Delta Launches 13 New International Nonstop Routes: See All Flights Now

Airlines are actively seeking out warmer weather escapes during the cold, miserable winter. Delta Air Lines particularly stands out, as it has just started 13 new and returning routes to the Caribbean, Central America, and Mexico. All began in time for Christmas getaways.

For obvious reasons, most airlines reduce flights on Christmas Day. Delta is no exception. However, these additional routes play an important role in its international flights increasing week-over-week. OAG data shows it has 14% more international flights on Christmas Day than on the previous Thursday, rising to 26% for short-haul non-US services.

Delta Has Just Started These 13 Routes

The SkyTeam carrier's international network has been examined using OAG data. This involved comparing all its routes available between January 1, 2024, to December 18, 2025, with what is on offer from December 19 to 28, 2025. This analysis identified the following 13 additions, all of which started on the same day. They include two destinations in US territories.

As usual with such things, most of the routes—nine of the 13—have seen Delta's frames before. With some exceptions, most ended in 2020 due to the myriad consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, including border closures.

The four routes that are brand-new to Delta's map are thus arguably more interesting. Of these, one—Atlanta to St. Vincent—has never had any scheduled flights by any airline, which isn't surprising. Moreover, Detroit to Liberia was last served by Northwest in 2002. Delta faces other carriers on the remaining two new airport pairs.

Start Date Route Delta's Operations (December 25-31*) Served By Delta Before?**

December 20 Atlanta-Grenada Daily 737-800 Yes: until 2020

December 20 Atlanta-St. Vincent Daily 737-800 No

December 20 Austin-Cancun Daily A320 Yes: a few flights in 2011

December 20 Austin-Los Cabos Daily E175 (SkyWest) No

December 20 Boston-St Thomas Daily 757-200 Yes: most recently in 2022

December 20 Detroit-Grand Cayman Weekly 737-800 Yes: until 2020

December 20 Detroit-Liberia Weekly 737-900ER No

December 20 Indianapolis-Cancun Weekly A320 Yes: until 2020

December 20 Kansas City-Cancun Weekly 737-900ER Yes: until 2020

December 20 Minneapolis-Nassau Weekly A321 Yes: until 2020

December 20
Nashville-Cancun Weekly 737-800 Yes: until 2020

December 20 New York JFK-Grand Cayman Weekly 737-900ER Yes: most recently in 2016

December 20 Raleigh/Durham-San Juan Weekly 737-900ER No

* They may vary at other times ** Since 1990

Atlanta's 1st Flight To St. Vincent

At 1,766 nautical miles (3,271 km) each way, St. Vincent becomes Delta's third-longest Caribbean route from Atlanta. Only Barbados and Grenada (which relaunched on December 20) cover more distance. It is Delta's first time in St. Vincent.

According to booking data, fewer than 3,000 people flew between Atlanta, Delta's top fortress hub, and the Caribbean island in the 12 months to October 2025. The market was absolutely tiny. It was the seventh-largest unserved Caribbean destination from the Georgia hub. Of course, it'll be easy to increase demand from nonstop flights and, hopefully, strong promotions.

Given the lack of local market, the daily frequency from the get-go is unusually bullish, especially when most of the 13 route additions are only served weekly. It is not helped by the route running daily through April 12, and weekly thereafter.

It will, of course, rely massively on connections across the US. However, half of the US traffic is to Greater New York City and Miami, which already have nonstop flights (but not on Delta). Like any very strong hub, it'll capture passengers flying from many dozens of airports and beyond, including multiple airports serving Greater NYC.

Only One Addition Is On A Regional Jet

Everyone knows that Austn has seen huge growth by Delta recently. The ever-popular Mexican beach destination of Los Cabos has now joined its map. Along with Cancun flights, which began on the same day, it is the first time Delta has had regular international service from Austin.

It is the third operator to Los Cabos. Between December 25 and 31, it coexists with American (six weekly 737-800) and Southwest (five weekly 737-700). Delta's daily frequency, albeit on an E175, will help with competitiveness and market share.

https://simpleflying.com/author/jamespearson/

This Iconic Jamaica Resort Is Back Again, With Ralph Lauren-Designed Rooms, Staffed Villas, And Timeless Charm

One of Jamaica’s most storied hotels is officially back. Round Hill Hotel and Villas has reopened, welcoming guests once again to its private peninsula just west of Montego Bay and marking the return of a property that has long set the standard for charming Caribbean luxury. The reopening brings a full revival of the resort’s accommodations, dining, beach and wellness offerings, restoring a landmark that has shaped Jamaica’s tourism identity for decades.

A villa pool at Round Hill.

The announcement was shared with a message that reflected the significance: “The moment we have all been waiting for is finally here: Round Hill Hotel is officially ready to welcome you, our doors are open, and our hearts are full.” It signals not just a reopening, but a return to form for a resort whose appeal has always rested on continuity, discretion and place.

And yes, it really is open — the property even hosted a wedding this past weekend, a sign that it’s firing on all cylinders.

Set on a secluded stretch of coastline, Round Hill resumes operations with the same low-density layout and emphasis on privacy that have defined the property since its early days. The reopening reinforces Jamaica’s position at the high end of the Caribbean market, where legacy resorts are increasingly valued for their authenticity, heritage and restraint.

The Resort

Round Hill’s accommodations include oceanfront rooms and a collection of private villas spread across the hillside above the bay. While the historic buildings themselves reflect the resort’s original architecture, the interiors of the guest rooms were designed by Ralph Lauren, giving them a residential feel defined by clean lines, crisp palettes and an enduring sense of ease. The focus remains on the setting, with wide views of the Caribbean anchoring nearly every space.

The villas are a defining feature of the resort and have long been part of its allure. Each villa is fully staffed, typically including a cook, housekeeper and gardener, allowing guests to experience a level of privacy and service that feels closer to a private estate than a traditional hotel stay. Many of the villas come with private pools, expansive terraces and sweeping sea views, making them ideal for longer stays and multigenerational travel.

Over the years, these villas have hosted a remarkable list of guests, contributing to Round Hill’s quiet celebrity legacy. Past visitors have included figures such as John F. Kennedy, who famously spent time here before his inauguration, along with writers, musicians and actors drawn to the resort’s discretion and sense of remove. The atmosphere has always favored privacy over spectacle, allowing notable guests to blend seamlessly into the rhythm of the property.

So how do you choose between the rooms and the villas? Honestly, it’s hard. I will admit that on one trip my family and I actually started in a villa and then extended our trip to stay in one of the rooms for a few days. We loved both.

What We Like

Round Hill’s reopening restores a version of Jamaica that feels increasingly rare. This is a resort defined by proportion and permanence, where space, privacy and service take precedence over trends. The fully staffed villas remain one of the strongest draws, offering a deeply personal experience that works equally well for couples seeking seclusion or families traveling together.

The beach continues to anchor the stay. Sheltered waters, a gently curving shoreline and a setting framed by palms give the property a sense of continuity that regular guests recognize immediately. Dining, spa and wellness offerings round out the experience without overwhelming it, reinforcing the idea that Round Hill succeeds by knowing exactly what it is — and by staying true to it.

How To Get There

Round Hill is located approximately 30 minutes from Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay (which is open and operating again, too). Transfers are straightforward, and the drive along Jamaica’s north coast provides a clear transition from the bustle of town to the resort’s private peninsula.

What It Costs to Stay Here

Rooms are about $1,312 per night right now, according to Google Hotels, in line with what you’d expect for mid-December.

https://www.caribjournal.com/author/karenudler/

Travelore News: Antigua And Barbuda, And United States Reach Agreement On Visa Issue

The Antigua and Barbuda government on Friday said it had reached an agreement with the United States allowing for its nationals currently holding valid visas to be allowed entry into the North American country.

“This applies to all visa categories, including B-1, B-2, J, and M visas,” said Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the United States, Sir Ronald Sanders, adding that “for the avoidance of doubt, this includes tourist, business, student, and other valid United States-issued visas.

“Second, there will be no revocation of any existing visas issued to nationals of Antigua and Barbuda prior to 31 December 2025,” he said in a statement.

Earlier this week, the Gaston Browne government said it is “actively engaged” in discussions with the United States authorities after President Donald Trump included nationals from the island and two other Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries who would either be “fully” restricted or have limited entry into the United States.

On Tuesday, President Trump in his latest executive order said that apart from Antigua and Barbuda, nationals from Dominica and Haiti would also be affected by the immigration policy.

Trump said some of these countries identified in an earlier proclamation, had offered Citizenship by Investment (CBI) without residency, which poses challenges for screening and vetting purposes.

Under the CBI programme, several Caribbean countries including Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica offer citizenship to foreign investors in return for making a substantial investment in the socio-economic development of these countries.

Trump said both Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica have “historically had CBI without residency” and that the entry into the United States of nationals of these two countries as immigrants, and as nonimmigrants on B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas, is hereby suspended.

He said consular officers shall reduce the validity for any other nonimmigrant visa issued to nationals of Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica “to the extent permitted by law.”

Trump said in its latest executive order justifying the action taken against the Caribbean countries that “as an example, a foreign national from a country that is subject to travel restrictions could purchase CBI from a second country that is not subject to travel restrictions, obtain a passport in the citizenship of that second country, and subsequently apply for a United States visa for travel to the United States, thus evading the travel restrictions on his or her first country. International travel insurance

“Additionally, United States law enforcement and the Department of State have found that, historically, CBI programmes have been susceptible to several risks. These risks include allowing an individual to conceal his or her identity and assets to circumvent travel restrictions or financial or banking restrictions,” he said.

In his statement, Ambassador Sanders said that he met with the United States officials “on the instructions of, and with the guidance of” Prime Minister Browne to discuss the issuance of the United States Proclamation entitled “Restricting and Limiting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the Security of the United States,” issued on December 16.

“I met today with senior officials of the United States Department of State. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the Proclamation and its implications for Antigua and Barbuda,” he said, adding that at that meeting, several matters were “confirmed and agreed”.

According to the diplomat with regard to new visa applications submitted after January 1, 2026 “these will be subject to new arrangements that are still to be worked out with several Caribbean countries, including Antigua and Barbuda.

“These arrangements relate specifically to the collection of biometric information of Antigua and Barbuda passport holders to ensure full compatibility with United States biometric systems.”

Sir Ronald said he wanted to emphasise “that the process of gathering the biometric information will be no different than now applies to all Antigua and Barbuda citizens; only the technology will change to align it with the US system.

“This alignment of biometric data systems will apply to all citizens of Antigua and Barbuda, including citizens by birth, descent, naturalisation, or investment,” said Sir Ronald, adding that he wanted to “express appreciation to the officials of the United States Government who have worked with us constructively and in good faith to address this matter.

“We are grateful for their commitment to continue working with us in furtherance of the cooperative relationship that our two countries have long enjoyed. Antigua and Barbuda recognises and respects the responsibility of the United States to protect its national security.

“We have pledged—and we reaffirm—our commitment to continue working closely with United States authorities on all necessary measures to ensure that our systems present no risk to U.S. security, while preserving legitimate travel for our citizens.”

The diplomat said St. John’s is “pleased that clarity has been achieved on these immediate concerns, and we will continue to participate fully in the work now underway to ensure the continuation of strong people-to-people exchanges between the United States and Antigua and Barbuda”.

https://demerarawaves.com/author/demwaves/

Travelore Tips: You May Be Entitled To A Refund If Your flight Was Canceled Or Significantly Changed In 2025, A Biden Initiative Being Reversed By Trump

In 2025, U.S. airline passengers were entitled to automatic and prompt refunds if their flight is canceled or significantly changed, provided they choose not to travel or accept alternative offers. These federal rules, mandated by the Department of Transportation (DOT), apply regardless of the cause of the disruption, including factors like weather or air traffic control.

Current Status of Airline Refund Protections

Renumbered Flight Exception (Paused): Effective December 5, 2025, the Department of Transportation (DOT) paused enforcement of rules that would have classified renumbered flights as "cancellations". This pause is scheduled to last until at least June 30, 2026, while the DOT considers permanent changes to the definition of a canceled flight.

Automatic Cash Refunds: As of December 2025, airlines are still required to provide a full refund if they cancel a flight and the passenger chooses not to travel or accept rebooking. A portion of these automatic refund requirements was mandated by the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, which remains federal law.

Cash Compensation for Delays (Scrapped): On November 17, 2025, the Trump administration officially withdrew a proposed Biden-era rule that would have required airlines to pay passengers between $200 and $775 in cash for significant controllable delays. This proposal was never fully enacted and has been shelved to reduce "unnecessary regulatory burdens".

United Adds New Features To Award-Winning Mobile App Like Virtual Gate, Club Recommendation Tool And Real-Time Bag Tracker

United today launched new features to its award-winning mobile app to save customers even more time and further improve the overall travel experience on the world's largest airline*:

'Virtual Gate' gives customers real-time updates about which groups are boarding and a progress bar that shows how many people have boarded, eliminating the need to wait around the gate area.

United Club 'closest and best' feature recommends nearby United Club locations based on proximity to travelers' gates and available capacity, with capacity insights initially offered at ORD and rolling out to additional airports in 2026.

An upgraded mobile bag tracking feature includes a package-delivery-style tracker that shows real-time locations throughout the journey.

Personalized updates include guidance on traveling with strollers or wheelchairs, reminders for required travel documents and biometric boarding options.

Arrival information features provide travelers with live local weather conditions, estimated local arrival time and instructions on connecting to rideshare services directly from the airport.

United has improved upon the industry's best mobile app with AI-supported navigation tools that will predict what features would most benefit customers during their trip and personalize content to each traveler. The upgrades come as the airline expects to welcome more than 10 million people during the winter holiday travel season**, the most ever for United during that time.

"The more information our customers have, the more confident they feel about their trip - and that's particularly important during the holidays," said David Kinzelman, United's Chief Customer Officer. "The United app gives travelers personalized, real-time updates during their entire travel journey, helping our customers feel like they have a personal assistant guiding them every step of the way."

More than 84% of United customers use the app the day they fly, and since beta-testing the latest app enhancements, the airline found customers appreciated the transparent communication, time saved and real-time updates.

For years, United has led the industry on adding game-changing innovations and policies across the airline to help customers self-serve and increase transparency, including:

Personalized connection experience: United launched new, personalized app features that make catching connecting flights easier, including personalized, turn-by-turn directions to connecting gates with estimated walk times, real-time flight status updates, tips for longer layovers, and a heads up if United is able to hold the plane for those with an extra-tight connection.

Bag tracking enhancements: United integrated Apple's Share Item Location for AirTag, so customers everywhere who travel with an AirTag or Find My network accessory can seamlessly share the accessory location with United's customer service team to help locate their luggage in the event that it is mishandled.

Automatic rebooking assistance: Rather than standing in line to speak with an agent or manually searching for alternatives, United's self-service tools automatically provide travelers with personalized rebooking options, baggage tracking details, and, when eligible, meal and hotel vouchers if their flight is delayed or canceled.

Real-time weather delay updates: United texts real-time radar maps to help customers understand how inclement weather in one part of the country can impact a flight elsewhere. United is the first and only U.S. airline currently providing its customers these kinds of specific messages, and the airline is sending them with assistance from gen AI tools.

United's new app features are rolling out to customers and will be widely available ahead of the holiday travel period.

For more information, visit united.com.

*As measured by available seat miles

**Travel between December 18, 2025 – January 6, 2026

Saudi Arabia’s New Alcohol Policy: Only Millionaire Expats Need Apply

In a move that has stunned international observers and sparked heated debate about economic inequality, Saudi Arabia has quietly implemented what critics are calling the world’s most exclusive alcohol policy, limiting legal purchases to wealthy expatriates while maintaining strict prohibition for everyone else.

Image Credit: Depositphotos

A Kingdom’s Calculated Gamble

The policy, which emerged through leaked internal documents from the kingdom’s regulatory authorities, establishes minimum income thresholds that effectively restrict alcohol access to the top 1% of Saudi Arabia’s expatriate population. Sources familiar with the regulations indicate that legal alcohol purchases require proof of annual income exceeding $500,000 USD, along with membership in select private clubs catering to multinational executives and diplomatic personnel.

This represents a dramatic shift for a nation that has maintained some of the world’s strictest alcohol prohibitions since the kingdom’s founding. The new regulations appear designed to attract high-net-worth individuals to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic diversification program while avoiding domestic backlash from conservative religious groups.

The VIP-Only Loophole

The alcohol sales occur within designated “diplomatic quarters” in Riyadh and select compounds in the Eastern Province, areas already operating under modified regulations for international residents. However, unlike previous informal arrangements that simply overlooked alcohol consumption in these enclaves, the new system creates an official, government-sanctioned market with strict eligibility requirements.

Wealthy expatriates report receiving discreet invitations to private purchasing events where premium spirits, wines, and champagnes are available at luxury hotel prices. These exclusive sales reportedly generate substantial revenue for the Saudi government while maintaining plausible deniability about widespread alcohol availability.

Economic Incentives Trump Religious Tradition

Industry analysts suggest the policy reflects Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s pragmatic approach to balancing religious sensitivities with economic necessities. By restricting access to ultra-wealthy foreigners, the kingdom can claim it maintains Islamic principles while creating powerful incentives for international executives to relocate to Saudi Arabia.

“This isn’t really about alcohol,” explains Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a Gulf politics expert at King’s College London. “It’s about signaling to global business leaders that Saudi Arabia offers Western amenities for those who can afford them, while maintaining legitimacy with conservative domestic constituencies.”

A Two-Tiered Society

The policy has created visible tensions within Saudi Arabia’s expatriate community, where income disparities now determine basic lifestyle privileges. Mid-level professionals and technical workers, who form the backbone of many international companies operating in the kingdom, find themselves excluded from legal alcohol access despite contributing significantly to Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation.

Local business leaders worry the policy could damage Saudi Arabia’s reputation among international companies seeking to relocate regional headquarters to the kingdom. Many multinational corporations rely on diverse teams of executives and specialists, not all of whom meet the new income requirements for legal alcohol access.

Regional Implications

Image Credit: Depositphotos

The Saudi approach stands in stark contrast to neighboring UAE, where alcohol remains legally accessible to most non-Muslim residents regardless of income level. This difference could influence corporate location decisions as companies weigh regulatory environments against business opportunities in the Gulf region.

Qatar and Kuwait, both maintaining strict alcohol prohibitions, are closely watching Saudi Arabia’s experiment. Success in attracting wealthy expatriates without triggering domestic unrest could inspire similar policies across the region, potentially reshaping social dynamics throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council states.

International Business Response

Early reactions from international chambers of commerce suggest mixed responses to the new regulations. While some luxury goods companies see opportunities in serving Saudi Arabia’s restricted alcohol market, others worry about the precedent of income-based legal restrictions and their impact on employee equality.

Several multinational corporations have reportedly begun adjusting compensation packages for Saudi-based executives to ensure key personnel meet the income thresholds for legal alcohol access. This has created internal tensions as companies grapple with providing equal benefits across their workforce.

The Future of Selective Liberalization

Saudi Arabia’s alcohol policy represents a broader trend of selective social liberalization designed to attract international investment while managing domestic political concerns. Similar income-based restrictions may emerge for other previously prohibited activities as the kingdom navigates its ambitious economic transformation.

Critics argue the policy creates dangerous precedents for income-based legal privileges, while supporters contend it offers a pragmatic path toward gradual social change in conservative societies. The success or failure of Saudi Arabia’s exclusive alcohol experiment could influence social policy decisions across the Middle East for years to come.

As Saudi Arabia continues implementing Vision 2030, the kingdom’s ability to balance religious tradition with economic modernization will face increasing scrutiny from both domestic and international observers watching this unprecedented social experiment unfold.

By Steve Cummings

New Wave Of Boutique Hotels Enhances Outer Banks Lodging Landscape

The Outer Banks of North Carolina continues to diversify its accommodation offerings with the opening of several distinctive boutique hotels throughout the past year, riding a significant wave of rebranding, renovations and new construction in the hotel industry on the Outer Banks. “It's an exciting time to book,” says Lee Nettles, Executive Director of the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau. “Travelers can enjoy a host of choices for their overnight experience in 2025, from historic hotels to new independent properties, in addition to vacation rental homes, inns, cottage courts and campgrounds that have become calling cards for the destination. Couple this trend with our new direct booking partnership with Ripe and we're anticipating an exciting year ahead at outerbanks.org.” Beginning early 2025, visitors will be able to book their hotel stays directly from the official tourism website with other lodging types to follow.

Manteo's charming town waterfront has emerged as a hub for boutique lodging, welcoming three unique properties. The Pearl Hotel, opened in 2024, features 16 individually designed rooms and two luxury family suites, crowned by an exclusive rooftop greenspace overlooking Roanoke Sound. Each room showcases curated global design elements, from Italian touches to themed experiences including bridal, garden, and nautical motifs. Hotel Manteo, a 2023 transformation of the historic Elizabethan Inn, blends coastal Carolina inspiration with contemporary amenities. The property expanded its offerings in 2024 with the addition of Firetender Grill, enhancing Manteo's dining scene. Completing the town's boutique hotel triangle, The Manteo House opened in 2023, offering corporate retreat space and luxury accommodations in a preserved historic setting along Shallowbag Bay. Manteo and surrounding Roanoke Island is highly regarded as cultural and artistic community, being home to several attractions and museums, satisfying waterfront shopping and restaurants serving a range of palettes.

In Nags Head, the iconic Owen's Hotel has been reimagined as Mia's Boutique Hotel, featuring three distinct buildings with oceanfront luxury suites equipped with full kitchens. Further south, the Jonathan Adler-designed Pamlico Station Edgecamp opened in 2024, bringing national recognition through features in Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure. The property offers a fully equipped residential-style experience in Cape Hatteras. Looking ahead to summer 2025, Kill Devil Hills will welcome at least one new flag hotel rebrand, adding to the beach's expanding hotel options. Lighthouses, national and state parks and several fishing piers and bathhouses for accessing the best beaches on the East Coast, along with restaurants only found on the Outer Banks serving locally caught seafood can complete your perfect OBX getaway when paired with the right accommodation for you.

Visitors are invited to check out the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau event calendar to build out their preferred travel weeks with vacation ideas for 2025.https://www.outerbanks.org/events/. For more information about visiting the Outer Banks, visit www.outerbanks.org.

Travelore News: Basic Economy On American Will No Longer Earn Miles Or Loyalty Points, A Blow To AAdvantage Members

American Airlines just gave travelers yet another reason to avoid basic economy.

The carrier will no longer let its AAdvantage loyalty members earn miles or status-earning Loyalty Points when flying on its no-frills tickets.

It's a blow to AAdvantage members who had been willing to stomach the restrictions of basic economy in exchange for saving money.

The changes, spelled out on the airline’s website, apply to all new bookings made from Dec. 17 onward.

This isn't the first time American has taken a bite out of loyalty earnings for passengers flying on its basic bookings.

Until now, AAdvantage members flying basic earned 2 miles and Loyalty Points per dollar spent — a reduction from the normal 5 per dollar. Going forward, they'll earn none.

"We routinely evaluate our fare products to remain competitive in the marketplace," American said in a statement. "Basic Economy customers will continue to receive one free personal item and one free carry-on bag, free snacks, soft drinks and in-flight entertainment.”

Carriers first introduced the discounted ticket option in the mid-2010s as a way to compete more forcefully against budget airlines. We’ve seen policies — from ticket flexibility to carry-on rules and loyalty earnings — ebb and flow in the years since.

American basic economy: What to know

Until now, American had offered one of the most lenient basic economy policies of any U.S. airline, especially for its status holders.

American’s basic fares come with many of the industry-standard restrictions:

Most travelers can't select a seat for free

Passengers can't make ticket changes, and face a fee if they want to cancel

Basic economy customers board last

But AAdvantage elites and cardholders maintain most of their perks even when flying on the slimmed-down fares.

Because of that, I've occasionally opted to book the airline's basic fare class — especially as the price gap between main cabin and basic economy tickets has widened through the years.

I'll certainly be less likely to do that now that AAdvantage members won't earn any miles or Loyalty Points.

How other airlines compare

American’s move to strip away loyalty earnings on basic tickets is not without precedent in the airline industry.

Delta Air Lines similarly bars its SkyMiles members from earning any miles or Medallion Qualifying Dollars needed for status when flying on its basic economy (now “Main Basic”) tickets. United Airlines passengers do earn miles on basic bookings, but only get partial credit toward Premier elite status. Specifically, they get credit for Premier Qualifying Points, but not Premier Qualifying Flights.

Could more restrictions be next?

At this point, American flyers can only hope the airline doesn’t make additional moves to make basic economy even stricter — and more like its rivals.

Delta, for instance, doesn’t let its basic economy customers into its Sky Clubs.

United bars most basic economy passengers from bringing a full-size carry-on bag on board, carving out exceptions only for Premier elites and certain cardholders.

Both Delta and United elites are unable to gain free access to the airlines’ extra legroom seating section — normally a complimentary status perk.

We should also point out that Delta has also taken "basic" a step further with a no-frills version of its Comfort tickets, and has seemingly opened the door to basic first- and business-class fares in the future.

As for American, AAdvantage elites can still get upgraded and select Main Cabin Extra seats when flying basic ... at least for now. But they'll earn zero miles.

By Sean Cudahy

Mexican Airlines Volaris And Viva Aerobus Agree To Merger

Mexico's two busiest airlines, Volaris and Viva, said on Thursday they have agreed to merge, creating a new low-cost airline group that would become the country's largest domestic carrier. The carriers will continue operating under their existing brands, preserving independent commercial operations while combining ownership at the holding-company level.

The companies expect the deal to close in 2026. The deal will need the blessing of antitrust regulators, and will likely attract opposition from Aeromexico, which is currently the largest Mexican carrier for international travel and takes about a third of domestic business, as do Volaris and Viva.

Under the terms of the agreement, the companies will combine their holding entities in a merger of equals. Viva shareholders will receive newly issued shares in Volaris' holding company, while existing Volaris investors will retain their stakes, leaving each side with 50% ownership.

The deal comes amid recent years of turbulence for Mexico's aviation market, including disputes with U.S. regulators. In October, the U.S. Department of Transportation rejected more than a dozen flight routes proposed by Mexican airlines to the U.S., citing disagreements over Mexico's handling of flight slots at the country's main capital airport and its decision to move cargo flights to a more distant facility.

In November, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said Mexican airlines would cede some of their slots at the capital airport to their U.S. competitors. U.S. operators hold more than half of Mexico's international market share by passengers carried in the year through October, while Mexican airlines account for just under 30%. ($1 = 17.9913 Mexican pesos)

Canada Joins U.S. And China In Warning Citizens About Travel To South Africa

Canada has issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting South Africa, citing persistent violent crime and personal safety risks.

Canada’s travel advisory, published earlier this month, warned that violent crime is widespread in South Africa and continues to affect foreign visitors.

The notice cited incidents ranging from armed robberies and home invasions to carjackings and assaults, with particular attention to major urban centres.

The warning singled out Cape Town International Airport and surrounding areas as high-risk, urging travelers to use the M3 and N2 highways while avoiding the R300.

Officials recommended staying on the N2’s Airport Approach Road instead of taking Borcherds Quarry Road, which passes through Nyanga, a township known for higher crime rates.

Hotel and Guesthouse Theft

Hotel and guesthouse theft remains a persistent concern. Visitors were advised to verify security measures before booking and to avoid leaving valuables unattended in rooms.

Canada emphasized that travelers confronted by criminals should comply immediately and avoid resistance, cautioning that attempts to fight back can escalate violence. Limiting movement after dark and avoiding isolated areas and townships were also recommended.

Travellers were urged to stay in accommodation with adequate security, keep doors and windows locked, and conceal valuables. The advisory advised against displaying jewellery or electronic devices that could attract attention.

Petty Crime in Public Spaces

High levels of petty crime were noted in crowded markets, transport hubs, and tourist areas. Pickpocketing and bag snatching are frequent, and visitors were advised to keep passports and important documents secure and remain vigilant when using ATMs or moving between banks.

Airport-Related Risks

Airport-related crime featured prominently in the Canadian advisory. Some passengers have reportedly been followed from airports and robbed en route or shortly after arrival. Officials encouraged vigilance during airport transfers and avoidance of predictable travel patterns.

While acknowledging that South African authorities have disrupted planned attacks, Canada stressed the importance of remaining alert in public spaces and monitoring local security developments.

U.S. and China Issue Similar Warnings

Canada’s warning aligns with advisories from the United States and China earlier this year. In June, the U.S. State Department issued a Level 2 travel advisory, highlighting risks from violent crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Downtown areas of major cities remain particularly dangerous after dark, the advisory said.

Kidnapping risks were emphasized, with foreign nationals targeted for cash or online banking information. While ransom kidnappings are less frequent, authorities noted an upward trend.

China raised similar concerns in May after reporting a spike in violent crimes against its nationals, including multiple kidnappings and a fatal home invasion over a single weekend. Chinese officials urged citizens to heighten security awareness and prioritize safe residential and work locations with strong security infrastructure.

Growing International Concern

The surge in warnings from major economies underscores international concern over South Africa’s security challenges, even as the country works to revive tourism and attract foreign investment.

https://africa.businessinsider.com/author/olamilekan-okebiorun

Travelore News: Southwest Looks At Setting Up Its Own Airport Lounge Network

The carrier has already won approval for a lounge at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu.

In yet another break from Southwest’s former no-frills, low-cost business model, the airline’s CEO said Wednesday that a network of airport lounges is in the works.

The Dallas-based carrier is “actively pursuing” the idea of a lounge network and discussing potential airport leases, Bob Jordan told CNBC in an interview. Southwest’s credit card partner, Chase, is also involved in the talks, he added.

“I think lounges would be a huge next benefit for our customers,” Jordan told the business news channel. “And you [would] have a lounge network that allows you to offer that premium credit card that provides lounge access.”

The CEO did not provide a timeline for the potential network’s debut.

Southwest in October won approval to develop and open its first lounge at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu. Company officials have not announced or confirmed the project, and it is not clear when it will open to eligible customers.

Southwest does not currently operate lounges like its major U.S. competitors, reflecting its longstanding low-cost model. Since 2024, however, the airline has moved away from that strategy in an effort to open up new revenue streams and capture a larger share of luxury travelers, who are increasingly driving growth for carriers across the world.

Earlier this year, Southwest ended its famous “two bags fly free” policy and started charging for checked bags. It will transition to assigned seating on its flights in January 2026.

In a separate interview with CNBC’s “Squawk on the Street,” Jordan said Southwest is retaining its advantages – including strong brand loyalty, low operating costs, and standout hospitality – while undergoing what host Carl Quintanilla termed “premiumization.”

https://airlinegeeks.com/author/zachvasile/

American Airlines Adds 15 New Routes For Summer 2026

While the holiday season is underway, American Airlines is looking ahead to next summer with 15 new routes for those looking to gift the perfect trip next year. American’s network already provides more one-stop connections than any other airline. Now, travelers will have more reasons to fly American when traveling across the country and the world next summer.

“American is proud to offer unmatched connectivity across the United States. Today, we’re furthering our commitment with new routes designed to help customers realize their travel goals in 2026 from important hubs such as Chicago and Phoenix,” said Brian Znotins, American’s Senior Vice President of Network and Schedule Planning. “With new routes from places like Lincoln, Nebraska; Abilene, Texas; Columbia, Missouri; and more, we’re providing local residents one-stop access to seal business deals, take a dream vacation with friends or family and enjoy soccer matches on the global stage.”

American’s new domestic routes

Departure airport Arrival airport Aircraft type Service start date Service end date Frequency

Boston (BOS) Madison, Wisconsin (MSN) Embraer 175 June 18, 2026 Year-round Once daily

BOS Nantucket, Massachusetts (ACK) E175 June 18, 2026 Sep. 8, 2026 Once daily

Charlotte (CLT) Columbia, Missouri (COU) E175 June 4, 2026 Year-round Once daily

Chicago (ORD) Erie, Pennsylvania (ERI) Bombardier CRJ-700 May 21, 2026 Year-round Once daily

ORD Lincoln, Nebraska (LNK) CRJ-700 June 4, 2026 Year-round Once daily

ORD Tri-Cities, Tennessee (TRI) Embraer 170 May 21, 2026 Year-round Once daily

Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) LNK CRJ-700 June 4, 2026 Year-round Twice daily

DFW Roanoke, Virginia (ROA) Bombardier CRJ-900 June 4, 2026 Year-round Once daily

Miami (MIA) Jackson, Mississippi (JAN) E175 March 14, 2026 Aug. 1, 2026 Once weekly on Saturdays

Phoenix (PHX) Abilene, Texas (ABI) E175 June 4, 2026 Year-round Once daily

PHX Anchorage, Alaska (ANC) Airbus A321neo May 21, 2026 Sept. 8, 2026 Once daily

PHX Bozeman, Montana (BZN) E175 June 4, 2026 Sept. 8, 2026 Once daily

PHX Kalispell, Montana (FCA) CRJ-700 June 19, 2026 Sept. 6, 2026 Twice weekly

PHX LNK CRJ-700 Winter 2026 Seasonal Once daily

PHX McAllen, Texas (MFE) E175 June 4, 2026 Year-round Once daily

PHX Rapid City, South Dakota (RAP) E175 June 4, 2026 Oct. 4, 2026 Once daily

American’s growing Chicago hub

American will offer more than 500 daily departures from Chicago (ORD) next summer as part of its continued commitment to the hub. The airline has added new service to more than 25 destinations from ORD and added frequencies in other markets this year, making the airport one of the fastest-growing hubs in the country. With this momentum, American is focused on thoughtfully growing its ORD network to more than 180 destinations and adding more flights in popular markets.

This growth will continue in 2026 with the addition of service to Erie, Pennsylvania (ERI); Lincoln, Nebraska (LNK); and Tri-Cities, Tennessee (TRI). And, as customers have positively responded to American’s winter network, the airline will extend winter-only offerings to Santa Fe, New Mexico (SAF) and Key West, Florida (EYW) into the summer between May 21 and Sept. 8.

Separately, American will also expand summer service from ORD to Hilton Head, South Carolina (HHH), and to Pensacola (PNS) and Panama City (ECP) in Florida. Previously operated only on the weekends, flights to these cities will operate daily between Feb. 12 and Sept. 8.

American will continue to grow options for Chicagoans to travel with increased frequencies across the airline’s network. In the spring, American will increase departures by more than 30% compared to 2025, offering more than 480 peak daily departures from ORD just in time for spring break.

All destinations served from ORD this spring will return next year, making American the only hub carrier at the airport to achieve this feat. As part of its demonstrated investment in Chicago, the airline will offer more than 25 additional destinations next spring versus 2025, including a mix of new destinations and seasonal routes that will start earlier.

All of American’s flights from ORD operate with dual-class aircraft, giving customers the opportunity to enhance their travel experience with the selection of a premium cabin. In addition, American’s ORD to London (LHR) route will continue to offer Flagship Suite® seats for customers. Chicago was the first city in American’s network to receive this elevated premium offering.

Connecting smaller cities with the world

Traveling across the country and around the world will be easier than before on American’s global network. Starting June 4, American will add service to its 240th destination in the U.S.: Lincoln, Nebraska (LNK). No other airline serves as many domestic destinations as American, and now residents from LNK will have competitive one-stop service to international destinations such as Athens, Greece (ATH); Cancun, Mexico (CUN); Rome (FCO) and Sao Paulo (GRU).

In the Western U.S., American will grow its Phoenix (PHX) hub with seven new routes. New service to Bozeman, Montana (BZN); Kalispell, Montana (FCA); and Rapid City, South Dakota (RAP) will make it easier for travelers from states including California, Nevada and Arizona to get to national parks, monuments and more. Meanwhile, new flights to Abilene (ABI) and McAllen (MFE) in Texas will provide travelers one-stop access to destinations across the Western U.S. and Mexico.

This growth is part of American’s consistent commitment to powering global access through its hubs. Recently, the airline launched service to cities including Carlsbad, California (CLD); Golden Triangle, Mississippi (GTR); Santa Maria, California (SMX); and Sun Valley, Idaho (SUN). In 2026, the airline will also be the only airline connecting the U.S. with Bimini, Bahamas (BIM), and will add service to Vero Beach, Florida (VRB).

Collectively, American’s hub airports power global access to more than 350 destinations around the world served by the airline. Together with American’s airline partners, customers can access more than 1,000 destinations.

As a leading global airline, American Airlines offers thousands of flights per day to more than 350 destinations in more than 60 countries. The airline is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members serve more than 900 destinations around the globe. Shares of American Airlines Group Inc. trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol AAL. Learn more about what’s happening at American by visiting news.aa.com and connect with American @AmericanAir and at Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines. To Care for People on Life’s Journey®

Vilnius Launches Christmas Currency, Inviting Residents And City Guests To Relive Childhood Joy

One-day currency is launched as part of Vilnius Christmas Before Christmas event, designed to evoke the magic of childhood Christmas.

Vilnius became the first city to launch an official currency based on emotions, continuing its role as the European Christmas Capital of 2025. The city's festive celebrations, focused on sentiment and authenticity, reached a peak on December 13. On that day, thousands of residents and visitors shared childhood memories in exchange for limited-edition notes, launched in partnership with Bank of Lithuania, the country's central bank, as part of the Vilnius Christmas Before Christmas event.

Christmas currency in partnership with Bank of Lithuania

A ceremonial "first minting" by the Governor of the Bank of Lithuania outside the central bank's Money Museum launched Vilnius' Christmas currency. The first units of the currency were pine cones, reminiscent of the tokens children swap with one another. Then, in exchange for completing a small task based on their childhood memories, visitors and residents were able to acquire the currency in note form at five locations across the city, including the Money Museum and Christmas market. The notes, which were valid only on December 13, could be swapped for a range of tasty treats like hot chocolate, tea, and sweets at over 40 participating cafes, restaurants, and venues.

Speaking at the ceremony, Gediminas Šimkus, Chairman of the Board of the Bank of Lithuania, said: "This is a rare moment that is simultaneously serious and playful, when the world of finance meets a city in festive celebration. I hope that this new currency will not only circulate today, but will also continue to spread good cheer and remind us that the most important things in life are not measured in numbers, but in warmth, attention, and togetherness."

Ongoing celebrations as European Christmas capital

The Vilnius Christmas Before Christmas event for which the currency was created is a new highlight in the Lithuanian capital's festive calendar. It was created to mark Vilnius being the European Christmas Capital 2025, and is expected to become a regular fixture for the city.

Although the event is now concluded, the festivities will continue in Vilnius, with Christmas markets, an ice rink, an artisan-built carousel, and the centerpiece Christmas tree all continuing to sparkle until the festive season concludes on January 6.

Over 200 voices unite in a choir, making Vilnius feel “like one extended family”

"On December 13, we wanted to show that Christmas can be both a family celebration and a city-wide one. Vilnius residents and visitors came together to celebrate as one extended family. From Cathedral Square to the TV Tower, the whole city came alive with the Christmas spirit, including the inspiring choir of over 200 participants. We hope this is just the beginning of a new Vilnius tradition, one which adds richly to the story of Vilnius as a city that brings people together at Christmas time," said Eglė Girdzijauskaitė, Head of Communication at Go Vilnius.

Giant sledge and other activities to reconnect with childhood memories

The unique currency and Christmas choir were just two of the many events that took place in Vilnius on December 13 for Vilnius Christmas Before Christmas. Another highlight was the transformation of Sirvydas Square into an International Christmas Square featuring 144 decorated fir trees. Each tree is dedicated to a different international community living in Vilnius, with every continent represented including communities from Mexico, Ghana, Ukraine, and many others. Visitors can scan a QR code to watch videos of community representatives sharing their childhood memories of Christmas and winter from around the world. The square also features a giant red sleigh that can hold many people, offering the perfect photo opportunity along with a chance to relive the playfulness of childhood winters.

Visitors and residents also took advantage of a free-of-charge postal service. They simply wrote their message, added an address, and posted the card at various stations around the city, and Vilnius' Christmas elves took care of the rest. Other cost-free events visitors enjoyed on the day included festive tours of the city, film screenings, carousel trips and skating on the ice rink.

Barcelona named European Christmas Capital 2026

During the Vilnius Christmas Before Christmas event, at a ceremony on the Town Hall Square ice rink, Barcelona was announced as the European Christmas Capital 2026. The jury cited the Catalan city's rich traditions in history and art, and its commitment to sustainable Christmas decorations and celebration of local traditions like Tió de Nadal and Els Pastorets, as reasons for its selection.

Europe's Christmas Capital 2025 within easy reach

Vilnius is easily accessible by direct flight from Frankfurt, Copenhagen, Helsinki, and other major cities across Europe, and also serves as a perfect base for exploring the region.

Special Christmas trains featuring fairy-tale-inspired carriages are running throughout the festive period, connecting travellers to Mockava, from where they can continue their journey by rail on daily services to Warsaw and Krakow. Enchantingly decorated train carriages can also be found on local services to Kaunas, Klaipėda and Trakai, and Vilnius also has convenient rail links to Riga and Tallinn.

TSA Issues Stern Warning For Travelers: Fines Can Reach $14,000

Travelers are being reminded that certain actions could have serious consequences.

The last few months have been extremely stressful for the travel industry in the United States. And while the mention of travel woes somehow makes us think first of travelers, the situation has also been extremely tense for people employed in the industry.

During the government shutdown, not only were major carriers forced to delay or cancel thousands of flights at the country’s busiest airports, but Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents were also working without pay.

Vice President of America Federal Government Employees Council 100/TSA Region 7 Joe Shuker warned at the time of the seriousness of the situation, highlighting that air controllers and TSA agents are already working a high-stress job, which includes looking for bombs and weapons.

Doing an already stressful job without a paycheck means “every day becomes a high risk,” Shuker said.

Even though those times are over, the situation is back to normal, and some TSA officers have received $10,000 bonus checks for working without pay during the government shutdown, the TSA still faces numerous challenges.

While holiday travel is often stressful — not only because holidays themselves can be intense, but also due to the huge crowds with everyone in a rush — it doesn’t justify bad behavior.

Crowded airports and tight travel schedules often lead to tense interactions among passengers, including line-cutting, raised voices, or confrontational behavior. TSA officials emphasize that disruptive behavior delays screening, increases risk, and can compromise the safety of both passengers and security personnel.

The TSA once again reminded travelers that bad behavior will be punished and might result in criminal charges.

On Dec. 8, the TSA posted the following message on X (previously Twitter):

“Reminder: Passengers who engage in unruly behavior at the checkpoint or inflight may face substantial penalties and possible prosecution on criminal charges. @FAANews has more info regarding inflight disturbances here: https://faa.gov/unruly.”

The post included a photo of a screen with the following note.

“No threats. No verbal abuse. No physical violence of any kind. If you threaten, endanger, or harm Transportation Security Officers during screening, TSA will pursue criminal penalties and fines of up to $13,910. Thank you for your cooperation.”

The fact that TSA continues to issue such reminders underscores the persistence of unruly behavior. While the agency’s guidance may appear basic, officials say it is necessary due to the ongoing number of incidents reported by airlines.

Incidents when airline travelers disrupt flights either with threats or violent actions remain an ongoing problem, and “airlines have seen rapid growth in occurrences since 2021,” according to a report by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The number of unruly-passenger incidents reported to the FAA by airline crews has declined over the past three years, but only after a sharp spike in 2021.

Unruly-passenger incidents by year:

2017: 544 incidents

2018: 889 incidents

2019: 1,161 incidents

2020: 1,009 incidents

2021: 5,973 incidents

2022: 2,453 incidents

2023: 2,074 incidents

2024: 2,096 incidents

2025: 1,505 incidents

Source: Federal Aviation Administration

“The rate of unruly passenger incidents steadily dropped by over 80 percent since record highs in early 2021, but recent increases show there remains more work to do,” stated the FAA.

What to do when an airline passenger behaves badly

Jeff Price, Metropolitan State University of Denver Aviation professor, shared expert advice on various travel topics, including when passengers don’t behave appropriately.

“Interference with a crew member is a federal offense,” Price told Colorado News and Culture from MSU Denver. “Unruly passengers may find themselves under criminal prosecution and ultimately have to pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines. It’s really not worth it.”

https://www.thestreet.com/author/nina-zdinjak

Applicants For Trump’s Newly Released Gold Immigration Cards Could Have Wasted $1M If Courts Axe Program

The Trump administration this week launched the president’s immigration “gold card,” a program allowing applicants to pay $1 million to become lawful permanent residents, but legal experts warn all that money could go down the drain for these hopefuls because the initiative rests on flawed legal reasoning and could be struck down in court.

Other Trump tweaks to the immigration system like a new $100,000 fee for H-1B applicants have already spawned major lawsuits, and if the gold card melts down in a court battle, applicants would face a slim chance of ever getting their money back, Shev Dalal-Dheini, senior director of government relations at the American Immigration Lawyers Association, told Axios.

“At the very minimum, they’d have to sue the U.S. government to get it back,” she said.

In addition to applicants being out $1 million, a court challenge could also imperil the status of people who have already gotten their gold cards.

Critics warn that the gold card program, which gives applicants permanent residency through EB-1 and EB-2 visas usually reserved for people with extraordinary abilities like famous academics or artists, exceeds the president’s legal powers. Congress, they say, can create new immigration law, not the president.

Aaron Reichlin-Melnick, a senior fellow at the American Immigration Council, called the whole process “VERY illegal” in a post on X this week.

“The Trump admin says anyone who pays $1 million will be deemed to have ‘exceptional business ability’ and become eligible for an employment-based immigrant visa,” he wrote. “But there's nothing stopping someone from just getting a loan or using parents' money.”

“Of course, nothing exemplifies the Trump ethos more than ‘every rich person is exceptional at business,’” he added, “but that doesn't change the fact that people who are getting this visa will not necessarily meet the legal requirements, and could risk deportation under a future admin.”

Legal concerns aside, the administration looks set to continue tilting the immigration system away from the most vulnerable and toward the wealthiest applicants.

The White House says a $5 million “platinum card” is on the way giving foreigners temporary residence in the U.S. without being subject to U.S. taxes on foreign income.

After an Afghan national allegedly shot National Guard troops in Washington, the administration froze all asylum decisions, ordered the review of green cards from a series of mostly impoverished nations on his so-called travel ban list, and indefinitely blocked immigration applications from Afghans.

By Josh Marcus

Travelore News: Israel Planning Administration Approves Construction Permit For Ben Gurion Airport Expansion

The Israel Planning Administration approves the application for a construction permit for an expansion project at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport’s main Terminal 3, designed to meet an expected steady rise in passenger traffic and improve operational services in the coming years.

Travelers at Ben Gurion International Airport, September 15, 2025. (Yossi Aloni/FLASH90)

The permit is for the construction of a new building, which will house advanced baggage-handling systems, operational offices, passenger check-in counters, and dedicated unloading areas, at an estimated cost of NIS 1 billion ($311 million).

In addition, the planned building structure will serve as the foundation for a hotel, slated for construction on the eastern rooftop level, which will be accessible to travelers directly from the terminal.

“Advancement on the permit for the hold baggage screening (HBS) building is an important step in strengthening Ben Gurion Airport’s operational capabilities and preparing for increased passenger traffic,” says Ron Rekah, head of the Licensing and Construction Department at the Israel Planning Administration. “The structure is an excellent example of dual-use, as a hotel will be built above the building, directly adjacent to the terminal.”

The expanded structure at Terminal 3 is expected to improve operational efficiency and bring the airport in line with international standards. In 2025, about 19 million passengers are expected to pass through Ben Gurion Airport, and in 2026, a total of 22 million.

https://www.timesofisrael.com/writers/sharon-wrobel/

Liberia: Royal Air Maroc To Launch Africa’s First Direct Flight To U.S. West Coast In 2026

In a major leap for African aviation, Morocco’s national airline, Royal Air Maroc (RAM), announced on Thursday that it will inaugurate a historic nonstop route between Casablanca and Los Angeles beginning June 7, 2026.

The service Africa’s first direct air link to the U.S. Pacific Coast marks a significant expansion in global connectivity and positions Morocco as a central bridge between Africa, Europe, and the Americas.

A Milestone 12-Hour Direct Connection

According to the airline, the new route will operate three times per week and offer a flight time of approximately 12 hours, making it one of RAM’s longest intercontinental services.

The launch comes amid rapidly rising transatlantic travel demand and just months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The U.S. hosted over 70 million international visitors in 2023, with West Coast tourism rebounding strongly conditions RAM aims to leverage.

Targeting Diaspora, Tourists, and World Cup Travelers

RAM says the service primarily targets:

The Moroccan and African diaspora in the U.S.

American leisure travelers

Business communities across the Pacific Rim

Football supporters heading to the 2026 World Cup, expected to draw up to 5 million international fans

“This direct route to Los Angeles is much more than a new destination. It is a historic milestone for the airline and for Africa’s air connectivity,” said Hamid Addou, RAM’s Chairman and CEO.

He emphasized that the expansion aligns with Morocco’s strategy to strengthen tourism, investment flows, and cultural linkages with the United States already one of Morocco’s fastest-growing visitor markets.

Strengthening Casablanca as a Continental Aviation Hub

With this addition, Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport reinforces its role as one of Africa’s top air hubs.

Prior to the announcement, the airport handled over 10 million passengers annually, connecting more than 100 destinations worldwide.

RAM currently serves five major cities in North America—New York, Washington, Miami, Montreal, and Toronto.

The Los Angeles route becomes the airline’s sixth North American destination and its first on the U.S. West Coast.

The rollout also complements RAM’s broader long-term development plan, which includes:

Expanding the fleet to more than 200 aircraft by 2037

Opening new long-haul destinations in the Americas, Middle East, and Asia

Increasing frequencies on strategic routes such as São Paulo, Dubai, Miami, and Washington

Boeing 787 Dreamliners to Serve the Route

Flights will be operated using Boeing 787 Dreamliners, a modern aircraft family known for:

Lower fuel consumption

Larger cabin windows

Enhanced humidity and pressurization systems

Improved passenger comfort and reduced jet lag

The 787 fleet has been central to RAM’s global expansion strategy, enabling longer nonstop routes while maintaining competitive operating costs.

Flight Schedule

Casablanca → Los Angeles

Tuesdays, Fridays, Sundays

Departure: 04:00

Arrival: 08:20 (same day)

Los Angeles → Casablanca

Tuesdays, Fridays, Sundays

Departure: 10:20

Arrival: 05:25 (next day)

Boosting Morocco’s Global Reach Before 2030 World Cup

The announcement further strengthens Morocco’s international profile ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which it will co-host with Spain and Portugal.

Improved air accessibility is expected to play a crucial role in positioning Morocco as a premier global tourism and investment destination.

With the new Casablanca–Los Angeles route, Royal Air Maroc confirms its ambition to remain one of Africa’s leading global carriers, helping connect the continent to major economic and cultural hubs around the world.
By: Julius Konton

Tourists From 42 Countries Will Have To Submit 5 Years Of Social Media History To Enter U.S. Under Trump Plan

The Trump administration is proposing to ask visitors from several dozen nations that enjoy visa-free travel to the U.S. to submit additional personal information before entering the country, including five years of their social media history, the Department of Homeland Security said in a notice this week.

Citizens of 42 countries enrolled in the visa waiver program can generally come to the U.S. for up to 90 days for tourism or business travel, without needing to apply for a visa at an American embassy or consulate, a process that can take months or even years.

The list of countries in the visa waiver program includes many European nations like the United Kingdom, Germany and France, as well as some U.S. allies around the world, including Australia, Israel, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea.

While citizens of these nations typically don't need visas to travel to the U.S., they still have to submit an application online using a process known as the Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or ESTA, before entering the country. That system is designed to ensure applicants are eligible for visa-free travel to the U.S., and that they don't pose security concerns.

The Trump administration is proposing to overhaul the ESTA system, mainly to transform it into a mobile-only process. The plan would require applicants to share additional information about themselves and their relatives, according to a notice posted in the federal government's journal of regulations by Customs and Border Protection, a branch of DHS.

The notice said CBP plans to ask visa waiver travelers to share their social media history for the past five years, emails they have used for the past 10 years and the personal information of immediate family members, including phone numbers and residences. The submission of social media history from the last five years will be a mandatory requirement under the proposal, according to the notice.

CBP said the changes, which still have to be reviewed by the White House's budget office, are designed to enforce an executive order President Trump issued earlier this year with the stated objective of denying entry to foreigners who may pose a threat to national security or public safety.

But critics of the proposed changes said they could scare prospective travelers and negatively impact tourism, especially months before the U.S. hosts the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside Canada and Mexico, next summer.

Over the past year, the Trump administration has mounted an aggressive effort to increase vetting and screening procedures across the U.S. immigration system.

While the State Department has moved to scrutinize visa applicants overseas more heavily, some of the changes affect people already in the U.S. who are applying to stay in the country legally through applications for asylum, green cards or American citizenship.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has instructed officials to investigate the social media history of several classes of immigrants, including for views and activities deemed to be "anti-American." It has also directed adjudicators to more intensely probe the "good moral character" of legal immigrants requesting U.S. citizenship.

By Camilo Montoya-Galvez

What To Know About Changes To Disney Parks’ Disability Policies

Changes that Disney made to a popular program that lets qualifying disabled people skip long lines at its California and Florida theme parks are too restrictive, disabled fans contend in a federal lawsuit and shareholder proposal that seek to expand eligibility.

Guests arrive at Disney’s Magic Kingdom theme park in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., June 15, 2016. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack, File)

The battle over who can skip long lines on popular rides because of their disabilities marks the latest struggle by Disney to accommodate disabled visitors while cracking down on past abuses. But some Disney fans say the company has gone too far and has no right to determine who is disabled.

“This isn’t right. This isn’t what Walt and Roy would have wanted,” said Shannon Bonadurer, referring to the Disney brothers who founded the entertainment empire. Despite being unable to wait for long periods of time in the heat because she uses an ileostomy bag, Bonadurer was denied a pass for the disability program.

In a statement, Disney said it was committed to providing a great experience to all visitors, particularly those with disabilities who may require special accommodations.

Here’s a look at changes to Disney parks’ policies for disabled visitors.

The Disability Access Service, or DAS, program allows pass-holders and their immediate family members to make an online reservation for a ride while in the park and then get into an expedited line that typically takes about 10 minutes when it’s their time to go on the ride. DAS guests never have to wait in normal standby lines, which on the most popular attractions can be two hours or more.

The DAS program started in 2013 in response to past abuses by disabled “tour guides” who charged money, sometimes hundreds of dollars, to accompany able-bodied guests, enabling such guests to go to the front of lines. Disney says the DAS program needed changing because it had grown fourfold. Before last year’s changes, the percentage of guests having DAS passes jumped from around 5% to 20% over the past dozen years “and showed no signs of slowing,” the company said in court papers.

Disney parks make other accommodations for disabled visitors, including maps in Braille, a device that helps transfer visitors from wheelchairs to ride seats, quiet break locations and American Sign Language interpreters for some live shows. The parks permit some service animals on rides and allow some disabled guests to leave a line and rejoin their party before boarding a ride.

Disney narrowed the scope from people with a wider range of disabilities to mostly guests who “due to a developmental disability such as autism or similar” have difficulties waiting in a long line. Under the changes, guests seeking a DAS pass must be interviewed via video chat by a Disney worker and a contracted medical professional who determine if the person is eligible. Visitors found to have lied can be barred from the parks.

Some people with disabilities who have been denied say the new policy is too restrictive. Not only was Bonadurer denied a pass, but so was her 25-year-old son, who is blind and has cerebral palsy and autism.

“They are making a determination about whether you’re disabled enough,” said Bonadurer, a professional travel adviser from Michigan. “I would love to wait in line with everyone else, and so would my son, since that would mean he has a normal life. But we don’t, and unfortunately for us, we need adaptations to how we wait.”

Disney says the Americans with Disabilities Act doesn’t require equal treatment of people with varying disabilities. The company accommodates those visitors who don’t meet the new DAS criteria with alternatives, Disney said in court filings responding to a federal lawsuit in California.

“For example, in a crowded movie theater, a person using a wheelchair may be entitled to priority seating even if they arrive shortly before the movie starts, while a deaf person may only be entitled to a seat with closed captioning,” the company said.

At Disney’s main theme park rival, Universal, disabled visitors can get shorter lines if they have a card issued by an international board that certifies venues for their accessibility.

A shareholder proposal submitted on behalf of DAS Defenders, an advocacy group of Disney fans opposed to the DAS changes, calls on the company next year to commission an independent review of its disability policies and publicly release the findings. The shareholder proposal claims the change to the DAS program has contributed to lower park attendance.

Disney’s attorneys told the Securities and Exchange Commission in a November letter that it intends to block the proposal ahead of the company’s 2026 shareholder meeting, saying it was false and misleading about the reasons for an attendance decline, which the company attributed to hurricanes. The company also argued the shareholder proposal amounts to micromanaging day-to-day operations.

https://apnews.com/author/mike-schneider

Viva Launches New Nonstop Service Between New York And Monterrey

Viva announced today that beginning December 13, it will operate seven weekly seasonal nonstop flights between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Monterrey, Mexico (MTY), offering travelers a convenient option for visiting family and friends during the upcoming holiday season.

Photo credit: IG: lovi.blossom_ Vianey Molina

The new service marks Viva’s official debut in New York, complementing its existing nonstop routes to Mexico City (MEX) and Monterrey (MTY). Additionally, the airline’s extensive domestic network allows passengers to connect seamlessly to destinations throughout Mexico. For example, travelers can easily reach Puebla (PBC) with a simple connection in Monterrey, enhancing both flexibility and convenience.

“Viva is committed to providing competitive fares, comfort, and excellent onboard service,” said Carlos Molina, International Sales. “This new service reinforces our dedication to connecting people and strengthening ties between the United States and Mexico, making travel easier and more enjoyable for our passengers.”

Viva Air remains focused on delivering an exceptional travel experience, ensuring that every flight offers both value and comfort.

Flight Schedule

Operates Monday through Sunday

New York (JFK) → Monterrey (MTY)

12:45 a.m. ✈️ 4:30 a.m.

Monterrey (MTY) → New York (JFK)

6:40 p.m. ✈️ 11:45 p.m.

Service available from December 13, 2025, to January 12, 2026.

EasyJet To Resume Flights To And From Tel Aviv On March 29

British low-cost carrier easyJet announces that it will resume flight operations to and from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport starting March 29 next year.

An easyJet flight seen taking off from Ben Gurion International Airport, on March 24, 2018. (Moshe Shai/FLASH90)

“We are pleased to be resuming flights between London Luton, Amsterdam and Milan Malpensa and Tel Aviv,” an easyJet spokesperson says in an e-mailed statement. “We plan to resume flying to Tel Aviv from additional European bases next winter season at the end of October instead of next March.”

“We continually review all of our routes and remain committed to resuming more flying to and from Tel Aviv,” the easyJet spokesperson adds.

In July, the UK carrier, which had been expected to restart its flight operations at the end of October, announced that it would extend the suspension of all routes to and from Tel Aviv through March 28, 2026.

https://www.timesofisrael.com/writers/sharon-wrobel/

Canada's Tallest Skyscraper Becomes First In Country Above 100 Storeys

The SkyTower supertall skyscraper in Toronto, designed by Hariri Pontarini Architects, has become the first building in Canada to surpass 100 storeys.

The residential skyscraper for developer Pinnacle International reached a milestone today on its path to becoming the tallest building in Canada and one of the tallest residential towers on the continent.

Designed by Canadian studio Hariri Pontarini Architects, the supertall skyscraper will reach an estimated 351.85 metres (1,154 feet) tall.

In May, Dezeen showed images of the tower at 71 storeys with some of the exterior cladding complete. Now, it appears that much more of the cladding on the base of the structure has been completed.

When completed, the building will have a slightly sloping facade with balconies on one side that resemble vents.

"We are pleased to celebrate Pinnacle SkyTower reaching 100 storeys," said Pinnacle International president and CEO Michael De Cotiis

"We have created a landmark, one that is making history not only for Toronto, but for all of Canada."

Hariri Pontarini Architects has described Skytower as a "12-sided jewel" with "glazed and tapered form with chamfered corners".

"The design of the Pinnacle Sky Tower is inspired by its urban context and by our goal of establishing a strong sculptural presence on the skyline," said Hariri Pontarini Architects founding partner David Pontarini.

"Its prominent site location at the start of one of Toronto’s main arterial roads called for an architectural expression that would become a landmark on the skyline."

"From the outside, this geometry reflects light in different ways and results in a distinctive silhouette that shifts depending on the angle you view it from," he continued.

"The building amenities on the upper floors will sit at the same general elevation as the CN Tower’s main observation level, creating a visual alignment and relationship on the skyline."

Beyond the stylistic aspects, the architecture studio claims this formal scheme will help the skyscraper bear the heavy winds that blow across Lake Ontario.

Pinnacle SkyTower is part of the larger Pinnacle One development located in Toronto's rapidly developing Harbourfront neighbourhood. It will contain apartments and a hotel as well as amenities, including a restaurant on its 106th floor, its highest.

An adjacent skyscraper in the development will reach 95 storeys.

After a March 2025 variance request, its height was extended to 106 storeys, with its original design only having 95.

The skyscraper will beat out Foster + Partners One Bloor in the city, which became Canada's first supertall skyscraper at 85 storeys and 308.6 metres (1,012 feet) earlier this year.

According to the developer, the tower will top out and begin welcoming residents in 2026.

The project is indicative of the rapid heightening of Toronto's urban landscape. Earlier this year, Dezeen showcased a photo series underlining this rapid development through a juxtaposition of charming older buildings with sparkling new developments.

Elsewhere in the city, Frank Gehry, who died last week, designed the 84-storey Forma skyscraper, one of his tallest and his first skyscraper in his birth city.

https://www.dezeen.com/author/ben-dreith/