American Airlines and Qantas get tentative approval for their Joint Venture
The U.S. Department of Transportation granted tentative approval to American and Qantas to operate a joint venture which would allow the two airlines to coordinate schedules, pricing and loyalty programs. Their original request for joint venture had been denied in 2016. Officials from the two airlines say the new partnership will also allow them to add new routes and provide a more seamless experience for customers.

Clear members will find new security lanes at Boston Logan
Clear, a company that uses biometric technology to provide expedited security clearances at various airports around the country, announced the addition of ClearLanes at the security checkpoint in Terminal A at Boston Logan airport. Available to qualified members, Clear promises no more than a five-minute wait at participating security checkpoints. Members will find Clear at 50+ airports, stadiums, and other venues nationwide. For more information please visit https://www.clearme.com.

San Francisco Airport moves Lyft/Uber pick-ups
As of June 5, all domestic terminal rideshare pickups are now located on the top floor of the domestic hourly parking garage at the San Francisco International Airport. Aimed at reducing traffic congestions, the move is not being embraced by rideshare companies, who believe change will actually increase congestion. The companies also note that riders are being inconvenienced with greater hassles and longer journeys. The new move may also reduce profit for drivers.

New Zealand will levy a new tourist tax starting July 1
A new tourist tax for most foreign visitors has been approved by the New Zealand legislature and will in effect starting July 1, 2019. Visitors from Australia and 16 Pacific island countries are exempt from the tax. The NZ$35 (approximately $23 USD based on current exchange rates) fee will be paid at the same time visa fees are collected. Government officials say the new tax will help the country maintain infrastructure and help protect the natural environment.

Southwest unveils new service
Starting Oct. 1, Southwest will offer new service from Long Beach, Calif. to Las Vegas along with Oakland, San Jose and Sacramento. The carrier is also adding new service from Baltimore to Greenville-Spartanburg and from Boston to Fort Lauderdale. Seasonal service will be resumed to Cancun from Austin, Nashville, Milwaukee and San Antonio. Aruba will see the return of seasonal service from Houston Hobby, Belize passengers will find new flights from Denver and Costa Rica will see seasonal service from Baltimore.