In this category, we'll focus on air travel, featuring international airlines, reviews of passenger airlines, guides to air travel, and other topics related to flying by air.
Air flights began with Orville and Wilbur Wright, who achieved the first controlled, powered flight on December 17, 1903. The development of air travel accelerated during World Wars I and II, with new technological developments.
While the first scheduled passenger air flight took place in 1914, it took a backseat during the World Wars. Jet airliners came about in the 1950s, leading to more efficient flights. Today, air travel is crucial in global transportation, enabling travelers to reach distant continents in hours rather than the days it used to take by sea.
Air travel can be domestic or international. Domestic flights involve flights within a single country. They are typically shorter and serve regional and national airports. International flights cross international borders, connecting countries and continents. International travel requires passports, visas, and adherence to global regulations.
Air travel can also be classified as private or commercial. Private jets and aircraft offer exclusive travel options, providing flexibility, privacy, and access to smaller airports. Commercial flights are more common and may be domestic or international.
Many travelers have found that air travel has become increasingly stressful and inconvenient over the past few decades.
One reason is the implementation of stringent security measures and the transfer of responsibilities from the airlines to the government. While the airlines balanced security concerns with efficiency and passenger comfort, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), a government agency, is concerned solely with security, often at the expense of everything else.
The growth in passenger numbers, combined with the inefficiency of TSA security measures, has led to overcrowding and long lines for check-in, security, and boarding. Airlines have responded by fitting more passengers onto each flight, resulting in cramped seating arrangements.
With more flights in operation, the probability of delays and cancellations has risen. Air traffic congestion, airline operational issues, and weather disruptions can lead to rescheduled or canceled flights.
Airlines have increasingly adopted business models that charge additional fees for services previously included in the ticket price. These fees may be added to checked baggage, seat selection, in-flight meals, and carry-on luggage. These charges add up, making travel budgeting more complex and frustrating.
Cost-cutting measures have reduced the quality of customer services. Additionally, many airlines have streamlined their operations to rely heavily on self-service kiosks.
Security changes, overcrowded facilities, operational challenges, additional fees, reduced customer service, and government responses to the COVID-19 pandemic increase the inconveniences associated with air travel.
Some steps can be taken to reduce the stress involved with air travel. Book flights well in advance to secure the best fares, and use flight comparison websites to find deals. Be aware of any new measures that might have been instituted since your last flight, and prepare accordingly. Pack efficiently and adhere to baggage restrictions. Keep essential items such as medication, travel documents, and valuables in your carry-on luggage. Check-in online to save time at the airport and arrive early, particularly for international flights. Be prepared for security checks. Wear easily removable shoes and avoid packing prohibited items. Understand that the TSA doesn't care if you make your flight or not or if you leave unhappy. Bring reading materials to pass the time, as it is likely that a lot of time will pass.
Air travel might be stressful, but it is one of the safest modes of transportation. While occasional lapses occur, airlines follow strict maintenance schedules, and pilots undergo extensive training. Crashes are rare.
Many potential health effects of air travel are seen chiefly in long flights. Crossing time zones can disrupt your circadian rhythm, leading to jet lag. To minimize these effects, stay hydrated, adjust your sleep schedule before you travel, and spend time in natural sunlight after you arrive. Long flights can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis, where blood clots form in your legs. Moving around the cabin, stretching, and good hydration can reduce the risk. Reduced cabin pressures can cause discomfort, especially for respiratory or cardiovascular patients. Drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol and caffeine can mitigate these effects. Also, remember that airplanes are enclosed spaces in which air is recirculated, which can facilitate the spread of germs. Use hand sanitizers and wash your hands frequently.
Recommended Resources
AoW was the first index of online airline sites and has been online since 1994. It was created by University of British Columbia associate professor Marc-David Seidel while conducting research as a graduate student on the development of the airline industry. The site now includes a geographic index of airline websites, aircraft photographs, airport codes, a Fractional Jets directory, city guides, and full travel booking functionality through its relationships with established travel companies.
https://flyaow.com/
SNV Aviation Private Limited, doing business as Akasa Air, is an Indian low-cost airline headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. Founded in 2021, the airline currently flies to 27 destinations, although it is slotted to expand. A profile of the airline is featured on the website, which includes information about its website, flight schedules, a fare sheet, special fares, and its pet policies. Its leadership team, career opportunities, online bookings, and booking management are available.
https://www.akasaair.com/
Alaska Airlines, headquartered in SeaTac, Washington, is the sixth-largest airline in North America. It operates out of five hubs. The website allows visitors to find where the airline flies, learn about traveling with Alaska Airlines, evaluate or join its Mileage Plan, book flights online, and manage their bookings. It also features career information, investor relations, and optional services and fees. A mobile application and the company's website are available in both English and Spanish.
https://www.alaskaair.com/
American Airlines, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, is the largest airline in the world, measured by the number of scheduled passengers carried, the revenue passenger mile, and daily flights. It flies to 350 destinations in 48 countries. Its website includes travel information, a travel planner, a mobile application, and its policies on bags, special assistance, and check-ins. Other resources include a travel planner, its AAdvantage rewards program, flight status, and online bookings.
https://www.aa.com/
Billiga Flygbiljetter is an independent flight and hotel search engine available in English and Swedish. Visitors can find the best fares from low-cost and traditional airlines, travel agencies, and chartered flight providers with one click. Search fields allow users to compare flights, find fares, or search by price when they enter departure and destination, departure and return dates, number of passengers, and currency. A FAQ is available, and feedback may be left.
https://www.billigaflygbiljetter.se/en/
Available in English or Danish, Billige Blybilletter is a travel search engine that helps users find cheap flights by comparing prices from various airlines and more than a hundred travel agencies. The website offers a user-friendly interface to search for flights, hotels, and car rentals, making planning your trip easier and finding the best prices. Its search field allows visitors to enter their departure and destination locations and date, return date, and the number of passengers.
https://www.billigeflybilletter.com/en/
BA is the flag carrier airline of the United Kingdom. Headquartered in London, England, BA is the second largest UK-based carrier, based on fleet size and passengers carried, behind easyJet. After a merger with Iberia, the parent company of British Airways is International Airlines Group. An introduction to the airline is provided on its website, and travelers can book and manage their flights through the website, search for a flight, flight with hotel, flight with car, hotel, or car.
https://www.britishairways.com/
Billing itself as the Uber of business travel, Day Flier is a full-service business travel network of air and ground charter operators for business professionals on the Gulf Coast. The booking service will find and select an airline flight and the driving time for the desired trip, presenting an actual timeline of what the client's day would look like by using airline travel, automobile, or air charter with one of Day Flier's operators. Quotes may be requested online, and contacts are included.
http://dayflier.com/
Delta is the oldest operating airline in the United States and the seventh-oldest operating worldwide. It has nine hubs, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and serves 325 destinations in 52 countries on six continents. It is second among the world's largest airlines by number of passengers carried, passenger miles flown, and fleet size. Visitors to the site can check flight status, book flights, or check in. Career opportunities, investor relations, and SkyMiles programs are outlined.
https://www.delta.com/
Legally incorporated as Air Kilroe Limited, Eastern Airways is a British regional airline headquartered at Humberside Airport near Kirmington, North Lincolnshire, England. Eastern operates domestic, international, and private charter flights. The airline's site offers an overview and information about airport parking, attraction tickets, route passes, flight schedules, fares, products, and online bookings and management. Contact information and a newsletter are also available.
https://www.easternairways.com/
The British multinational low-cost airline group is headquartered at London Luton Airport. It operates domestic and international scheduled services on 927 routes in 34 countries through its affiliate airlines, EasyJet UK, EasyJet Switzerland, and EasyJet Europe. Established in 1995, the company has expanded through acquisitions. Flight information, holiday packages, last-minute deals, and information on cars, transfers, online bookings, and contacts are available.
https://www.easyjet.com/en/
Emirates is one of the two flag carriers of the United Arab Emirates and a subsidiary of the Emirates Group. Based in Dubai, the airline is owned by the government of Dubai's Investment Corporation of Dubai and is the largest airline in the Middle East. General information about the airline is provided, along with travel information, an introduction to Dubai International, and career information. Flights may be booked through the site, which offers travel services and a trip-planning guide.
https://www.emirates.com/us/english/
The flag carrier of Ethiopia is wholly owned by the Ethiopian government. The airline began operations in 1946 and expanded to international flights in 1965, now serving a network of 155 passenger destinations, 22 domestic, and 68 freighter destinations. An overview of the airline is provided, including its accessibility plans, baggage policies, ground services, in-flight catering, cargo and logistics services, and a statement as to customer commitment. Flights may be booked online.
https://www.ethiopianairlines.com/
Federal Aviation Administration
The FAA is a federal government agency within the Department of Transportation that regulates civil aviation in the United States and surrounding international waters. Its authority includes air traffic control, certification of personnel and aircraft, setting standards for airports, and protecting U.S. assets during the launch or reentry of commercial space vehicles. The FAA discusses aircraft, air traffic, airports, pilots and airmen, data and research, regulations, space, and drones.
https://www.faa.gov/
Powered by the OAG Airport FlightFinder, FlightView is a real-time flight tracking service that provides comprehensive information on flights and airport delays. It allows users to track flights, manage itineraries, access arrival and departure boards, and stay informed about airport delays. Weather forecasts help travelers prepare for their trips. A mobile flight-tracking application for iOS and Android devices is also included. A free trial is available, and contacts are available.
https://www.flightview.com/
Founded in 1998, FlyerTalk is an Internet forum for the discussion of airline frequent flyer programs, hotel loyalty programs, and other issues related to air flights and travel. Created by Randy Petersen, FlyerTalk was acquired by Internet Brands in 2007. While anyone can read the content of the forums, participation in forum discussions requires a (free) membership and a login. News, a glossary of terms, and informational articles are also available on the site.
https://www.flyertalk.com/
Founded in 1994, Frontier Airlines is an American low-cost airline headquartered in Denver, Colorado. It operates flights to over 120 destinations in the United States, the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America. Its parent company is Indigo Partners. Its aircraft are characterized by the emblem of an animal on its tail, signifying its commitment to helping to preserve the unique animals found throughout North America. Flights, hotels, and cars may be booked through its website.
https://www.flyfrontier.com/
Stylized as jetBlue, the airline is headquartered in Long Island City in Queens, New York City. It operates more than a thousand flights per day, serving a hundred domestic and international network destinations in the Americas and Europe. TrueBlue, its frequent-flyer program, is highlighted, and visitors to the website can book flights, manage trips, and check in online. Flights, vacation packages, car rentals, group trip planning, credit cards, points, and perks are available.
https://www.jetblue.com/
The Scottish regional airline is headquartered at Glasgow Airport in Paisley, Renfrewshire, Scotland. Founded in 1962, the airline primarily operates domestic flights within the United Kingdom and is the largest regional airline in Scotland. Flight locations, online bookings, booking management services, online check-ins, delayed baggage management, payment options, and company details are published on the website. Special offers, fares, timetables, and contacts are posted.
https://www.loganair.co.uk/
Officially known as Deutsche Lufthansa AG, Lufthansa is Germany's flag carrier. When combined with its subsidiaries, the airline ranks second in Europe by passengers carried and the largest in Europe by revenue. Founded in 1917, the airline was liquidated in 1951 due to its association with the Nazi regime and was restarted in 1953, with its corporate headquarters in Cologne. Visitors to the site can book and prepare travel plans, view bookings, and check on flight status.
https://www.lufthansa.com/
Safety Record of Airlines/Aircraft
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) no longer provides information to consumers seeking to make safety-enhancing comparisons between commercial airlines, as the FAA's position is that there is no evidence that such distinctions are predictive of future safety performance. All records on accidents, enforcement, and maintenance difficulties must be requested in writing and sent to an address provided here. The NTSB database of civil aviation accidents is available.
https://www.faa.gov/travelers/fly_safe/safety_record
Launched by Matthew Daimler, a frequent business traveler, in 2001, Tripadvisor acquired the website in 2007. Through user-contributed reviews and information, the website features aircraft seat maps, seat reviews, and a color-coded system to identify superior or substandard airline seats. It also features information on in-flight amenities and airline-specific information regarding check-in, baggage, unaccompanied minors, and traveling with infants and pets.
https://www.seatguru.com/
As a resource for travelers who need to spend time overnight in airports, the website provides airport guides, reviews, and tips for making the best of an unexpected overnight stay. The guides offer information about lounges, transit hotels, sleep pods, WiFi, and places to get food or coffee, as well as first-hand reviews from travelers who have experienced sleeping in various airports around the world. Included is an online survey and travelers are invited to write a review.
https://www.sleepinginairports.net/
Headquartered in Love Field, Dallas, Texas, Southwest is a low-cost carrier founded in 1967. Initially, the airline was an intrastate airline operating wholly within Texas, and began interstate service in 1979, and currently serves airports in 42 states and multiple Central American destinations. Flights, hotels, cars, vacations, and even cruises can be arranged from the airline's website, along with special offers and its Rapid Rewards frequent-flyer program.
http://www.southwest.com/
Founded in 1982, Sun Country is an ultra-low-cost airline based at the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, with its headquarters on airport property. The airline operates to 140 destinations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean and is a contract cargo operator for Amazon Air. Travelers can book, manage their trip, and check in through the airline's website, as well as access travel information, deals, and flight status data.
https://www.suncountry.com/
United Airlines is a major U.S. airline headquartered at the Willis Tower in Chicago, Illinois. Formed by an amalgamation of several airlines in the late 1920s, United operates a domestic and international network across the United States and all six inhabited continents, primarily out of seven hubs. An introduction to the airline is provided on its site, along with flight booking availability, flight status checks, check ins, and its MileagePlus discount program.
https://www.united.com/
Vuelos Baratos is a popular flight comparison website in Spain that helps users find cheap flights by comparing prices from over a hundred travel websites. It offers a user-friendly interface to search for flights, hotels, and car rentals, making it easier to plan your trip and find the best deals. Users start their search by entering the departure and destination locations, departure and return dates, and the currency used, and a multi-transport comparision option is available.
https://www.vuelosbaratos.es/en/
