When Did Airlines Ban Smoking?
Have you ever wondered why there’s a no smoking indicator on airplanes at each seat and in the lavatories? It seems like common sense that you wouldn’t smoke on a flight; however, it wasn’t illegal until a few decades ago! Before then, you could light up on a flight without a worry. When politicians and activists first started talking about banning smoking, tobacco companies predicted revolt. They thought that passengers wouldn’t want to fly without smoking. Now, we can’t imagine a world where you could smoke on a plane. So, when did airlines finally ban in-flight smoking, and [...]
What US Airlines Fly International?
Choosing the right airline is essential to ensuring your trip starts on the right foot! Not all airlines are created equal, so you want to do your due diligence - especially if you’re traveling internationally. Here’s a breakdown of the major US airlines that fly internationally. Remember, not all airlines fly to all the same destinations; however, many are part of airline alliances that allow for codeshare agreements. You can connect with another airline to get to your final destination when this occurs. They handle transferring your luggage, picking the best layover, and more, so all you have [...]
What To Do If Airline Refuses To Refund?
Travel plans change, and there can be any number of reasons why you may want to get a refund from the airline for your ticket. Some circumstances warrant a refund, while others may disqualify you. Let’s explore these and what to do if you’re entitled to a refund, and the airline refuses. This article was updated in . Key Takeaways Check the fine print of your ticket to see if you purchased a refundable or non-refundable fare, as this will determine if you're entitled to a refund. If an airline refuses to refund you and you believe [...]
Can Airlines Refuse Pregnant Passengers?
Flying while pregnant is a personal choice, but there are some risks associated with it. As a result, airlines can refuse service to pregnant women; however, it is more the exception than the rule, especially if you’re early on in your pregnancy. Key Takeaways Flying while pregnant is generally safe, but pregnant women should take precautions and check with their doctor before flying. Most airlines will allow pregnant women to travel freely until 36 weeks, though there may be restrictions for long-haul and international flights or for women pregnant with multiples. Pregnant women should wear compression socks, drink [...]
Can Airlines Refuse Sick Passengers?
In a post-pandemic world, many airlines are leveraging rules in their terms and conditions that have long been forgotten. If you’re not feeling well, airlines have the right to refuse service, especially if you are visibly sick. This also applies if you test negative for COVID-19 and are fully vaccinated, as airlines want to protect their staff and other passengers. An airline is well within their rights to refuse service if they deem that you’re not fit to travel, require medical intervention, or present an overall danger to other passengers and the crew. Here’s all you need to [...]
Are Airlines Refusing Vaccinated Passengers?
Flying regulations have completely changed in a post-COVID-19 world, and airlines will do just about anything to prevent being grounded as they were at the beginning of the pandemic. Many airlines initially required proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test in order to fly, while some have done away with those requirements in accordance with their country’s regulations. However, there was a lot of misinformation initially, causing people to panic about flying once their airports opened back up. One of the most prevalent rumors was that the airlines were refusing vaccinated passengers from traveling. This was at [...]
When Can Airlines Refuse to Pay Compensation?
In theory, regulations like EC 261, Brazilian ANAC 400, and the Montreal Convention protect passenger rights when their flights are canceled or delayed. They outline clear expectations that airlines must follow to pay out for their inconvenience. However, it’s not always cut and dry. Airlines are a business, and they want to protect their bottom line. They won’t voluntarily pay you out under these regulations. Instead, you have to contact them after the fact to do so. You’ll submit your documentation to prove your claim, and oftentimes, they’ll reject it - even if you have a viable case! [...]
How Many Bags Can You Take on a Plane?
One of the hardest things to do is pack as you're planning a trip! You want to make sure that you have enough clothes to wear for the duration of the stay while still preparing for accidents. After a couple of extra outfits, weather-appropriate jackets, and footwear, it can be hard to fit all your personal belongings into one bag. Now, you may wonder how many bags you can take on a plane? The answer is, it depends. Some airlines allow you to bring up to two carry-on bags with you on the plane, though one must be [...]
Why Don’t Planes Fly Over Tibet?
Tibet is a beautiful country with so much to offer the world. An autonomous region of China, it’s home to Mount Everest, the highest mountain on Earth. There are also beautiful palaces, fantastic cultural attractions, and amazing food to try – just to name a few. Why wouldn’t you want to hop a plane and take on this interesting country with all that to offer? It’s a little-known fact that most planes actually don’t fly over Tibet, but it’s not because it’s unlucky. Instead, it’s because it’s not safe. It’s so high above sea level that most pilots [...]