Welcome to Let’s Fly!, a monthly round-up of news from the airlines and airports you may encounter on your journey from RDU.
Delta Air Lines is launching a new flight to Ft. Lauderdale. The flight begins Thursday, Dec. 11 and will operate daily on peak holiday travel dates through the beginning of 2015. Thereafter, the flight will convert to a weekly operation, occurring on Saturdays. This is in addition to the service currently provided by JetBlue and Southwest.
Grand Bahama Island Schedule Changes
Vacation Express will change its schedule for flights from RDU to Freeport, Grand Bahama Island for the month of October. The company previously announced flights every fifth day from RDU. However, beginning Oct. 1, flights will be held three times weekly through the end of seasonal service on Oct. 31.
Find more on vacationexpress.com.
United launches DIY Bag Tags in Chicago
If you’re leaving Chicago-O’Hare via United Airlines for your return trip back to RDU, you may be asked to tag your own bag. The carrier recently installed a number of self-tagging baggage check-in stations in the ticketing lobby. United hopes the trial will lead to increased efficiency and time-savings during the check-in process. No word on when or if the option will come to RDU.
American Changes Unaccompanied Minor Policy
If you’re planning on sending your teen to Grandma’s house via American Airlines this fall, heads up that the carrier has changed its unaccompanied minor policy. Beginning Sept. 3, the airline charges $150 for youths age 12-14, a price that formerly covered ages 5-11. The change brings the carriers unaccompanied minor fees in line with those of US Airways as the two companies continue to merge operations.
New One-Stop Routes to Sao Paulo
Do your travels ever take you to Brazil? Beginning December 1, American Airlines will offer non-stop service from New York-Kennedy and Miami International airports to Sao Paulo-Viracopas International Airport. The JFK service will operate three times weekly, while Miami service operates daily. Both options give RDU travelers daily one-stop service to one of the largest cities in South America.
Miami Unveils “coral-ful” New Artwork
If you’re heading back from or traveling through Miami International Airport in the near future, check out a new colorful art exhibit on display at Gate D31 in the North Terminal. “Coral Morphologic” is a collection of 11 large-scale unedited color prints featuring coral found on the reefs off Miami. The artwork is part of the airport’s permanent collection.
Pittsburgh Replaces Floor With Murals
Next time you travel through Pittsburgh International Airport, you may notice some construction zones on your walk through the airport. Work is already underway to replace the familiar tile floors with beautiful terrazzo murals. When complete, travelers will enjoy the “Sky Beneath Our Feet” project with five large colorful murals featuring iconic images of Pittsburgh.