Wider middle seats a solution to the seating squeeze?

This week our members debate the pros and cons of making the middle seats on planes wider. Middle seats are usually an unpopular choice for flyers as passengers in middle seats are wedged between two other passengers. Middle seat occupants often complain of having less space and the seats can be particularly uncomfortable for larger … Continued

Strategies for sleeping soundly on planes

Our members share their tips and experiences in getting some shut-eye on aircraft. Some lucky members are able to sleep with ease, even in economy. For others, getting some rest at 35,000 feet can be a great challenge. For those who find that sleeping in the air doesn’t come naturally, there are numerous strategies available. … Continued

Secretly Scheming a Surprise Holiday

One crafty member hopes to surprise a lucky loved one with an overseas holiday to a secret destination. They know the surprise will be appreciated, but ponder the risk of inadvertently blowing their cover. Countless opportunities exist for the secret to be let out.  Overheard phone calls and misplaced tickets are just the start of … Continued

New “Border Clearance Levy” results in higher airfares to NZ

Flights to New Zealand will become $22 more expensive after the New Zealand government announced a new tax on arriving and departing passengers. The “border clearance levy” has been spruiked by the New Zealand government as a way to cover the cost of customs and border protection. Our members are not particularly thrilled about this. … Continued

Forced downgrade leaves Expedia customer fuming

One member is furious that online travel agent Expedia downgraded their business class ticket to economy without explanation. Having booked a business class trip to Europe, Expedia now says the member will need to pay $1,200 to “upgrade” the ticket back to business class. When our member then threatened to cancel the ticket, Expedia demanded … Continued