IATA’s Guidance to remove mask mandate a step towards normality
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) in Geneva welcomed new guidance from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) removing its recommendation that masks should be required in-flight.
EASA’s updated Aviation Health Safety Protocol, published 11 May, calls for the mandatory mask rule to be relaxed where rules have been relaxed for other transport modes. This important shift reflects the high levels of vaccination, natural immunity levels, and the removal of domestic restrictions in many European nations. The updated guidance also acknowledges the need to move from an emergency situation to a more sustainable mode of managing COVID-19.
“We welcome EASA’s recommendation to relax the mask mandate, which is another important step along the road back to normality for air passengers. Travelers can look forward to freedom of choice on whether to wear a mask. And they can travel with confidence knowing that many features of the aircraft cabin, such as high frequency air exchange and high efficiency filters, make it one of the safest indoor environments,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
Several jurisdictions still maintain mask requirements. That is a challenge for airlines and passengers flying between destinations with different requirements. “We believe that mask requirements on board aircraft should end when masks are no longer mandated in other parts of daily life, for example theatres, offices or on public transport. Although the European protocol comes into effect next week, there is no globally consistent approach to mask-wearing on board aircraft. Airlines must comply with the regulations applicable to the routes they are operating. The aircraft crew will know what rules apply and it is critical that passengers follow their instructions. And we ask that all travelers be respectful of other people’s decision to voluntarily wear masks even if it not a requirement,” said Walsh.
For more information, please contact:
Corporate Communications
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Email: corpcomms@iata.org
Etihad Airways unveils new economy class soft furnishings and tableware
UAE national carrier Etihad Airways has unveiled its new economy class soft furnishings and tableware. Both will be launched on board in the fourth quarter of the year.
The airline says the new products have been designed with sustainability and improved guest experience as primary objectives. The economy class experience will be upgraded with new soft furnishings and includes a 35% larger pillow with a 200 thread-count cotton cover made locally in the UAE, as well as a soft blanket made from recycled plastic on all flights.
The new dining experience features reusable tableware, part of a closed loop recycling system made from recycled high-quality plastic, thereby eliminating the use of single-use plastic. Etihad is also introducing quality stainless-steel cutlery in its economy cabin which upgrades the experience and also reduces single-use plastic.
Terry Daly, Executive Director Guest Experience, Brand and Marketing, said: “Etihad is trailblazing when it comes to sustainability in aviation. Following extensive research and development through our eco-flights over the past few years, we’re proud to reveal the first in a series of enhancements to our in-flight experience. Our commitment to sustainability doesn’t come at a compromise to the quality and thoughtfulness behind Etihad’s guest experience, and these innovative new products will further improve our offering. We look forward to rolling out this new experience across the fleet towards the latter part of the year.”
Etihad says its economy cabin is renowned for its spacious seating featuring a signature fixed wing headrest which provides optimal support for a restful travel experience. The carrier also offers Economy Space seating which provides an additional 4″ of legroom for every guest who chooses to upgrade to this option and Etihad’s passengers may choose neighbour-free seating in Economy for an additional fee.
This new launch follows the introduction of the carrier’s new Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi themed children’s packs across its fleet in February and the unveiling of the new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, which entered into service in March and features Etihad’s new interior cabin design – including the state-of-the-art economy and business class seating.
Best Native American culture destinations to visit in North America
Immersive Experiences
“The ground on which we stand is sacred ground. It is the dust and blood of our ancestors…” – Chief Plenty Coups-Crow.
There’s a significant awakening across the United States to preserve, protect and share the often-tragic history of our North American Native Americans. It’s important and necessary that we understand their struggles and the grave events that this indigenous culture endured throughout the years.
The brighter side of the story however is that more and more travelers are taking the opportunity to learn more about the life and culture of these resilient Native Americans and visit many of their historic sites and museums. Immersion into the history and customs of these varied tribal families not only opens our eyes, it opens a door to their fascinating and unique way of life.
Here are destinations guaranteed to provide travelers authentic, personal and unforgettable immersive experiences and to view the past, present and future through the eyes of our Native American ancestors.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Considered the largest powwow in North America, Albuquerque’s annual Gathering of Nations brings together tribes and visitors from all over the U.S. and Canada. Hundreds of indigenous tribes attend the two-day event celebrating Native culture and its sense of community.
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is a gateway to the 19 Pueblo tribes of New Mexico. This impressive museum highlights Pueblo culture from ancient origins to the present telling the compelling story of the New Mexican Pueblo people through its many inspirational exhibits and events. It’s a must-do when visiting Albuquerque.
Hózhó is a Navajo word encompassing beauty, health, order and interconnectedness. Exhibitions at the Gallery Hózhó at the Hotel Chaco spotlight some of the best Native American artists. The hotel itself is filled with masterpieces of art and designed with the architectural elements celebrating nearby Chaco Canyon and New Mexico’s Pueblos.
Flagstaff, Arizona
There’s nothing like walking in the shoes (or moccasins) of our Native Americans. Flagstaff is in the heart of the Colorado Plateau, a region renowned for its rich Native American history.
Evidence of the earliest native cultures can be found in the ancient ruins and cliff dwellings of the majestic Walnut Canyon National Monument and the rock-walled pueblos of Wupatki National Monument. Ancient Sinagua and Anasazi tribes inhabited these lands more than 800 years ago.
Visitors can get up close and personal with awe-inspiring historic sites and feel the spirit of these early Americans while surrounded by the grandiose beauty of the Colorado Plateau.
A visit to the Museum of Northern Arizona with its repository of Native American artifacts and artwork sheds light on the life and culture of the Native Americans who lived and prospered in this sacred but often-challenging desert environment.
Mesa Verde, Colorado
Mesa Verde was a sacred place for ancestral Puebloan people for over 700 years from 600 to 1300 A.D. They also left behind some of the best-preserved habitation sites in the country.
The National Park Service established Mesa Verde as a National Park in 1906 to preserve and protect the rich cultural heritage of 26 Pueblos and tribes, offering visitors a spectacular window into the past. This UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Dark Sky Park in southern Colorado contains nearly 5,000 archeological sites including 600 cliff dwellings. Guests can even book an interpretive tour to deep-dive this amazing historic site.
Oklahoma City and Chickasaw Country
Oklahoma’s history is rich in Native American culture given that the state was the government-designated homeland for all Indian tribes that previously lived east of the Mississippi. The state has been home to 67 American Indian tribes.
Oklahoma City hosts the First Americans Museum containing the collective histories of 39 distinctive First American Nations still living in Oklahoma today. Opened in 2021, the museum offers a unique look at Native American history through the personal tragedies and challenges of our Native Americans through hands-on activities and media-rich displays. This poignant museum is unlike any other representing the First Americans.
The Chickasaw Cultural Center in Chickasaw Country is the largest tribal cultural center in the U.S. Visitors can immerse themselves in the Chickasaw civilization from its pre-Oklahoma existence to current times. The Removal Corridor at the Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur is a powerfully stirring story of the Chickasaws’ epic journey to Oklahoma after the Indian Removal Act deprived them of their eastern homelands.
Salish Sea, Pacific Northwest
The Coast Salish are indigenous peoples who reside in southwest British Columbia and northwest Washington state along the Salish Sea. The majority of these tribes made settlements along the mouths of rivers, in sheltered bays and inlets. They made their subsistence from the sea with massive dugout canoes carved from tree trunks.
Water was a source of healing, nourishment and spirituality for the tribe. The iconic totem poles are monuments created by the First Nations of the Pacific Northwest. These towering sculptures represent their ancestry, history, people and significant life events.
One of our favorite places to see these magnificent pieces of art is Stanley Park in Vancouver. These are a must-see to appreciate the skillful artwork and fascinating stories associated with the totems.
Seattle is another area to learn about the Coast Salish people with its museums, art and shops scattered throughout the city. In nearby Tulalip, The Hibulb Cultural Center and Natural Preserve’s motto is “so we can remember.” Their mission is to revive, restore, protect, interpret, collect and enhance the traditions and spiritual beliefs of the Pacific Northwest Tulalip tribes and others. Interactive exhibits, collections and storytelling all play a role in the center’s ongoing efforts to ensure the history of this indigenous culture is never forgotten.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Just an hour north of Albuquerque, Santa Fe is our nation’s oldest capital city. Deeply rooted in Native American culture, a more beautiful destination to immerse oneself in local indigenous history, lifestyle and customs cannot be found.
The place to stay surrounded by New Mexican history, colonial and native alike, is La Fonda on the Plaza, celebrating its 100th birthday. This historic hotel is filled with artwork and memorabilia predating American independence. It’s also close to stores and galleries in the historic district paying homage to authentic Native American craftsmanship.
You’ll find true-blue shops filled with turquoise jewelry like Keshi: The Zuni Collection. The Andrea Fisher Gallery carries the most magnificent pieces of handcrafted pottery from nearby Southwestern Pueblos.
We couldn’t get enough of Santa Fe’s impressive Museum of Indian Arts & Culture and the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian. Both eye-opening and thought-provoking through their amazing displays and top artist renditions.
Taos, New Mexico
The opportunity to visit one of the Southwest’s most unique and ancient Pueblos provides an unforgettable personal encounter with the Native Tiwa Puebloan people.
Ringed by the soaring peaks and sagebrush plains of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the Taos Pueblo Native American community, with no electricity or running water, has been inhabited for over 1,000 years. Their sacred ground has been designated both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark.
Strolling the grounds of this picturesque pueblo on a warm, breezy day felt as though ancient spirits were accompanying us throughout its multi-leveled adobe structures and running streams. To our surprising delight, we shared in the ancient art of breadmaking using hornos, outdoor wood-fired ovens made of adobe mud (a mix of local dirt, straw and water). Chiles to top the bread were roasted on the hornos external coals.
Those into authentic Native American experiences will love this magical place.
Thankfully, more and more communities across the U.S. are committed to the preservation of our indigenous Native American cultures. With so many uniquely different customs, languages, beliefs and experiences, it’s more important than ever that we understand, appreciate and learn from these fascinating peoples–our fellow Americans, who endured so much pain and suffering. Yet they survived and even thrived despite great adversity.
Qantas reveals A350 Project Sunrise’s very lang-haul cabins
Australia’s national carrier, Qantas has confirmed an order for 12 Airbus A350-1000s to enable non-stop flights to Australia from any other city in the world, including key destinations such as New York and London, from late 2025.
Qantas enjoyed strong demand for its direct Perth to London flights when they began in 2017, and CEO Alan Joyce says that with regard to such flights, “all signs point to that demand increasing post-Covid”. He also notes that while the Perth-London route is the longest route on the airline’s network, it also has the highest customer satisfaction.
The incoming A350s will have a total seat count of 238, which is the lowest of any A350-1000 currently in service, bringing dual benefits of enabling more passenger space and reducing weight to maximise range to 8,700nm (16,100km). An extra fuel tank will also be added to the aircraft.
While these direct flights will cut up to four hours off total travel time compared with one-stop options, passengers will be spending up to 20 hours in the aircraft, so the cabin designs require even more attention than usual. Qantas has shared its preliminary concepts for the A350 cabins, including luxurious first-class suites with a separate bed, recliner lounge chair and personal wardrobe. The separate bed and seat help comfort and variety during a long flight, with the seat providing a great option for working or watching the huge IFE display.
The A350s will also include next-generation business-class suites, new premium economy seats at a 40in pitch, and new economy seats at a 33in pitch. More than 40% of the cabin is planned to be dedicated to premium seating.
Qantas says the cabin interior and service designs are influenced by medical and scientific research carried out on three Project Sunrise research flights from New York and London to Sydney in 2019 using Boeing 787-9s. A notable outcome is the dedicated Wellbeing Zone located in the centre of the aircraft (between premium economy and economy), where passengers can move and stretch (videos on digital displays can provide guidance) and access a self-service snack station. Unlike some social spaces such as Virgin Atlantic’s A350 Loft, there is no seating in this zone, but then passengers will likely be keener to stand or move) on such long flights.
“The Qantas A350 travel experience will be truly exceptional, particularly across the premium cabins,” said Qantas Group CEO, Alan Joyce. “Our First and Business Class seats will set a new benchmark for premium long-haul travel.”
Narrowbody orders
In other news, Qantas has also announced the renewal of its narrowbody jets as part of Project Winton, a modernisation programme for its domestic fleet, with firm orders placed for 20 Airbus A321XLRs and 20 A220-300s as its Boeing 737s and 717s are gradually retired.
The new aircraft will be used by the Qantas Group on domestic services across Australia, which can extend to over five hours. In addition, the A321XLR offers the range capability for flights from Australia to South East Asia, enabling the Qantas Group to open up new direct routes. The A220 and A321XLR fleets will both be powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines.
This agreement is in addition to the existing order for 109 A320neo Family aircraft, which includes the A321XLR for the Qantas Group low-cost subsidiary, Jetstar.
“The A320s and A220s will become the backbone of our domestic fleet for the next 20 years, helping to keep this country moving. Their range and economics will make new direct routes possible,” Alan Joyce. “The Board’s decision to greenlight what is the largest aircraft order in Australian aviation is a clear vote of confidence in the future of Qantas.”
9 places to visit in Croatia for a cultural experience
Croatia has been a crossroads between the East and West for centuries. Once a Greek colony, later a Roman province, the country has been influenced by the Byzantines, Ottomans, Napoleon and Austro-Hungarians, to name just a few.
Croatia’s diverse and turbulent heritage has turned the nation into a true cultural jewel; its patrimony rich with influences from these periods.
From castles, churches and theatres to food, wine and music, we’ve put together a list of nine places you should visit to get your dose of Croatian culture.
But first of all, what are the travel restrictions?
Croatia has dropped all of its remaining COVID travel rules, as of 3 May.
“All travellers entering Croatia can now do so under the same conditions of entry that were in force before the COVID-19 pandemic, i.e. with valid travel documents,” says the statement from the Croatian National Tourist Office, released this week.
This means travellers will no longer have to show a negative COVID test result or proof of vaccination in order to enter the country.
The change comes just weeks after the country eased its restrictions about face coverings and limits on capacity for venues and public transport.
9. Rijeka, EU Capital of culture 2020
Why we love it: Rijeka has impressive neoclassical architecture, a vibrant city centre and a lively central market.
What to do: In Rijeka the mountains reach out to the sea, a juncture that brings with it an abundance of gastronomic opportunities. Head to the main city market to try it all, it’s been the place to dine since the 19th century, and it’s also an Art Nouveau architectural treasure.
The city was selected as Europe’s Capital of Culture 2020.
Over 600 individual events will take place place, including exhibitions, shows, operas, conferences, concerts, festivals, and more. New cultural exhibitions are offer at the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Children’s House, City Museum of Rijeka and the Galeb ship-museum.
You have to try: Istria’s truffles! The nearby town is famous for its black and white fungi, which are found in Croatia’s oak forests.
8. Zagreb
Why we love it: Zagreb is a reflection of the Austro-Hungarian empire.
What to do: You can visit most of Zagreb by foot. Go see the Neo-Gothic Zagreb Cathedral, it is an iconic landmark, same for Saint Mark’s Church, one of the oldest buildings in the city.
Zagreb claims to have the most museums per capita, so you probably won’t have time to visit them all but don’t miss Mimara, the city’s famous fine arts museum and the Zagreb City Museum, to absorb the capital’s history.
You can walk around Tkalčićeva Street, which has been one of the most vibrant streets in the city for centuries, and then stroll around Bogovićeva Street, a great place to people-watch while enjoying a good cup of Croatian coffee.
The country is famous for its coffee, olive oil, and wine.
As the capital city, Zagreb is the place to find a variety of regional cuisines. Try them all at the city’s central market, called Dolac. Elsewhere, look out for the traditional “konoba”, an informal trattoria-style restaurant offering local delicacies.
You have to try: Grenadir Marša, a tasty pasta dish with onions and cheese; Kajzeršmarn, an original dessert with caramelised pancakes; the local cheese-stuffed pastries, Štrukli, and the famous pepper biscuits.
Bonus: If you happen to visit during late spring, you will likely bump into ‘Cest is d’ best’ one of many street festivals which transforms the city into a big stage with street theatre, music, performances and sports.
7. Zadar
Why we love it: You can explore 3,000 years of history in Zadar.
What to do: Walk the ancient city by foot to discover its diverse monuments. Start with the Church of St Donatus, it dates from the 9th century and is the largest pre-Romanesque structure in Croatia. Today it mostly serves as a venue for medieval renaissance music, look out for the programme at the local tourism office. The Cathedral of Anastasia, constructed in the 12th and 13th century, is also worth the visit.
Zadar was once the largest city-fortress in the Republic of Venice, and its walls are another landmark. They formed, along with other cross-border components, the Venetian Works of Defence between the 15th and 17th century, which are recognised on UNESCO’s World Heritage List as an outstanding monument of the modern maritime fortification scheme.
From there head to the Land Gate, the main historical entrance to the city, built in 1543. It is considered one of the finest Renaissance monuments in all of Dalmatia.
You have to try: The world-famous Maraschino cherry liqueur, a centenarian recipe only made locally from indigenous Marasca sour cherries; the cheese from Pag, the most highly-prized cheese in Croatia, infused with the flavours of the Mediterranean and soaked in olive oil; The brodet, a fish and crab stew.
6. Sibenik
Why we love it: Historic Sibenik has two UNESCO sites.
What to do: The first UNESCO-listed landmark is St James’ Cathedral, a basilica from the 15th and 16th century. It is praised for its fusion of Gothic and Renaissance art.
Croatians feared invasion from the Ottomans for centuries, so the city of Sibenik had four fortresses, the most formidable being St Nicholas (Tvrđava Sv Nikole) whose defensive architecture is also protected by the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage.
While in Sibenik take a stroll to the Medieval Mediterranean gardens, landscaped by award-winning architect Dragutin Kiš. They are located around the former St Lawrence Monastery, which is also worth a visit. Gardens are open year-round, and they often host open-air events in summer.
Dalmatian traditional dishes are another good reason to visit the city, head to a seaside taverna to enjoy a fine glass of wine, Sibenik is the country’s primarily wine producing area.
You have to try: Crni rižot, a black risotto with squid, served with grated cheese.
5. Primošten
Why we love it: An island in its past life, Primošten has preserved the architectural features of a medieval Mediterranean fishing village.
What to do: About five centuries ago, during the Turkish invasions, the inhabitants of the islet built walls, towers and a bridge connected to the mainland to protect the city. When the Turks retreated, the bridge was replaced by a causeway.
The city is worth a visit just for its Croatian seaside village atmosphere.
Start at the Old Town Gate, the stone remnants of the old walls. Then head uphill and visit the parish church of St. George, built in the 15th century, to profit from the unique view of the sea.
Primošten is another great town to try Dalmatian cuisine, especially the outstanding red Babić wine, paired with goat cheese, prosciutto and olives—all native to Primošten.
You have to try: A shot of Rakia, another local speciality, a fruit brandy popular in the Balkans.
4. Trogir
Why we love it: It is famously known as a ‘town museum’.
What to do: Trogir is said to be one of the most preserved Romanesque-Gothic towns in Central Europe. The historic city centre is under the protection of UNESCO.
Head to the beautiful Romanesque-Gothic churches, notably the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, and to the Kamerlengo medieval fortress, built by the Venetians in the 1400s.
The fortress is also used as a venue for a wide range of concerts, festivals, performances and open-air cinema screenings during the summer. Check the local tourism office!
You have to try: Pasticada, a sort of beef stew, and one of the most popular Dalmatian dishes, every family has its own recipe.
Bonus: Attend a UNESCO-listed Klapa performance at the town’s loggia. The traditional singing group typically includes two tenors, a bass and a baritone, performing a cappella songs to celebrate love, wine, the homeland and the sea.
3. Split
Why we love it: A historical jewel with its old town and the 1,700-year-old Diocletian palace.
What to do: The ancient city centre is like stepping back in time. First head to the Diocletian palace, UNESCO-listed, it’s an amazingly-well preserved 4th-century complex. Then don’t miss St Duje’s Cathedral, once the Diocletian’s mausoleum. The central portion of the structure dates to 350AD, making it one of the oldest cathedral buildings in the world.
Peristil Square should also be on your list, an original Roman court where you can admire the great architecture of old Split. The stone monuments around it have given the square great acoustics, lookout for operas and theatre performances during the summer.
You’ll surely get lost in the old town, a maze of cobblestoned streets surrounding the Diocletian palace but make sure to find your way to People’s Square and gaze up at the old town clock. You can end your day with a stroll along the Riva Promenade, the harbour of Split to find a spot to eat: Split has a booming culinary scene and is designed for Al Fresco dining.
You have to try: Soparnik, one of Croatia’s authentic traditional dishes, a savoury thin pie filled with Swiss chard.
Bonus: If you visit in August don’t miss another UNESCO-honoured event: Sinjska Alka, an equestrian tournament that has been taking place in Sinj (about 45 minutes away from Split) since 1717.
2. Hvar and Stari Grad
Why we love it: Hvar has been inhabited since prehistoric times.
What to do: Hvar’s location at the centre of the Adriatic sailing routes has turned the island into a prosperous centre of arts and culture. The city is home to Hvar Public Theatre, one of the first theatres in Europe, which is now back in business after more than 20 years of restoration.
The cultural treasure is open for visits and there are ongoing performances all-year-long. See the Hvar Tourist board for the latest programme.
The ancient Greeks also founded the colony of Pharos in 384 BC on the northern side of the island, making todays’ Stari Grad one of the oldest towns in Europe. They set out the agricultural landscape of the Stari Grad Plain, a landmark that exhibits the ancient geometrical system of land division used by the Greeks, it has remained almost intact for over 24 centuries. This is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You have to try: Gregada, a simple fish stew with potatoes, is said to be the oldest way to cook fish in Dalmatia, probably brought by the Greeks. Also try the Octopus salad, a classic in the country and a speciality in Hvar. Pair it with Bogdanuša wine, a white grape indigenous to Hvar.
1. Dubrovnik
Why we love it: It’s called the Pearl of the Adriatic for a reason.
What to do: Surrounded by fortresses, Dubrovnik offers architectural and cultural masterpieces preserved for centuries. Start walking at the monumental Pile Gate, located at the top of Stradun, the splendid main pedestrian street of the old town.
Visit the cathedral, built on the ruins of a 12th-century church and take a stroll around the city’s limestone streets to admire the baroque buildings. Later, at dusk, climb the stairs to the city walls to get a view of the old town and sea from above while watching the sunset over the Adriatic. You’ll soon see why the city was used as the backdrop for multiple scenes of the mythical medieval series ‘Game of Thrones’.
Dubrovnik’s cultural scene is abundant with festivals, open-air concerts, gardens, performances and exhibitions, with many historic venues, such as the atrium of Sponza Palace, hosting the events.
During the summer the cultural highlight is the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, the city becomes a big stage for theatre performances, jazz, ballet and concerts. The Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra is also worth following, they organise year-round concerts and seasonal events.
You have to try: Zelena Menestra, or the green stew, a dish that’s been around since the 15th century. It consists of smoked bacon and ham hock, homemade sausages, cabbage, potato and often other vegetables. Also, try Rožata, a traditional medieval dessert from Dubrovnik, similar to crème brulée with a very special addition: rose water or rose petal liqueur.
Flight attendants union is asking American to have a two-drink maximum in economy
Air travel is booming once again, with airlines expanding their route networks and restoring in-flight perks, like three-course meals and onboard cocktails. But there’s one airline that is still limiting booze for fliers in coach.
American Airlines has a plan to phase in alcoholic beverages to economy class, with potential new limitations. In a first-of-its-kind policy, the airline’s flight attendants union is requesting American implement a two-drink maximum for all economy passengers.
“Our customers have expressed that having these options onboard is important to their experience with us,” American Airlines said of alcoholic drinks in a statement released earlier this month, adding that alcohol and light snacks would be made available for purchase on flights more than 250 miles starting April 18. Just as quickly, the union representing American Airlines flight attendants, The Association of Professional Flight Attendants, requested the airline institute a two-alcoholic drink limit per passenger, per flight.
The new limit would be part of an ongoing effort to curb unruly and violent passenger incidents, which began spiking during the pandemic and often involved drunk fliers. Previously, American had strategically set the return of alcohol sales to the same date the Federal Transportation Mask mandate was set to expire. As the mandate was extended, so was American’s return to alcohol sales. However, that changed, also on April 18, when the federal mask mandate was repealed.
Some American flight attendants continue to question “if the invasive, abusive and violent behavior [will] leave with the [mask] mandate, or whether this has become the norm,” according to responses on a union “hotline” for American flight attendants based in Los Angeles. The union cites the drink limit as a way to mitigate whether the mask mandate, alcohol, or a combination of both were to blame for the spike in unruly passengers.
Despite the union’s position, the airline’s flight attendants appear to be split over whether limiting alcohol intake will truly result in a smoother flight experience for passengers and crew. “Love it! Too many problems with alcohol” is one comment I received when I posed the question of whether or not the limit should be implemented to a group of American Airlines flight attendants. “I applaud trying…despite naysayers,” said another crew member.
There’s no doubt that intoxicated airline passengers are a complex issue, one that airlines struggled with even before COVID. Pre-pandemic, it wasn’t uncommon for lawsuits to be filed against airlines—and flight attendants specifically—for “over-serving” passengers. Various suits alleged alcohol played a role in sexual harassment on and off the plane, drunk driving incidents, and even domestic violence after the plane had landed, to name a few. Federal regulations have always stated that it’s against the law for a passenger to board an airplane if they appear to be intoxicated, and it’s also against the law to drink alcohol on board that wasn’t served by the airline. But these situations are sometimes hard to catch.
For their part, airline leaders worry about making such an accusation against a passenger. During flight attendant training, new hires are strictly told they cannot say someone is “drunk” or “intoxicated,” but they have to phrase it as the passenger “appears to be” under the influence of alcohol or another substance. There are also specially trained employees at each airline to handle the situation if the airplane is still on the ground at the gate, but once in the air, trainees are taught that they and their fellow crew members should work together, observe the passengers in question, and decide if they should suspend serving them any further alcoholic beverages.
Many flight attendants feel as though the two-drink limit is not a necessity. “I disagree with a limit, 100 percent,” says Kristin, an American Airlines flight attendant. “The bad passengers should not be able to ruin it for the good ones. When a passenger appears to be drunk, we stop serving them. Sometimes it’s before we’ve served them one drink on the plane,” Kristin says, noting that an unknown amount of beverages could be served at home or at airport bars and lounges prior to boarding. The majority of the comments I received from flight attendants echoed the feeling that cabin crew members had been dealing with alcohol-related unruly passengers before the pandemic, and they’ll still encounter them post-pandemic, regardless of a limit, but they can manage and handle it. Most don’t see the surge in unruly passenger incidents over the past two years as a reason to impose a limit on the service they provide.
On that topic, it should be noted that crew members as a whole worry about overall customer satisfaction. As Chuck, an American captain, explained: “The customer will win, by letting management know that they don’t appreciate the limits being imposed on them, most likely by going somewhere else.”
If instituted, it’s unclear how—or if—the limit would be levied on American Airlines’ highest paying premium business and first-class passengers. During the suspension of alcohol sales in the main cabin, those seated in premium cabins did still receive alcoholic beverages on request. American Airlines’ “Main Cabin Extra” product, or domestic premium economy, is advertised as also having “complimentary beer, wine and spirits” included, but read the fine print for all cabins of service on American Airlines and you’ll find the disclaimer: “The number of drinks served may be limited.” cntraveler.com
Alaska Airlines Celebrating ‘May the Fourth’ With Early Boarding for Star Wars-Clad Passengers
Alaska Airlines is encouraging traveling Star Wars fans to celebrate their passion in style this “May the Fourth” with the benefit of early boarding on Wednesday, May 4.
Whether it’s a Luke Skywalker t-shirt or a Darth Vader cape, participating passengers can enjoy the one-day priority boarding promotion on any Alaska flight throughout the carrier’s network.
When a guest wears any Star Wars-related clothing item, they’ll be able to board their flight just after Group B.
“Everybody in the galaxy loves Star Wars, so we had to celebrate this epic day the Alaska way,” Natalie Bowman, managing director of marketing and advertising for Alaska Airlines, said in a statement. “Whether you’re traveling near – or far, far away – on May 4th, we hope to see you at our gates ready to board early in your favorite Star Wars gear.”
Discover the untapped Austral Islands in French Polynesia
It almost felt like a scene out of the movie musical South Pacific. Our landing craft—a WWII vintage front-loader—alighted onto the sugar-sand beach with a soft thump, and we stepped off into the crowd of musicians and women with armfuls of flower leis.
“Bienvenue a Raivavae,” said one as I stooped to accept one of the fragrant lei, made with tiaré gardenia blossoms, basil shoots, and local flora.
Raivavae (pronounced Rye-vah-vah-eh), is the third stop of our tour through French Polynesia’s Austral Islands onboard the combination cargo/passenger cruise ship Aranui 5, and the arrival scene has by now become familiar: troupes of musicians with ukulele and drums, children and dogs darting between everyone’s legs, ice-cold coconuts hacked open with machetes for refreshing drinks, stalls with local handicrafts staffed by smiling women in woven palm frond hats accented with intricate flower crowns.
Each of the Australs has its own distinctive allure. Raivavae is known is the “Bora Bora of the Australs”—akin to what Bora Bora was decades ago. We take an excursion to the motu piscine, an islet out on the lagoon with a depression shaped like a swimming pool, explore a marae (temple), and visit an extraordinary smiling tiki (most of them have menacing expressions).
Like Bora Bora, Raivavae is featured by a volcanic peak with a brilliant aquamarine lagoon, but the difference here is an almost complete lack of visitors. The passengers and crew on Aranui 5 are virtually the only non-islanders on Raivavae during our visit.
The island chain overall, in fact, is particularly light on tourist traffic. There are no resorts or hotels, only guesthouse accommodations. There are airports (except on one particularly remote island) but there’s only enough traffic for a flight to Tahiti a few days a week from most islands.
In addition to Raivavae, our itinerary in the Australs also includes stops at Rurutu, Rimatara, Tubuai, and distant, airport-less Rapa.
This is an extraordinary voyage for the Aranui 5, the sole vessel of Aranui Cruises, which normally has a sole destination: French Polynesia’s Marquesas Islands, a voyage in the cardinal opposite direction from Tahiti compared to the Australs. The ship normally does combined cargo/cruise trips to the Marquesas, a formula that Aranui has perfected over the past four decades.
But change is coming to the local family shipping company owned by Tahiti’s Wong family. Dedicated passengers wishing to repeat their voyages with Aranui have for years requested alternative itineraries, and Aranui has responded with significant investment: a boutique-sized, passenger-only ship will join the fleet in 2026 to offer exploration itineraries to island groups like the Australs. Until then, Aranui 5 takes those itineraries without cargo (the company’s cargo authorities are only good for the Marquesas).
It’s a comfortable ship. My Premium Suite has a comfy bed with Polynesian decoration, a sitting area, a spacious bathroom stocked with Aranui-branded amenities made with local monoi oil, and balcony with a pair of chairs. Additional amenities include a refrigerator, tons of storage space (most sailings last just shy of two weeks) television with mostly French stations, and a nice fruit display. Free laundry service (except socks and underwear) is available twice during the sailing, and there’s a coin-operated laundromat for those.
Most passengers take most meals in the dining room. Breakfasts are buffet-style, lunches and dinners are served in three courses. There’s no choice of entrée, but dietary restrictions are accommodated with advance notice. Meals also include a bottle of wine to be shared by the table.
The passenger complement is split primarily between Americans and French travelers. Aranui staff—all local Polynesians—are fluent in both English and French (many also speak a local language such as Tahitian or Marquesan), and touring groups are often divided between English and French-speaking passengers. The third most common passenger group is German, and there are also a few German-speaking staff (non-French speaking passengers join the English-speaking tour group).
While the Marquesas are used to the routine of Aranui 5’s frequent calls, it’s more of an occasion in the Australs. On each island, we’re greeted with crowds of locals, dancing, and individual lei for each of the 200 passengers and crew coming onshore—touching when one considers the amount of work that goes into lei for that many visitors.
On Rurutu, we’re greeted with a ceremony at the town hall, then visit a coffee plantation and the Ana a’eo Cave. The local guide tells us that pre-European contact Polynesians once used the cave for ritual cannibalism, before smiling and adding, “but do not be alarmed, we have already prepared the lunch”. A cry went up from inside the cave, and we ventured through the foliage to find another troupe of dancers and musicians performing with the cave’s stalagmites as an impressive backdrop.
On even smaller Rimatara, we hike up a hillside to catch a glimpse of ‘Ura de Rimatara, a colorful lorikeet found only on the island (aside from a population that have been reintroduced to an island in the Cook Islands as an ecological safety valve). The bird is a mascot for the island, appearing on the local school buses that we do our touring in, and we’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse of several, straining to see their red, green, and blue plumage.
On Rapa, COVID-19 concerns kept activities limited to the wharf (without an airport, medical emergencies requiring evacuation are a massive undertaking, so the precautions were necessary), but that didn’t stop the spirited dancing, taro pounding demonstration, lavish buffet lunch and evening encore dance performance from taking place in the warehouse of the wharf.
Tubuai, which is also the administrative center for the Australs, welcomed Aranui with a lavish fruit buffet and more ice-cold coconuts in a covered assembly area near the town hall. There were also a number of handicraft stalls (Tubuai is renowned for the skill of its woodcarvers) for passengers to peruse before heading out on an island tour to see the site of Fort George, the short-lived outpost of the Bounty mutineers.
Aranui 5 is like its own self-sustaining capsule on all of the island visits (in addition to the Australs, she also called at Raiatea in the Society Islands and Anaa in the Tuamotus). Because the Australs have little tourism infrastructure, Aranui 5 brings the benefit of tourist dollars without requiring significant shoreside facilities. Some of the logistics were learning experiences for everybody, but as the itineraries shift from expedition voyages to annual or bi-annual occurrences, port calls should go more smoothly.
That’s not to say the voyage wasn’t otherwise well-planned. Shipboard routines included nightly happy hours in the verandah bar with views over the wake at the back of the ship. Many passengers entertained themselves with books from the ship’s lending library or ukulele or dance classes that culminated in an onboard show with passenger performers. One evening the staff did a fashion show with items for sale in the well-stocked boutique; on other evenings there was live music or karaoke.
Arriving back in Tahiti felt almost like waking up from a pleasant dream—a rhapsody of warm Pacific islands with even warmer hospitality marked by heartfelt, musical welcomes and farewells of genuine fondness.