Travel Leaders' Beacon Flight Notification system

We've Got Your Back! With record snowfalls and countless airline cancellations, to say that traveling during the month of January was a challenge, is putting it mildly. We are proud to say that due to the dedication of our stellar team on staff 24/7 and our Beacon Flight Notification system, we had your back! During the extreme weather, Travel Leaders monitored over 3,647 passengers and was able to re-protect over 1,072 flight cancellations for people affected by weather delays and cancellations.

Travel Leaders' Beacon Flight Notification system alerts travelers of airline delays, cancellations, re-routes, terminal/baggage claim information and gate changes. Information is sent directly to any mobile/cell phone, smart phone or wireless PDA via text messaging services. If travelers are on a flight that has been delayed and have a missed connection, Travel Leaders' Customer Care Specialists are already alerted and will proactively re-protect travelers on the next available flight. Where no flights are available, Travel Leaders may secure a hotel room (simply as a precaution) to ensure accommodations at the best price. Once landed, travelers will have a voice or email with instructions on where to go and what to do -- no need to stand in lines or wander around the airport looking for an available seat or available hotel room.

Pesky Baggage Fees

In other news, US Airways quietly announced on their website this month that they would be raising their fees on oversized, overweight and third checked parcels. Effective March 1st, bags that weigh between 51 and 70 pounds will be raised from $50 to $90 and bags between 71 and 100 pound will be charged $175, up from $100. The airline's charge for oversized bags - those measuring between 62 and 80 inches is jumping from $100 to $175. The fee to check more than two bags will increase to $125 per additional bag, from $100. These fees are in addition to the standard checked fee and are charged, each way. Of the major US carriers, US Airways and Delta charge the highest baggage fees.

Delta to Offer Economy Comfort Seats

Beginning in May, Delta Air Lines will be offering "Economy Comfort" seats on long-haul international flights.

The seats feature four more inches of legroom and 50% more recline than standard international economy seats.

Economy passengers would pay an additional $80 to $160 each way, though Delta plans to provide access to the new seats at no extra charge for full-fare economy passengers and diamond and platinum frequent flyer program members. Gold and silver frequent flyers would be given 50% and 25% discounts, respectively.

Travel Tips

Tips for travelling during inclement weather, or anytime for that matter:

• Book flights with early departures to avoid the cascading effect of delays on later flights

• Book non-stops to lessen the chance of getting stuck

• Fully charge your mobile devices before your trip and program your agent team's number

• Take a carry-on bag whenever possible and include essential items such as medications, PDA chargers and important business materials

• Pack some snacks for tarmac delays or in case airport restaurants close early or open late due to weather