In Travel News for December 20th, 2022 we talk about the TSA and firearms, American Airlines improving their loyalty program, and JetBlue entering into a first of its kind agreement with NBCUniversal.
TSA Increasing Penalties for Firearms Violations
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is increasing the maximum fine for firearms violations to $14,950 dollars. This is in response to another record year of airport firearm interceptions during the TSA security screening process. As of a few days ago the TSA has reported that it has stoped 6,301 firearms, this surpasses the record set last year of 5,972. Firearms are not allowed at the TSA security checkpoints this includes on your person or in your carry on bags. Being caught with a firearm will lead to extra screening, fines, and possible arrest, as well as loosing any TSA Pre status for 5 years. It is possible to travel with a firearm, to do so they must be properly packed in a checked bag and declared when the bag is checked. There are specific rules that must be followed for traveling with a firearm, if you do plan on traveling with a firearm you should reach out to the airline in advance to understand the requirements.
American Airlines Improves AAdvantage
American Airlines is continuing to evolve their loyalty program AAdvantage. The most recent changes coming in March, 2023 will include a new rewards structure, Loyalty Points Rewards, that will add 11 new tiers of rewards for a total of 15 loyalty point tiers, each of which unlock extra perks and benefits. This will allow travelers to earn rewards while they work on reaching the next elite status level. Some of the perks include priority checkin, security screening, and boarding; preferred seat coupons, Avis status, point bonuses, upgrades, passes to the Admirals Club, the ability to gift status to others, and so many others. To learn more about all the new perks available on the AAdvantage program visit aa.com and click the AAdvantage link.
JetBlue Partners with NBCUniversal
JetBlue Airways and NBCUniversal are entering into a first of it’s kind partnership to integrate their streaming service, Peacock, into the travel experience. Starting in the spring of 2023 Peacock will be the exclusive streaming partner of JetBlue. This will give travelers free access to all of Peacocks content while they are flying with the airline. JetBlue is also allowing for free access to Peacock on any device connected to their free, high speed Fly-Fi internet. Peacock perks will be integrated into the recently revamped TrueBlue loyalty program. This will give members access to special offers on subscriptions that will allow them to earn loyalty points with JetBlue for subscribing to Peacock and a one-year Peacock Premium subscription will be given to eligible TrueBlue Mosaic status members.