Airlines raise checked baggage fees for Domestic flights
Delta, United, American, Alaska and JetBlue have all raised their checked bags as of March 5, 2024. Each airline has a different “start” date to this fee increase so be sure to check the airline’s website or call us for clarification.
Most airlines will now charge a minimum of $35 to $40 for each passenger’s first checked bag if paid prior to the departure date. The fees will be higher if paying for checked bags at the airport. Most airlines are still waiving their checked bag fees for their top tier frequent flyer members, loyalty credit card members, Premium and First Class passengers.
Passport processing times are getting better!
Currently renewal and new passports are taking around 2 to 3 months to process. Expedited passports are taking around 1 month!
Things you may not know about your passport:
Most countries require your passport be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your return.
Anyone under the age of 16, will have a passport issued that is valid for 5 years. Anyone over the age of 16, will have a passport issued that is valid for 10 years.
You don’t have to pay for a passport photo! The picture must be a 2×2 square, unaltered and on a white background, but you’re allowed to take it at home! The rules do not stipulate that you stand in line for hours at Walgreens.
You may denied boarding if your passport doesn’t have enough blank pages.
“Some countries require that your passport has two to four blank visa/stamp pages,” reads the State Department website. “Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement in not met.”
REAL ID – Important Information
What was to begin October 1, 2021, has now been postponed AGAIN to May 7, 2025 for Pennsylvanians to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, photo ID card, or another form of federally-acceptable identification (such as a valid passport or military ID). This will eventually be required to board a domestic commercial flight or enter a federal building or military installation that requires ID.
Getting a new REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or photo ID card is optional for Pennsylvania residents, but will be required if you plan on using this as your government issued photo I.D. when checking in for domestic flights. If you choose to use your valid Passport or Military ID, it is not necessary to obtain a new driver’s license with REAL ID. Please visit www.PennDOT.gov/REALID for more information.