Approximately 1 percent fewer passengers traveled on U.S. airlines(1) in July, while the average price to fly one mile rose 17 percent. International passenger revenue rose 36 percent, led by a 52 percent gain in trans-Pacific markets.

"Demand for air travel remains well above last year's depressed levels, but the industry is mindful of cautionary notes about the health of the overall economy," said ATA President and CEO James C. May.

U.S. airlines(2) saw cargo traffic, as measured in cargo revenue ton miles, rise 19 percent year over year (8 percent domestically and 28 percent internationally) in June 2010, driven by increased international trade. July 2010 cargo data is not yet available.

Annually, commercial aviation helps drive more than $1 trillion in U.S. economic activity and nearly 11 million U.S. jobs. On a daily basis, U.S. airlines operate approximately 25,000 flights in 80 countries, using more than 6,000 aircraft to carry an average of two million passengers and 50,000 tons of cargo.

ATA airline members and their affiliates transport more than 90 percent of all U.S. airline passenger and cargo traffic. For additional industry information, visit www.airlines.org.

(1) Based on data reported to ATA by Alaska, American, Continental, Delta, JetBlue, United and US Airways; also includes data for Air Midwest, Air Wisconsin, Allegheny, American Eagle, Atlantic Coast, Atlantic Southeast, Chautauqua, Comair, Continental Express, Executive, Freedom, Horizon, Mesa, Mesaba, MidAtlantic, Piedmont, Pinnacle, PSA, Shuttle America, SkyWest and Trans States.

(2) Based on data reported to ATA by Alaska, American, Continental, Delta, FedEx, Hawaiian, JetBlue, Southwest, United, UPS and US Airways.

**Arrives previous day

The new service becomes available for sale following a recent U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) decision giving Delta's global alliance - SkyTeam - its first opportunity to compete across the Pacific from Haneda.

"No U.S. airline has invested more in Tokyo and service into Haneda airport is a logical addition to the three airports Delta already serves across Japan," said Glen Hauenstein, Delta's executive vice president - Network Planning and Revenue Management.  "Customers on both sides of the Pacific will benefit as Delta and SkyTeam strengthen competition at Haneda and continue to expand global connections to Japan with new service at Haneda complementing our hub at Narita."

From Detroit, new service to Haneda will boost Delta's Eastern U.S. gateway to Asia, building on recently added flights to Seoul and Hong Kong, expanded service to Shanghai and long-standing flights to Tokyo-Narita and Nagoya. Delta's hub at Detroit, featuring a state-of-the-art 121-gate terminal designed for international connections, will provide one-stop service to Haneda for customers in 106 U.S. cities.

"Delta demonstrates their confidence in Detroit Metro with the continued expansion of Asian routes, specifically to Tokyo-Haneda, continuing to position the Detroit Metropolitan area as an international gateway," said Wayne County Executive Robert A. Ficano. "This addition will be a collective boost for Delta's Eastern gateway to Asia and for Southeast Michigan."

From Los Angeles, Delta will serve the largest mainland U.S.-Tokyo market, as well as provide one-stop service for customers in 21 U.S. cities.

Said Los Angeles Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa: "I am very proud that the U.S. DOT chose Los Angeles as the U.S. West Coast gateway for this much sought-after, new route.  Delta's new nonstop route between LAX and Tokyo-Haneda will increase competition and enhance customer benefits on flights between the U.S. and Haneda, as well as strengthen business, tourism and cultural ties with one of the most desirable cities in Asia."

In addition to Haneda, Delta will continue to offer daily trans-Pacific service from Los Angeles to Tokyo-Narita, Sydney, Australia and Tahiti (operated by joint venture partner Air France).

All Delta flights between the United States and Haneda will operate using 403-seat Boeing 747-400 aircraft.  These aircraft feature 65 seats in BusinessElite and 338 seats in Economy. Customers on all Haneda flights will have the opportunity to experience Delta's award-winning BusinessElite service, including innovative food offerings from celebrity chef Michelle Bernstein and original wine selections chosen by Delta's Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson. BusinessElite also features on-demand personal in-seat entertainment boasting more than 20 first-run and popular classic movies, a variety of TV programs, music titles and a suite of video games.

As previously announced, Delta will invest $1 billion, or about $300 million per year, through mid-2013 to improve the customer experience in the air and on the ground. The product investment includes installing full flat-bed seats in BusinessElite on approximately 90 trans-Ocean aircraft and adding in-seat audio and video on demand in Economy Class on widebody aircraft that do not feature this service today.  The 747-400 fleet flying to Haneda will receive both enhancements.

Delta is the No.1 U.S. airline operating in the Japan market. Delta operates nonstop flights from its Asian hub at the Tokyo-Narita Airport to nine U.S. mainland gateways, three beach resorts - Hawaii, Guam and Saipan - and 10 destinations in Asia.  Delta also operates daily flights from Osaka's Kansai International Airport and Nagoya's Centrair Airport.  Delta recently announced plans to add new service between Nagoya and Honolulu and between Tokyo-Narita and the Pacific island of Palau, both effective in December, pending government approvals.

Since its 2007 launch, Virgin America has made sustainable practices a core part of its business model and has experienced record-setting growth along the way - with 1,600 new jobs created, eight million guests flown and a sweep of the major awards, including "Best Domestic Airline" in Condé Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards and Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards. Virgin America's low-fare, high-tech service injects new competition into the Canadian market with daily flights* from both SFO and LAX to YYZ. Today, the airline announces its intent to launch flights from SFO to San Jose del Cabo (SJD), SFO to Cancun International Airport (CUN) and LAX to CUN. The airline today files with the U.S. Department of Transportation for authority to begin flying to Mexico this winter.

"Today is a great day for airline competition, for our teammates and for travelers," said Virgin America President and CEO David Cush. "When more airlines compete, consumers win with lower fares and better service. At a time when most airlines are contracting and consumers expect less and less, we're proud to be growing, operating responsibly and offering travelers a very different kind of flight experience."

Virgin America is now poised for major growth, with the launch of five new destinations in 2010, a fleet growth of close to two-thirds projected by Dec. 2011 and plans to double its teammate base by 2012. In addition to creating jobs, lowering fares and improving service, the airline leads the industry on sustainability. Virgin America's investment in new aircraft and consistent use of sustainable practices on the ground and in the air, make it one of the most carbon efficient airlines - with a fleet that is up to 25 percent more efficient than the U.S. average. Virgin America was the first U.S. airline to list its footprint via globally-recognized standards and to offer guests the ability to offset their travel in-flight. Virgin America's focus on sustainability has also helped streamline the airline's costs. The airline remains a strong supporter of AB 32, California's historic climate change legislation.

"It is no surprise that the only airline headquartered in California is harnessing the best in technology and design to change how people fly. Virgin America has not only reinvented the in-flight experience, they are in step with California's nation-leading green policies and are leading the way to reduce their carbon footprint," said Governor Schwarzenegger. "Their growth reflects the entrepreneurial spirit of our state and again proves that sustainable practices can improve the bottom line and create jobs. I am thrilled to be a part of Virgin America's first international flight and look forward to their continued expansion."

Virgin America's headquarters are LEED certified and its new home at SFO's Terminal Two will be LEED certified as well. Virgin America operates one of the youngest fleets in North America and its mood-lit, custom-designed cabins feature the Red™ entertainment system, the most advanced in-flight entertainment platform in the skies. The Red system's touch-screen offers 20 films, live TV, Google Maps, an MP3 library, videogames, an on-demand menu that allows guests to order at their seat, and even select Carbonfund.org offsets. In 2009, the airline became the first to offer WiFi fleetwide.

"San Francisco is proud to have Virgin America as its hometown airline," said Mayor Newsom. "Since 2007, they have created hundreds of jobs, lowered fares and helped make SFO one of the nation's few growing airports."

Upon touchdown in Toronto, the Airbus A320 aircraft, "Air Drake," will make a splashy entrance into Canada with a water cannon salute, an international welcoming committee and a red carpet party on the arrival tarmac. Flight guests and Torontonians will be feted later this evening, as Virgin America takes over the trendy new spot to see and be seen - The Thompson Toronto - for a launch party that may just cause an international incident.

"Virgin America is adding direct connections between California and Toronto and doing it in style," added Lloyd McCoomb, President and CEO of the Greater Toronto Airports Authority. "We are thrilled to welcome another airline to Toronto and look forward to working with Virgin America. The connections between Toronto, San Francisco and Los Angeles make perfect sense, and it is wonderful to have Virgin America connecting our great cities."

In addition to being a good time, the Toronto launch will help do some good: by raising funds for Virgin Unite and mentoring some aspiring entrepreneurs along the way - literally. Sir Richard, Eric Ryan (Co-Founder of eco-friendly cleaning product company Method), Jason Pomeranc (Thompson Hotel Group Founder) and other outside-the-box business leaders, will host "airplane pitch" sessions with young entrepreneurs en route from SFO to YYZ. Also today, Virgin America kicks off its search for the "Virgin America Toronto Provocateur" who is Virgin enough to represent the airline in Toronto. For every entry, the airline will raise funds for Virgin Unite's Young Entrepreneurs, which provides training and seed funds to disadvantaged young people.

"Trade, travel, and innovation are keys to one of the closest bilateral relationships in history, and more connections mean more prosperity," said U.S. Consul General Kevin Johnson, who helps welcome the Virgin America flight to Toronto today. "Vibrant, diverse, and already a gateway to much of the U.S. and the world, Toronto and Ontario are natural partners for California, where ideas and dreams are born."

Virgin America's Toronto service began on June 23, however the celebratory first flight occurs today due to G8/G20 summit events. Virgin America flies to San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C., Seattle, Las Vegas, San Diego, Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Toronto, and starting in the fall of 2010 - Orlando.

Virgin America's Toronto Main Cabin fares start at $178 USD**/$174 CAD*** (SFO-YYZ) and $187 USD**/$182 CAD*** (LAX-YYZ).

"We're pleased that Delta will be serving the Montrose/Telluride area on a daily basis this coming winter," said Dave Riley, CEO of Telluride Ski Resort. "Atlanta is the busiest airport in the world and with Delta being the dominant hub carrier at that airport, effective service from and through Atlanta provides better access for our skiing guests in the east, and particularly Atlanta the southeastern part of the United States."

"Delta continues to grow our hub in Atlanta with the daily seasonal to Montrose/Telluride," said Joe Esposito, Delta's managing director - Schedule Planning.  "Our Montrose/Telluride customers have one-stop access from our eastern hub to 227 destinations across North America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America."

"The expanded daily Atlanta winter service will also offer great connections for international guests," states Scott Stewart, Executive Director of the Telluride Montrose Regional Air Organization. "Convenient one change of plane connections to Montrose/Telluride from Mexico and Central and South America in particular will be available via Delta's Atlanta Hub and the expanded daily Atlanta to Montrose/Telluride Flight!"

Delta's new daily nonstop service between Montrose, Colorado and Atlanta, Georgia is effective December 18, 2010.

Delta will be offering a special introductory airfare starting from as low as $139 each way to/from Atlanta plus applicable taxes and fees to celebrate the expansion to daily winter Atlanta service to Montrose/Telluride. While conditions and restrictions apply other key markets in the Southeast and East will also have terrific introductory airfares. Sample markets and starting rates are below:

"Delta's development of Seattle as a gateway to Asia continues to create opportunities for economic development and tourism across the Pacific Northwest," said Steve Sear, Delta's vice president - Global Sales. "Customers from across the United States and Asia enjoy convenient connections to and from more than 70 nonstop destinations at Seattle through Delta and our codeshare partner Alaska Airlines' hub."

In addition to Beijing and Osaka, Delta and its joint venture partner Air France KLM offer daily nonstop trans-oceanic service from Seattle to its hubs at Tokyo-Narita, Amsterdam and Paris-Charles de Gaulle, where customers can make onward connections to dozens of destinations throughout Asia, Europe, Africa and the Middle East.  Domestically, Delta offers daily flights from Seattle to its seven U.S. hubs and Honolulu.

"This is great economic news for Washington state," Gov. Chris Gregoire said. "This flight will carry business leaders in both directions, creating new relationships that will open new doors on both sides of the Pacific."

The new flights are scheduled as follows:

*Flight arrives the following day.

The new and expanded service from Seattle is part of Delta's summer 2010 schedule, the first fully consolidated schedule published following Delta's merger with Northwest. The merger combined Delta's broad network to Europe, Middle East, Africa and Latin America with Northwest's Asian network providing single airline access to six continents. A complete list of Delta's summer 2010 seasonal service is available at http://news.delta.com/index.php?DB=mr4enh_delta&s=11.

Both new Seattle routes, served by Boeing 216-seat 767-300ER aircraft, will offer customers the option to experience Delta's award-winning BusinessElite service, including innovative food offerings from celebrity chef Michelle Bernstein and original wine selections chosen by Delta's Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson. BusinessElite also features on-demand personal in-seat entertainment boasting more than 20 first-run and popular classic movies, a variety of TV programs, thousands of music titles and a suite of video games.

As previously announced, Delta will invest $1 billion, or about $300 million per year, through mid-2013 to improve the customer experience in the air and on the ground. The product investment includes installing full flat-bed seats in BusinessElite on 90 trans-oceanic aircraft, including 14 Boeing 767-400ERs, 52 Boeing 767-300ERs, 16 Boeing 747-400s and eight Boeing 777-200ERs. Upon completion, each of these fleets will have full flat-bed seats on all aircraft. Delta also will add in-seat audio and video on demand throughout Economy Class on 16 Boeing 747-400 and 52 Boeing 767-300ER aircraft. With these additions, Delta will offer personal, in-seat entertainment for both BusinessElite and Economy class customers on all wide-body aircraft. Additional information about these product investments is available at http://news.delta.com/index.php?s=43&item=870.

The airline's expanding global network also benefits Delta Cargo customers, opening up more opportunities to ship directly to more markets than any carrier in the world. More information is available at deltacargo.com.

Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) today announced it is adding more flights between New York City and key global business markets this year, with nearly 30 cities slated for new or expanded service by fall.  Expanded routes include:

• International - New York-JFK to London-Heathrow; Brussels; Shannon; Manchester; Amsterdam; Cairo; Istanbul; Milan; Moscow; Nice; and Athens, in addition to previously announced new service to Copenhagen and Stockholm and expanded capacity to Tel Aviv and Tokyo-Narita.

• Domestic/Canada - New York-LaGuardia to Nashville, St. Louis, Norfolk, Richmond and Kansas City; JFK to San Antonio, Cleveland, Montreal, Charlotte, Toronto, Baltimore and Richmond, in addition to the previously announced introduction of Delta Shuttle service between LaGuardia and Chicago-O'Hare.

The expanded service is part of Delta's ongoing efforts to become the preferred airline in New York City. During the past four years, Delta has added 40 new destinations from LaGuardia and JFK combined, expanded BusinessElite service to transcontinental flights from JFK to Los Angeles and San Francisco and reintroduced "Red Coats" as customer service ambassadors at LaGuardia and JFK.

"We continue to see corporate travel demand improve across our network, particularly in New York," said Gail Grimmett, Delta's senior vice president - New York.  "With the economy rebounding, our New York customers can look forward to an expansion of flights to both domestic and international destinations throughout the remainder of 2010 as we respond to increased demand."

Flight schedules for Delta's expanded service from LaGuardia and JFK are available online at http://news.delta.com/index.php?s=18&item=132.

International expansion at JFK

Effective Sept. 19, Delta will offer an additional daily flight between JFK and London-Heathrow, expanding its service in the world's leading business market to three times daily on a year-round basis.

The new London-Heathrow flight will operate with dedicated Boeing 767-400 aircraft featuring Delta's new full-flat beds in BusinessElite. The service is strategically scheduled to complement existing flight times between New York and Heathrow.  Delta's new flight will depart JFK at 11:05 p.m., complementing existing departures at 6:45 and 9 p.m.  The added departure from Heathrow will operate at 12:30 p.m., complementing existing departures at 10:05 a.m. and 5:05 p.m.

Delta also is increasing the capacity or frequency of flights in select markets beginning this spring and summer.

Last week, the airline reinstated year-round service from JFK to Shannon and Manchester, and expanded its existing year-round service to Brussels to daily. In June, larger aircraft operating on flights from JFK to Athens, Istanbul, Milan, Moscow, Nice, Tel Aviv and Tokyo-Narita will offer more seats while flights to Cairo will operate daily. And, as previously announced, Delta will introduce the only year-round nonstop service from JFK to Copenhagen and Stockholm beginning May 27.

As part of its joint venture with Air France-KLM, Delta also has reinstated a third daily flight between JFK and the Amsterdam hub to expand connecting opportunities between New York and destinations across Europe, Africa and the Middle East.  With more than 230 daily trans-Atlantic flights and a fleet of 135 aircraft, the joint venture between Air France-KLM and Delta offers customers access to nearly 300 destinations in North America and 200 destinations throughout Europe, Asia and Latin America.

Domestic expansion at LaGuardia, JFK

Domestically, Delta will expand service to 12 cities from New York's LaGuardia and JFK airports.

Three new business markets will be added beginning Sept. 7 with three new daily round-trip flights between LaGuardia and Nashville, four daily flights between LaGuardia and St. Louis and one daily flight between JFK and San Antonio.  

Delta in September also will increase daily service on nine existing routes with added daily flights between LaGuardia and Norfolk, Richmond and Kansas City; and JFK and Cleveland, Charlotte, Baltimore, Richmond, Montreal and Toronto.  

Service on each new route will feature First and Economy class, with flights operated on 76-seat Embraer 175 jets to Nashville and St. Louis and 124-seat Airbus A319 aircraft to San Antonio.  Expanded service in existing markets will be operated with a mix of one- and two-class regional jets.

"Expanding service to Nashville, St. Louis and San Antonio from New York is another step in our efforts to improve access for customers in communities of all sizes to the world's largest travel market," Grimmett said. "Customers tell us that New York is their top U.S. destination, so we're continuing to increase competition there."

Delta previously announced the expansion of its Delta Shuttle to include service to Chicago-O'Hare beginning June 14, replacing existing flights between LaGuardia and Chicago-Midway.  With this addition, Delta will be the only airline offering shuttle service to New York's top three business markets: Chicago O'Hare, Boston-Logan and Washington, D.C.-Reagan National.

Added First Class service

As part of efforts to increase First Class upgrade opportunities for customers in small- and medium-sized communities, beginning in September Delta will increase the number of dual-class jets operating on weekday flights between LaGuardia and Indianapolis, Columbus, Raleigh-Durham, Birmingham and Madison.  

With these additions, Delta will operate the most two-class jet departures of any New York airline, with two-class mainline and regional aircraft serving more than 80 percent of its nonstop New York markets.

Earlier this year, Delta announced it will invest $1 billion through 2013 to improve aircraft and airport facilities throughout its system, with a particular focus in New York and other large business markets.  

For domestic customers, these upgrades include adding First Class cabins to 66 CRJ-700s operated by Delta Connection carriers ASA, Comair and SkyWest, bringing to 219 the number of regional aircraft with First Class cabins.  Internationally, Delta's upgrades are focused on installing full flat-bed seats in BusinessElite on 90 international widebody aircraft and adding in-seat audio and video on demand throughout Economy class on 68 international aircraft.

Since making a strategic decision to build New York into a hub, Delta has made major investments across the tri-state region, boosting its economic impact to more than $13 billion annually. Along with adding more than 40 new markets from LaGuardia and JFK combined, Delta has created more than 2,000 jobs across the state, invested heavily in New York sponsorships and advertising and completed more than $70 million in facility upgrades at JFK's Terminals 2 and 3.

A portion of travel for some itineraries may be on Delta Connection carriers Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Chautauqua, Comair, Compass Airlines, Freedom Airlines, Mesaba, Pinnacle Airlines, Shuttle America and SkyWest.

Delta Air Lines serves more than 160 million customers each year. With its unsurpassed global network, Delta and the Delta Connection carriers offer service to 358 destinations in 66 countries on six continents. Delta employs more than 70,000 employees worldwide and operates a mainline fleet of nearly 800 aircraft. A founding member of the SkyTeam global alliance, Delta participates in the industry's leading trans-Atlantic joint venture with Air France KLM. Including its worldwide alliance partners, Delta offers customers more than 16,000 daily flights, with hubs in Amsterdam, Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Memphis, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York-JFK, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Salt Lake City and Tokyo-Narita. The airline's service includes the SkyMiles frequent flier program, the world's largest airline loyalty program; the award-winning BusinessElite service; and more than 45 Delta Sky Clubs in airports worldwide. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes, check bags and review flight status at delta.com.

SOURCE Delta Air Lines

"Online check-in enables customers to avoid an extra stop and head straight to the gate, saving valuable time when traveling," said Derek DeCross, American Airlines Managing Director - Interactive Marketing.  "This new enhancement to AA.com is another step in our efforts to help simplify the entire travel experience for our customers, whether they're looking for flight deals, car rentals, hotel stays, or even cruises and activities.  Over the next few months, we will make further enhancements."

Customers can access flight check-in via the AA.com homepage or by visiting www.aa.com/findreservation and can check in two to 24 hours before international flights and one to 24 hours before domestic flights.  Customers can then locate their flight reservation using either their AAdvantage® login or their full name as it appears in travel documents, along with their six digit flight record locator.

Passengers traveling to International destinations will also need their passport information and will only be able to check in for flights to destinations where they have met international travel requirements.  After customers locate their itinerary, the AA.com flight check-in process provides easy-to-use prompts for guidance through the appropriate steps.

Once the check-in process is complete, passengers will have the option to print their boarding pass immediately from the confirmation page, e-mail their boarding pass to print later, or receive their boarding passes electronically on their mobile phones or PDAs (available in select cities only).  For more details regarding online flight check-in at AA.com, customers can visit www.aa.com/checkin.

The new AA.com enhancements go hand-in-hand with American's strategy to strengthen its global network through its oneworld® Alliance partnerships to enhance competition and customer benefits in the trans-Atlantic and trans-Pacific markets, including:  

• Japan Airlines continued and expanding relationship with the oneworld Alliance, including its filing for a joint business agreement with American for trans-Pacific flights.
• Tentative approval by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for antitrust immunity for American and British Airways, Iberia, Royal Jordanian and Finnair, as well as Americans plans to operate a joint business between North America and Europe with British Airways and Iberia.
• American's DOT application to operate year-round scheduled service to Tokyo International Airport (Haneda) starting Oct. 1, 2010.  

Additionally, American recently announced plans to expand its international presence out of New York, adding three new routes between John F. Kennedy International Airport and San Jose, Costa Rica; Madrid, Spain; and Manchester, England.

American is a founding member of the oneworld Alliance, which serves 800 airports in nearly 150 countries, with some 9,000 daily departures.

AAdvantage members flying on select First and Business Class fares between these destinations will earn 50,000 bonus miles for roundtrip travel, or 25,000 bonus miles for each one-way segment. The offer also awards passengers traveling on Economy Class on Instant Upgrade fares booked in Y, D or I inventory to earn 25,000 bonus miles for roundtrip travel, or 12,500 bonus miles for a one-way segment. To participate in this offer, customers simply register prior to travel at www.aa.com/offers using promotion code TRNSN and fly between April 6 and June 30, 2010.

"We are offering this promotion to let our AAdvantage customers on both coasts know how much we value their loyalty," said Rob Friedman, President - AAdvantage Marketing Programs for American Airlines.

Customers traveling these transcontinental routes in First Class on American's 767-200 aircraft can relax in comfortable, fully-adjustable seats.  In addition, premium customers in First and Business class enjoy premium class amenity kits with Burt's Bees® products, a duvet comforter and oversized plush pillow, as well as inflight entertainment options with the new Bose® QuietComfort® 15 Noise Cancelling® headsets.

Enrolling in the AAdvantage program is free and simple. Just visit www.aa.com/enroll.

AAdvantage bonus mile offer is valid for round-trip travel on American Airlines nonstop marketed and operated flights between New York (JFK) and Los Angeles (LAX) or San Francisco (SFO) from April 6, 2010, through June 30, 2010. Offer applies only to AAdvantage members who purchase and fly on published fare tickets booked in F, J, Y, D or I. Bonus miles will be awarded based on the booking class purchased. Flights operated by our codeshare partners are not eligible for this promotion. Bonus miles do not count toward elite status qualification. Registration prior to travel is required.

The AAdvantage program was the first frequent flyer program. Established in 1981, the program now has more than 62 million members. Members can earn miles at more than 1,000 participating companies, which include more than 30 hotel chains representing more than 60 brands, more than 20 airlines, eight car-rental companies, 10 financial companies, and over 350 brand name retailers. In addition, members can earn miles when making purchases with one of more than 100 affinity card products in over 40 countries. In 2009, AAdvantage members redeemed more than 150 billion miles to claim more than 6.9 million awards for flights, upgrades and car rentals. For more information and a listing of AAdvantage program participating companies, visit www.aa.com/aadvantage.

American Airlines, American Eagle and AmericanConnection® serve 250 cities in 40 countries with, on average, more than 3,400 daily flights. The combined network fleet numbers more than 900 aircraft. American's award-winning Web site, AA.com®, provides users with easy access to check and book fares, plus personalized news, information and travel offers. American Airlines is a founding member of the oneworld® Alliance, which brings together some of the best and biggest names in the airline business, enabling them to offer their customers more services and benefits than any airline can provide on its own. Together, its members serve nearly 700 destinations in more than 130 countries and territories. American Airlines, Inc. and American Eagle Airlines, Inc. are subsidiaries of AMR Corporation. AmericanAirlines, American Eagle, AmericanConnection, AA.com, We know why you fly and AAdvantage are registered trademarks of American Airlines, Inc. ( AMR)

"Capital-area travelers who prefer the ease of traveling from Reagan National have waited far too long for JetBlue's award-winning, low fare service," said Robert Land, JetBlue's Senior Vice President of Government Affairs and Associate General Counsel. "We are thrilled to finally be entering the DCA market, injecting high-quality competition into this centrally located airport."

JetBlue's access to Reagan National is part of an agreement with American Airlines announced today and through which JetBlue will also acquire slots for additional daily service at Westchester County Airport in suburban White Plains, N.Y.

Terms of the slot transfer were not disclosed, and regulatory approval is not required for this transaction.

In addition to the access to Reagan National outlined today, last week JetBlue filed for approval from the United States Department of Transportation on a proposed slot transfer transaction with US Airways that would result in JetBlue securing a further five in-perimeter slot pairs at Reagan National. In order to offer a robust schedule that provides even more value for Reagan National customers, JetBlue today petitioned the FAA for access to unused slot pairs in the early morning and late-evening hours.

New York-based JetBlue Airways has created a new airline category based on value, service and style. In 2009, the carrier ranked "Highest in Customer Satisfaction Among Low-Cost Carriers in North America" by J.D. Power and Associates, a customer satisfaction recognition received for the fifth year in a row. Known for its award-winning service and free TV as much as its low fares, JetBlue is now pleased to offer customers Lots of Legroom and super-spacious Even More Legroom seats. JetBlue introduced complimentary in-flight e-mail and instant messaging services on aircraft "BetaBlue," a first among U.S. domestic airlines. JetBlue is also America's first and only airline to offer its own Customer Bill of Rights, with meaningful and specific compensation for customers inconvenienced by service disruptions within JetBlue's control. Visit www.jetblue.com/promise for details. JetBlue serves 60 cities with 600 daily flights. New service to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic starts in May. With JetBlue, all seats are assigned, all fares are one-way, and an overnight stay is never required. For information or reservations call 1-800-JET-BLUE (1-800-538-2583), TTY/TDD 1-800-336-5530 or visit www.jetblue.com.

(a) Subject to negotiations with Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, operator of DCA.

SOURCE JetBlue Airways

American Eagle will offer a complimentary First Class dining service that includes a Continental breakfast with cereal or hot oatmeal and yogurt and a lunch or dinner that includes a fresh salad or a sandwich and dessert.  First Class customers receive warm, cleansing towels and mixed nuts prior to their meals, which are served on china. On flights of shorter duration, beverage service will be accompanied by a gourmet snack mix.

"We're pleased to introduce First Class service on our CRJ-700 aircraft," said Peter Bowler, President and CEO of American Eagle.  "By July we will have our fleet of 25 CRJs converted by American Eagle mechanics to the new First Class and main cabin design, and we will have taken delivery of the first two of our 22 new CRJs that will also feature First Class comfort and amenities."

American Eagle will offer First Class service from its Chicago and Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) hubs. From Chicago, customers will experience First Class service on flights to Atlanta, Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., Newark, N.J., George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, Oklahoma City, Minneapolis, Philadelphia, San Antonio, and Salt Lake City.  From DFW, customers can fly First Class to Cleveland, Milwaukee, Northwest Arkansas Regional Airport in Bentonville/Springdale, Ark., and Little Rock, Ark.

American Eagle worked closely with the engineers at the plane's manufacturer, Bombardier, to design new custom leather seating for both the premium and main cabins.  With ergonomically-contoured back and seat cushions, seats throughout the aircraft will offer more comfort and luxury than ever before.  A unique articulated seat bottom will allow customers to recline with less impact on the legroom of passengers seated behind them.  In the main cabin, a new ultra-slim design ensures comfort and stability and, due to its enhanced back structure, also offers an additional inch of living space compared to the existing CRJ-700 seats.  Four-way adjustable headrests are featured on both the First Class and main cabin seating.  With the addition of the First Class seats, the CRJ-700 will have either 63 or 65 seats in the main cabin and nine seats in First Class.

Eagle also will offer Priority AAccess on all flights offering First Class service, allowing premium customers to board at their leisure. In addition, Eagle will offer Premium Baggage service to its First Class customers, ensuring their checked bags are expedited to the baggage claim area after landing.  Purchase your First Class experience on American Eagle at www.AA.com.

Effective June 12, 2010, flights will operate once a week on Saturdays using the 160-seat Boeing 737-800. Guests will depart from New York and from the moment they step on the plane will begin to experience the comfort and pleasure of a Delta flight. After a week of thrilling activities, adventures, and relaxation, travelers will feel rejuvenated and content as they return home.

"Added airlift from New York City is welcomed, particularly by an airline partner like Delta Air Lines, that has the ability to draw customers from New York and beyond, given its extensive network and presence in the region," said Cayman Islands Acting Director of Tourism, Shomari Scott. "We look forward to providing even more New Yorkers and Delta customers a memorable, easily accessible Caymanian vacation this summer."

The Cayman Islands 2010 summer promotion will be valid for travel May 15 - September 6, 2010 and includes discounted accommodations, activities, meals, car rentals, attractions, and more. Booking updates will be available soon. Travelers of all ages are sure to leave the Cayman Islands feeling invigorated, with lasting memories and experiences to carry them through the rest of the summer. For more information, visit www.caymanislands.ky.

Located 480 miles south of Miami in the vibrant tranquility of western Caribbean, this trio of tiny islands is a premier destination for discriminating travelers, honeymooners and families. World renowned for its idyllic beaches and diving spots, and recognized as a sophisticated, diverse financial center, the Cayman Islands offer spectacular recreational opportunities along with warm, impeccable service. To learn more about the Cayman Islands, visit www.caymanislands.ky or www.divecayman.ky or call your local travel agent.

Continental Airlines (NYSE: CAL) today announced new OnePass frequent-flyer benefits designed to recognize and reward its top customers.

Beginning January 1, 2010, OnePass Platinum Elite members will be eligible to earn new invitation-only Presidential Platinum Elite status based on their annual spending on travel on Continental, Continental Micronesia, Continental Express and Continental Connection flights.

In addition, Platinum Elite members who earn at least 100,000 Elite qualification miles or 120 Elite qualification points will receive four one-way system-wide upgrade certificates. The certificates may be used to upgrade to domestic first class, international business class or international BusinessFirst in conjunction with any published fare on Continental, Continental Micronesia or Copa Airlines.

"Continental continues to look for ways to recognize our best customers," said Mark Bergsrud, senior vice president marketing programs and distribution. "For the first time we are offering a new OnePass Elite membership tier to reward customers based on their annual spending in addition to mileage earned. The system-wide upgrade benefit for our top mileage earners is also a first for us."

Presidential Platinum Elite benefits include top priority for Elite upgrades and flight standby, an exclusive VIP phone line, and, for members residing in the mainland U.S. and Alaska, annual fee waivers on the Continental Airlines Presidential Plus(SM) World Mastercard® credit card, which also includes Presidents Club membership and other benefits. Members residing in Hawaii, Guam and points outside the U.S. will receive 25,000 OnePass bonus miles.

Platinum Elite status is awarded to members who earn 75,000 Elite qualification miles or 90 Elite qualification points. The initial spending qualification to earn Presidential Platinum Elite status is $30,000.

Continental Airlines is the world's fifth largest airline. Continental, together with Continental Express and Continental Connection, has more than 2,400 daily departures throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia, serving 130 domestic and 132 international destinations.

Continental is a member of Star Alliance, which provides access to more than 900 additional points in 169 countries via 24 other member airlines. With more than 41,000 employees, Continental has hubs serving New York, Houston, Cleveland and Guam, and together with its regional partners, carries approximately 63 million passengers per year.

Celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, Continental consistently earns awards and critical acclaim for both its operation and its corporate culture. For the sixth consecutive year, FORTUNE magazine named Continental the No. 1 World's Most Admired Airline on its 2009 list of World's Most Admired Companies. For more company information, go to continental.com.

SOURCE Continental Airlines