
BREAKING NEWS Chaos as American Airlines is hit by outage leaving thousands stranded on runways
American Airlines has been hit by an outage, leaving people stranded for hours.
All flights have been impacted due to computer issues that struck systems around 1:30pm ET.
Some travelers have shared their frustrations on social media, saying they have been sitting at the gate for more than one hour.
This is a developing story... More updates to come
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Daily Mail
3 hours ago
- Daily Mail
Free upgrades are more likely to be given out at a specific time BEFORE boarding, reveals travel expert
Paying hundreds, often thousands, for a business class or better seat is unattainable for most of us - but the occasional surprise upgrade can happen. If you're dreaming of turning left instead of right on your next trip, then taking heed of an expert tip could see mission accomplished. While it's rare to be one of those lucky souls upgraded for logistical reasons such as overbooked economy cabins, says Julian Kheel, founder and CEO at Points Path, it does happen, and timing is apparently everything. The expert told Travel + Leisure that making the approach at just the right moment could see your date with a fancy lunch and a flat-bed happen. He said: 'It's nearly impossible for the average traveler to get a free upgrade to business or first-class today. [It's] extremely rare, but it does happen once in a while.' The secret is all about not making the approach at the wrong time, such as when airline staff who make the decisions on last-gasp upgrades look harassed. He says mentioning it as fellow passengers are queuing to board is almost certain to fail, and piping up just as the doors are closing is also an unwise move - but go in early with the request instead. If you have a special reason - such as a birthday or anniversary, you might be able to charm your way into an elevated cabin. Those in the know say waiting to get on the plane is one way to kill your chances - because airborne cabin crew rarely make the decisions on upgrades, even if you can see empty rows in business or first. One airline cabin crew worker shared on Reddit recently: 'At my airline, [flight attendants] are not allowed to upgrade [passengers] to first class. 'Talk to [the] gate agent or ticket agent when you check your bags. They are the ones who assign seats and can upgrade you.' They did reveal a tip that might bring out the mile-high vandal in you though, saying one of the only ways to get moved up when you're in economy is if the seat you've been sold is broken or doesn't work. The cabin crew employee wrote: 'If you're on the plane and there's something physically wrong with your seat, like a broken armrest or tray table, that can also be a reason to ask if you might be moved to a better seat up front.' Earlier this year, Dawn Morwood, co-director of Cheap Deals Away UK, revealed her top tips too, advising passengers on 'how to position yourself as a prime candidate' for a free of charge upgrade. The first tip from Dawn is simply just to ask. She told the Express: 'When you check in, smile warmly and simply ask, 'Are there any upgrade opportunities available today?' 'This phrasing is important - it's polite, direct, and shows you understand upgrades aren't guaranteed.' But the timing of this question is also just as important, says Dawn. She explains: 'Check in early, when more premium seats are likely available, but not during peak busy periods when staff are rushed. 'And always ask discreetly - never demand an upgrade in front of other passengers.' Even your clothes could also make all the difference, so Dawn recommends choosing your airport outfit very wisely – and making a bit of an effort with your appearance. She says: 'Smart-casual clothing sends a signal that you'll 'fit in' with the premium cabin environment. 'Think neat jeans or trousers, a collared shirt or nice top, and clean, decent shoes.' Telling the staff you're celebrating something like a honeymoon or big birthday could also lead to cabin crew giving you special treatment. Dawn adds: 'I've seen couples get upgraded because they mentioned their anniversary. One pair even received complimentary champagne in business class.'


Daily Mail
3 hours ago
- Daily Mail
Cruise ship worker reveals whether 'all-inclusive' deals are REALLY worth it
It often seems like everything is included on a cruise. But first-timers might be shocked to learn that 'all-inclusive' doesn't necessarily mean they won't face a bill at the end of their cruise. Cruise crew worker, Lucy (@cruisingascrew), has warned cruise newbies that there are lot of things that are 'not included' in the initial package. In a YouTube video called 'Cruise Mistakes First-Times Always Make (Don't be that person'), Lucy reveals: 'An all-inclusive cruise is not the same as an all-inclusive hotel on land.' So what might not included in the price of a cruise? Food Lucy says: 'Yes, your food is going to be included in your initial cruise fare'. However, if the cruise has speciality restaurants, guests will usually need to pay extra to enjoy them. First-timers might be shocked to learn that 'all-inclusive' doesn't necessarily mean they won't face a bill at the end of their cruise Speciality restaurants are often themed and aren't included in the price of the cruise holiday. This isn't the case on every cruise line, and all speciality restaurants are included on Virgin Voyages. Drinks 'Once you're onboard, you are going to be prompted to buy a drinks package,' explains Lucy. Alcoholic drinks are rarely included in the price of a cruise package and guests can either pay as they go or opt for a drinks package. A drinks package may be better value if holidaymakers are planning to drink a lot while they're away. Wi-Fi Wi-Fi may not be included as part of your cruise package, explains Lucy. It can be really expensive to use data on a cruise as guests may cross through different countries as they sail. If you're planning to use the Internet a lot while away, it might be a good idea to opt for a Wi-Fi package. Gratuities Lucy says: 'You're also going to have to pay your gratuities at the end of the cruise which is something that a lot of new cruisers get surprised by. 'They do not even know that they're going to have to pay gratuities at the end of the cruise, but you will.' Tips are usually charged at the end of the cruise so it's important to factor in this cost to the overall price of the trip. Excursions Excursions aren't compulsory on a cruise and guests can choose whether they want to explore on their own or join a tour. Lucy says: 'If you decide you want to do an excursion in one of the ports, that's going to be extra.' Holidaymakers can book excursions before their cruise and this is sometimes advised as the most popular trips can sell out.


Daily Mail
5 hours ago
- Daily Mail
6 of the best sights and local secrets in San Francisco
The hotel After a ten-and-a-half hour flight from London, the 1920s glamour of the Beacon Grand (rooms from £169, makes for a plush and, crucially, well-located refuge for the weary traveller – it's just two miles from the San Francisco Opera and Fisherman's Wharf. Time your arrival right and you'll want to head straight to the 21st floor for a refreshing sundowner at the rooftop Starlite bar, which has one of the most enviable 360-degree views in town. The heights Shake off your jet lag with a pre-dawn taxi trip up to leafy Twin Peaks (below) to watch sunrise over the city, serenaded by birdsong (that is to say, unless Karl the Fog has rolled in). Then take a 20-minute stroll or bus down, past San Francisco's 'I'd definitely live there' houses – with their flamboyant colours, bay windows and the occasional turret – to the Castro district for revivifying pancakes beneath fairy lights at Orphan Andy's diner. The sights Despite its sticky-sweet confectionery stores and tourist tat, Fisherman's Wharf is a must-visit for its barking sea lions. Catch a ferry to Alcatraz Island, the infamous (and, for now, still former) prison, and out past the Golden Gate Bridge (below) from Pier 41. If you haven't packed your sea legs, a clattering old cable-car trolley ($8 a ride, bring cash) is a great way to see the city, or ride the Wiggle, a bike route that winds around (instead of over) many of SF's famous hills (Bay Wheels bike day pass, $15). The bites From Four Kings' cheeky spin on chicken and waffles in Chinatown to the 'cozy Nob Hill jewel box' (Michelin's words, not mine) that is Sons & Daughters, British chef Harrison Cheney's homage to the forest-to-table kitchen, you could take a year to eat your way around SF and barely touch the sides. My favourite is the homely waterfront Italian, Scoma's of Sausalito (above), a 45-minute ferry ride across the bay, with superb views of the city and seafood dishes to die for. The park The city has tripled down on friendly open spaces post-pandemic, a welcome counter-narrative to the tough times that some people will tell you the city has fallen on. The new Tunnel Top Park (above) has spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge, The Great Highway (an ageing stretch of road) is now closed to cars on weekends, making it a beachfront promenade devoted to pedestrians and cyclists, and Aquatic Park is where swimmers brave the frigid San Francisco Bay. The after-dark SF loves a revival. Take in live jazz at the Dawn Club (above), the 2.0 update of the club of the same name from the 1930s and 40s (it's down the road from Twitter HQ, and after a few cocktails my friend wrote a job application to CEO Elon Musk here on the back of a napkin; she didn't get it). Sink a mai tai made with Chinese wine at legendary Chinatown cocktail bar Li Po Lounge or sip champagne with spiced nuts in French wine bar Verjus, then whizz back to HQ in a Waymo, Google 's ubiquitous driverless taxi.