Even if all those size-zero clothes had no effect on us, we are forced to start thinking slim now, just in case we end up on a parallel scale along with the baggage. It certainly would not be a pleasant sight, if we weigh more than our baggage.

As the price of fuel reaches sky-high, charges on airline tickets may include both the weight of the passengers and their baggage.

All this may sound far-fetched but it may just come true. Airline CEOs are said to be letting their imagination go wild. They seem to have even begun to think in terms of charging passengers based on their weight.

They cannot be blamed, the fuel costs that almost tripled since 2000, now account for as much as 40% of the operating costs for some airline carriers. To be able to survive, Airlines are forced to come up with innovative ideas to reduce costs and increase revenues.

Singapore Airlines’ shares have gone tumbling down by 8.9% this year and they are doing all they can to cut down costs. According to their chief executive officer Chew Choon Seng, “we are trying to lessen the weight of the aircraft by removing the unnecessary quantities of water.” (more…)

Imagine buses running as fast on a road filled with traffic as they would if roads were empty. Buses do not stop at red lights and they are not breaking the signal. Sounds like a riddle, but this is what is happening in the United States and Canada these days.

A unique method of road travel, which is the dream of every commuter, is now made possible. Bus routes have been equipped with wireless technology, which turns a red light to green – “on command.”

As the buses reach an intersection, signal lights either turn green from red or stay green a few minutes longer. This way the buses do not have to stop and continue to travel fast. This method is said to be environment friendly as there is less pollution and more fuel savings, all because of lack of idling.

This unique technology that is called the “signal preemption,” can only be used by vehicles that are equipped with a GPS link and radio transmitter. The vehicle relays its location and speed to a computer that controls the traffic light. The light switches to green as the vehicle approaches the signal. Emergency vehicles can set up more green lights as they go.

This technology is already being used in ninety-eight metropolitan areas in the United States, in more than 30000 intersections. At least 90% of all intersections are using this technology in some places, such as Bellingham, Washington; Syracuse, New York; Boise City, Idaho; and Eugene, Oregon. (more…)

It seems as though business isn’t business these days unless you’re jet setting around the country or even the world. Planning business strategies is tough enough without having to deal with complicated airfare situations, reward points and finding the right hotel to accommodate your needs.

The travel industry now caters to business travelers as they make up such a huge portion of the industry’s income. Travelers from all over the world fly in and out of cities on a regular basis. Of course they rent a car, dine out, and stay in respectable hotels while they are in the city on business. This kind of activity spread out across major metropolitan areas can have a serious impact on the area’s economy. (more…)