In order to save on fuel, some airlines are going through every idea in the book.  Many are retiring old planes that are less fuel efficient (compare an old Chevy van versus a new minivan).  Some airlines are actually flying their fleet a few miles per hour slower to a rate that is more gas economical.

However, the most interesting idea is to alleviate overall weight on a plane.  Ever see a movie or show where the plane was running out of gas, so the crew had to strip it of everything heavy?  Apparently the airlines have seen the light and are using similar tactics.  Some ideas are putting less water on planes for bathrooms, removing paint, taking off old drink carts for lighter ones, reducing the number of magazines and newspapers, and even washing planes daily (that dirt and grime only helps slow planes down), or even removing the exterior paint.

Any other ideas to get better mileage?

With the recent news of American Airlines canceling over half of its flight schedule, we’ve received questions about travelers’ alternatives and American’s obligations. To help level the playing field, we’ve done a little research.

What has created this sudden increase in delays and inspections?

After 9-11, congress eased up on the airlines given the financial impact from the reduction in travel, but their leniency has run out. Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, James Oberser, is demanding airlines upkeep and maintain their aircraft, and the FAA is taking note. Delta, Alaska, Southwest, and American Airlines all have been affected by the recent investigation in aircraft maintenance. A spokesperson for the FAA said that the audits will continue through the end of June. When asked if there will be more groundings, she responded “We don’t know, we find what we find.” Are the thousands of cancellations and delays worth the headaches and ruined vacations? You have to wonder where the FAA’s been the past couple years and what, if any, is the real reason Mr. Oberser’s is coming down so hard on the FAA and the airlines.

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News of an economic slowdown have been all over the media, and the travel industry is starting to feel the effect as well. ATA and Aloha Airlines have recently declared bankruptcy. With the news, our mailbox has been filling up with the question, “What’s going to happen to my travel plans?” We’ve done a little research to help answer this question.

What do I do if I booked a flight with Aloha or ATA Airlines?

Aloha Airlines is working with United Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines to rebook trips. Unfortunately, ATA has limited rebooking options. Travelers who purchased tickets from Southwest under the codeshare agreement can contact Southwest for rebooking. For other ATA travelers, your best bet is too look to another airline. Here is a list of other airlines serving ATA destinations. There is quite a bit of coverage so you should be able to find another airline.

Can I get a refund?

Both Aloha and ATA suggest contacting your credit card company or travel agency directly to see about getting a refund. If you paid by check or debit card, it’s a little more difficult; you’ll need to file a claim with the bankruptcy court. To file now, click here.

Aloha suggests filing with the bankruptcy court as well, but they don’t provide any more details.

Is my ticket still valid if I purchased my ticket through Southwest Airlines, but operated by ATA?

You should contact Southwest directly at (800) 308-5037. They have implemented a plan to take care of all customers who purchased a Southwest ticket scheduled to travel on ATA by rebooking them on new itineraries. For even more information click here.

Is my ticket still valid if I purchased my ticket through Aloha Airlines, but operated by United?

Yes. I recommend you contact United Airlines directly to confirm your reservations 1-800-UNITED1

If you learn something that we haven’t posted here, please leave a comment to help your fellow travelers.