Travel Week in Review – February 3rd, 2023

The Biden administration plans to let the coronavirus public health emergency expire in May, the White House said on Monday, a sign that federal officials believe the pandemic has moved into a new, less dire phase. The move carries both symbolic weight and real-world consequences. Millions of Americans have received free Covid tests, treatments, and vaccines during the pandemic, and not all of that will continue to be free once the emergency is over. Read More…

These types of downgrades from business class to coach are seemingly becoming more common over the last year or so, as airlines have struggled with operational issues like delays and cancellations that can force them to swap aircraft at the last minute. It’s a harsh reminder for passengers who have splurged on a bigger seat at the front of the plane: purchased premium seats aren’t always guaranteed. Read More…

Vacations are not just something most travelers just run out and purchase at the store. For most Americans, vacations are something that is carefully planned and are seen as much-anticipated events. In that regard, making sure your vacation investment is protected should be a top priority. Purchasing travel insurance means that, in the event of flight cancelations or lost luggage, your vacation will not be ruined. Worried about the cost of insurance? It may not be as much as you think. Read More…

United Airlines announced a new joint venture agreement with two biofuel companies Tuesday, saying that it expects the partnership to produce enough sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to power 50,000 flights between Chicago and Denver per year by 2028. The Blue Blade Energy project is a joint venture with Tallgrass and Green Plains, Inc., and will focus on producing ethanol-based aviation fuel. Read More…

The United States Department of State is warning tourists against taking app-based transportation services like Uber in the Quintana Roo state of Mexico amid a rash of incidents that resulted in American travelers getting hurt. The security alert was issued earlier this week and includes popular tourist areas like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. “Official complaints against Uber and other drivers do occur, however, and past disputes between these services and local taxi unions have occasionally turned violent.” Read More…