Travel Week in Review – December 29th, 2023

The EU’s new Entry-Exit System (EES) is set to finally be launched in October 2024, according to multiple media sources. EES is an automated IT system for registering travelers from non-EU countries, including the UK, when they cross the EU’s external border. It will apply to both short-stay visa holders and visa-exempt travelers. But the implementation of EES has already suffered a series of delays, which has also put back the introduction of the related European Travel Information and Authorization System. Read More…

Self-service screening is coming to airport checkpoints, thanks to the Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) is creatin sustainable changes to systems and processes to increase screening efficiency and improve passenger experience while keeping a stable number of Transportation Security Officers (TSOs). One solution S&T is pursuing through its Screening at Speed Program is passenger self-service screening, which allows PreCheck® passengers to complete the screening process with minimal to no assistance. Read More…

The DOT is investigating possible deceptive practices in airline loyalty programs after federal lawmakers raised concerns about how companies are calculating points and rewards. A DOT spokesperson said Friday in a statement that the agency is planning “to carefully review complaints regarding loyalty programs and exercise our authority to investigate airlines for unfair and deceptive practices that hurt travelers as warranted.” Read More…

Fancy seeing the ancient Acropolis uncluttered by thousands of selfie-snappers? A solution is in the works, but it will set you back up to 5,000 euros ($5,500 USD). Starting April 1, 2024, Greece plans to offer exclusive guided tours of its most powerful tourist magnet to handfuls of well-heeled visitors outside normal opening hours. The measure is part of an overhaul of ticketing policy for Greece’s archaeological sites and museums. Read More…

Half of the 10 busiest airports in 2023 are in the United States, according to OAG’s latest report, released Wednesday. Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport ranked No. 1 as the busiest global airport with more than 61.2 million departing seats. That figure is 12 percent above the seats available in 2022, but 3 percent below what was offered in 2019. Atlanta also was the busiest global airport in 2022 and in 2019. The other U.S. airports in the top 10 global list included Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport in… Read More…