|
TSA PREPARED FOR POTENTIAL RECORD-BREAKING SPRING BREAK TRAVEL PERIOD
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced that it is prepared for the upcoming spring break travel season, specifically the busy peak season beginning around March 7 and continuing through March 25. TSA anticipates that its security officers will screen an increasing number of travelers at airport checkpoints, as travel volumes are trending at nearly 6% above the same period in 2023. “TSA screened a record number of passengers in 2023, and we expect that trend to continue this year,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. We always work closely with our airline and airport partners to plan for and meet the increasing travel demand while doing our best to maintain our wait times of 30 minutes or less in standard lanes and 10 minutes or less in TSA PreCheck® lanes.” To help travelers have the most efficient checkpoint experience, the TSA is offering practical tips to help travelers plan for a smooth journey. Tips include packing smart and remembering the 3-1-1 rule, having a valid ID readily available, arriving to airports early, calling ahead to request support if needed, and enrolling in PreCheck®.
|  | | |
|
AMTRAK INCREASES NORTHEAST CORRIDOR SERVICE
Amtrak has announced that it has increased Northeast Regional service to provide additional travel options throughout the East Coast. This includes four additional weekday roundtrips and two new weekend roundtrips between New York City and Washington, DC, as well as a new weekday morning departure from Philadelphia to New York City. Amtrak has also noted that there will be one new weekend trip between Philadelphia and Boston. These service changes result in a 20% increase in weekday service and 10% increase on Sundays, delivering an additional capacity of more than 1 million seats to the Northeast Regional. “More people are taking the train than ever before and we’re proud to offer our customers additional travel options when they ride with us on the Northeast Regional,” said Amtrak Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Eliot Hamlisch. “The Northeast Regional gets you where you want to go comfortably, conveniently and sustainably as you breeze past traffic on I-95 for a more enjoyable travel experience.”
| | | | |
|
JETBLUE, SPIRIT CALL OFF MERGER
JetBlue and Spirit Airlines have agreed to terminate the $3.8 billion merger agreement announced in July 2022, reports Business Travel News. The airlines "mutually agreed" to call off the merger, noting that required closing conditions, including receiving necessary legal and regulatory approvals, were unlikely to be met by the merger agreement's anticipated date of July 24, 2024. "We believed this merger was worth pursuing because it would have unleashed a national low-fare, high-value competitor to the big four airlines," JetBlue CEO Joanna Geraghty said. "We are proud of the work we did with Spirit to lay out a vision to challenge the status quo, but given the hurdles to closing that remain, we decided together that both airlines' interests are better served by moving forward independently." As per the terms of the agreement, JetBlue will pay Spirit $69 million, and the termination "resolved all outstanding matters related to the transaction and under which any claims between [the carriers] will be mutually released."
| | | | |
|
DELTA AIR LINES RAISES CHECKED BAG FEE
Delta Air Lines is the latest to airline to increase its checked baggage fees, following American, United, and several other carriers who have done the same this year, reports Travel Market Report. As of March 5, “Delta will increase fees for first and second checked bags by $5 for most US-originating domestic and short-haul international routes.” The first checked bag for most travelers will now be $35, up from $30, and the second will be $45, up from $40. The increase is for new tickets—anyone previously booked will pay the old prices even if their flights are scheduled for after March 5. “This increase, the first for US domestic markets in six years (since 2018), will help Delta stay apace with rising industry costs,” Delta said. The airline added that Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and those flying in first class, Delta Premium Select, and Delta One will continue to get their checked bags for free. Same for those with eligible co-branded Delta SkyMiles American Express Cards. There are also no increases or changes for checked baggage prices for flights between the US and Canada and Mexico, Brazil, Chile, Columbia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay.
| | | | |
|
FAA: BOEING FAILED TO COMPLY WITH QUALITY CONTROL RULES
According to Airport Technology, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found multiple instances of Boeing and its supplier Spirit AeroSystems failing to comply with quality control requirements during its six-week audit of the companies. The audit, sparked by the January incident on a 737 MAX 9 aircraft that led to the grounding of more than 170 aircraft, is part of an ongoing investigation and adds to the growing criticism of the manufacturer’s quality control. While the FAA did not disclose the exact issues it discovered in the audit, it said that it had informed Boeing’s CEO and other leadership that the company must address the “systemic” issues that were found with a comprehensive corrective action plan. In addition to the FAA’s reports, the initial investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board found that the 737 MAX 9 in question likely left Boeing’s factory without key safety bolts after additional work following its return from Spirit Aerosystems’ factory, where the door plug is manufactured and installed. While Boeing has already taken action to address concerns such as increasing oversight of its 737 MAX program and carrying out a reorganization of the program’s leadership, including the removal of its chief, the company has continued to come under criticism with reports that the Department of Justice (DOJ) was also now looking into the incident.
| | | | | |
|
|
1201 K STREET NORTHWEST
WASHINGTON, DC
| |
|
Within walking distance of the Smithsonian museums, Capitol Hill, and the Convention Center, Eaton DC guests can be a part of the culture of a world-class city and enjoy the comforts of a boutique hotel. With DJs and live music throughout the week in both their rooftop bar and speakeasy, guests can convene with friends, family, and fellow travelers to enjoy a quality meal, a handcrafted cocktail, or a night out.
For stays now through March 31, 2024, Eaton DC is pleased to offer Lawyers Travel clients a complimentary room upgrade, subject to availability.
| | |
|
|
101 RED RIVER STREET
AUSTIN
| |
Fairmont Austin is the perfect urban oasis during travels to Austin, TX. Explore six restaurant and bar options including their signature restaurant Garrison featuring elevated New American Cuisine with ingredients enhanced by post oak live fire. Garrison is a Forbes Four-Star rated restaurant, AAA Four- Diamond rated restaurant and Wine Spectator Restaurant Award winner. | | |
|
|
2401 M STREET NORTHWEST
WASHINGTON, DC
| |
Experience luxury and convenience at its finest in the nation's capital. At Fairmont Washington, DC, Georgetown, when booking a stay on Fairmont Gold from now through March 31, 2024, guests will receive a complimentary welcome amenity & VIP status. Their Fairmont Gold guestrooms and suites come with an impressive range of special services and amenities, including a dedicated concierge, personalized wake-up calls, and twice-daily housekeeping services. Relax and unwind at the well-appointed Fairmont Gold Lounge, where guests can enjoy daily complimentary breakfast, light afternoon snacks, evening hors d’oeuvres, and complimentary beverages. | | |
|
|
270 BISCAYNE BOULEVARD WAY
MIAMI
| |
|
Kimpton EPIC Hotel is arguably one of the only hotels in downtown Miami that artfully blends urbane sophistication with a playful lifestyle spirit. They are a global destination where leisure and business intersect with tropical perfection. Guests are surrounded with the Magic City’s shimmering lights from their private balcony (every guest room and suite has one). Splash in two rooftop pools. Enjoy locally sourced global cuisine at two restaurants; work up a sweat in their fitness center. It’s all here for them.
For stays now through March 31, 2024, guests will receive a welcome amenity.
| | |
|
|
1065 PEACHTREE STREET
ATLANTA
| |
|
Loews Atlanta Hotel illuminates the art of immersive travel in Georgia’s most playfully vibrant hotel. Towering 26 stories amid Midtown’s architectural skyline, the contemporary glass building encompasses 414 guestrooms – including 44 suites, a southern-inspired restaurant, craft-cocktail lobby bar, coffee cafe, and an award-winning spa and fitness center. This spring, experience the city’s unique lush greenery, blossoming botanical gardens and public art at the nearby Piedmont Park and Atlanta Beltline. After a day exploring, enjoy signature cocktails and cuisine at Saltwood Bar. Exhale Spa has a full menu of therapies and fitness classes for those seeking relaxation. With sleek guestrooms and luxury suites, all boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, the hotel offers premier service and amenities in one of the country’s most dynamic destinations.
Lawyers Travel clients can enhance their getaway with perks including a complimentary upgrade and late check-out (based on availability) when staying at Loews Atlanta Hotel.
| | |
|
|
132 WEST 47TH STREET
NEW YORK CITY
| |
|
Located in the heart of midtown New York, the Sanctuary Hotel is ideally situated between Times Square and numerous corporate and law offices near The Avenues of America. The four-star, boutique design hotel provides a discreet retreat for discerning travelers. Guests receive complimentary American continental breakfast, WIFI, access to an onsite gym, and their signature S.T.A.R (Service Tailored to Any Request) service.
Lawyers Travel clients receive 10% off at the Sanctuary Hotel’s three onsite restaurants, including two on the hotel rooftops.
| | |
|
|
310 WEST BROADWAY
NEW YORK CITY
| |
|
Stylish, spacious, and layered with light, their newly renovated guest rooms, terrace suites and two sprawling penthouse Lofts reflect the luxury and creative energy of the neighborhood.
Stay at Soho Grand, downtown's original boutique hotel, and receive a complimentary upgrade to the next available room category when reserving a Soho King or Deluxe King and staying by March 31, 2024.
| |
|
Established in 1908, The Dilly stands as a venerable institution among London's premier hotels. Nestled in the heart of Piccadilly, its historic charm and distinct London flair make it a quintessential choice for a city-center stay.
Offering a range of spacious bedrooms, a state-of-the-art Health Club for rejuvenation, vibrant dining options, and a stylish piano bar for cocktails, The Dilly ensures a memorable experience.
Conveniently located in London Underground Zone 1, guests enjoy easy access to major stations. Piccadilly Circus station (Piccadilly and Bakerloo lines) is a mere 2-minute stroll, while Green Park station (Victoria, Piccadilly, and Jubilee lines) is a leisurely 10-minute walk away. Tottenham Court Road station (Elizabeth, Central, and Northern lines) is also within reach, just a 13-minute walk from the hotel.
Discover the timeless elegance of The Dilly, where a rich legacy and contemporary comforts converge.
| |
THE POST OAK HOTEL UPTOWN HOUSTON | |
|
1600 WEST LOOP SOUTH
HOUSTON
| |
|
Soaring 38-stories above Houston's vibrant Galleria area, The Post Oak Hotel Uptown Houston offers unparalleled vistas of the city skyline, providing an exclusive retreat for discerning business and leisure travelers alike.
With seven distinctive restaurants and bars catering to every palate, from upscale dining experiences to laid-back casual fare, a sparkling pool perfect for cabana lounging, a Spa featuring unparalleled wellness rituals, and 10,000 square feet of conference room space, Texas' only Forbes Five-Star Hotel and Spa promises to treat guests to an experience that is anything but ordinary.
From now through March 17, visit our Rodeo Saloon, a one-of-a-kind pop-up experience. Enjoy live music, a la carte rodeo-inspired hors d'oeuvres and cocktails along with hand-selected Texas wines to celebrate the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
| | |
|
|
2 AVENUE OF THE AMERICAS
NEW YORK CITY
| |
|
On a prime cobblestone corner on the border of Soho and Tribeca, The Roxy Hotel’s location is utterly unrivaled in one of Manhattan’s most unique and rapidly evolving neighborhoods, home to boldface celebrities and some of the world’s most exclusive restaurants, wine bars, galleries, and shops.
Meet me at The Roxy Hotel New York with a complimentary upgrade to the next available room category when reserving a Roxy King or Deluxe King and stay by March 31, 2024.
| | |
|
|
237 MEETING STREET
CHARLESTON
| |
Discover The Ryder Hotel, a boutique escape-meets-experience hotel in the heart of Charleston. This 91-room boutique hotel embodies a laid-back coastal spirit. Home to Little Palm, an award-winning breezy poolside café where diners can indulge in craft cocktails and a menu of bites inspired by coastal flavors. Enjoy poolside service while relaxing on comfy sun loungers with a drink in hand and soak in some chill vibes. When the sun goes down keep the good times rolling in The Backyard, their newly designed open-air concept offering casual dining, cocktails, and conversation fireside or next to a relaxing waterfall feature. | |
GBT Travel Services UK Limited (GBT UK) and its authorized sublicensees (including Ovation Travel Group and Egencia) use certain trademarks and service marks of American Express Company or its subsidiaries (American Express) in the “American Express Global Business Travel” and “American Express GBT Meetings & Events” brands and in connection with its business for permitted uses only under a limited license from American Express (Licensed Marks). The Licensed Marks are trademarks or service marks of, and the property of, American Express. GBT UK is a subsidiary of Global Business Travel Group, Inc. (NYSE: GBTG). American Express holds a minority interest in GBTG, which operates as a separate company from American Express. | | | | |
