5 travel tips you probably didn't know, Frontier Airlines big announcement, Could this new tactic block your refund
Monday, May 20th, 2024.
Gate Access
Happy Monday, Travel Friend! Today, I’m going to share 5 travel tips you probably didn’t know, discuss Frontier Airlines’ major updates, and explain why this new tactic by Delta Airlines shouldn’t scare you. Today’s email has a lot of info, so you may need to click the three dots on the lower left or the “VIEW ENTIRE MESSAGE” note on the bottom to read it. Let’s get into it!
5 Travel Tips You Probably Didn’t Know
Save Cash & Time With MPC
When folks travel internationally, they automatically consider applying for Global Entry. But what if I told you you could get the exact same treatment for free?
Simply download The CBP Mobile Passport Control App. Mobile Passport Control is a CBP program that allows travelers to submit their passport and customs declaration information via a mobile app for expedited entry into the United States.
The major perks include no application, no interview, and no fee required. It’s so fast that you can actually download the app same day and still use the benefits.
Book These Seats & Get Free Alcoholic Beverages
American Airlines has a hidden perk most travelers are unaware of. If you’re sitting in an exit row seat on certain planes, you’re able to enjoy free alcoholic beverages.
Aviation officials are scrutinizing this perk because they claim it can impair passengers' ability to assist in the event of an emergency.
I agree… but I also love free cocktails!
In Gate Access Newsletter+, I break down the details of how to know if you’re in a seat that actually benefits from this because your ticket will not tell you. Also, this information can not be found on the airline’s official website.
Airport Parking Isn’t That Bad if You Know This
Have you ever taken Uber to or from the airport? If so, you know how pricey it could get. Here’s a tip within a tip. If you have no choice but to use rideshare services and you want to save some cash, utilize the free airport transportation to go to the car rental facility. Request your ride from that location. This ups your chances of getting out of the geofenced area that increases rideshare fees. All airports have increased rideshare fees.
Now, here’s the actual tip for this section…
Skip the rideshare and actually park at the airport. I’m not talking about 3rd party lots where you have to take a shuttle to get to the airport. I can’t stand those. I’m talking about the actual airport parking lot.
Most airlines allow you to pre-book your parking. This reserves your parking spot and also gives you a discount vs. driving up to the lot the same day and paying. I personally do this, and it’s been a lifesaver when traveling on busy weeks or during holidays.
I learned my lesson after paying $80 to and from the airport using rideshare services. With this method, I paid $60 for three days, and I had the luxury of walking straight to my car without having to wait for a shuttle.
Why Check Bags When You Can Do This Instead?
If you didn’t know, I’m #TeamCarryOn. But I have to admit, there are times when I need to check a bag. You and I both know how expensive checking a bag is. If I need to check a bag, first, I look at my miles and see if I have enough.
Yes! You can check bags with miles.
If I don’t have enough miles, I ship my items to the hotel i’m staying at. Most hotels accept package deliveries for guests, and if the cost is significantly lower than checking a bag, I highly suggest you do it.
Not only does it make travel easier by eliminating the need to carry extra bags through the airport, but you also have official tracking information for your items.
What You Need to Know About TSA Cares
I’ve shared information regarding TSA Cares before but wanted to clarify who can utilize this service. TSA Cares is NOT only for individuals with disabilities or medical conditions. Anyone can utilize this service.
If you’re a first-time flyer or a parent traveling with children, I highly recommend using TSA Cares. You can request assistance on your next trip here.
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Frontier Airlines Announces Premium Seating Options
Frontier Airlines is the first airline to respond to the new refund rule introduced by The Department of Transportation. I must say, it’s a pretty significant change for the airline. They are now offering premium seating options (Economy, Premium, and Business).
Yes, Frontier now has a business class…
Business: Designed for travel luxury, this option offers UpFront Plus seating with additional space and comfort (subject to availability), including a guaranteed empty middle seat at the front of the aircraft. This premium option also includes a carry-on bag, two checked bags with an increased 50-pound weight allowance, and first-to-board priority boarding (Board First) with guaranteed overhead bin space.
Premium: Built for comfort, this option offers a premium seat assignment (subject to availability), along with a carry-on bag and first-to-board priority boarding (Board First) with guaranteed overhead bin space.
Economy: Provides all the essentials for a streamlined travel experience with a carry-on bag and a standard seat assignment, offering a balance between affordability and convenience.
Basic: Perfect for budget travelers, this option includes a personal item, with additional amenities available for purchase, providing flexibility and savings.
They also announced that they are eliminating change fees, extending their voucher redemption period to a year, and issuing their “For Less’ price guarantee policy, which basically says they’ll give you 2,500 miles if you find a flight cheaper.
All of this is available only for new bookings at FlyFrontier.com.
As someone who loves a great flight deal, this sounds great in some ways. However, if you know Frontier, they’re very sneaky with their terms and conditions. I read the terms and highlighted what you need to know in Gate Access Newsletter+.
Passengers Are Concerned This New Tactic From Delta Airlines Could Intervene With Refunds
In previous issues, I explained the woes airlines may soon face regarding ancillary fee reimbursement. Due to those findings, a travel friend sent the following image, asking if this would prevent Delta from issuing a refund for services not provided due to them notifying passengers before the flight.
After reading this, I could see why it may signal concern, but here’s the thing.
Even if airlines notify passengers in advance about missing ancillary services, they are still liable to refund the passenger for those services if they are not provided. The rule mandates refunds for any paid ancillary services that are not delivered, regardless of whether the passenger was notified beforehand.
The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that passengers receive what they have paid for or are refunded if the service cannot be provided. Notification does not exempt the airline from the obligation to refund; it merely serves to inform the passenger of what to expect during their travel. This helps maintain transparency and trust while also ensuring that passengers are not financially disadvantaged by paying for services they do not receive.
Also, the new rule has not gone into law. Due to the current lawsuit, the department is facing with airlines, I’m sure it’ll be some time before it goes into law.
Continued in Gate Access Newsletter+
A Deeper Dive Into Free Alcoholic Beverages on American Airline Flights
A Deeper Dive Into Frontier Airline Updates
Access to Airfordable $25-Off Discount Code
Harmony Tip of The Week
Access to The Gate Access Community
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