Tighter TSA rules in place

New U.S. rules governing the name you use to book air travel have now gone into effect. When you make airline reservations now, you are required to use your full name exactly as it appears on the government-issued ID (e.g., passport, drivers license) you plan to shown when you go through airport security checkpoints. In the near future, minor discrepancies such as using a middle initial on a ticket instead of the full middle name that appears on the drivers license won’t cause problems at the airport; however, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) says that, over time, you should begin making every effort to match the names exactly.

Also, airlines are now required to have your gender and birthdate when you make an reservation.

Staying connected in the sky

The major U.S. airlines are moving forward with providing Wi-Fi access on flights. AirTran just completed a promotional flight testing its system and says it will have wireless capability installed on all of its 136 jets by the end of July.

Meanwhile, Delta has already installed systems on half of its fleet. Both airlines offer packages starting at $7.95.

Getting sick might be worth it

Thank goodness the media's 24/7 coverage of the "swine" flu has waned a bit in the last few days. And thank goodness it hasn't been as bad as it could have been.

This offer came across my desk tonight, though, and it makes me wonder whether a little battle with the flu for a few days might be a good trade off for three free vacations in the future.

The Dreams, Secrets, and Zoetry resort brands have announced a new “Flu-Free Guarantee” for guests staying at these properties. If a traveler contracts the H1N1 flu virus while staying at one of these branded properties, they will receive three future vacations free. The offer applies to guests booked May 8-June 30 for stays May 8-Dec. 20. Also, the brands have introduced new booking incentives, including discounts up to 55 percent and $200 resort credits (restrictions and effective dates apply).