FAA Begins Retiring Floppy Disks From U.S. Air Traffic Control
The FAA is retiring floppy-disk technology from controller information systems, with a nationwide display-system rollout planned through 2028.
Blackout Dates
Blackout dates are restricted travel days when discounts or rewards can’t be used, usually during peak seasons.
Blackout dates are specific days when discounts, rewards, or special offers cannot be used, often during busy travel periods like holidays. Airlines, hotels, and loyalty programs set these dates to manage high demand. Travelers should check for blackout dates before booking to avoid restrictions.
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Amadeus Breach Affects 46,000 Singapore Airlines Booking Records
Singapore Airlines says about 46,000 booking records were accessed through Amadeus and is changing booking references for affected customers with upcoming travel.
Booking Says AI Assistant Users Book at About Twice the Rate
Priceline and Agoda AI assistant users booked at about twice the rate of non-users, Booking says, while referrals from outside AI platforms remain small.
JetBlue Raises Bag Fees Again, With First Checked Bag Up to $70
JetBlue’s second bag-fee increase of 2026 lifts first-bag charges to $50–$70 each way for many flyers. New bookings face higher holiday and late-payment costs.
Saudia Unveils Its First Premium Economy Cabin for 2027
Saudia’s first premium economy cabin is expected in 2027, offering up to 43 inches of seat pitch, a calf rest and a 15.5-inch entertainment screen.
Visa Hassles Are Making More Travelers Skip Destinations, IATA Finds
Entry requirements discouraged 43% of surveyed passengers from visiting a destination, even as interest in digital passports and AI travel tools grows.
Ryanair Boss Warns European Airfares Could Rise 20% in 2027
Ryanair’s Michael O’Leary forecasts a 10–20% rise in European airfares in 2027 as fuel costs climb, hedging protection fades and taxes add pressure.
Southwest Replaces A-List With New Rapid Rewards Tiers for 2027
Southwest introduces Silver, Gold and Platinum in 2027, with new Milestone Rewards, changes to Companion Pass qualification and protection for benefits already earned.
Venice Expands Its 2027 Access Fee to 72 Days: The Full Calendar
Venice confirms 72 access-fee days for 2027, from March 26 to August 15, with longer charging hours. Final rates and exemptions are still pending.
Booking Holdings Launches Vayo With Plans to Invest $100 Million
Vayo’s free private beta brings travel reservations into one place and monitors trips, while direct booking and a native app remain on the roadmap.