American and Hyatt partner on loyalty benefits

American Airlines and Hyatt unveiled a new partnership primarily aimed at elite level loyalty members that will bring added benefits. According to the announcement, elite frequent travelers will be able to earn airline miles and hotel points on both flights and stays. In addition, there will be special opportunities for members to elevate their status in each other’s programs. For more information please visit http://news.aa.com/news/news-details/2019/Earn-Miles-in-Your-Sleep-and-Points-in-the-Air-American-Airlines-and-Hyatt-Announce-Enhanced-Loyalty-Benefits/default.aspx or https://newsroom.hyatt.com/2019-03-05-Earn-Miles-In-Your-Sleep-And-Points-In-The-Air-American-Airlines-And-Hyatt-Announce-Enhanced-Loyalty-Benefits

Austin-Bergstrom Airport adds nine new gates

The Barbara Jordan Terminal Expansion at Austin-Bergstrom Airport is now open for passengers. With nine new gates added, the facility now has 34 gates that can be used for domestic and international flights. The expansion project also included enhancements for the baggage system, a new restaurant and more space for waiting passengers in the form of a new outdoor terrace and mezzanine.  

Competition heats up on East Coast Shuttle routes

Travelers using popular East Coast shuttle flights will find more options starting this summer as JetBlue announced it will ease into the market. The carrier said it would phase in “near hourly” flights to and from Boston to one of New York City’s three airports and Washington D.C. to create a shuttle-like schedule. Both American and Delta already offer shuttle service on these routes. As part of their shuttle experience travelers can take advantage of extra benefits such as dedicated check-in kiosks, boarding gates close to security and complimentary elevated beverages and snacks.

Delta boosts options and comfort on flights from Seattle to Asia

As Delta continues to elevate its Seattle hub, the carrier will be offering expanded service to its top Asian markets. Flights will be added to Shanghai on July 1, to Seoul-Incheon on Aug. 1 and Tokyo-Narita on Aug. 31. In addition, clients will enjoy elevated service as Delta brings new aircraft to its transpacific routes. As of March 1, Delta is using its Airbus A350 on the Seattle and Tokyo-Narita route. The A350 features the Delta One Suite and Delta Premium options. Delta will also utilize new A330-900neo aircraft on several transpacific flights out of Seattle. The A330-900neo plane reduces the travel carbon footprint with its fuel efficiency and offers an elevated customer experience throughout the aircraft with spacious and easy-to-access overhead bins, seatback screens offering thousands of hours of complimentary entertainment, memory foam cushions, in-seat power and full-spectrum LED ambient lighting.