (MP) 020-06011631 1-800-627-8462 020-06011767 1-800-627-8462 11:00a - 5:00p Sa.-Su. ET

Mexicana Airlines (MX) 01-800 502 2000 1-800-531-7921 01-800 502 2000 1-800-531-7921 7:00a -1:00a Mo.-Su. CT 1-414-570-7000 MKE 1-414-570-7000 MKE 1-816-421-7070 Midwest Airlines (YX) 1-816-421-7070 MCI 1-800-452-2022 MCI 1-800-452-2022 24

Mokulele Airlines (MW) 1-808-426-7070 1-866-260-7070 1-808-426-7070 1-866-260-7070 5:00a - 10:00p

Table 2. A partial list of reservations/ meal listing numbers.

Local Non-Rev U.S. Non-Rev Local Revenue U.S. Revenue Airline Number Number Number Number Hours

Olympic Airlines (OA) 801 11 4444 1-800-223-1226 801 11 4444 1-800-223-1226 9:00a - 7:00p ET Mo.-Fr.

Philippines Airlines (632) 855-8888 1-800-435-9725 (632) 855-8888 1-800-435-9725 6:00a - 6:00p PT Mo.-Sa.

Qantas Airways (QF) 13 13 13 1-800-227-4500 13 13 13 1-800-227-4500 24

Qatar Airways (QR) +974 449 6666 1-877-777-2827 +974 449 6666 1-877-777-2827

Ryanair (FR) 0818 30 30 30 +353 1 2480856 0818 30 30 30 +353 1 2480856 9:00a - 5:45p Mo.-Fr. ET +45 3232 0000 DK +47 64 81 6050 8.00a - 4:00p Mo.- Fr. +45 3232 0000 DK NO DK/NO/SE SAS Scandinavian +47 64 81 6050 NO +46-8-797 0000 8:00a - 8:00p Mo-Fr./ Airlines (SK) +46-8-797 0000 SE 1-800-221-2350 SE 1-800-221-2350 9:00a - 5:00p Sa.-Su. ET

Silver Airways (3M) 1-713-324-7277 1-866-359-3727 1-800-523-3273 1-800-231-0856 24

Singapore Airlines (SQ) 65 622 38 888 1-800-742-3333 65 622 38 888 1-800-742-3333 24 South African Airways 8:30a - 8:00p Mo.-Fr./ (SA) 011 978 1111 1-800-722-9675 011 978 1111 1-800-722-9675 8:00a - 4:00p Sa.-Su. ET

Taca International Airlines (TA) 503-267 8222 1-800-400-8222 503-267 8222 1-800-400-8222 24 TAM Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras (JJ) 55 11 4002 5700 1-888-235-9826 55 11 4002 5700 1-888-235-9826 24

Southwest Airlines (WN) 1-866-359-7967 1-866-359-7967 1-800-435-9792 1-800-435-9792 24

Spirit Airlines (NK) 1-800-772-7117 1-800-772-7117 1-800-772-7117 1-800-772-7117 24

Swiss International Airlines (LX) 0848 85 2000 1-877-359-7947 0848 85 2000 1-877-359-7947 24 Thai Airways International (TG) 02 6282000 1-800-426-5204 02 6282000 1-800-426-5204 7:00a - 5:00p Mo.-Fr. PT

Tropic Air (PM) 501-26-2012 1-800-422-3435 501-26-2012 1-800-422-3435

Turkish Airlines (TK) 444 0 849 1-800-874-8875 444 0 849 1-800-874-8875 24 1-800-825-5478 1-800-825-5478 1-800-241-6522 1-800-538-2929 United Airlines (UA) 1-713-324-7277 1-866-359-3727 1-800-523-3273 1-800-231-0856 24

US Airways (US) 1-800-325-9999 1-800-325-9999 1-800-428-4322 1-800-428-4322 24

V Australia Airlines (VA) 13 82 87 1-800 444 0260 13 82 87 1-800 444 0260

Virgin America (VX) 1-877-359-8474 1-877-359-8474 1-877-359-8474 1-877-359-8474 3:30a - 11:30p PT

Virgin Atlantic Airways (VS) 01293 747 747 1-800-862-8621 01293 747 747 1-800-862-8621 24

WestJet Airlines 1-888-937-8538 1-888-937-8538 1-888-937-8538 1-888-937-8538 24

Table 2. A partial list of reservations/ meal listing numbers.

Be sure to identify yourself as an airline employee the minute you get on the phone. Be polite as you are representing your airline. You should ensure that you have done enough research before calling (see the Travel Tools section). The agents really do not have time to do this for you. You should have your dates of travel, flight times, flight numbers and city pairs available. This along with any other information that you know is required when making a meal listing with this particular airline, such as ticket number, your employee number, special booking codes and your date of hire to name a few. Again, check with your own airline first for the rules of the agreement for traveling on the airline in question.

Listing policies vary from airline to airline, e.g.

• Air Canada (AC), for whom you should list in advance, calls this process registering for a flight • American Airlines (AA) allows select airlines to list online; check with your pass bureau for the details as they vary by airline • Cathay Pacific (CX) and Korean Airlines (KE) do not allow listing before hand for any of their flights. You list when you arrive at the airport on the day of travel at least two hours before your flight’s departure. • KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KL) allows select airlines to list online; check with your pass bureau for the details as they vary by airline • South African Airways (SA) requires that you only list within 48 hours of your flight’s departure • United Airlines (UA) requires that you list for all flights and allows select airlines to list online; check with your pass bureau for the details as they vary by airline • Virgin Atlantic Airways (VS) requires that you have a ticket number when making your listing via telephone.

The differences go on and on. It is your responsibility to be familiar and comply; ignorance is no excuse and reflects badly on you and your airline. Some agents will let you slide, but don’t make a bad habit of it. Not knowing the policies wastes valuable time when calling to make a listing. The airlines cannot afford that and neither can you.

Airport procedures Some carriers have special areas set up at select airports for passriders. They may also have special check-in desks. How do you find out these things? You ask when you call the airlines to list or talk to your fellow pass riders. For example: • In Toronto, Canada (YYZ), Air Canada (AC) has a special area in Terminal 1 for those flights departing from that terminal. You may also check-in using their kiosk, even if you are not an Air Canada employee, you just need your confirmation number to begin. • British Airways (BA) has a special area in Terminal 5 for this purpose. When in other terminals, you can go to the regular check-in desk, except for Terminal 2, where they also have a special area. • In Hong Kong (HKG), Cathay Pacific Airways (CX) has a special desk for pass riders; you cannot check-in anywhere else but here, so don’t go standing in the regular lines • In Lima, Peru, LAN has a special area to the right of their check-in counter for standby travelers • In London-Heathrow, London England (LHR), Virgin Atlantic Airways (VS) has a special counter for passriders, it is the leftmost counter at their Ticket Desk

Airlines that have self-service kiosks (British Airways, Delta and United for example) and online check-in (Delta and United for example) prefer that their employees use these facilities to check-in; please comply if at all possible.

For most carriers though, you just go to the regular check-in counters. I recommend looking for a sign for stand by travelers or ask an agent, just to be sure.

Dress Code Although most airlines have relaxed their dress code a lot, you should ensure that you dress properly. When you call the carrier to list remember to also ask about the dress code as it may vary from carrier to carrier. It is usually smart/ business casual and some airline will even allow jeans, collared shirt and sneakers. If you are traveling another airline other than your own, it is a good rule of thumb is to dress business casual; wearing a shirt that can be worn with a tie just in case. For women, an appropriate dress should suffice. When traveling on another carrier, I usually just dress business casual with a dress shoes at all times, this way I never have to worry about it.

Upgrade Policy This is usually based on the ticket you purchase as well as your airline’s pass travel agreement with the airline on which you are traveling. Usually, with the percentage discounts you can purchase them in all cabins. Your pass travel agreement will have the details on this. With the service charge passes this is not usually the case as they are usually a very cheap fare that your airline has negotiated. For the ZED agreements there are different fares negotiated for each cabin of service depending on the airline, so if you want to fly in the forward cabin, please purchase the appropriate ticket. Just read the pass travel agreement for the airline in question, as all the information you need is there.

Sometimes, if the agent is nice or Economy is full you’ll be upgraded, but don’t always expect that if you buy an Economy ticket and there is space up front you will get it, as that is not usually the case.

Some carriers actually have a dollar amount that you can pay at check-in even when you are on a zoned fare (ZED - fares based on the distance being traveled) in Economy. This is on a carrier-by-carrier basis though. I won’t mention the ones I know of as their policies may have changed (there are at least three). I’d suggest you ask when you check-in and the agent will advise.

Hey, Economy is fun as well; I’ve spent many long hours in Economy; some were more pleasant than others though. The Asian carriers are awesome; the food is good and they have really good in-flight entertainment that sometimes includes Audio/ Video on Demand (AVOD). The European and American carriers are a close second and third respectively. Perhaps the most enjoyable is on Singapore Airlines (SQ) A340-500 from Newark Liberty, NJ (EWR) to Singapore (SIN) in their Raffles Business Class; but that is not longer being flown

Conduct You should conduct yourself in a respectable manner. Remember you are representing your airline. Your actions may affect the privileges of your fellow employees and yourself.

Chapter 3

Getting your Tickets; Prepare to be Bumped!

So, you have decided where you want to go and hopefully have figured out how to get there (if not, then go to http://www.passrider.com where you will find an airline scheduling application). The major online travel agencies such as Expedia, Opodo, Orbitz and Travelocity also supply schedules, but bear in mind that its based on availability so if a flight is sold out you may not see it in the listing. Next you have to get the tickets. A quick visit to your pass travel office or your airline ticket counter should take care of that.

If I am flying another carrier, I usually try to get some back up tickets for alternate routings. There is nothing worst than getting bumped in a foreign city (a city other than your home airport) with no tickets for an alternate routing. I suggest some serious planning, so that you don’t get stranded. Think connections, think alternate cities, think getting up early and taking that first flight, just think!

The first flight of the day is usually your best bet as it is more likely that revenue customers may have slept in and will miss that early flight. Yes, you partied all night and you are tired, so getting up early is not an option; wrong! It is. You can catch up on your sleep on that flight. Get up, take a shower and move on. Otherwise, you may be at that airport all day or days. Now, I’ve gotten bumped off that first flight a few times, but at least I tried.

My general rule is that if I get bumped off that first flight and the others look really dismal, I am out of that airport; either on my own carrier or on the next carrier going my way with available seats. Things can and usually only get worst from this point on. This is where your research comes in. Note: this rule does not always work, sometimes just waiting for the next flight works out, but hindsight is always 20/20. Go with the research and sometimes, just throw caution to the wind.

Let’s say you are trying to get from Newark Liberty, Newark NJ (EWR) to Houston-George Bush Intercontinental, Houston TX (IAH). There are several connecting cities between these two cities. Many of which may be open; research them and try the best one. There is Savannah, Georgia (SAV); Dallas/ Fort Worth, TX (DFW); Cincinnati, OH (CVG); Fayetteville, Arkansas (XNA); St. Louis, Missouri (STL); Indianapolis, Indiana (IND) plus many others. The point is; you don’t always have to take the non-stop flight.

I’ve overnighted in Philadelphia, PA (PHL) at least twice; once from Phillipsburg, St. Maarten (SXM) (I got bumped off the American Airlines (AA) flight to San Juan, PR (SJU)) and the other from London-Heathrow, England (LHR) (British Airways (BA) cancelled one flight across the Atlantic to New York’s JFK and it just all snowballed from there). By the way, the Embassy Suites at the PHL airport offers a great rate and it is a nice place; they serve a really mean Philly Cheese steak as well.

If I am flying my own carrier, I ensure that I have a good idea of back up cities and also ensure that I have researched all the flights to my destination all day as well as those to alternate cities. I highly recommend that you do that same.

Discount Airfares

If you are a planner, oftentimes, you can find discounted airfares on low cost carriers. These carriers sometimes fly into the secondary airports for your favorite cities, so you may get to log a new airport and a new airline, if you like doing that. I mean you are supposed to be having fun as well. You may have to pay for the amenities that are sometimes complimentary on the larger carriers, but what the heck, you arrive safe and sound and you don’t have to worry about being bumped. If you are hungry, either buy your meal onboard or bring a sandwich. Remember though that the low cost carriers may not have the same breadth of schedule as the larger carriers, so try not to miss your flight.

Oh, speaking of discounts, recently, I was looking through the U.K. papers and saw an ad about cheap cruises. The site featured was easycruise.com at http://www.easycruise.com. This site is owned by the same group that owns easyJet, so you know they are familiar with supplying discount offerings. easycruise.com offers cruises along the French and Italian Riviera, you should check it out.

Here is a partial list of discount schedule service carriers around the world:

Africa British Airways Comair Ltd. (BA) – Johannesburg, South Africa – http://www.comair.co.za / http://www.britishairways.com/travel/baalliance/public/en_za Kulula (MN) – Johannesburg, South Africa – https://www.kulula.com

Asia and Australia Air Asia (AK) – Sepang, Malaysia – http://www.airasia.com Jetstar Airways (JQ) – Melbourne, Australia – http://www.jetstar.com Kingfisher Airlines (IT) – Mumbai, India – http://www.flykingfisher.com Tiger Airways (TR) – Singapore – http://www.tigerairways.com Virgin Australia (VA) [V Australia, Virgin Australia, Pacific Blue, Polynesian Blue] – Queensland, Australia – http://www.virginaustralia.com

Canada Canjet Airlines (CJA) – Halifax, Nova Scotia Canada – http://www.canjet.com WestJet (WS) – Calgary, Alberta Canada http://www.westjet.com/

Caribbean Caribbean Airways (BW) [Air Jamaica - http://www.airjamaica.com] – Post of Spain, Trinidad - http://www.beewee.com LIAT (LI) – Antigua – http://www.liatairline.com

Central America and Mexico Via Aerobus (VIV) - Apodaca, Nuevo León, México - http://www.vivaaerobus.com Volaris (VLO) – Mexico - http://www.volaris.com.mx

Europe Agean Cronus Airlines (A3) – Athens, Greece – http://www.aegeanair.com AirEuropa (UX) – Madrid, Spain – http://www.air-europa.com Air Berlin (AB) – Berlin, Germany – http://www.airberlin.com Air One (AP) – Rome, Italy – http://www.flyairone.it Aurigny Air Services (GR) – Guernsey, United Kingdom – http://www.aurigny.com Cirrus (C9) – Saarbrücken, Germany – http://www.cirrus-airlines.de easyjet (U2) – London, England – http://www.easyjet.com eurowings (EW) – Frankfurt, Germany – http://www.eurowings.com flybe. (BE) – Exeter, United Kingdom – http://www.flybe.com germanwings (4U) – Köln, Germany – http://www.germanwings.com Hellas Jet (4T) – Athens, Greece – http://www.hellas-jet.com Helvetic Airways (OAW) – Zurich, Switzerland – http://www.helvetic.com Jet2 (LS) – Leeds/ Bradford, England – http://www.jet2.com PGA Portugalia (NI) – Lisboa, Portugal – http://www.flypga.com/ Ryanair (FR) – Dublin, Ireland – http://www.ryanair.com/ Welcome Air (2W) – Innsbruck, Austria – http://www.welcomeair.com Wizz Air (W6) – Hungary – http://www.wizzair.com Vueling Airlines () – Barcelona, Spain – http://www.vueling.com

South America

Azul Linhas Aereas Brasieras – Sao Paolo, Brasil - http://viajemais.voeazul.com.br GOL (G3) – São Paolo, Brazil – http://www.voegol.com.br/

United States AirTran Airways (FL) – Orlando, FL – http://www.airtran.com Allegiant Air (G4) – Fresno, CA – http://www.allegiant-air.com Frontier Airlines (F9) – Denver, CO – http://www.flyfrontier.com Go! Mokulele Airlines (MW) – Kailua-Kona, HI – http://www.mokuleleairlines.com, http://www.iflygo.com JetBlue (B6) – Queens, NY – http://www.jetblue.com Southwest Airlines (WN) – Dallas, TX – http://www.southwest.com Spirit Airlines (NK) – Miramar, FL – http://www.spiritair.com Sun Country (SY) – Mendota Heights, MN – http://www.suncountry.com US Airways (US) – Mesa, AZ – http://www.usairways.com Virgin America (VA) – San Francisco, CA – http://www.virginamerica.com

Chapter 4

Documentation

You would be amazed at how many people start off a trip without the correct documentation for entry into the country they are visiting. American Express has a slogan for their cards; “don’t leave home without it,” that should be the slogan for you and your airline ID and passport. These are your tickets to almost everything and everywhere as you never know when you may have to connect via a foreign country.

I was on a flight once and two seats came open at the last minute as two standby passengers did not have a valid visa for the Netherlands. They had connected in from another city and the agents there did not check if they had a visa or that one was required due to their citizenship. So now, they had to return home or apply for a visa if they can in the city where they were deplaned. So please take heed.

Take a valid drivers’ license or a state ID with you as well as your passport. If you have an Alien registration card, you should take that as well, so that you can re-enter your country when you return home. The key word here is valid; some countries require at least a remaining 6 months of validation in your passport. Be sure to contact the country’s consulate or the airline on which you are traveling to find out what are the requirements for entry. Some airlines have information on their Web sites to help you. Visa and health requirements can also be obtained from these sources. Some countries require that you have fully blank pages as they use it to paste your visa or stamp in your passport. The People’s Republic of China, Egypt, India and South Africa are examples of these countries. I always find it odd that when I am running out of blank pages, the immigration officers give me a hard time to go get a new passport, but when I have several blank pages, they keep stamping over other countries’ stamps.

When applying for a visa, note that some countries charge a fee and others may have a waiting period. For example, a Brazilian visa may take up to five days to acquire for U.S. citizens and have a fee. So you may have to plan ahead for some international trips. Similarly a visa to the People’s Republic of China or Russia will require some planning and up front funds. Also remember that some visas must be used within a certain number of days after being issued; ask the consulate when applying about the rules.

The airlines are charged a hefty fine by the government of the arriving country when travelers show up without a visa; the airlines also have to return the travelers home at the airlines’ expense whenever this occurs. So please ensure that you have the correct entry documentation before leaving for your trip.

On every international flight, the flight attendants will present you with the appropriate entry documentation before landing. Please listen carefully and watch the video that is sometimes provided. For some countries it is as simple as a short one-page form, others it is like a book. If you make any errors you will have to re-do the forms before you see the immigration officer when you land, so please make all corrections onboard the plane. If you have questions, please ask the flight attendant for help. It is quite annoying for the person behind you in the line at the immigration counter to wait longer as you did not correctly fill out your form. I see this occur all the time, usually when I have a close connection, sadly. If for some reason you missed this part of the flight, there will be forms in the immigration area for you.

The forms usually ask for name, date of birth, passport information, reason for visit, occupation, where you are staying, length of stay, etc. One last thing, ensure that you take a pen (keep it easily accessible) with you on all trips so you can fill out all these forms or jot down any important information during the flight.

In select countries, they now have faster ways to get you through the Immigration lines. These countries include but are not limited to Canada (Nexus), The Netherlands (Priivum), the United Kingdom (IRIS) and the United States (Global Entry). I highly recommend that you apply for the appropriate program. Usually when you apply for one, you get information on how to apply for the other.

Chapter 5

Travel Tools

An informed consumer is the best consumer in any genre, and travel is no exception. Arm yourself with all the tools you need for your trip.

Airline Schedules These are your “bible.” You should never start your journey without being very familiar with the schedule for your route. Each airline has their schedules on their Web site. You can check the schedule on the site itself or some carriers allow you to download a PDF file or a PC-based, mobile phone or PDA program.

Check alternate routes for both your outbound and return flights. Sometimes you can take connecting flights that are more open than the non-stops. Remember though that you stand a higher chance of getting bumped when you take connecting flights since more flights are involved; so make sure you are comfortable with the booking numbers. You should also consider alternate airports, which was discussed earlier.

Be aware of all the airlines serving your route and also the agreements that your carrier have with them. You can get a listing of all the airlines on your route by using the SkyGuide from American Express (www.skyguideonline.com) or the OAG Flight Guide from OAG (www.oag.com). These paper guides are on a subscription basis, but they are well worth their price as they keep you well informed. Electronic versions for your PC, PocketPC or Palm are also available. Don’t be stranded at an airport because you did not know a flight existed.

Note that some low fare carriers, such as Southwest Airlines, JetBlue, easyJet, Ryanair, etc., are sometimes included in some of these products. This is through no fault of the product though. You should visit those airlines’ Web sites for such details.

The oneworld (www.oneworld.com), SkyTeam (www.skyteam.com) and Star Alliance (www.star- alliance.com) Web sites have schedules on their sites as well as PDFs and schedule programs you can download. These three alliances encompass a very large number of airlines, but together does not paint the full picture.

Mobile Phones What can I say, but that you need one. I cannot count the times that this has proved useful. With the advent of the iPhone, many manufactures have stepped up to the plate with some great devices. I personally have a Samsung and it works great and in all countries I’ve visited.

I have service from T-Mobile. Being able to have service globally was the sole reason for choosing this company, so far, it has worked out. There are other companies that provide what is termed GSM service as well, so please do your research.

Perhaps the best illustration of having a mobile phone is this: I had planned to fly Cathay Pacific’s (CX) new A340-600 from San Francisco, CA (SFO) to Hong Kong (HKG). This was my second attempt at trying to fly this aircraft. The first was in Los Angeles, CA (LAX) and it was unsuccessful, so was this attempt,

www.passrider.com © 2013 – MUG:NRSA Page 19 McKenzie Ultimate Guides: Non-Revenue (Airline Staff) Travel unfortunately L. It was 12:30 a.m. when I was told the news (all seats are taken). Immediately, I got on my phone and listed for the 12:50 a.m. flight back home, hastening my steps in order to get back to the terminal. When I got there, there were no agents at the counter; I was the last person through security and rushed down to the gate area. The agents were relaxed as everyone had already boarded. I politely asked if I could still get on the flight. Sure, they said and I actually got the last seat. As soon as I was seated, we pushed back right on time. That was a close. The alternative would have been to overnight in San Francisco and take the first flight out at 6:00 a.m. Saved by my mobile; again. I could recount several stories, but I won’t, you get the picture.

Pen and Paper Sounds simple right? But how many times have you reached for that pen and it was not there? Or how many times, have you wanted to write something down and have to write it on the palm of your hand? Don’t let this happen to you, always take a pen and some paper. A good way to always ensure that you never run out, is to keep the one supplied in your hotel room. Good hotels always have a pen and a pad. Some airline’s (e.g. Virgin Atlantic Airways) amenity kits have them as well; or some used to at least. Pens are a must for international flights as most times you have to fill out some sort of paper work for entry.

Also, you never know who you may meet on a flight and want to keep in touch later. The catch here too is to ensure that your pen and paper are accessible. On one of my recent flights, I had to write my contact information on the label that the airline places on a newspaper saying “Compliments of.” I had paper, but it was just in my bag that was in the overhead compartment. We were descending into London and I could not get up to get it. So keep a piece of blank paper in your wallet, purse or pocket, you will be glad you did. Better yet, keep business or personal cards on your person for easy reference.

Frequently Used Phone Numbers While this is not necessarily a tool, it fits in this category. You should ensure that you have the phone numbers of the airlines’ non-revenue reservations numbers as well as the regular revenue reservation numbers very handy. The same is true for the major car rental companies and hotels. I’ve used them so often that I have most of them memorized, but until you do, write them down or store them in your phone or tablet. If you are going international, find out what the local numbers are before you go. As passriders, our plans change at the drop of a hat, so having these numbers at your finger tips are essential. You can find a partial list of these numbers in the Listings Procedures section in Chapter 2 of this book.

Portable Computer If you have a laptop computer or a tablet that connects to the Internet, this can be an invaluable tool when you travel. Also, if you have a phone that you can connect (tether) to your laptop and use as a hotspot, that will work as well. Be aware of the phone data charges though.

More and more airports, airline clubs, cities, hotels, restaurants and coffee shops are adding wireless access these days. Most if not all airline lounges (more in next section) offer complimentary wireless access. Some airports also offer complimentary service if not at least for a limited amount of time during a 24-hour period. Just power up your computer and check or contact the airport before you leave for your trip.

Chapter 6

Before You Go

In order to make your trip a success, there are a few things you should know before you go.

Local Language You should have some idea of the language that is spoken in the country you are going. It shows initiative and class. You will also get a better reception from the locals if you at least try. Once they realize that you cannot speak the language, they will more than likely speak to you in English or find someone who can help.

Here are a few words that are essential to learn: • Hello • Good bye • Thank you • No thank you • Please • How much? (for you shoppers out there) • How far • Early • Late • How do I get to? • Where is? • What time is it? • How much time does it take? • Where is the toilet? • Where is the ATM? • Airport • Car • Bus • Hotel

In countries that use double-byte character languages such as People’s Republic of China, Japan or Korea, it is recommended that you have a copy of your hotel information written in the local language for the cab drivers, as they may speak little or no English. This is really a good practice for all countries.

Know your Geography/ Alternate Airports Try to get a good idea of where places are located. This will help you to determine alternate airports as well as exactly how you can get to your destination.

If you work for an airline, knowing your geography is a must; otherwise, how will you know where to visit next? I suggest getting a map, a few maps; one of the U.S. and or your country and one of the world. I used to have one of each (the U.S. and the world), but have since gifted it to a friend. Check your local map stores for details or just use Google Maps (http://maps.google.com). Study them, as you will be glad you did. It may

www.passrider.com © 2013 – MUG:NRSA Page 21 McKenzie Ultimate Guides: Non-Revenue (Airline Staff) Travel mean driving a bit sometimes, but last time I checked, if you are trying to get to Boston, Massachusetts (BOS) from say New York; Providence, Rhode Island (PVD) is much closer than getting stuck in New York. Of course, you have to ensure that you had purchased that back up ticket when you were back at the office, or find a ticket office as quickly as possible.

Packing for that Trip O.K. you fly space available, so that means you often make decisions on the fly. With that in mind you have to learn how to travel with just the essentials and nothing more. The lighter you can travel, the better it is for you. Think about the last time you went somewhere; did you use all those things you brought with you? The next time you travel, leave those things you did not use at home.

Some airlines such as Air France, British Airways and Lufthansa are very strict on the weight of your carry-on luggage so watch that as well. The carry-on that is allowed for a U.S. carrier will not necessarily be allowed when you travel on a non-U.S. carrier. It is a good practice to check the airline’s Web site or call ahead and check the requirements before you leave for your trip.

My rule of thumb for light packing is usually this: clean “undies” for each day I am away, a pair of jeans for day trips plus a top (usually a T-shirt), sneakers, flip flops if you can pack them, a clean shirt or outfit for each travel day (see the Dress Code section), a bathing suit (for a dip in that hotel pool or a trip to the hotel sauna or hot tub, or for that beach trip, if applicable), your toiletries and something to sleep in each night, unless you prefer to be in the buff. On longer trips, remember you can use local Laundromats or some hotels have washing facilities that are either do it yourself or you can have the hotel Housekeeping wash some stuff for you at a minimal cost. So you may not need an “undie” a day if you go this route.

Anything outside of that unless it is medicinal may not be necessary. Ensure that you pack all this stuff in a carry-on that is easy to carry; either a backpack or something with wheels. Handle bags (duffels) work, but are difficult to carry, as they get heavier as your walk progresses; trust me, been there done that, did not buy the T- shirt. I always seem to get the gate at the end of the concourse and have to hustle to get there. So find something you are comfortable with and that’s within the size and weight limits of the carrier you are flying. Remember, carriers outside the United States are very strict with the limits of their carry-on luggage.

If you have to check a bag, then ensure that you have read and understood the checked baggage rules for the airline you are traveling. The last thing you want to do is to re-pack at the airport (this is ugly when you see it happening) or have to pay for excess baggage. Remember it is not only the weight of the bag, but the dimensions (linear inches, width + length + height) that count as well.

So, just pack what you need; travel light and travel safe.

Be Courteous Simple, right? Then how come you see people shouting at the gate agents from time to time at the airport? Or you see that hotel front desk clerk having a hard time from the customer checking-in? Usually, it is as a result of other things in people’s lives that have gone wrong or is going wrong. The agents just serve as an outlet for that frustration. In my first airline job at the ticket counter, I got yelled at least once each day. Usually, once the customer is checked in, they’ll apologize, but it was just strange how customers get irritable when they have to catch an early flight; everything becomes your fault.

I suggest not falling into this trap at all. If you have to use an agent, when you approach the agents, say hello as you hand them your travel documents. Smile, while looking them in the eyes. The agents are people as you know and they are really doing a good service. They will get you on that flight or into that hotel room or the car you desire so much quicker. Sometimes, they just need that welcome break from the last person that was rude to them. I was in Newark airport once and received a car upgrade just by being nice to the agent; not sucking up, just being nice; there is a difference. All I did was just genuinely asked the agent how their day was going.

On checking-in for my flight on a recent trip, I greeted the agent who greeted me back. She was so upset that the guy before me did not even say hello to her that she was actually visibly shaken. She went on to say that the guy did not say hello and when she had done helping him, he did not say “Thank you” either. She was glad to be assisting me as I acknowledge her, chatted with her, empathized and most importantly, said thank you and goodbye.

Life is short; appreciate the people you interact with.

Self-service Check-in Today, many carriers have some form of self-service check-in; either online or at a kiosk at the airport or at an off-airport location. I really enjoy using these services as I can check the loads as well as see who have already checked in, depending on which application I am using. I can also check-in well in advance which is a real plus.

It also helps to speed me through the security checkpoints and down to the gate. Sometimes, I am running late, but since I am already checked in, I am a little more relaxed.

On a recent trip, I had checked-in in London for my connecting flight from New York-JFK, Queens NY (JFK); I was on two separate carriers. I was hoping to make a very quick connection, but alas, navigating JFK airport got the better of me and I missed the connecting flight only by a few minutes. As it turns out, the flight had departed early. Had there not been a slight hold up trying to get the airport bus for the other terminals, I would have made it, I think. In this particular case, I was able to use my mobile phone and re-schedule for a connecting flight through another city to my final destination.

If you can check in early, then you should do so. It gets you out of the airport agent’s way and on that standby list before anyone else that has your identical pass class. Of course it now means that you may have to hang around the airport for a while before you get your seat, but sometimes, the flights are wide open and you get a seat immediately. So now you can go shopping, hang out in the airport club, do a little plane spotting, people watching, etc.

Take Some Cash with You I prefer a bankcard to cash when I travel as you just take cash out when you need it. This backfired once when I got to Paris, France and believe it or not, all the ATMs of my bank were down! I am not kidding. Another couple from People’s Republic of China and I went searching for an ATM. In our quest for the ATM, we met this really great lady who yelled at the clerk as we tried to navigate the Metro (subway train system). Finally, we found the only ATM that would accept our cards in a part of Paris that I would never be able to find by myself again.

So, since that time, I always take some cash with me just in case. You can either take your local currency with you if it is one of the major currencies such as the USD, CAD, YEN, EUR or the GBP or you should exchange your currency for the local currency of the country you are visiting. In most countries, the equivalent of 50 USD in the local currency should be adequate for initial transactions. This should get you to the downtown area at least. Most airports have cash machines, but as we found out on a visit to São Paolo, Brazil (GRU), our cards did not work in some of the machines. Then once in the city it took us quite a while to find a bank that accepted our cards. As it turns out, it was a Citibank located on Avenue Paulista, the main street in São Paolo.

The interesting thing about foreign ATMs is that if the currency is pretty bad against the USD or GBP, then you have to start multiplying with many zeros. So if you are not good at math, take out that calculator or pen and paper. My research has shown that using the ATMs in foreign countries as opposed to the currency exchange kiosks at the airport or in the city yields a better overall exchange rate despite the fees associated with the ATM transaction. You may also use travelers’ checks, although they are not my favorite; safer though.

In some countries, the ATMs will dispense either USD or the local currency. Try the airport in Lima, Peru (LIM); the ATMs in the departure concourse dispense in both USD and local currencies; you get to pick.

I was in Dublin, Ireland (DUB) once and as it turns out, I got bumped trying to get to Shannon, Ireland (SNN). The gate agent suggested that I go to Galway, Ireland (GWY), and then take a bus or rent a car to Limerick, Ireland which is served by the Shannon airport. Not having been to Galway before and feeling adventurous, I took her up on the suggestion. All I had were credit cards and my ATM card. I got to Galway and the airport terminal was just this little building that housed everything with no ATMs in sight. In addition, it was necessary to go into the city in order to rent a car or get the bus.

I approached a cab driver outside and told him of my predicament. He offered to take me to the local Barclays Bank where I could get some cash and then take me to the city. That worked well, I got my cash then went into the city and all was well. So sometimes it works out rather nicely, but you never know, so be prepared.

The bottom line is if you can, take some local currency with you and then use ATMs the rest of the time. Generally, USD, GBP and CAD are accepted almost everywhere, so you can take that currency with you as well. In Europe you usually do not have any trouble finding a working ATM, in other countries, you may have to do a little walking.

Please note that some banks will charge you a 3% conversion fee in addition to ATM charges, so be sure and check with your local bank.

Watch Out for Special Offers Airlines, hotels and car rental companies oftentimes have promotions to increase their loyalty membership base. Watch out for these deals as some of them are really lucrative. Follow their twitter and facebook accounts for access to these deals before others. In addition, most have e-mail specials that tell you about the deals as well; just subscribe to them.

A few years back, Latin Pass (now GlobalPass) had an offer where you could fly, stay with and rent from all their partners and you qualify for 1,000,000 miles; yes, 1,000,000 miles. The oneworld and Star Alliance alliances also had a similar promotion for their members with a slightly different reward. I know quite a few

www.passrider.com © 2013 – MUG:NRSA Page 24 McKenzie Ultimate Guides: Non-Revenue (Airline Staff) Travel people who were able to abide by the rules and cashed in. Marriott hotels had a special promotion, where they had you stay a certain number of times at their properties and you got free nights at select hotels.

To qualify for these deals, usually, you must be a member of their loyalty program, which is not a big deal as usually these are free; except for Six Continents Club, now called Ambassador, whose cost is 150 USD, but you get a Platinum status and are eligible for room upgrades if they are available, plus other perks.

How to get Frequent Flyer Miles for your trips I bet you did not think this was possible; well, it is! Almost all of the airlines have a deal with a major credit card company for a credit card that earns miles for all your purchases. The amount of miles you earn varies by the tier level of the card you opt for. You can also pay a higher annual fee that allows you to receive more miles than the average cardholder for those purchases. So get one of those cards and use it for all your non- revenue travel expenses including paying for your tickets whenever applicable. It is that easy. American Airlines actually have a deal with Citibank where your ATM card can earn miles if you pay a monthly fee. Here is a partial list of a few airlines with offers. You may also contact your bank.

• American Airlines – http://www.aa.com/aa/pubcontent/en_US/travelInformation/airportAmenities/AACreditCard.jsp • Air France /KLM– http://www.klm.com/travel/nl_en/flying_blue/flying_blue_american_express_card/flying_blue_america n_express_cards/index.htm • British Airways – http://www.britishairways.com/travel/credit-cards/public/en_gb • Delta Air Lines - https://www262.americanexpress.com/dapply/web/getthecard/us/api/dal/dal- Page1/ccsg-multi-lp • jetBlue - https://www262.americanexpress.com/dapply/web/applycard/us/personal-card/api/jal/jetblue- personal-card/jal-hp • Lufthansa German Airlines - http://www.miles-and- more.com/online/portal/mam/us/earn/credit_card?l=en&nodeid=2320139&cid=1000390 • Southwest Airlines - https://creditcards.chase.com/a1/southwest/2ffhero?clk=HOMEHEROCHASE2131018 • United Airlines - https://www.chase.com/online/Credit-Cards/united_explorer-travel-new.htm • Various cards from Bank of America - https://www6.bankofamerica.com/creditcards/marketinglist.action?context_id=marketing_list&category_id=2010

Chapter 7

Lodging

Finding somewhere to stay is always a challenge. I suggest doing some shopping before making a final decision. Use the Internet to your advantage by doing some comparison shopping. I also strongly recommend talking to your peers as getting information first hand from someone who has already visited your city is priceless. Consider the following when looking for hotels:

• the Web sites for the major hotel chains • search engines – type the name of your city, once you find a link, investigate lodgings in that city, search for bed and breakfasts in your city • check out the visitor’s bureau for the city in question • check other online travel sites for you to try as well (Expedia, Hotwire, Orbitz and Travelocity) • read travel guides such as Fodors, Frommers and Lonely Planet to name a few • www.kayak.com • www.hotels.com • www.9flats.com • www.easybedandbreakfasts.co.uk • • www.biddingfortravel.com • www.lasthotel.com – lowest hotel prices in London • www.priceline.com • www.id90.com

Ensure that you also call the hotels’ reservation numbers and check if they have lower rates available. Don’t forget to ask for the travel industry discount if you are eligible. Sometimes, you may have to call the local number for the hotel in order to get the industry rate. Note that you will be required to show your airline ID at check-in time in order to receive the discount, otherwise you will be required to pay the regular rate.

Some rates may include breakfast; be sure to ask when making your reservation. You should also bear in mind that if your trip the next morning is an early departure, then you’d be wasting money on breakfast as usually breakfast starts at 6:00 a.m. I’ve found that with most of my trips, breakfast rates are oftentimes not worth it; 1) I depart before breakfast is served and 2) The economics is not right as most times all I need is fruit, maybe juice and some hot tea; why should I pay extra, usually about 12.00 USD for that? A funny breakfast story: On a recent trip, a friend and I had a room that included breakfast in the rate, which was perfect, except that we showed up at 9:05 a.m. and breakfast was served until 9:00 a.m.

One thing you can do is to negotiate on check-in. If you arrive really early (be sure you asked for early check- in) and breakfast is still being served; ask if you can have tomorrow’s breakfast today; the hotel staff may oblige you. Now, that means if for some reason your departure is delayed the next morning, you have no breakfast; so you are on your own.

On the subject of early check-in; if you think this will occur, you should advise the hotel when you make your reservation. Most hotels have check-in after 2 p.m. If you are an elite member of their frequent stayer program you may be able to check-in earlier. Sometimes, if the rooms are ready the agent will allow you to check-in as well.

Some hotels do not allow early check-in so don’t be alarmed if you get there early and you cannot check-in. Some hotels like Travelodge in the U.K. will also charge a little extra for an early check-in. Be sure and read your confirmation receipt when you’ve made your reservation as it will advise you of all the rules, etc.

There have been a few times when I’ve arrived in Europe after crossing the Atlantic Ocean and my room was not ready, even after noting that I had requested early check-in and is an elite member of their program. This is very annoying as you can imagine. Sometimes I get an upgraded room, other times, I just have to wait in the lobby or store my stuff and come back in a few hours. Just be flexible and good about it. That usually works best.

This brings up the subject of Frequent Stayer Programs. I can say it in two words; join them! You stay at the hotels anyway, so why not. They cost you nothing to join, well most of them anyway (Intercontinental Ambassador formerly Six Continents Club cost about 150 USD at the time of this writing and 100 USD to renew each year).

When you become an elite member in these programs, you do get preferential treatment such as early check-in, late check-out, access to the lounges, turn down service, complimentary fruit basket on arrival, business rooms, room upgrades, free local calls, free WiFi, complimentary breakfast, etc. Note that these amenities vary by program and hotel.

Always take your confirmation number and if you can, a copy of the confirmation e-mail or receipt you receive when you made your reservation. This is very important. Sometimes when you book on the Internet, it takes a little time for the reservation to get to the hotel itself, so you may show up at the hotel and they do not have your reservations. Yes this does happen.

I booked a reservation online once for a hotel in London. I got there and the desk clerk said I had no reservation. I promptly produced my receipt to show him that not only do I have one, but it is pre-paid. He shrugged me off saying that he was fully booked and proceeded to help another waiting customer. Obviously annoyed, I interjected that I was not finished and that he would have to find me another room. He was very nasty, but did find me a room at another hotel about twenty minutes away by train. He called, made the arrangements and gave me a receipt to show them when I got there. If I did not have my original receipt, I’d have no leg to stand on and would have had to find another place on my own and deal with it when I returned home.

Another time, a similar incident occurred in the Netherlands. I showed up at the hotel and they had my reservation, but in their system, it showed no breakfast and one King bed. On my confirmation it showed two Double beds and breakfast. I was astute when he gave me the room key and noticed that the room code said King and that he had written a charge for breakfast if we needed it on my room information. So I challenged him on it and indeed it was out of sync. He made the corrections, but only because I had my copy of the receipt. The funny thing with this one was that I made it on the phone with their reservations line, so I am not sure why there was a discrepancy. I ended up getting some coupons for free drinks for the mix up. Again, the

www.passrider.com © 2013 – MUG:NRSA Page 27 McKenzie Ultimate Guides: Non-Revenue (Airline Staff) Travel key here is to point out the error nicely. If you want additional compensation or the matter is not handled as you expect, feel free to drop a line to the customer service center for that hotel/ chain. You’d be surprised at what you may receive.

Study the rules of these frequent stayer programs, this way you can accrue points fast and efficient. You’d be surprised at some of the great offers they have. Deals come along from time to time, so keep an eye out for them. Check facebook and twitter for the latest deals.

So, do your homework and shop for the best deal. Oh, just in case you book that room and you get bumped; call and explain what happened, most of the times the hotels are good about it and refund your money. Again, be nice.

Chapter 8

Ground Transportation

Getting around once you are at a destination is just as important as getting there. Your choice of transportation usually depends on where you are going as some cities are better when it comes to conveniently priced transportation from the airport to the city.

I suggest doing a bit of research before you go. For most cities, using public transportation is your best bet. It is usually more reliable and also inexpensive. We’ve compiled some city tips at http://www.passrider.com/cities/ for your convenience. If you have additional tips, please submit them via this feedback form at http://www.passrider.com/contact-us.

Take London for example; you can take the London Underground (subway) or a local train to almost everywhere. The bus system (http://www.tfl.gov.uk/buses/) is also quite good and operates 24 hours. Bet you did not know there is something called the Night Bus in London (http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/gettingaround/maps/buses/default.asp?borough=night), or did you? The Night buses run at night of course, the schedule usually starts around 11:30 p.m. until about 4:30 a.m. The regular bus numbers just change to a “N” before it, so there really is no interruption in service. There is usually a schedule posted at the bus stops. Note that not every route has a Night bus, but you can pretty much get to the major places within London using the Night buses. The most popular two are the 25 and the N9. Remember the N9 as that one goes to Heathrow airport. Note that there are now some buses that run 24 hours that do not have the “N” designation, for example the 23, 25 and the 27. There are different fares depending on the form of payment so check http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tickets/default.aspx for updated details.

The Underground system is a bit pricey, but it is the most economical way to travel in London. No matter which city you visit, always check for the weekend, single or multi-days/ zones or off-peak fares (if applicable). These fares/ rates are called different things in different cities, but they all give you more value for your money.

Some subway systems such as Paris’ and London’s have ticket offices at the airport while others such as New York City’s do not and you have to go into the city first before you can get a discounted pass. If you do your research though, you will know what to do in which city. You can also buy some of these Ground passes online. Of course, there are always taxis, airport buses and car rental companies, choose the appropriate method based on what you are trying to accomplish on your trip. Sometimes, if you are in a group, the cab may make better sense. In London, if you have a group of four, you can get a discount on the Heathrow Express into London from Heathrow. If you are in German and a party of up to five you pay a discounted rate as long as all travelers travel together.

Always remember to show your ID at train and bus stations at the airports as you may qualify for a discount. For example: in Munich, Germany (MUC), Lufthansa employees get a discount on the Lufthansa City Bus; in London, all airline employees get a discount on the Gatwick (http://www.gatwickexpress.co.uk/), Heathrow Expresses (http://www.heathrowexpress.com) and Heathrow Connect (http://www.heathrowconnect.com/index.asp), but not on the Stansted Express (http://www.stanstedexpress.com). If you visit London often, get a partner’s discount card from Gatwick Express in Victoria or the Gatwick Airport stations. With this card, you can buy your tickets on the train and

www.passrider.com © 2013 – MUG:NRSA Page 29 McKenzie Ultimate Guides: Non-Revenue (Airline Staff) Travel still receive the discount. Otherwise, you will have to pay the regular fare if you do not purchase your ticket from the ticket desks at either Victoria station or the airport. The card is free and takes just about five minutes to fill out the application form, which can be had at the ticket desks in London Victoria station or Gatwick airport.

Car Rental If you rent a car, you should of course; shop around, just like you would for a hotel. Industry discounts apply as well, but be sure to check the rates as sometimes the Industry discount is higher. Ensure that you have joined the car companies’ frequent renter programs as you may receive additional discounts. Some companies such as Hertz charges for different levels of their program, but depending on your travel habits, this may be worth it. Besides, you cannot beat the fact that after a long flight, you get to the car rental office and there is your car waiting with your name above it in lights! Don’t be caught arguing that the lines are too long, when you could have been gone 30 minutes ago, if you were an elite member. Study the rules of these frequent drivers programs, this way you can accrue points fast and efficient. You’d be surprised at some of the great offers they have.

One thing to remember is that you do not necessarily have to take the insurance options. Check to see if your credit card, homeowners or car insurances cover you for car rentals before you take any options. In some international cities, it makes sense to just take the daily insurance option as your other insurance options may not cover you in those countries. Australia, Jamaica and Ireland are two countries where this is the case.

Watch out for one-way rental or drop off charges. Most companies don’t call it “drop-off” charges, they just have different rates for one-way rentals. Be sure and iron that out before you commit to the quoted rate. If you happen to make more than one reservation for a destination, please remember to cancel the ones you don’t need. Sadly many people forget to do this.

When refueling ensure that you use a gas station that is as far away from the airport as you can allow as usually the gas stations on the airport property may charge you considerably more. Note that some companies require that you fill up within 4 miles of the airport. Also, if you drive less than 75 miles, you must provide a receipt that you bought gas or you will be charged somewhere to the tune of $13.99 as a surcharge.

Here is a list of some of the most popular car companies:

Alamo – http://www.alamo.com Avis – http://www.avis.com Budget – http://www.budget.com Dollar – http://www.dollarcarrent.com Enterprise – http://www.enterprise.com Europcar – http://www.europcar.com Hertz – http://www.hertz.com National – http://www.nationalcar.com Payless - http://www.paylesscarrental.com Sixt – http://www.e-sixt.com Thrifty – http://www.thrifty.com

Chapter 9

Airport/ Airline Lounges

There is nothing like taking a long flight and then having a refreshing shower after you land, then you get on your way again feeling like a million bucks. If you want to do that then you have to fly Business or First class or be affiliated with an Airport/ Airline lounge.

Most of these lounges are run by the airlines, but some airports and credit cards (American Express and Diners Club) have their own. Most airlines have them as a benefit of being an elite member in their frequent flyer program (e.g. Lufthansa’s Senator Lounges and British Airways Terraces), while others charge for membership. So unless you buy revenue tickets or fly in a premium class of service, you would have to purchase a membership if the airline allows it.

Oh, if you are a Diners Club member you have access to the Diners Club Lounges around the world (http://www.dinersclub.com/en/DCIHome/airportlounge.jhtml), for example, São Paolo, Brazil (GRU). If you have an American Express Platinum card, you can get access to the American Airlines’ Admiral Clubs and Delta Sky Clubs. Certain restrictions apply so check out the rules here: https://www217.americanexpress.com/cards/npz.do?pmccode=137#CARDS/137/1/0/1. Also, at select airports around the world, there are American Express Lounges, e.g. Dubai International, Dubai United Arab Emirates (DXB) (an American Express card from the Middle East is required for entry) or Santiago International, Santiago Chile (SCL).

I am a card carrying United Club member and love every minute of it. I’ve had breakfast, snacks, drinks, showers, read the papers, get away from the hustle of the rest of the airport, almost everything except a nap in the Club. Although, you can nap in the ANA Club in Tokyo-Narita as well as the SkyTeam Clun in Terminal 4 in Heathrow. Don’t miss your flight though. I get my money’s worth.

Some cards give you access to partners’ lounges, so check on that before you decide on a card.

There is also Priority Pass which gives you access to select clubs around the world. They have an annual membership or a pay per use membership. American Express Platinum card holders now have a Priority Pass membership as a benefit. You can find additional details at http://www.prioritypass.com.

Chapter 10

Safety

We live in a different world today than a few years ago. As such, now more than ever, safety must be top of mind whenever we travel. My basic rule of thumb is this: if you would not do it at home, then don’t do it abroad; if you have to, then use caution. If you are unfamiliar with an area, ask your hotel Concierge or tourist bureau for assistance. If you take a “by yourself” walk, be careful, be cognizant of your surroundings and be vigilant. If someone asks you for directions and you are unfamiliar say so and no more, then move on immediately. Now, you may also want to keep an eye on that person, in case they start to follow you knowing that you are unfamiliar with your surroundings. Try not to say, “I’m not from around here,” as that is a dead giveaway, try something like, “I’m not sure, why don’t you ask a Police Officer.”

Only take what you need with you when you go out; i.e. your photo ID, not necessarily your passport, some cash and an ATM card or credit card if you think you will need one. You should leave your valuables in the hotel safe. Some hotels have a safe in your room or if not, there is usually one in the lobby.

It is a good idea to make copies of your travel documents and keep them separate from the originals. This way, if the originals are lost or stolen at least you have the numbers to show the relevant authorities in order to receive temporary travel documents and at least validate who you are. If you have someone at home keep a copy as well, then they can fax that copy to you if you ever need them.

Try to travel in groups of at least two or more if at all possible; there is unity in numbers. It is also a good idea to let others know where you are going and approximately what time to expect you back. If you are not traveling with a group you may not have this luxury, so just be careful out there.

One thing that is a good rule is to register with your country’s consulate in the country you are visiting. This way, if something occurs and you don’t show up when you should and your family contacts the consulate, someone will know where you were staying.

Chapter 11

Make Friends

Maybe I’m just too talkative (well, I am J); I used to get in lots of trouble when I was in school for it, or maybe I just have that magnetic personality, but I have really good conversations with perfect strangers (although no one is perfect) when I travel. As a result, I have several friends all over the globe. I can usually tell nice people from crazed ones, thankfully. When you fly, talk to the people with whom you interact. Oftentimes, you learn so much about something totally different or just a different perspective on life. So far, I’ve not had a bad experience.

The people I meet usually think I am crazy when I tell them of my routings and how long I am staying in any one place though. What I’ve realized is that we are all the same; we just look different and sometimes talk different. But deep down inside, we are all the same.

Appendix

Airline Directory Online Travel Agency Directory Rail Directory

Airline Directory (Africa – Asia)

Africa Air Botswana (BP) – Gaborone, Botswana - http://www.airbotswana.co.bw Air Kenya () - http://airkenya.com Air Madagascar (MD) – Madagascar – http://www.airmadagascar.mg Air Malawi (QM) – Blantyre, Malawi – http://www.airmalawi.com Air Mauritius (MK) – Port Louis, Mauritius – http://www.airmauritius.com Air Seychelles (HM) – Mahe, Republic of Seychelles – http://www.airseychelles.net Air Zimbabwe (UM) – Harare, Zimbabwe - http://www.airzimbabwe.com Egypt Air (MS) – Cairo, Egypt – http://www.egyptair.com.eg Ethiopian Airlines (ET) – Addis Abada, Ethiopia – http://www.flyethiopian.com Kenya Airways (KQ) – Nairobi, Kenya – http://www.kenya-airways.com Kulula.com (MN) – Johannesburg, South Africa – http://www.kulula.com Nationwide Airlines (CE) – Johannesburg, South Africa – http://www.flynationwide.co.za Precision Air (PW) – Dar-es-Salam, Tanzania - http://www.precisionairtz.com Royal Air Maroc (AT) – Casablanca, Morocco – http://www.royalairmaroc.com South African Airways (SA) – Johannesburg, South Africa – http://www.flyssa.com

Asia Air Asia (AK) LCCT Sepang, Malaysia - http://www.airasia.com Air India (AI) – Nariman Point, Mumbai India – http://www.airindia.com Air New Zealand (NZ) – Christ Church, New Zealand – http://www.airnz.co.nz Air Pacific (FJ) - Nadi, Fiji - http://www.airpacific.com ANA (NH) – Tokyo, Japan – http://www.fly-ana.com Asiana (OZ) – Seoul, South Korea – http://www.asiana.com Cathay Pacific Airways (CX) – Lantau Island, Hong Kong – http://www.cathaypacific.com China Southern (CZ) – Guangzhou, China – http://www.cs-air.com Dragonair (KA) – Lantau Island, Hong Kong – http://www.dragonair.com Hawaiian Airlines (HA) – Honolulu, Hawaii USA – http://www.hawaiianair.com Indian Airlines (IC) – Mumbai, India – http://indian-airlines.nic.in Japan Airlines (JP) – Tokyo, Japan – http://www.japanair.com Jet Airways (9W) – Andheri East, Mumbai India – http://www.jetairways.com Korean Airlines (KE) – Seoul South Korea – http://www.koreanair.com Pacific Wings (LW) – Kahului, Hawaii USA – http://www.pacificwings.com Pakistan International Airlines (PK) – Karachi, Pakistan – http://www.piac.com.pk Philippines Airlines (PE) – Manila, Philippines – http://www.pal.com.ph Royal Nepal Airlines (RA) – Kathmandu, Nepal – http://www.royalnepal.com Qantas Airways (QF) – Mascot, NSW Australia – http://www.qantas.com.au Singapore Airlines (SQ) – Singapore – http://www.singaporeair.com Sri Lankan Airlines (UL) – Colombo, Sri Lanka – http://www.airlanka.com Thai Airways (TG) – Bangkok, Thailand – http://www.thaiair.com V Australia (VA) – Sydney, Australia – http://www.vaustralia.com Vietnam Airlines (VN) – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – http://www.vietnamairlines.com.vn Virgin Blue (DJ) – Spring Hill Queensland, Australia – http://www.virginblue.com.au

Airline Directory (The Caribbean – Europe)

The Caribbean Air Antilles Express (3S) – Point à Pitre, Guadeloupe – http://www.airantilles.com Air Caraibes (TX) - Point à Pitre, Guadeloupe – http://www.aircaraibes.com Air Guyane Express (GG) – Cayenne, Maripasoula - http://www.airguyane.com Air Jamaica (JM) – Kingston Jamaica http://www.airjamaica.com Air St. Thomas (ZP) – St. Thomas, USVI – http://www.airstthomas.com Bahamasair (UP) – Nassau, Bahamas - http://www.bahamasair.com Caribbean Airlines (BW) – Port of Spain Trinidad and Tobago http://www.bwee.com Caribbean Star Airlines (8B) – St. George, Antigua – http://www.flycaribbeanstar.com Cape Air (9K) – Hyannis, MA USA – http://www.flycapeair.com Caribbean Sun Airlines (ZQ) – San Juan, Puerto Rico – http://www.flycsa.com Cayman Airways (KX) – Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands – http://www.caymanairways.com Cubana (CU) – Havana, Cuba – http://www.cubana.cu CuraçaoExcel (9H) – Curaçao - http://www.curacaoexel.com Gulfstream International Airlines (3M) – San Juan, Puerto Rico – http://www.gulfstreamair.com LIAT (LI) – St. John’s, Antigua – http://www.liatairline.com/ Mustique Airways (Q4) – St. Vincent and the Grenadines - http://www.mustique.com Seaborne Airlines (BB) – Christiansted, St. Croix USVI – http://www.seaborneairlines.com Tobago Express (TB) – Trinidad & Tobago – http://www.tobagoexpress.com Trans Guyana Airways (TGY) – Georgetown, Guyana – http://www.transguyana.com Tropical Airways (M7) – Pétionville, Haiti - http://www.tropical-haiti.com Winair (WM) – St. Barths - http://www.st-barths.com/winair/winair_intro_eng.html

Central America Copa Airlines (CM) – Panama City, Panama – http://www.copaair.com Maya Island Air (MW) – San Pedro, Belize - http://www.mayaairways.com TACA (TA) – San Salvador, El Salvador – http://www.taca.com Tropic Air (PM) – San Pedro, Belize - http://www.tropicair.com

Europe Agean Cronus Airlines (A3) – Athens, Greece – http://www.aegeanair.com Air Berlin (AB) – Berlin, Germany – http://www.airberlin.com Air France (AF) – Paris, France – http://www.airfrance.com Air Lithuania (TT) – Kaunas, Lithuania – http://www.airlithuania.lt Air Luxor (LK) – Lisbon, Portugal – http://www.airluxor.com Air One (AP) – Rome, Italy – http://www.flyairone.it AirEuropa (UX) – Madrid, Spain – http://www.air-europa.com Alitalia (AZ) – Rome, Italy – http://www.alitalia.com Alpi Eagles (E8) – Marcon, Italy – http://www.alpieagles.com Aurigny Air Services (GR) – Guernsey, United Kingdom – http://www.aurigny.com British Airways (BA) – London, England – http://www.britishairways.com

Airline Directory (Europe)

Europe Brussels Airlines (SN) – Brussels, Belgium – http://www.flysn.com Cirrus (C9) – Saarbrücken, Germany – http://www.cirrus-airlines.de Croatia Airlines (OU) – Zagreb, Croatia – http://www.croatiaairlines.hr CSA Czech Airlines (CZ) – Prague, Czech Republic – http://www.csa.cz dba (DI) – Munich, Germany – http://www.flydba.com easyjet (U2) – London, England – http://www.easyjet.com Estonia Air (OV) – Tallinn, Estonia – http://www.estonian-air.ee European Air Express (EA) – Mönchengladbach, Germany – http://www.eae.aero eurowings (EW) – Frankfurt, Germany – http://www.eurowings.com Excel Airways – Crawley, England – http://www.excelairways.com flybe. (BE) – Exeter, United Kingdom – http://www.flybe.com germanwings (4U) – Köln, Germany – http://www.germanwings.com Hellas Jet (4T) – Athens, Greece – http://www.hellas-jet.com Helvetic Airways (OAW) – Zurich, Switzerland – http://www.helvetic.com Iberia (IB) – Madrid, Spain – http://www.iberia.com Jet2 (LS) – Leeds/ Bradford, England – http://www.jet2.com KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KL) – Amsterdam, The Netherlands – http://www.klm.com LOT Polish Airlines (LO) – Warsaw, Poland – http://www.lot.com Lufthansa German Airlines (LH) – Frankfurt Germany – http://www.lufhtansa.com Luxair (LG) – Luxembourg – http://www.luxair.lu Maersk Air (DM) – Copenhagen, Denmark – http://www.maersk-air.com Monarch (ZB) – Bedfordshire, England – http://www.flymonarch.com Olympic Airlines (OA) – Athens, Greece – http://www.olympic-airways.com PGA Portugalia (NI) – Lisboa, Portugal – http://www.flypga.com/ Ryanair (FR) – Dublin, Ireland – http://www.ryanair.com/ SAS (SK) – Copenhagen, Denmark – http://www.sas.se Swiss International Airlines (LX) – Zurich, Switzerland – http://www.swiss.com TAP Air Portugal (TP) – Lisbon, Portugal – http://www.tap.pt Tyrolean – Innsbruck, Austria – http://www.tyrolean.at Virgin Atlantic Airways (VS) – London, England – http://www.virginatlantic.com VLM (VG) – Rotterdam, The Netherlands – http://www.vlm-airlines.com Volare Airlines (VA) – Gallarate, Italy – http://www.volareweb.com Vueling Airlines () – Barcelona, Spain – http://www.vueling.com Welcome Air (2W) – Innsbruck, Austria – http://www.welcomeair.com Wizz Air (W6) – Hungary – http://www.wizzair.com

Airline Directory (Middle East – North America)

Middle East Daallo Airlines (D3) – Dubai, United Arab Emirates – http://www.daallo.com El Al (LY) – Tel Aviv, Israel – http://www.elal.com Emirates (EK) – Dubai United Arab Emirates – http://www.emirates.com Etihad Airways (EY) – Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – http://www.etihadairways.com Iranair (IR) – Theran, Iran – http://www.iranair.com Kuwait Airways (KU) – Kuwait City, Kuwait – http://www.kuwait-airways.com Royal Jordanian (RJ) – Amman, Jordan - http://www.rja.com Saudi Arabian Airlines (SV) – Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – http://www.saudiairlines.com

North America Aerocaribe (QA) – Cancun, Mexico – http://www.aerocaribe.com Aeromar (BQ) – Mexico City, Mexico – http://www.aeromar.com.mx Aeromexico (AM) – Mexico City, Mexico http://www.aeromexico.com Air Canada (AC) – Toronto, Ontario Canada – http://www.aircanada.ca AirTran Airways (FL) – Orlando, Florida USA – http://www.airtran.com/ Alaska Airlines (AS) – Seattle, Washington USA – http://www.alaskaair.com American Airlines (AA) – Dallas, Texas USA – http://www.aa.com Delta Air Lines (DL) – Atlanta, Georgia USA – http://www.delta.com Frontier Airlines (F9) – Denver, Colorado USA – http://www.frontierairlines.com/ Horizon Air (QX) – Seattle, Washington USA – http://www.horizonair.com jetBlue (B6) – Queens, New York USA – http://ww.jetblue.com Southwest Airlines (WN) – Dallas, Texas USA – http://www.southwest.com United Airlines (UA) – Chicago, Illinois USA – http://www.united.com US Airways (US) – Mesa, Arizona USA – http://www.usairways.com Virgin America (VX) – San Francisco, California USA – http://www.virginamerica.com WestJet (WS) – Calgary, Alberta Canada – http://www.westjet.com

Airline Directory (The Pacific – South America)

The Pacific Aircalin (SB) – Noumea, New Caledonia – http://www.aircalin.com/ Air Tahiti Nui (TN) – Papeete, Tahiti – http://www.flyatn.com Air Pacific (FJ) – Nadi, Fiji – http://www.airpacific.com/ Pacific Sun – Nadi, Fiji - http://www.pacificsun.com.fj

South America Aero Continente (N6) Lima, Peru – http://www.aerocontinente.com Aerolineas Argentinas (AR) – Buenos Aires, Argentina – http://www.aerolineas.com.ar/ Avianca (AV) – Bogotá, Colombia – http://www.avianca.com Azul - Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras – Brazil - http://viajemais.voeazul.com.br/ GOL (G3) – São Paolo, Brazil – http://www.voegol.com.br/ LAN (LA) – Santiago, Chile – http://www.lanchile.com LAN Argentina (LA) – Buenos Aires, Argentina – http://www.lanargentina.com LAN Peru (LP) – Lima, Peru – http://www.lanperu.com Lloyd Aereo Boliviano (LB) – La Paz, Bolivia – http://www.labairlines.com Pluna (PU) – Montevideo, Uruguay – http://www.pluna.aero/ Surinam Airways (PY) – Paramaribo, Suriname – http://www.surinamairways.net TAM (JJ) – São Paulo, Brazil – http://www.tam.com.br

Online Travel Agency Directory

Europe Cheapflights.co.uk - http://www.cheapflights.co.uk europebyair.com - http://www.europebyair.com Opodo – http://www.opodo.com

North America Cheaptickets.com – http://www.cheaptickets.com Expedia.com – http://www.expedia.com Kayak.com – http://www.kayak.com Hotwire.com – http://www.hotwire.com Mobissimi.com – http://www.mobissimo.com Orbitz.com – http://www.orbitz.com Travelocity.com – http://www.travelocity.com

Rail Directory

Europe Deutsche Bahn – http://www.bahn.de Eurostar – http://www.eurostar.com Rail Europe – http://www.raileurope.com SNCF – http://www.sncf.com

North America Amtrak (U.S.) – http://www.amtrak.com NJ Transit (U.S.) – http://www.njtransit.com ViaRail (Canada) – http://www.viarail.ca