Delta BusinessElite Class now featured on Transcontinental Flights

Delta Air Lines recently breathed new life into its product when it introduced new, modern amenities - in BusinessElite, in domestic First Class, and in Coach - on its Boeing 757's, 767's, and 777's. Passengers finally had things like PTV's and more ergonomic seats (a must for those of us in Coach!), and meals on longer flights became more commonplace.

Now, Delta is taking it a step further in the right direction: A new, greatly improved premium product is available on transcontinental flights. Reclining BusinessElite seats are now featured on all flights from JFK to Los Angeles and San Francisco, along with amenities such as in-flight internet and comfy duvets. This is a much-needed update to Delta's old product, and this will also hopefully force other airlines with special transcontinental services (like AA's Flagship Service) to rise up and compete. It is very nice to see Delta revitalizing its product!

The drawback is that since there are fewer seats in the BusinessElite cabin, upgrades will be more scarce - a sad thing for us SkyMiles Medallion members.

AeroMexico coming to New Orleans Int'l?

On November 26, 2008, AeroMexico filed an application with the US Department of Transportation (DOT) to begin a daily nonstop service from Mexico City, Mexico to New Orleans, Louisiana.  The application was approved by the DOT, and AeroMexico is currently engaging in talks with New Orleans Airport personnel.  Greater New Orleans Inc. President Michael Hecht who, with his economic development group, has been working fervently with AeroMexico stated, "AeroMexico sees New Orleans as a very attractive airport with a central location between Houston and Atlanta...  Our plan is to return New Orleans to the gateway to the Americas."  Airport officials stated that if AeroMexico wished to begin flights into New Orleans immediately, facilities such as INS (Immigration) Checkpoints and ticket counters are prepared and ready for use.

Armstrong International (MSY) Showing Signs of Rebirth

On August 29, 2005 at 6:10 am, Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, LA. Devastation was immanent, with thousands still trapped in the city. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport was one of the only lines of evacuation. After everyone was evacuated, the airport became a ghost town. It remained that way for the remainder of 2005 and a long portion of 2006. Although the airport endured all of the turmoil and strife, it is beginning to regain strength. In the Pre-Katrina era, the airport offered service to 44 cities, several being international. In early 2006, the airport offered service to about 25 cities, none being international. As of early 2007, the airport offered service to about 38 cities, one being international. The Airport board expects these numbers to go nowhere but up. Hopefully, with time, we will see an increase in international air service and tourism.