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Finding Air Traffic Frequencies

From the radioreference wiki.

• 2 General Commercial Frequencies
• 3 Aircraft Emergency/Distress
• 4 Air to Air
• 5.1.1 Common company frequencies
• 5.2 Airline Operations
• 6 Identifying Aircraft vs. Frequency
• 7 CodeShare (Airline Partners)
• 8 Google Earth 3D tracking
• 9 Identifying Frequency vs. Airport

Airborne planes can easily be heard from well over 100 miles, so you don't have to live near an airport. If you do live near an airport, you can find out all the traffic control, weather, and Traffic Advisory frequencies by entering the airport at AirNav .

At most small airports that don't have control towers, the UNICOM frequency is used by the pilots use to talk to each other, usually 122.700, 122.800, 122.900, 123.000 or 123.050. Airports with control towers usually have an assigned Unicom channel of 122.950. Most airports large enough to have control towers have the following types of channels:

• ATIS ( Automatic Terminal Information Service )- Weather, equipment failures, closed runways and taxiways, current operating runways, special notes, and NOTAM's.
• Clearance Delivery - The pilot uses this frequency to notify a controller of his flight intentions and to receive flight instructions and clearance for take-off.
• Ground Control - The ground controller tells the pilot which taxiways to use to arrive at the correct runway.
• Tower - The Tower Controller is responsible for the aircraft in the immediate area around the airport (Up to 3000 feet and 5 miles from the airport). Once the aircraft leaves the airspace of the airport, the pilot will be handed off to a controller at a TRACON (Terminal Radar Approach Control) or an ARTCC Center (Air Route Traffic Control Centers), commonly called Air Traffic Control ).
• Approach Control ( TRACON ) - Directs several lines of descending aircraft into one smooth flowing line of aircraft as their courses take them closer to the destination airport.
• Departure Control ( TRACON ) - Routes air traffic immediately upon takeoff via a preferential departure route (PDR) leading away from the departure airport as the aircraft ascends to the en route phase of flight.

General Commercial Frequencies

118.000 - 121.950 Air Traffic Control (See AirNav ) 121.975 - 123.650 Unicom, multicom, Flight Services, Traffic Advisory (CTAF) at uncontrolled airports 123.675 - 128.800 Air Traffic Control (See AirNav ) 128.825 - 132.000 Company Airlines Operational Control 132.025 - 136.475 Air Traffic Control (See AirNav ) 136.500 - 136.975 Company Airlines Operational Control More specific info can be found at: Aircraft Frequencies

Aircraft Emergency/Distress

(See Note 1)

121.5000 Civilian Guard 243.0000 Military Guard

Some of the more popular:

123.4500 Itinerant channel 123.3000 123.5000 123.0250 Helicopter 122.7500 Fixed Wing

. 155.755 surveillance

Domestic VHF/Operational Control ("Company Frequencies")

Spectrum management.

Aviation Spectrum Resources, Inc. (ASRI) is the spectrum manager for aeronautical "company frequencies" (128.825-132.0 and 136.5-136.975). ASRI licenses all the frequencies with the FCC and assigns them to other users, so unfortunately the FCC data only provides part of the story but it is a start. The primary users of these frequencies are airlines but they are also used by Fixed Base Operators (FBOs), corporate aviation bases, some medevac services and other entities.

Aeronautical Radio, Inc. (ARINC) used to be the spectrum manager for company frequencies but after a corporate reorganization, ASRI is now the spectrum manager. ARINC continues to operate a VHF radio network (the ARINC En Route Service ) which is used mostly by smaller airlines to relay messages to their dispatchers or to establish phone patches.

Common company frequencies

There are no official "national" company frequency allocations, however among larger airlines there are common frequencies that you will find used by each at many different airports. Please note that "common" frequencies are less likely to be valid in busier air traffic areas due to frequency congestion (e.g., the northeast USA and mid-Atlantic USA regions). Some common allocations include:

• 129.4250 UPS Airlines
• 129.2500 Southwest Airlines
• 131.6250 DHL Aviation
• 131.9250 FedEx Express/FedEx Feeder
• 122.8750 FedEx Feeder
• 131.6000 American Eagle
• 130.7250 United Express

Airline Operations

There are several different uses for company frequencies by airlines:

• Dispatch - Many carriers have their own dispatch frequencies but some use the ARINC En Route Service instead as needed. Sometimes the Dispatch and Operations frequencies are the same at a given airport. Dispatch frequencies are used to contact the airline's dispatch staff which is usually located at the airline's headquarters. Dispatch frequencies are also used to contact maintenance staff at the airline's headquarters.
• Load Planning - Used by legacy carriers at the airline's hub airports.
• Maintenance - At airports where the airline has a large operation and/or a maintenance base, this frequency may be used to directly contact maintenance personnel at the airport.
• Operations - At an airline's non-hub airports, this is the main (and frequently the only) frequency used. This frequency is used by aircraft to contact the airline's local airport staff when "in range" and on the ground. Airlines will usually have an Operations frequency at their hub airports as well.
• Ramp Control - Used by large airline operations usually at hub airports. Certain ramp areas and some taxiways are designated as "non-movement areas" and are controlled by the airline's ramp controllers instead of airport's ground controller(s). Some or all of the ramp area may be under the control of Ramp Control. An airline's Ramp Control may control ramp areas used by other airlines.

When aircraft are within 20-30 minutes of their destination, they may call in on a company frequency to report equipment malfunctions, delays, rerouting, and the special needs, such as wheelchairs and unaccompanied minors (UM). Sometimes, when they are about 10 minutes off the ground on their trip away from the airport, they call back with the times they were off the gate, and off the ground. However, ACARS has replaced most of these communications.

Airlines with a small presence at a given airport will frequently contract out ground handling services to another airline, FBO or ground handling services company. In these cases, an airline may use the frequency of the entity that is handling them at the airport. But just to keep things interesting, some airlines will contract out ramp handling but have their own customer service staff so they may have their own company frequency in this case.

On the ground, you may find airline ground operations in the 460.65-460.9 MHz range. Often, you can learn of flight delays, cancellations, or gate changes on the 460 frequencies before they are announced. These frequencies are not listed at AirNav .

You may find a list of frequencies for the ARINC En Route Service on ARINC's website. They are kept on charts in PDF format, which is linked here .

You can also find other air-related frequencies used around a major airport by doing a Geographic Search for the latitude/longitude of your airport. Go to:

FCC Geographic Search Enter the Lat/Lon of the airport (from AirNav) Enter radius of 1 Kilometer Hit the search.

Identifying Aircraft vs. Frequency

All commercial and private aircraft in the United States use callsigns that start with the letter 'N'. However, the ‘N-number’ is normally not used over the air for commercial flights. Private pilots and air traffic controllers often just use the last two or three digits of the callsign and the aircraft type to save precious air time ("Cessna 23-Hotel"). Commercial aircraft generally use the flight number and company name as their callsign ("United 152"). This can be confusing, but FlightAware will give you a list of possible flights with every combination of those numbers. For instance, if you enter ComAir 5650 in the Flight #, or COM5650 in the Flight/Tail #, you should be able to see that it is really ComAir #50. This will give you departure/arrival airports, and tracking if still enroute.

CodeShare (Airline Partners)

Another confusing area is the Codeshare . It refers to a practice where a flight operated by an airline is jointly marketed as a flight for one or more other airlines. For example, Delta has feeder airline partners with Comair, Chautauqua, etc. So Delta DL456, operated by ComAir, might be COM456, or even COM56. Flight Stats shows both. However, this does not always relate to what you heard. There are many other similar tracking sites, and they don’t always show the exact same thing, so it is good to use more than one.

For Domestic FlightAware FBOweb For international and worldwide World Aeronautical Database

Google Earth 3D tracking

With Google Earth installed on your PC, you can not only track one or several flights, but you can “rotate” the view when a plane is near an airport and see it actually descending or climbing. This is really neat! Download Google Earth free. Then go to FBOWeb General Apps or FBOWeb Specific Flights

Enter airline flight info, and click on the “Track in 3D” button. It will “install” the specific flight as a layer on Google Earth, and will also track aircraft in the general vicinity.

Identifying Frequency vs. Airport

When searching or monitoring the airport specific frequencies, such as Aproach/Departure, Clearance Delivery, Tower, ATIS, etc you can usually find out what airport you are hearing by typing airnav freq state , into a Google search box.

You can also go directly to the AirNav website and type in an airport name or identifier (Boston or KBOS).

• 121.500 (guard) Is commonly used to get the attention of an aircraft that has gone to the wrong frequency, or a VFR (non-ATC controlled aircraft) that is about to fly into a restricted area, as all aircraft are supposed to monitor guard if they have an available radio. The "satellite monitoring" eliminated in 2009 refers only to the emergency locator beacons (ELT's) that activate on 121.5/243MHz after a crash to aid in search & rescue operations. ELT's will still transmit their distinctive alarm on 121.5/243, but will only be heard by overflying pilots (if they are listening) and ground searchers with Direction-Finding (DF) equipment. New ELT's, while not required by the FAA, also transmit in the 406.0-406.1 MHz band and can rely precise GPS coordinates of the downed aircraft. They also still transmit on 121.5 to alert other pilots, but the SARSAT system now only responds to 406MHz. 121.5 Guard continues to be used for voice communications, and remains the best and only way to get a hold on an aircraft not responding to other communications, or for a pilot to announce an emergency.
• Here is an Aviation Glossary that takes the mystery out of those abbreviations you hear.
• As with any service, there is a large number of specialized terms and phrases. See our Aviation Terminology article for more information
• Call Signs and Nicknames
• Here’s some additional but slightly outdated info:

Aviation Monitoring Airline Frequencies

Return to Wiki page: Aircraft , Aviation Terminology (No matching DB page)

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TravelAsker

Frequency of Air Travel Among the Average American Population

January 27, 2024

By Wyatt Johnson

Traveling by plane has become increasingly common in today’s globalized world. As technology advances and air travel becomes more accessible, more and more Americans are taking to the skies to explore new destinations or visit loved ones. But just how often does the average American fly?

According to recent studies, the frequency of air travel varies among individuals, but on average, Americans take about two to four trips by air each year. These trips can range from short domestic flights to international journeys across continents. Whether it’s for business or pleasure, flying has become a preferred mode of transportation for many Americans.

Factors such as income, occupation, and personal preferences play a significant role in determining how often an individual flies. Those with higher incomes and jobs that require frequent travel, such as salespersons or executives, may fly more often than others. Additionally, some Americans have a passion for traveling and make it a priority to explore new places, resulting in more frequent flights.

It’s worth noting that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on air travel, with restrictions and safety concerns leading to a temporary decrease in the number of flights. However, as the world begins to recover and travel restrictions are lifted, it is expected that the average frequency of air travel among Americans will resume its upward trend.

Air Travel Frequency

When it comes to air travel, the frequency at which Americans fly varies greatly from person to person. While some individuals have the opportunity to travel frequently for work or leisure, others may only fly occasionally or even rarely.

For those who have the means and desire to travel, air travel can be a regular occurrence. Many Americans take advantage of affordable flight options and prioritize exploring new destinations or visiting loved ones who live far away. They may fly multiple times per year, with some individuals even taking several flights in a month.

On the other hand, there are those who only fly sporadically. This could be due to personal preference, financial constraints, or a disinterest in air travel. Some individuals may only fly once every few years, or even less frequently if they are content with staying close to home or prefer alternative modes of transportation.

Additionally, air travel frequency can also be influenced by factors such as age, occupation, and lifestyle. Business professionals or frequent conference attendees may find themselves flying more frequently due to work commitments. Younger adults, who are often more open to adventure and exploration, may also fly more frequently compared to older individuals.

It’s important to note that air travel frequency is not indicative of one’s travel experiences or preferences. While some Americans may fly frequently and have a wealth of travel stories to share, others may opt for less frequent trips and focus on making each journey more meaningful. Ultimately, the frequency at which an individual flies is a personal choice that is influenced by various factors.

Factors Affecting Air Travel Frequency

There are several factors that can influence how often an individual flies. These factors can vary from personal preferences to external circumstances. Here are some of the main factors affecting air travel frequency:

• Cost: One of the most significant factors affecting air travel frequency is the cost of flights. Airfares can vary greatly depending on the destination, time of year, and demand. Higher ticket prices can discourage frequent travel, while lower fares may encourage individuals to fly more often.
• Distance: The distance between the individual’s home and their desired destinations can also be a determinant of air travel frequency. Traveling long distances by other means of transportation can be time-consuming, so individuals may opt for air travel if the destination is far away.
• Time: The amount of free time available to an individual can also impact how often they choose to fly. People with limited vacation time or busy work schedules may have fewer opportunities for travel, while those with more flexibility may be more inclined to take frequent trips.
• Purpose of Travel: The purpose of the trip can also affect air travel frequency. Business travelers, who often need to attend meetings or conferences in different locations, may fly more frequently than individuals traveling for leisure purposes.
• Family and Social Obligations: Family commitments and social obligations can also play a role in air travel frequency. Individuals with close family members living in different cities or countries may need to fly more often to visit their loved ones.
• Personal Preferences: Personal preferences, such as a desire for adventure or a love for travel, can also influence how often someone chooses to fly. Some individuals may prioritize travel and allocate more time and resources for frequent trips.

Overall, air travel frequency is influenced by a combination of factors, including cost, distance, time availability, purpose of travel, family obligations, and personal preferences. By taking these factors into consideration, individuals can make informed decisions about their travel frequency and plan their trips accordingly.

Budget and Air Travel

When it comes to air travel, budget is often a major consideration for the average American. With the rising costs of flights, it’s important to find ways to save money and get the best deals.

One way to save on air travel is by booking flights in advance. By planning ahead, travelers can often find lower prices and better options. Additionally, booking flights during off-peak seasons or on weekdays can result in significant savings.

Another money-saving strategy is to be flexible with travel dates and destinations. By being open to different options, travelers can take advantage of cheaper flights or package deals.

Many Americans also utilize budget airlines, which often offer lower fares compared to traditional carriers. While budget airlines may not provide the same level of amenities or services, they can be a cost-effective solution for those who prioritize price over comfort.

When it comes to accommodations, staying in budget hotels or hostels can also help reduce travel expenses. Additionally, using online travel agencies or booking websites to compare prices and find the best deals can make a significant difference in overall costs.

For those who frequently fly, loyalty programs and credit card rewards can be valuable tools to save money. By taking advantage of frequent flyer programs and earning points, travelers can receive discounts or free flights.

Lastly, it’s important to be mindful of additional fees when traveling on a budget. Baggage fees, seat selection fees, and other hidden charges can quickly add up. Researching airline policies and considering alternative options, such as packing light or using public transportation to and from the airport, can help avoid unnecessary costs.

Overall, budget-conscious Americans have various strategies to save money when it comes to air travel. By planning ahead, being flexible, and utilizing discounts and rewards, it’s possible to enjoy the benefits of flying without breaking the bank.

Business vs. Leisure Travel

When it comes to air travel, there are two main types of trips that Americans take: business travel and leisure travel. Business travel refers to trips taken for work-related purposes, such as meetings, conferences, or client visits. Leisure travel, on the other hand, includes vacations, family visits, and other trips taken for personal reasons.

While both types of travel involve flying, the reasons behind them differ greatly. Business travel is often necessary for individuals who need to attend important meetings or events, build professional relationships, or explore new business opportunities. It is often scheduled and planned in advance, based on work-related needs and obligations.

Leisure travel, on the other hand, is typically planned for enjoyment and relaxation. People may choose to travel for leisure in order to explore new destinations, experience different cultures, or simply take a break from their daily routine. Leisure travel is often flexible and can be more spontaneous, allowing individuals to take a vacation whenever they have free time or during specific holiday periods.

The frequency of business and leisure travel also varies. Business travelers often have more frequent trips, as their travel is dictated by work-related demands. They may need to travel multiple times a month or even multiple times a week, depending on the nature of their work. Leisure travelers, on the other hand, tend to take fewer trips throughout the year, often planning for one or two vacations annually.

Overall, the reasons for and frequency of business travel and leisure travel differ significantly. While business travel is driven by professional obligations and often occurs more frequently, leisure travel is planned for personal enjoyment and can be more flexible. Both types of travel contribute to the overall air travel statistics, with each serving its own unique purpose in the lives of Americans.

Air Travel Trends

Air travel has become increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more people are taking to the skies to reach their destinations. This has led to several noticeable trends in the frequency and methods of air travel.

One trend that has emerged is the increase in the number of Americans who are flying. According to recent statistics, the average American flies approximately 1.7 times per year. This number has been steadily increasing over the past decade.

Another trend is the rise of budget airlines. With the introduction of low-cost carriers, air travel has become more affordable for a larger portion of the population. This has led to a significant increase in the number of people choosing to fly rather than travel by other means.

However, while the number of Americans flying has increased, the average distance traveled per trip has decreased. Many Americans are now opting for shorter trips, which may be due to the convenience and affordability of air travel.

Technology has also played a significant role in shaping air travel trends. Online booking platforms have made it easier than ever for travelers to find and book flights, while mobile check-in and digital boarding passes have streamlined the airport experience.

Furthermore, sustainability has become an important consideration for many travelers. With growing concerns about the environmental impact of air travel, more people are opting for greener transportation methods or offsetting their carbon footprint by purchasing carbon credits.

Overall, air travel trends are constantly evolving, with Americans flying more frequently, opting for shorter trips, and taking advantage of new technologies and sustainability options. As the industry continues to innovate and adapt, it will be interesting to see how these trends further develop in the future.

Future of Air Travel for Americans

The future of air travel for Americans is expected to be filled with exciting advancements and innovations, making it easier and more convenient than ever before. With constantly evolving technology and changing consumer demands, the aviation industry is set to undergo significant transformations in the coming years.

One of the major changes anticipated in the future of air travel is the implementation of advanced security measures. From facial recognition to biometric scanning, airports are expected to become more efficient in ensuring passenger safety while minimizing inconvenience. Passengers can look forward to shorter wait times and streamlined security processes.

Additionally, the introduction of supersonic travel could revolutionize long-distance flights. With companies like Boom Supersonic and NASA actively working on supersonic aircrafts, it is possible that Americans may have the option to reach their destinations in half the time it currently takes. This could open up new possibilities for business travelers and individuals who frequently fly across the country.

In terms of comfort and amenities, the future of air travel aims to provide a more personalized and luxurious experience. Airlines are investing in cutting-edge technologies such as virtual reality entertainment systems, adjustable seating, and enhanced in-flight services. Passengers can expect a more comfortable and enjoyable journey, with options catering to their individual preferences.

Furthermore, sustainability and environmental consciousness are likely to play a significant role in the future of air travel. With growing concerns about climate change, airlines are actively exploring eco-friendly alternatives such as biofuels and electric aviation. The development of electric planes and increased use of sustainable practices could contribute to reducing the industry’s carbon footprint and creating a greener future for air travel.

Overall, the future of air travel for Americans holds great promise in terms of convenience, speed, comfort, and sustainability. Advances in technology, security measures, and eco-friendly practices will not only enhance the flying experience but also contribute towards a more efficient and environmentally conscious aviation industry.

Long Flight HACKS You Need To Know About!

Wyatt Johnson

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Common Aviation Frequencies: A Pilot’s Communication Guide

We updated this article to refresh to 2023 standards. Communication is one of those core fundamentals of becoming a pilot. It may seem daunting at first, but just like riding a bike, once you get it, you get it. This article is for reference purposes. As a pilot, you should always check that you have the latest information before flight.

Table of Contents

Types of Aviation Radio Signals

Low frequency (lf), medium frequency (mf), high frequency (hf), very high frequency (vhf).

• Communication vs Navigation.
• Most Common Aviation Frequencies and Allocations.
• Helpful Hints.
• CTAF Frequencies.
• Ground Frequencies.

"Finger" and "Fingers"

It is no secret that new pilots are often more than a little nervous and hesitant about getting on the radio. They worry about not remembering what to say and how to say it when they finally key up the mic, but even if you get those variables right, it still does you no good if you are not on the correct frequency. That is why an important hurdle of using your radio is understanding and learning common aviation frequencies.

You have your aircraft’s main radio and a handheld radio as a backup. You have reviewed your ATC communication skills and studied your copy of ASA Say Again, Please: Guide to Radio Communications . You are all ready to turn that radio on and get cleared for takeoff. There is just one problem – what frequency are you supposed to be on?

While no one expects pilots to memorize all the aviation frequencies, it is certainly helpful to know the most common ones and how the frequencies are laid out within the bands. A high-level understanding of the types of aviation radio signals your aircraft can receive will also go a long way towards developing your knowledge on the topic.

Aviation radio frequencies are found in the low frequency (LF), medium frequency (MF), high frequency (HF), and very high frequency (VHF) bands. These frequencies may be used for voice communications or for navigation.

Historically, when aviation radio was first starting out, most air navigation transmissions took place on the low frequency band from 200 KHz to 415 KHz. As reliable higher frequency systems were developed, most of the low frequency air nav beacons were shut down. Today, some low frequency beacons remain and are used for instrument landings. Others were kept operational as backups in case of primary navigation system failures. Low frequency is useful even when other forms of communication fail because its long wavelengths are less affected by terrain and it can bounce off the ionosphere to travel long distances around the world.

Aviation radio is allocated a small portion of the medium frequency spectrum in a band from 2850 to 3000 KHz. Most planes have radio direction finders onboard that get a bearing by focusing in on a medium frequency transmission.

In the past, high frequency bands were typically used for domestic voice communications. That traffic has since shifted to the very high frequency (VHF) band. High frequency continues to be used for voice communications for international flights, however, as it can travel a longer distance than VHF.

Frequencies in the very high frequency band are most widely used for domestic aircraft communications at the present time. Both communication and VOR navigational systems are operated on VHF frequencies.

To support full VHF communications, the FAA recommends that all aircraft with older 360-channel systems should be retrofitted with a 760-channel piece of equipment with 25 kHz channel spacing which is capable of operating in the 118.000 to 136.975 MHz band.

Communication vs Navigation

Signals that are transmitted and received via aviation radio can be of more than one type. In addition to communication (COM) signals, aviation radios are also used for navigation (NAV). Some radios are only capable of COM, while others are dedicated for NAV, and a third variety is configured to be used for both COM and NAV. Some VHF Omnirange (VOR) navigation stations and aircraft navigation beacons transmit voice communications in addition to their navigation functions.

Most Common Aviation Frequencies and Allocations

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is an agency that regulates communications including radio in the United States. One of its roles is to allocate all radio bandwidths and frequencies. In the United States, VHF civil aircraft communications are placed in the 100 MHz band and allocated 760 channels within the range from 118.0-136.975 MHz. As a pilot, every frequency you talk on will fall within this range. VOR navigational frequencies are allocated to the range from 108.0 to 117.975 MHz, positioning them just below the communications range.

VHF communications channels usually have 25 KHz of spacing between them, except for flight test stations which are spaced by just 8.33 kHz and the emergency frequency of 121.5 MHz which has 100 kHz of protection around it. The full allocation list covering all 760 channels in the VHF aviation band is posted in FAA advisory circular 90-50D .

While the full allocation listing is interesting to review, from an everyday use perspective it is most helpful to start out with learning the frequency ranges for each type of VHF signal as well as the specific frequencies that you are most likely to use on a regular basis.

The VHF frequency ranges used for aviation are:

Within the VHF aviation communication frequency range, the most commonly used frequencies and their corresponding allocations include:

Helpful Hints

Once you have learned the key frequencies, there are a few other helpful hints that can keep you out of trouble and make you sound like a seasoned professional on the air.

CTAF Frequencies

The Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) or Unicom frequencies are typically used at nontowered airports. The most common are 122.7, 122.8, 122.9, 123.0. 123.050 MHz with 122.950 being the usual CTAF frequency of choice for airports with a tower.

Pilot-controlled lighting systems (PCL) are used at some smaller, non-towered airports. If you are making a night approach to landing at an airport with a PCL, in most cases, you will activate the system through your radio which is set to the appropriate CTAF frequency. Turn on the lights by keying your mic a specified number of times for the desired lighting intensity.

Ground Frequencies

The most common ground frequencies are 121.3, 121.7, 121.9. All ground frequencies start with 121 and have an odd tenth at the end. Familiarize yourself with the ground frequencies because the tower controller may simply tell you something like “contact ground on point 9" and expect you to know that the full frequency they are referring to is 121.9.

Select frequencies have been set aside as flight test stations. These frequencies are available to aircraft manufacturers as they conduct test flights. Test flight frequencies are sprinkled throughout the VHF aviation band between 123.125 MHz and 123.575 MHz.

Within this range are 123.4 MHz and 123.45 MHz, colloquially referred to as “Finger” and “Fingers” respectively. In some circles, these frequencies have been used for casual air-to-air communications. This may not be a problem when flying over international waters where those frequencies are not officially designated for another purpose.

Once you start using them over the United States or its coastal waters, however, you could have a very big problem – potentially a $10,000 problem, to be precise. Since the FCC designated both of these frequencies to be used solely for test flight communications, any other use constitutes an illegal transmission, and pilots transmitting illegally could be fined up to $10,000 for each transmission or taken to small claims court for damages caused by interfering with the data transmission during a test flight.

Depending on your location, the likelihood of being prosecuted may not be very high, but it is important to know that the safe and correct course of action if you want to talk to another pilot is to use 122.75 MHz which is the designated air-to-air frequency for fixed wing aircraft. This will keep you out of trouble and show that you are well-versed in the correct aviation frequencies usage.

A great way to learn how to talk on the radio is with ASA Say Again Please . Pick up your copy today.

Want to learn more about communications and equipment?

Our guides are designed to help student pilots become professional pilots and for private pilots to brush up on their knowledge and skills.

Why do you Need a Portable Aviation Radio?

How to Improve ATC Communication (Guide)

Lost Comms on IFR Flight (What to do & Procedures to Follow)

Best Aviation Handheld Radios on The Market

Class A Airspace and How it Differs from All Other Categories of Airspace

IFR Clearance: How To Request & File (Examples / Requirements)

Did you find this article helpful?

Do you think we missed anything important? Let us know in the comments below!

Logictheorist

Andrea, 123.4 to 5 is air to air (and air to ground) and is often used by balloonists, parachutists, and drone pilots coordinating with each other. Glider pilots will use it as well when negotiating with each other around thermals and other lifting air.

Can someone explain why I’m hearing aircraft on 49.875mhz???!!

Why would they “crack down” if it’s not a problem? The FCC is complaint-driven, and they generally won’t do anything unless there’s an actual problem to be solved.

Thank you for this helpful article. It’s interesting that in South Florida, 123.45 is used as a common traffic frequency for air-to-air communication within concentrated civilian and military training areas, such as the area south of Lake Okeechobee and west of Palm Beach for example. I wonder if the FAA or FCC will actually crack down on this practice, or if the constant use of these frequencies is simply “up to the locals”, after a certain point?

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Almost everyone looks up when they hear a helicopter flying overhead, right? There’s a certain mystique about helicopters and the people who pilot them. Helicopters are fast, they’re agile and they can get into places that a fixed wing aircraft couldn’t hope to. Helicopter pilots conduct search and rescue operations, they airlift wounded military members out of hot zones, they provide aerial reconnaissance, civilian medical transport and more.

Breaking Down Everything in the Cessna 172 Cockpit

Are you curious about the inner workings of a Cessna 172 cockpit? In this guide we’ll take your through each control and instrument to boost your cockpit awareness. If you're just starting flight training as a student pilot or preparing for a checkout in a new aircraft with your instructor, this guide will help you become a knowledgeable and confident pilot.

How to Master Airport Traffic Patterns for Student Pilots

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Simple Flying

Examined: the world's 5 largest airlines by frequencies this month.

Most carriers have lower frequencies than the same period in 2019.

• The US to Mexico and US to Puerto Rico markets are experiencing the most substantial growth in the last month.
• Chinese airlines are still struggling with international air travel recovery, with only about 50% of pre-pandemic passenger traffic.
• Southwest Airlines is the only airline on the list that has surpassed pre-pandemic frequency numbers.

OAG publishes a monthly report showing major airlines' frequency and capacity trends worldwide, including flight data. This month's report features a list of the largest airlines by frequency, among other categories and statistics. It indicates that US to Mexico and US to Puerto Rico are the two strongest growth markets this month, surpassing previous months' numbers.

Each of these markets saw a more than 13% increase in capacity compared to October. Moreover, the Asia-Pacific, Chinese, and Middle Eastern markets saw significant growth in recent months. Simple Flying digs deeper into the report, emphasizing several facts and figures regarding multiple airlines' frequencies for the month of November.

Airline frequency is measured in terms of the number of services offered by the carrier in a set period of time. It is common for airlines to have higher frequencies on shorter routes between popular destinations. Urban destinations that attract business travelers often have higher frequencies to provide flight flexibility throughout the day.

5 China Eastern Airlines

Less than 1% below pre-pandemic frequency levels.

China Eastern Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the People's Republic of China (PRC). Founded in 1988, the airline operates a fleet of 620 aircraft and offers services to 220 destinations worldwide. The OAG data shows that November is a slower month industry-wide when it comes to service frequencies and capacity. Chinese airlines are still struggling with international air travel recovery, with only about 50% of such passenger traffic compared to 2019 numbers.

In November, China Eastern recorded a total frequency of 66,469 flights, 8% lower than the previous month. The current frequency has nearly reached the November 2019 numbers, with a difference of only 0.3%. It is noteworthy that domestic air travel in China is primarily responsible for the service frequency.

4 United Airlines

Nearly 17% below pre-pandemic levels.

One of the United States' big three airlines, United is the world's third largest airline by fleet size and total revenue in 2022. Founded in 1931, the airline operates a fleet of 922 aircraft and offers services to over 360 destinations worldwide. United Airlines, among other North American operators, has recorded a significant recovery from the pandemic downturn.

In November, United Airlines recorded a frequency of 122,003 flights, 8.2% lower than the previous month. Interestingly, UA's current frequency is significantly lower (16.9%) than in November 2019, when the airline offered 142,622 flights. Notably, frequency doesn't necessarily affect an airline's revenues or profitability.

3 Southwest Airlines

Over 11% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Southwest Airlines is the world's largest low-cost carrier in terms of fleet size. It is also the largest operator of the Boeing 737 family aircraft. Founded in 1967, the airline operates a fleet of 803 Boeing 737 airliners and offers services to over 120 destinations throughout North America, Central America, and the Caribbean.

In November, Southwest Airlines recorded a frequency of 125,056 flights, 4.2% lower than the previous month. The airline offered 130,308 frequencies in October. Fortunately, current numbers are 11.3% higher than in November 2019, when the airline offered 112,359 flights. The airline has been receiving new Boeing 737 MAX jets for the past several months and is keen to expand its route network . It is the only airline on this list to surpass pre-pandemic frequency numbers.

2 Delta Air Lines

Nearly 13% below pre-pandemic levels.

Delta Air Lines is the world's largest airline by revenue in 2023. It is also one of the oldest airlines and operates nearly 5,500 daily flights. Founded in March 1925, over 98 years ago, the airline operates a fleet of 945 aircraft and offers services to over 300 destinations worldwide.

In November, the airline recorded a frequency of 132,779 flights, 6.3% lower than the previous month; the airline offered 141,144 frequencies in October. This statistic is 13% lower compared to November 2019, when the airline offered 150,040 flights. Along with other North American carriers, Delta Air Lines has fortunately recovered over 90% of its pre-pandemic route network and passenger capacity.

Interested in similar technical content? Check out our complete guides section.

1 American Airlines

Over 12% below pre-pandemic levels.

American Airlines is the world's largest carrier in terms of fleet size. It is also the second-largest airline by 2022 revenue. Founded in 1936, the airline operates a fleet of 963 aircraft and boasts a route network of over 350 destinations worldwide.

In November, the airline recorded a frequency of 165,686 flights, 4% lower than the previous month . The airline offered 172,503 frequencies in October. The current frequency is 12.3% lower than in November 2019, when the airline offered 186,088 flights. The airline is keen to not only regain pre-pandemic frequencies and passenger capacity but also grow further in the coming years.

What are your thoughts on the top five airlines in terms of frequency in the month of November? Have you traveled with any of these airlines this month? Share your experience in the comments section.

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The latest travel data.

MONTHLY INSIGHTS March 04, 2024

U.S. Travel has temporarily paused our monthly data newsletter, however, the latest travel data is still available via the U.S. Travel Insights Dashboard . This dashboard is updated each month (member login required).

The U.S. Travel Insights Dashboard , developed in collaboration with Tourism Economics, is supported by more than 20 data sources. The dashboard is the most comprehensive and centralized source for high-frequency intelligence on the U.S. travel industry, tracking industry performance, travel volumes and predictive indicators of recovery including air and lodging forecasts, DMO website traffic, convention and group trends, travel spending and losses, traveler sentiment, among others to measure the health of the industry.

Key Highlights January 2024:

• Travel appetite started the year on a softer note, but overall growth continued. Air passenger growth remained positive, up 6% versus the prior year but lower than the double-digit growth seen through 2023. Foreign visits remained strong, up 24% YoY.
• Hotel room demand continued a trend of slight contraction falling 1% versus the prior year, while short-term rental demand grew 1%, a lower rate than 2023.
• A particular bright spot was that group room demand within the top 25 markets displayed solid growth of 9% relative to the prior year.
• The outlook for the economy remains fairly optimistic due to the strength of the labor market, looser financial conditions and healthy household and nonfinancial corporate balance sheets. This has filtered through to slightly higher consumer sentiment in February.
• Sentiment is also growing for upcoming leisure travel in 2024. The share of travelers reporting having travel plans within the next six months increased to 93% in January from 92% in December, according to Longwoods International’s monthly survey.
• Travel price inflation (TPI) fell slightly in January as a result of falling transportation prices. Sticky services inflation should see relief from decelerating wage growth. However, upside risks stem from rising healthcare costs, supply chain disruptions and slowing labor supply. Source: U.S. Travel Association and Tourism Economics

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Travel Price Index

Travel Forecast

Quarterly Consumer Insights

Additional monthly insights are available through the full U.S. Travel Monthly Data Report, exclusive to members. Please inquire with  membership  if you are interested in learning about becoming a member of U.S. Travel Association. 

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Frequent flyer: the effects of air travel on the human body

Is there a human cost to being able to jet off at will? Alas, it's not exactly the healthiest thing you can do — and it's worth knowing the ​toll it takes on the human body.

Flying really isn’t good for you, right?

Of course not. But perhaps the most remarkable thing is how little damage being sealed in a pressurised cabin with hundreds of other people and their germs does to you. Flying does expose you to higher levels of radiation, but not dangerously so. You’ll get more from a chest X-ray, for example, than a transatlantic flight, though this mounts up a little for frequent flyers. But even airline crew aren’t exposed to nearly enough each year for it to tip into the danger zone — where there’s an increased risk of getting cancer.

What about dehydration?

Dry air circulates around cabins, which can have a dehydrating effect. For those who are otherwise fit and well, this doesn’t cause much of a problem — sometimes dry skin, a dry mouth and/or a mild headache. But the dehydrating effects of being at high altitude and low humidity for hours can exacerbate existing illnesses. Going easy on alcoholic or caffeinated drinks can help, and switching contact lenses for spectacles is a wise idea to avoid eye irritation.

And deep vein thrombosis?

It’s a common misconception that deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is something that only happens on flights — it’s more about being immobile than being up in the air. Risks are similar if you’re on a long bus journey, for example. Lack of movement can slow blood flow in the veins, leading to blood clots — usually in the legs — which can potentially break off and cause a life-threating pulmonary embolism. The NHS Fit For Travel site says those who have had recent surgery, are pregnant or obese, or suffer from varicose veins are among the groups at most risk from DVT.

What can be done to prevent it?  

Anti-embolism stockings, if worn correctly, are a good bet, but most of the best preventative measures are behavioural. Advice includes choosing an aisle seat, as this extra room acts as an incentive to move around more, carrying out muscle exercises, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and staying well hydrated — if only because it’ll make you get up to go to the toilet more often.

Anything else to fret over?

The main aspect of in-flight health that most of us will encounter is tiredness and changes to circadian rhythms. Flying often involves getting up at unsociable hours, inadequate sleep and messing up the body clock — all of which leave us more susceptible to being hit nastily by any bugs that may be floating about. Jet lag, alas, is something there’s no easy cure for. However, there are a number of things that can be done to minimise it. They include — get whatever sleep you can on the plane, try to adjust meal times to the destination, don’t plan much for the first day or take a stopover. And — this should be something of a mantra — try to avoid going the whole hog on the free wine and spirits.

For Hungry Minds

Related topics, you may also like.

Rights on Flights: the new campaign seeking to make air travel more accessible

Will Omicron ruin your holiday travels?

This airline is now weighing passengers — but why?

How airlines are making travel easier for autistic passengers

Jet lag doesn’t have to ruin your trip. Here’s what you can do

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How Far Does Sound Travel: The Science of Acoustics

Do you ever stop to think about how sound travels? It’s an interesting phenomenon that occurs everyday and yet we often take it for granted. In this blog post, we will explore the science of acoustics and how sound travels. We will answer the question of how far sound can travel and how it is affected by different factors. Stay tuned for an in-depth look at this fascinating topic!

Nature Of Sound

Sound is a mechanical wave that is an oscillation of pressure transmitted through some medium, such as air or water. Sound can propagate through solids and liquids better than gases because the density and stiffness are greater. So how far does sound travel? In this article we will answer how sound travels and how to calculate how far it travels in different scenarios.

Sound Transmits Conception

A common misconception with regard to how sound transmits itself between two points (for example from speaker to ear) is that the source creates waves of compression in the surrounding gas which then proceed on their way at a constant speed until they strike something else; either another solid object or our ears . This analogy might be okay for describing what goes on at low frequencies but once we go beyond around 1000 Hz, the propagation of sound becomes far more complex.

At low frequencies (below around 1000 Hz), sound waves tend to travel in all directions more or less equally and bounce off objects like a rubber ball would. As frequency increases however, the directivity of sound increases as well. So high-frequency sounds are more likely to travel in a straight line between two points than low frequencies. This is why we can often hear someone calling from some distance away when there is loud music playing – because the higher frequencies carry further than the lower ones.

How Far Can Sound Travel

There are three ways that sound can be transmitted: through air, through water, or through solids. The speed of sound through each medium is different and depends on the density and stiffness of the material.

The speed of sound through air is about 343 m/s (or 760 mph), and it travels faster in warmer air than colder air. The speed of sound through water is about 1500 m/s, and it travels faster in salt water than fresh water. The speed of sound through solids is much faster than through either gases or liquids – about 5000-15000 m/s. This is why we can often hear someone coming before we see them – the sound waves are travelling through the solid ground to our ears!

Now that we know how sound propagates and how its speed depends on the medium, let’s take a look at how to calculate how far it will travel between two points. We can use the equation

distance = speed x time

For example, if we want to know how far a sound will travel in one second, we have:

distance = 343 m/s x 0.001 s = 343 m

So sound travels 1 kilometer in roughly 3 seconds and 1 mile in roughly 5 seconds.

Does Вecibel Level affect the Sound Distance?

The surface area around a sound source’s location grows with the square of the distance from the source. This implies that the same amount of sound energy is dispersed over a larger surface, and that the energy intensity decreases as the square of the distance from the source (Inverse Square Law).

Experts of Acoustical control says, that

For every doubling of distance, the sound level reduces by 6  decibels  (dB), (e.g. moving from 10 to 20 metres away from a sound source). But the next 6dB reduction means moving from 20 to 40 metres, then from 40 to 80 metres for a further 6dB reduction.

How Far Can Sound Travel In Real World

In real world, there are many factors that can affect how far a sound travels. Factors such as air density, temperature and humidity have an impact on its propagation; obstacles like buildings or mountains could also block some frequencies from going through while letting others pass (this happens because at high frequencies they behave more like waves).

Sounds can propagate through solids better than they can propagate through air because their density/stiffness are greater (this means that sound travels faster). In addition to this, we also know that it takes less time for a high frequency wave to reach us from its source compared with low frequencies. For example if there’s some kind of obstacle blocking our path then it might take longer for waves at higher frequencies than those below 1000 Hz to past them.

Can Sound Waves Travel Infinitely?

No. The higher the frequency of a sound wave, the shorter its wavelength becomes. As wavelength decreases, the amount of energy in a sound wave also decreases and eventually it dissipates completely. This is why we often can’t hear someone calling from very far away when there’s loud music playing – because the high frequencies are being blocked out by all the noise!

Can Sound Travel 20 Miles?

The air may be permeable to these lower-frequency, sub-audible sound waves generated by elephants. Some whale species’ frequencies might travel through seawater for 1500 kilometers or 900 miles.

How Far Can a Human Scream Travel?

The normal intelligible outdoor range of the male human voice in still air is 180 m (590 ft 6.6 in).

The Guiness World Record of the Farthest distance travelled by a human voice belongs the Spanish-speaking inhabitants of the Canary Island of La Gomera, is intelligible under ideal conditions at 8 km (5 miles).

In Conclusion

At the end of this blog post, you should have a better understanding of how sound travel and what factors affect it. If you want to learn more about acoustics and sounds, you can check out our resources here.

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Tune in to Takeoff: The Main Airport Radio Frequencies

Site Owner & Radio Enthusiast

In the high-stakes world of aviation, miscommunications can lead to catastrophic consequences.

As such, pilots and air traffic controllers must rely on precise radio frequencies to avert disaster.

I’ll explore the main airport frequencies in detail to help you understand their ideal applications. You’ll know the importance of these frequencies and how to use them.

Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

The Main Airport Radio Frequencies Explained

Airport  radio  frequencies, or airbands, are the cornerstone of safe and efficient air travel.

These frequencies are vital since they facilitate clear and precise communications between air traffic controllers and pilots.

Let’s explore the main airport frequencies next.

Tower Frequency (118-136.975)

The pilot’s direct link to the control tower is the tower frequency, the channel through which they receive critical instructions for takeoffs, landings, and taxiing on the runway.

Without the tower frequency, chaos could ensue on the runways, making airports hazardous.

Ground Control Frequency (121.3-121.9)

Pilots use ground control frequencies to facilitate and coordinate aircraft movement on the ground.

The pilot taxiing to a designated gate, the ground crew guiding the plane, and the pushback operator must communicate seamlessly to avert costly delays on the runway or accidents, all necessary for orderly and safe takeoffs and landings.

Clearance Delivery Frequency (Mostly 121.0)

Overlooking the importance of clearance delivery frequencies is easy, yet they provide pilots with the initial clearances before departure.

Aircraft clearances include route assignments (airways, waypoints, speed restrictions, and holding patterns), altitudes, and squawk codes which help in safe and orderly takeoffs.

ATIS (Automatic Terminal Information Service) Frequency (118.0 – 136.975)

Pilots receive real-time information via this frequency.

Some up-to-date data from ATIS include weather updates and active runways. This info is invaluable in safe landings and departures, especially in adverse weather conditions.

Common Airport Radio Frequencies

ATC tower, ground control, clearance delivery, and ATIS airport frequencies aside, there are additional frequencies that are used in airports to facilitate aviation operations.

Here is a table to help you get acquainted with these radio frequencies and their function:

Table 1: The common airport radio frequencies 

Examples of Radio Frequencies by Popular Airports

Below are five major international airports covered in our exploration of the practical application of airport radio frequencies.

1. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York, USA

2. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), California, USA

3. London Heathrow Airport (EGLL), United Kingdom

4. Frankfurt Airport (EDDF), Germany

5. Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (YSSY), Australia

The table below shows the main airport frequencies used in these international airports:

CTAF and UNICOM Explained

Non-towered or small airports use CTAF (common traffic advisory frequency) and UNICOM frequencies for communication.

These frequencies include 122.7, 122.8, 122.9, 123.0, and 123.050, and they help maintain safety and order without control towers and dedicated air traffic control personnel.

Please note that 122.950 is the CTAF frequency in  airports with ATCT (air traffic control tower) or full-time FSS (flight service station) .

CTAF is a critical frequency that allows pilots to self-announce their positions and intentions and coordinate actions.

Alternatively,  UNICOM, managed by FBOs  (fixed base operators), offers essential ground service communication at airports, assisting pilots with services, inquiries, and coordination.

Please note that CTAF and UNICOM frequencies vary depending on the airport.

Emergency Frequencies Explained

The unsung aviation heroes are emergency frequencies, more so the universal  emergency frequency at 121.5 .

These frequencies are the lifeline that pilots and air traffic controllers use when facing distress situations in the skies.

Emergency frequencies allow:

1. Sending universal distress signals

2. Immediate assistance

3. Lost communication procedures

4. Coordination in emergencies

5. Continuous monitoring

What Is the Best Frequency to Listen to Aircraft?

118-136.95 (tower) is the best frequency to listen to aircraft, and it will allow you to hear the communication between pilots and air traffic controllers during takeoffs and landings.

The audio streams in this frequency include pilots identifying themselves, their location, and their intentions.

The best frequency to listen to aircraft depends on what you want to listen to.

If you wish to listen to aircraft movements on the ground, such as taxiing gate assignments or pushback, it will be best to tune to Ground Operation frequencies, which typically lie between the 121.6-121.9 MHZ range at many airports.

Aircraft Radio Frequencies Used for Aviation

The main airport radio frequencies used for aviation lie between 118.000 to 136.950 controlled from the tower.

For navigation and communication, please note that airports use other frequencies like VOR (VHF omnidirectional range) and DME (distance measuring equipment).

Final Thoughts

Airport radio frequencies, often taken for granted by passengers aboard their flights, play a pivotal role in ensuring that planes take off, land, and taxi with precision while maintaining the highest levels of safety.

From the bustling runways of JFK to the sprawling terminals of London Heathrow, these frequencies provide pilots, ground crews, and air traffic controllers with a lifeline of vital information that is vital in making the miracles of flight a reality.

I hope you enjoyed this behind-the-scenes glimpse into how it all works!

When my grandfather would come to visit me as a kid, we used to sit in his RV and listen to the activity on his CB radio. His nickname for me was “Charlie” and asked me what my call sign would be. I told him it’s “Wide Receiver”, as a play on receiving radio signals and also for my dream of playing a wide receiver in football at the time.

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USDOT Alerts Passengers That Starting Today, Southwest Airlines Must Provide Compensation for Delays and Cancellations Within Their Control

DOT’s historic enforcement action against Southwest earlier this year requires the airline to provide $75 transferrable vouchers to passengers affected by delays and cancellations within the airline’s control that cause passengers to reach their destination three or more hours after their scheduled arrival time  

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is reminding passengers that starting today, Southwest Airlines must compensate them with a transferrable voucher worth at least $75 for any controllable cancellation or delay that causes passengers to reach their destination three or more hours after their scheduled arrival time. Southwest is required to provide this compensation as part of DOT’s recent historic enforcement action holding the airline accountable for its 2022 holiday meltdown that stranded millions of passengers across the country.

“After the 2022 holiday meltdown, our department held Southwest Airlines accountable—and now the airline is required to compensate passengers for lengthy delays and cancellations that they cause,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg . “We're pleased to bring these benefits to passengers, and further show the flying public that the Biden-Harris Administration has their back.”

When Compensation is Required Southwest is required to provide compensation if:

• A flight was cancelled or delayed within seven days of the scheduled departure date; 
• Passengers arrived at their destination three or more hours later than planned; and
• The delay or cancellation was caused by something that Southwest could control, such as a maintenance or staffing issue.

Passengers will not be eligible for compensation if the cause of the disruption was not within the airline’s control, such as bad weather.

How to Request Compensation

• Per the agreement with DOT, Southwest has created an easy-to-find online form (southwest.com/delayform) for passengers to request compensation. 
• Passengers must submit requests within one year from the date of the delayed/cancelled flight. 
• If passengers enter erroneous information on the form, they will get an error message, and a chance to edit and re-submit the required information 
• Southwest will respond to the customer via email within 30 days of receiving a voucher request form and if the consumer is eligible, Southwest will follow-up with a voucher for that consumer.  
• The vouchers will be transferrable and will be valid for at least one year after the date of issuance. 

DOT will be closely monitoring Southwest’s compensation program to ensure that passengers get the relief they are owed. The airline must submit an annual report to DOT every May for the next three years detailing the voucher expenditures.

In 2022, under Secretary Buttigieg’s guidance, DOT created an Airline Customer Service Dashboard known as FlightRights.gov to help airline passengers understand what they are entitled to receive when a delay or cancellation was within the airlines’ control and create  standards that the Department can enforce. DOT has updated the Airline Cancellation and Delay dashboard to reflect Southwest’s mandated compensation program.

Find more information on DOT’s $140 million enforcement action against Southwest Airlines for the 2022 holiday meltdown here .

DOT’s Historic Record of Consumer Protection Under the Biden-Harris Administration

Under the Biden-Harris Administration, DOT has advanced the largest expansion of airline passenger rights, issued the biggest fines against airlines for failing consumers, and returned more money to passengers in refunds and reimbursements than ever before in the Department’s history.

• Just last week, DOT announced two final rules that require airlines to provide automatic cash refunds to passengers when owed and protect consumers from costly surprise airline fees . These rules will significantly expand consumer protections in air travel, provide passengers an easier pathway to refunds when owed, and save consumers over half a billion dollars every year in hidden and surprise junk fees.
• As mentioned above, DOT launched the flightrights.gov dashboard, and now all 10 major U.S. airlines guarantee free rebooking and meals, and nine guarantee hotel accommodations when an airline issue causes a significant delay or cancellation. These are new commitments the airlines added to their customer service plans that DOT can legally ensure they adhere to and are displayed on flightrights.gov.
• Since President Biden took office, DOT has helped return more than $3 billion in refunds and reimbursements owed to airline passengers – including over $600 million to passengers affected by the Southwest Airlines holiday meltdown in 2022.
• DOT has issued over $164 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection violations. Between 1996 and 2020, DOT collectively issued less than $71 million in penalties against airlines for consumer protection violations.
• DOT recently launched a new partnership with a bipartisan group of state attorneys general to fast-track the review of consumer complaints, hold airlines accountable, and protect the rights of the traveling public.
• In 2023, the flight cancellation rate in the U.S. was a record low at under 1.2% — the lowest rate of flight cancellations in over 10 years despite a record amount of air travel.
• DOT is undertaking its first ever industry-wide review of airline privacy practices and its first review of airline loyalty programs

In addition to finalizing the rules to require automatic refunds and protect consumers from surprise fees, DOT is also pursuing rulemakings that would: 

• Propose to ban family seating junk fees and guarantee that parents can sit with their children for no extra charge when they fly. Before President Biden and Secretary Buttigieg pressed airlines last year, no airline committed to guaranteeing fee-free family seating. Now, four airlines guarantee fee-free family seating, as the Department is working on its family seating junk fee ban proposal.
• Propose to make passenger compensation and amenities mandatory so that travelers are taken care of when airlines cause flight delays or cancellations. 
• Expand the rights for passengers who use wheelchairs and ensure that they can travel safely and with dignity. The comment period on this proposed rule closes on May 13, 2024.

Consumers may file an airline complaint with the Department here . 

This Is the Best Frequent Flyer Program of 2024

And it’s based here in the West.

It pays to be loyal to an airline—status can get you perks like free checked bags, upgrades, priority boarding, lounge access, and more. Air travel can be stressful and expensive, so we’ll take whatever makes the whole thing a little easier. But not all airline loyalty programs are created equally—some make it easier to earn mileage, while others have better perks. 

Personal finance website Wallethub recently put out its 2024 Best Frequent Flyer Programs list and the airline that topped the list is headquartered right here in the West: Alaska Airlines. The team at Wallethub compared the loyalty programs of the 10 largest domestic airlines across 21 key metrics, like number of U.S. destinations , earning policies, redemption policies, miles expiration, ease of achieving elite status, and more. Wallethub also ranked the programs based on three annual airfare budgets: Light ($355), Average ($3,736), and Frequent ($7,117)—that means the best of the best were chosen because they serve all types of travelers.

izusek/Getty Images

Alaska had the best overall frequent flyer program, but other airlines in the top five received special recognition, too. United Mileage Plus was deemed best for Destination Coverage & Redemption Policies; HawaiianMiles was best for Membership Status Perks; and American Airlines AAdvantage was best for Airline Coverage.

The study also found that customers are benefitting more from these rewards than in 2023: Seven of the 10 airlines are offering more value in 2024—on average, 18% more. And when it comes to who offers the most rewards value, that was Frontier Airlines ($15.40 per $100 spent). Alaska came in second, with $11 per $100 spent.

Other interesting findings include which airlines give more preference to program members when deciding whom to bump on overbooked flights —that’s American Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Air Lines, and Alaska Airlines. And if you’re looking for a loyalty program where miles don’t expire, these airlines are ones to prioritize: Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines.

Getty Images

Take a look at the top 5 programs below. See the full report here and use Wallethub’s Frequent Flyer Miles Calculator to find the best program for you.

• Alaska Airlines – Alaska Mileage Plan
• United Airlines – United MileagePlus
• Delta Air Lines – Delta SkyMiles
• Hawaiian Airlines – HawaiianMiles
• American Airlines – AAdvantage

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7 Unexpected Benefits of Maintaining Your Frequent Flyer Status

D elta Airlines caused a bit of a kerfuffle recently when it announced changes to its SkyMiles® frequent flyer program. Starting Jan. 1, 2024, Delta is cutting back on lounge access for all but the biggest-spending customers, and Delta passengers no longer earn actual "miles" for being frequent flyers. Instead, Delta Airlines' elite status can only be earned by spending cold, hard cash.

Although other airlines still offer frequent flyer miles for actual, well, flights, the Delta changes were widely seen as an ominous sign. Will airlines start driving a harder bargain with their most loyal customers? As the air travel landscape shifts, airport lounges get more crowded and rules to gain airline status get more confusing. Some industry watchers are starting to question if it's worth it for your personal finances to maintain frequent flyer status.

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There's no easy way to decide whether to keep or cancel your frequent flyer membership. Breaking up is hard to do, especially if it's with a major airline you've been flying for many years. It all depends on how much you fly and which airline has the biggest presence at your home airport or has the most flights to your favorite destinations. The decision of whether to keep or ditch your frequent flyer status can also depend on how much you spend on airline credit cards and partner travel rewards cards, and how much value (financial, emotional, and otherwise) you feel you're getting from the airline.

But even though airline rule changes can be unclear and frustrating, don't be too hasty to cut up your frequent flyer membership card. Having elite status with airlines is still one of the best ways to elevate your travel experience.

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Let's look at a few unexpected benefits of having frequent flyer elite status.

1. Elite status with partner airlines

Being an elite status frequent flyer doesn't just give you extra benefits with your primary airline; it can also unlock a larger world of possibilities to get deals and privileges on other airlines in an airline alliance.

For example, AAdvantage Gold® status also gives you oneworld® RubySM status. You can use your American Airlines elite status to get priority service and other experiences with oneworld's international partner airlines like British Airways, Iberia, Japan Airlines, Qantas, and more.

2. Bonus miles

Once you get elite airline status, you can earn frequent flyer miles even faster than before. That's because airlines often give bonus miles to their elite status customers. Think of it like compound interest for your miles.

For example, United Airlines gives Premier Silver members bonus miles equivalent to 7x the miles they would ordinarily earn from booking a fare. Premier Gold members get 8x the miles, and Premier Platinum flyers get 9x the miles. Once you earn enough miles to get elite status, it gets even easier to keep earning frequent flyer miles and to keep your elite status. It's circular logic, but in a good way! Isn't that a perk worth keeping?

3. Bonus points to start the new year

When you get elite status with an airline, it doesn't last forever. You have to keep earning enough loyalty points or credits to keep your status for the following year. Some airlines make this easier by giving you an advance payment of status-earning bonus points to start the new year.

For example, at the start of the new program year, United offers a "PQP deposit" of bonus Premier Qualification Points (PQPs) for existing Premier members. This is a nice head start on reaching your elite status goals for the new year.

4. Same-day flight changes

Some levels of elite airline status make it easier to change your flight in case your plans change. American Airlines AAdvantage® Platinum offers same-day standby priority, and Platinum Pro® gives you free same-day flight changes.

5. Lots of free checked bags

Tired of trying to pack light? Elite airline status lets you be extravagant and pack all your extra socks, power tools, or perhaps the actual kitchen sink. American Airlines AAdvantage Platinum status provides two complimentary checked bags, and higher status levels let you check three bags for free. Never worry about baggage fees again!

6. Free upgrades for companions

Getting elite airline status is not only a good thing for you; it can help your family and friends have a better flight experience, too. That's because many airlines offer free upgrades for your companions, even if they're not elite status members.

For example, United Airlines lets your companion get the same upgrade you qualify for at every level of your Premier® status. But keep in mind there are some restrictions -- if your companion is traveling on an award ticket, they cannot upgrade for free.

7. Priority customer service

People love to complain about airlines' customer service, especially in extreme situations like weather delays and mass cancellations. If you dread getting trapped at the airport or having to stand in line for hours at understaffed ticketing counters, getting elite airline status could be the right move.

American Airlines AAdvantage® offers priority service and reservation assistance for all levels of elite status, from Gold to Executive Platinum. As an elite status customer, airlines are more likely to pamper you and take the extra step to make sure your trip goes smoothly. In case of delays and cancellations, elite status can be like backup travel insurance to get you in the air as soon as possible.

Gaining elite status with airlines is not easy, inexpensive, or uncomplicated. You'll have to fly and buy a lot, navigate complex frequent flyer program rules, and be strategic about how you spend money on airline credit cards . But getting elite airline status -- and keeping it -- is often worth the effort. These unexpected benefits of frequent flyer status make it hard to walk away.

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What to wear when you travel: Tips from frequent flyers 

Jolie Hettena and Marli Hettena, 17, of Merrick, wear comfortable outfits and backpacks for their flight at MacArthur in Ronkonkoma on April 19. Credit: Morgan Campbell

In May, Michael Doyle and his wife head out from their Levittown home for a getaway to Copenhagen, where galleries, gardens, museums and more must-see sites will all be at their feet. Weeks before he departs for Denmark, Doyle, a flight attendant for a major carrier for 35 years, already knows what he’ll have on his feet during the flight: a pair of his trusty slip-ons. They come in handy passing through security and in the cabin.

“I like to wear loafers. You can slide them on and off at your seat,” he says, adding an inside tip of the trade. “Always wear shoes when you walk anywhere in the plane.” More than comfy, slip-ons come in a variety of styles for men and women — Cole Haan to Toms to Tom Ford.

Brayden, 5, Kaitlin, and Gemma Kenney, 6, from East Islip, travel in Disney-themed attire at MacArthur in Ronkonkoma on April 19. Credit: Morgan Campbell

With more than three decades of work experience in the sky, plus his frequent personal journeys, Doyle has solved the puzzle of what to wear when you’re at 35,000 feet.

To help make sure your next flight is nothing but blue skies when it comes to comfort, style and safety, we've rounded up advice for in-flight apparel from pros in the flying industry and parents who log frequent air miles.

Flight attendant tips

Stretch your style

Stretch jeans are a flyer’s best friend, if you ask Chris Riebli, a flight attendant for one of the “Big 3” U.S. airlines for more than three decades who lives in Long Beach. That goes double on a long-haul flight, where tight, binding clothes — as in, skinny jeans — are as unwelcome as turbulence.

“I always wear jeans because jeans are a little bit heavier and bulkier to pack so it takes packing space,” she says. “You can pretty much wear your jeans anywhere in the world and then fit into what everybody is wearing there.” Just make sure they're of the stretch variety, “so they're more comfortable,” she says, adding that jeans have “come a long way” from the old days of being stiff and unforgiving. On a nine-hour flight, that’s a top priority. You can find these wardrobe staples wherever you like to shop, from Nordstrom to Macy’s to Marshalls and beyond.

Layer it on

Like her fellow flight attendants, Leiann Cummings, who works for Breeze Airways and lives in Center Moriches, is a true believer in dressing strategically when she’s in the air. “My big thing is layers,” she says. “You want to layer up because being in the cabin is always unpredictable.”

Riebli echoes that sentiment, noting that the climate can turn from arctic to tropical as you go from tarmac to cabin. “You never know what the temperature is going to be,” she says. So she always pairs a top — short- or long-sleeve — with a “nice fashion sweatshirt, sweater or lightweight jacket.”

Focus on fabrics that breathe

Reign Small, 3, and Ryan Small, of Brooklyn, travel in casual and breathable attire at MacArthur in Ronkonkoma on April 19. Credit: Morgan Campbell

Choices for fashionable, travel-friendly tops are as vast as the open sky. Since you can boost in-flight comfort by wearing breathable fabrics, such as cotton, Uniqlo in Valley Stream, Uniondale and Huntington Station and the Gap (multiple locations) are two shops for in-flight inspiration. Moisture-wicking and quick-drying human-made fabrics found in athleisure wear are another option. Alo in Roosevelt Field and Lululemon in Uniondale, Manhasset and Huntington Station are two sources for going this style route.

Jill Hettena, of Merrick, wears comfortable shoes to travel. Credit: Morgan Campbell

Choose the right shoes

Flight attendants agreed that open-toed shoes are a no-no for flying, so stash your stilettos, strappy sandals and playful flip-flops in your bag. “I always recommend close-toed shoes,” says Cummings. “It’s a lot safer and your feet don’t get cold.”

Riebli is an ace at packing with maximum efficiency. She always matches her in-flight footwear to the environment of her destination. For a trip to Iceland, where hiking was on the agenda, she wore her comfy Nike running shoes. En route to Paris and England, she wears her suede tennis shoes. “They’re a little more fashionable and good for walking.”

Travel agent advice

Penny Cuomo has been running Sunset Travel in Bellmore since 1988. She’s logged countless miles planning trips for others (upcoming is one to the Canadian Rockies) and herself.

Cuomo figures she flies at least four times a year, and she dresses for the trip in essentially the same outfit. “I wear leggings or cropped pants, a T-shirt and a sweater or zipper top layer,” she says. “And comfortable shoes. Sometimes you have to walk a mile to get to the baggage.”

“I tell the women to take a shawl and men to take a sweatshirt,” says Cuomo. “It can definitely get cold in the cabin.” During a long flight, a wrap or pashmina easily doubles as a makeshift pillow and takes up practically no space in a carry-on bag.

Have it in the bag

Crossbody bags are designed to keep your essential documents including passports close at hand and safe. “I tell everybody to wear one,” says Cuomo. “Everything is at your fingertips — and no one else’s.”

There are many styles — Cuomo’s favorite is MZ Wallace in Manhattan — and most feature adjustable straps for just the right fit. Riebli seconds the crossbody bag tip — her go-to brand is Dakine, found at sporting good locations like REI in Huntington Station and Public Lands in Melville.

Sloane Grober, 34, a mother of three and retail consultant who lives in Syosset, reckons that she flies about eight times a year between family trips, jaunts with just her husband and the occasional girls’ getaway.

Flying with her three daughters — Hunter, 9, Harlow, 6, Hayden, 3 — brings out Grober’s strategic team captain. “I tend to dress all my kids in coordinating outfits,” she says. “It’s easy for everyone around us to know that we're kind of a pack or a pod.”

Sisters Harlow, 6, Hayden, 3, and Hunter Grober, 9, wear matching outfits when they travel. Credit: Howard Simmons

Have hoodie, will travel

“My number one rule for flying is that everybody wears a hoodie,” says Grober. “When my kids are sleeping on the airplane in their hoodies, I’m not so concerned about where their head is resting.” Her go-to shops include Blue Jean Baby in Woodbury and Gold Coast Kids in Jericho.

Prioritize pockets

When you’re flying, you can never have too many pockets, according to Grober. Leggings with a deep cargo-style pocket are a must-have in her plane outfit. “I always wear the same pair of black Lululemon leggings,” she says, adding that it’s ideal for boarding passes. “I love that they keep my hands free and nothing can fall out.”

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Some airline issues get you a refund, some don't. How it works | Cruising Altitude

John Schrier was traveling home to New York from Taipei, Taiwan, last month and said the flight was interminably boring.

“As we boarded, you could see that about half of the screens had a black screen,” he told me. “Half of us were not able to watch an entertainment system.” 

Schrier said he reached out to the Taiwanese airline EVA Air on multiple platforms, including on social media during the flight, but initially had no luck hearing back or getting reimbursed for the inconvenience of a transpacific flight with no inflight entertainment.

Unfortunately for Schrier, it’s unlikely any compensation will be coming. Airlines have conditions attached to every ticket, known as contracts of carriage, that outline their minimum obligations to passengers. Contracts of carriage, coupled with rules from regulators like the Department of Transportation, give passengers their basic rights when flying – but seatback screens are not usually considered mandatory equipment, even if they’re advertised as an available amenity.

Nevertheless, the Transportation Department recently announced new rules that give consumers increased protections when other kinds of things go wrong, so here’s what you need to know about what is and isn’t a reimbursable offense by an airline these days.

What is an airline contract of carriage?

Airline contracts of carriage are the terms and conditions that passengers agree to when they fly. Travelers automatically sign on when they purchase their tickets, even if they don’t have to formally sign a document. The contracts typically outline an airline’s commitments for transportation, as well as what happens if your flight is delayed or canceled and other fine print related to your itinerary.

“Some airlines have a customer bill of rights to basically simplify the airline contract of carriage, but essentially it’s what’s allowed, what’s not allowed, but everybody has a little bit different verbiage,” Loulu Lima, founder of the Texas-based travel agency Book Here Give Here, told me. 

If you want to comb through the fine print, airlines make their contracts of carriage available on their websites. EVA’s contract , which covered Schrier’s trip, includes terms and conditions on how tickets can be used and (not) transferred, how stopovers work, what kinds of delays or cancellations make a passenger eligible for a refund and other assorted policies.

“It’s going to depend on the airline. An American airline is going to have a different set of rules than an Asian one,” Lima said. “The rules are really written based on the country of the corporate office."

Here are the contracts of carriage for each of the major U.S. airlines, if you want to take a look: 

• American Airlines
• United Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Southwest Airlines

Can passengers get a refund for broken inflight entertainment?

Usually not. 

“If you have status, you might get some loyalty points out of it, but other than maybe going on social media and making a big stink about it you’re probably not going to get anything,” Lima said.

Some airlines are also more accommodating than others and may voluntarily give passengers credits when something like that goes wrong. A few years ago, I was flying on Delta, and my seatback screen was broken, and I was given about 2,500 SkyMiles as a goodwill gesture. 

Schrier said EVA eventually offered him about $100 in compensation.

Last week's Cruising Altitude: Another Boeing plane issue? Don't fall for the headlines.

New Department of Transportation rule increases traveler protections

Though inflight entertainment isn’t typically considered crucial equipment by an airline, which means it’s safe to travel even if those seatback screens aren’t working, the Transportation Department recently announced new rules that help guarantee protections and refunds for other kinds of problems in the air. 

Part of the change mean: 

• Airlines will have to automatically issue refunds within 20 days if a passenger’s flight is canceled or significantly delayed (over three hours) and they choose not to travel on alternative flights offered.
• If a traveler pays a checked bag fee and their bag is significantly delayed, they’ll be entitled to a refund of the fee. 
• If a traveler pays in advance for an ancillary service like an extra legroom seat or Wi-Fi and then does not have access to that amenity on the flight, they will have to receive a refund for those charges.

The refund policies were also coupled with another new rule that requires more upfront, clear-cut disclosure of airline fees.

“A lot of what we hear from passengers involves refunds – or the lack thereof – for passengers who experience cancellations and disruptions.” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a statement announcing the new rules. “Infrequent fliers are especially vulnerable, since they may not know that we are here for them, and are often not told about their right to a refund, and too often instead offered compensation in form of a voucher or miles whose value amounts to pennies on the dollar of what they are actually owed. Or they enter the vortex of call centers and chatbots, sometimes giving up before they get their money back.”

Schrier, for example, said he had a lot of trouble getting through to EVA to file his complaint. 

It’s definitely frustrating for travelers who are on a long flight without functioning entertainment. I’m usually totally dependent on the seatback screen for my distractions while flying. But if the alternative is for a flight to get significantly delayed or canceled while technicians fix the operating system, I think I’d rather just get going. 

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Automatic Refunds and No More Hidden Fees: D.O.T. Sets New Rules for Airlines

The Transportation Department issued new requirements on refunds when flights are canceled or delayed and on revealing “junk” fees before booking. Here’s what passengers can expect.

By Christine Chung

The Transportation Department on Wednesday announced new rules taking aim at two of the most difficult and annoying issues in air travel: obtaining refunds and encountering surprise fees late in the booking process.

“Passengers deserve to know upfront what costs they are facing and should get their money back when an airline owes them — without having to ask,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in a statement, adding that the changes would not only save passengers “time and money,” but also prevent headaches.

The department’s new rules, Mr. Buttigieg said, will hold airlines to clear and consistent standards when they cancel, delay or substantially change flights, and require automatic refunds to be issued within weeks. They will also require them to reveal all fees before a ticket is purchased.

Airlines for America , a trade group representing the country’s largest air carriers, said in a statement that its airlines “abide by and frequently exceed” D.O.T. consumer protection regulations.

Passenger advocates welcomed the new steps.

Tomasz Pawliszyn, the chief executive of AirHelp, a Berlin-based company that assists passengers with airline claims, called it a “massive step forward and huge improvement in consumer rights and protection” that brings the United States closer to global standards in passenger rights.

Here’s what we know about the D.O.T.’s new rules, which will begin to go into effect in October.

There’s now one definition for a “significant” delay.

Until now, airlines have been allowed to set their own definition for a “significant” delay and compensation has varied by carrier . Now, according to the D.O.T., there will be one standard: when departure or arrival is delayed by three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international flights.

Passengers will get prompt refunds for cancellations or significant changes for flights and delayed bags, for any reason.

When things go wrong, getting compensation from an airline has often required establishing a cumbersome paper trail or spending untold hours on the phone. Under the new rules, refunds will be automatic, without passengers having to request them. Refunds will be made in full, excepting the value of any transportation already used. Airlines and ticket agents must provide refunds in the original form of payment, whether by cash, credit card or airline miles. Refunds are due within seven days for credit card purchases and within 20 days for other payments.

Passengers with other flight disruptions, such as being downgraded to a lower service class, are also entitled to refunds.

The list of significant changes for which passengers can get their money back also includes: departure or arrival from an airport different from the one booked; connections at different airports or flights on planes that are less accessible to a person with a disability; an increase in the number of scheduled connections. Also, passengers who pay for services like Wi-Fi or seat selection that are then unavailable will be refunded any fees.

Airlines must give travel vouchers or credits to ticketed passengers unable to fly because of government restrictions or a doctor’s orders.

The vouchers or credits will be transferable and can be used for at least five years after the date they were issued.

Fees for checked baggage and modifying a reservation must be disclosed upfront.

Airlines and ticket agents are now required to display any extra fees for things like checking bags or seat selection clearly and individually before a ticket purchase. They will also need to outline the airline’s policies on baggage, cancellations and changing flights before a customer purchases a ticket.

The rules, which apply to all flights on domestic airlines and flights to and from the United States operated by foreign airlines, have varying start dates.

For example, automatic refunds must be instituted by the airlines within six months. But carriers have a year before they’re required to issue travel vouchers and credits for passengers advised by a medical professional not to fly.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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Big data reveals true climate impact of worldwide air travel

Global aviations emissions reporting requirements under the unfcc treaty don't show the real impact of air travel.

For the first time ever, researchers have harnessed the power of big data to calculate the per-country greenhouse gas emissions from aviation for 197 countries covered by an international treaty on climate change.

When countries signed the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change treaty, high-income countries were required to report their aviation-related emissions. But 151 middle and lower income countries, including China and India, were not required to report these emissions, although they could do so voluntarily.

This matters because the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change relies on country reports of emissions during negotiations on country-specific emissions cuts.

"Our work fills the reporting gaps, so that this can inform policy and hopefully improve future negotiations," says Jan Klenner, a PhD candidate at NTNU's Industrial Ecology Programme and the first author of the new article, which was recently published in Environmental Research Letters.

The new data show that countries such as China, for example, which did not report its 2019 aviation-related emissions, was second only to the United States when it came to total aviation-related emissions.

"Now we have a much clearer picture of aviation emissions per country, including previously unreported emissions, which tells you something about how we can go about reducing them," said Helene Muri, a research professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology's Industrial Ecology Programme. Muri was one of Klenner's supervisors and a co-author of the paper.

Big surprises -- or not

As might be expected, the United States is at the top of the list of emitters when it comes to the total sum of aviation emissions for both international and domestic flights.

"When we looked at how emissions are distributed per capita, we could see that economic well-being leads to more aviation activity," Klenner said.

That analysis also showed that wealthy Norway, with just 5.5 million people, was third place overall, just behind the US and Australia, when domestic emissions were calculated on a per-capita basis.

Klenner tested the model he developed for this analysis by using data from Norway. He published a paper reporting those results in 2022.

You might think that Norway's geography -- a long, narrow country with lots of mountains and a sparsely populated northern area -- would be the culprit behind the numbers. But Klenner's 2022 analysis showed that fully 50 per cent of Norway's domestic flights were between the country's major cities, Oslo, Trondheim, Stavanger, Bergen and Tromsø.

"The per person emissions in Norway were incredibly high," Muri, who also co-authored that paper, said. "With this data set we can confirm that from a Norwegian perspective we have a lot of work to do, because we are third in the world when it comes to emissions per person from domestic emissions."

A role for big data

Anders Hammer Strømman, a professor at NTNU's Industrial Ecology Programme and Klenner's co-supervisor, said one important aspect of the study is that it shows how big data can be used to help in regulating climate emissions. Strømman was also a co-author of the new paper.

"I think it very nicely illustrates the potential in this type of work, where we have previously relied on statistical offices and reporting loops that can take a year or more to get this kind of information," he said. "This model allows us to do instant emissions modeling -- we can calculate the emissions from global aviation as it happens."

The model, called AviTeam, is the first to provide information for the 45 lesser-developed countries that have never inventoried their greenhouse gas emissions from aviation. Strømman says the model provides these countries with information that might be otherwise difficult or impossible for them to collect.

The abillity to calculate nearly real-time aviation emissions could also provide an important tool as the industry makes changes to de-carbonize.

"In the transition where we're talking about the introduction of new fuels and new technologies, this type of big data allows us to identify those types of corridors or operations where it makes sense to test those strategies first," Strømman said.

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Story Source:

Materials provided by Norwegian University of Science and Technology . Original written by Nancy Bazilchuk. Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

Journal Reference :

• Jan Klenner, Helene Muri, Anders H Strømman. Domestic and international aviation emission inventories for the UNFCCC parties . Environmental Research Letters , 2024; 19 (5): 054019 DOI: 10.1088/1748-9326/ad3a7d

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New airline rules will make it easier to get refunds for canceled flights. Here's what to know.

By Megan Cerullo

Edited By Aimee Picchi

Updated on: April 25, 2024 / 12:56 PM EDT / CBS News

New consumer protection rules will soon entitle airline passengers to automatic refunds when flights are canceled or significantly delayed, while also requiring airlines to reveal  junk fees  upfront.

In total, the new rules could save travelers $500 million annually, Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said Wednesday, describing the regulations as "the biggest expansion of passenger rights in the department's history."

They take aim at some of the most common complaints against airlines, such as delays and difficulties getting refunds. Airlines will also have to disclose all possible fees, such as added costs for seat selection, when advertising a fare.

The regulations are likely to effect in October, officials said. Here's what to know about the new rules and what they mean for you.

You'll get an automatic refund for delayed or canceled flights

The first rule mandates that airlines promptly refund customers when flights are meaningfully disrupted or delayed. Airlines will have to refund customers the full ticket prices, including airline-imposed fees, as well as government taxes and fees.

In theory, passengers are already entitled to such refunds, but in practice airlines don't always provide them, Buttigieg noted. He said the new rule benefits infrequent fliers in particular, who may be less familiar with their rights. 

This rule will save customers the hassle of dealing with a chatbot or completing a cumbersome claims process to receive refunds they're entitled to anyway when flights don't take off as scheduled.

Airlines often offer customers compensation in the form of vouchers or miles with values that are less than the flight's original cost. And passengers often must engage with customer service agents or chatbots to secure refunds, which can lead them to give up on the process altogether, according to Buttigieg.

How long of a delay will qualify for a refund? 

The new rule defines what constitutes a "significantly changed" flight: a delay of at least three hours for a domestic flight, and at least six hours for an international flight. That was previously left to the discretion of the airline. 

The rule says passengers will get automatic refunds in those cases as long as they don't accept alternative transportation or travel credits offered by the airline.  

Passengers will also be entitled to refunds for other significant flight changes, according to the Department of Transportation. 

These changes include flights whose departure or arrival airports change, that add connections or downgrade passengers to a different level of service. If a flight requires a passenger with a disability to make a connection at an airport or on a flight that is less accommodating, that also qualifies for a refund.

How long will it take to get a refund?

Airlines will have seven days to automatically refund passengers who purchased their tickets with a credit card, and 20 calendar days for other payment methods, the Transportation Department said.

"No more defaulting to vouchers or credits when consumers may not even realize they're entitled to cash," Buttigieg said. 

Can I get a refund for delayed bags? 

Yes, checked bag delays are also covered. 

When bags aren't delivered within 12 hours of a domestic flight's arrival at its gate, passengers will get a refund for their checked bag fee.   On international flights, bags that don't arrive within 15 to 30 hours, depending on a flight's length, are covered by the rule. 

What other refunds will be available? 

Airlines must also refund the costs of services customers paid for but then didn't receive on the flight, such as wifi, seat selection or in-flight entertainment, the Transportation Department said.

For instance, if passengers buy wifi access but it doesn't work properly, they are entitled to a refund for the service.

What is happening with surprise fees? 

Transportation officials also announced a second rule on Wednesday that targets "junk" or surprise fees, which are charges that aren't typically disclosed to a consumer ahead of purchase. 

Under the rule, airlines must disclose all fees the first time that airfare is advertised on an airline's site. Hyperlinks don't count, according to the agency.

The rule is designed to protect consumers against confusion caused by "drip pricing"  by requiring airlines to disclose how much these additional fees will cost up front. That includes amounts airlines charge consumers to check bags, carry on bags, select seats, and change or cancel flights.

The rule is designed to help make it easier for passengers to estimate the full cost of flying so they can make an informed purchase.

Are seats guaranteed if I buy a ticket?

Under the second rule, airlines will also have to make clear to customers that if they buy a ticket, they're guaranteed a seat — even if they don't fork over additional money to choose where on the plane that seat is located. 

How will I know I'm seeing the actual flight price?

The second rule also bars airlines from advertising artificially low prices that don't factor in mandatory fees. 

The Transportation Department said this will end "discount bait-and-switch tactics" that dangle deceptive discounts to convince travelers to buy tickets.

What do airlines say about the new rules?

Airlines for America, a trade group for large U.S. carriers, noted that refund complaints to the Transportation Department have fallen sharply since mid-2020. 

A spokesperson for the group said airlines "offer a range of options — including fully refundable fares — to increase accessibility to air travel and to help customers make ticket selections that best fit their needs."

The group said the 11 largest U.S. airlines issued $43 billion in customer refunds from 2020 through 2023.

While Buttigieg said airlines aren't "enthusiastic" about being held to a higher standard, he believes the new rules will build passenger confidence in companies and ultimately benefit the industry as a whole.

Buttigieg also said he hopes the new rules will push carriers to improve the consumer experience. For example, if an airline knows it will automatically owe customers refunds for canceled flights, it might invest more in precise scheduling, and ultimately reduce the number of cancellations overall. 

—With reporting by the Associated Press.

Megan Cerullo is a New York-based reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering small business, workplace, health care, consumer spending and personal finance topics. She regularly appears on CBS News 24/7 to discuss her reporting.

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