August 28, 2005
# 20

THIS AND THAT ABOUT HERE AND THERE
By Scott H. Grody
FUGAZY INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

In these competitive and often difficult  economic times, struggling airlines may declare bankruptcy while continuing flight operations. Here are some  tips to remember if you are ever holding tickets on any airline that has declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy:

• Use a credit card. When selecting an airline rumored to be in financial trouble, you should pay by credit card. Under the Fair Credit Billing Act, credit card customers have the right to refuse paying for charges for services not rendered. Details of the fair credit act can be found at the Federal Trade Commission's Web site.
• Consider insurance. Some travel insurance policies may include supplier default protection. However, before purchasing insurance you should check with an ASTA member travel agent to determine what policy best meets their needs.
• Remember Section 145. Through Nov. 19, 2005, when Section 145 expires, consumers who already have purchased a ticket on an airline that ceases operations may be entitled to stand-by travel on other airlines. Section 145 of the Aviation and Transportation Security Act provides that airline passengers holding tickets (paper or electronic) from a bankrupt carrier for a particular route are entitled, at minimum, to transportation on a space-available basis on ANY airline currently serving that route within 60 days after an airline has suspended operations. Additionally, the maximum fee that an airline can charge for providing standby transportation should not exceed $25 each way.
• File a claim. If all else fails and you are unable to take advantage of the Fair Credit Billing Act or Section 145, you should file a claim with the bankruptcy court. The bankruptcy court usually provides filing instructions, including claim forms.

In the event of a labor disruption or strike with an airline, the following tips will come in handy for travelers who might be affected. The best piece of advice: Get friendly with your travel agent.

Book early. For consumers who will be traveling during the time of a potential strike, booking well in advance with a travel agent pays. Travel agents can help you explore all your options, be it an alternative flight or departure from a different airport or on a different airline..

Check out your options. Travelers already booked on a flight with a potential striking airlines should talk with their travel agent to determine what other travel options exist. Unfortunately, "re-accommodation" procedures with other carriers are only worked out in the final days or hours prior to a pending labor disruption. A travel professional can help you sort through your options.

If you have a cell phone, carry it. If your flight is cancelled at the last moment, you’re only a phone call away from the assistance your travel agent can provide. It can be a long haul to the nearest pay phone.

Request a paper ticket from the start. This may run contrary to the current trend toward e-tickets, but it’s sage advice. If a strike is called, some carriers may offer to "re-accommodate" you, but to do so you will first need a paper ticket. By ordering a paper ticket in advance you can avoid waiting in long lines at the airport to have your e-ticket converted to paper.

Pack your own snacks and water. It might seem like one more thing to carry, but if you are faced with a long wait in line or are trapped in the airport waiting for a delayed flight, having your own supply of water and unsalted snacks may make all the difference.

Need something special? If any special services are needed, a consumer’s best bet may be to choose another carrier. (Stretchers, oxygen and pets count as special services.)

Buy travel insurance. Some policies cover strikes, but be sure to get all the details, such as whether any airlines are exempt or what the amount covered is, from the insurance company