The Good, the Bad, and . . .

GOOD: The European Union and US agree to re-open negotiations on "open skies" treaty. For more than 10 years, the European Union and the US have tried to negotiate an "open skies" treaty that would allow American and European airlines to fly without restrictions in each other's backyards.  In other words, an Air France flight could take you from Chicago to, say, Dallas. And an American Airlines flight could pick up passengers in London and drop them off in another European city.  That's good for consumers.  But access to Heathrow has always been the deal breaker.  Only four airlines can fly from Heathrow to the US: British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines and United Airlines.  Heathrow is Europe's largest gateway for trans-Atlantic flights, and other airlines have tried for years to obtain slots that would allow them to fly in and out of the airport.  New negotiations would presumably open the door a crack to that possibility.  In fact, these talks will probably end in failure if there's no deal on opening Heathrow.  If the talks DO produce results, look for possible mergers between airlines.  Earlier this week, British Airways and American have reportedly begun exploring a closer relationship.  They are already alliance members in the OneWorld scheme, but they apparently want to do even more cross marketing. 

BAD: Delta brings back Saturday-night stayover requirements.  When Delta announced its simplified fare structure last year, it eliminated those annoying Saturday-night stayover requirements on even its cheapest tickets.  Now, in Chapter 11 and trying to figure out how to keep flying, Delta brings back not only that detail but also the three-day minimum stay requirement on some tickets.  A big thumbs down to Delta, who must do battle against AirTran, JetBlue, and (as long as it's still in business) Independence Air.  Those low-fare airlines don't have the Saturday-night and three-day rules.

GOOD: Continental creates first gift registry for airline tickets.  So you're getting married and would really like to honeymoon on the beaches of Thailand.  But that's an expensive ticket.  Sure, you can register on hundreds of web sites that allow well-wishers to buy you salt shakers, wine glasses, and blenders.  Now Continental has come up with a way that you can post your travel wishes on line, as well, so friends and family can chip in to turn your travel dreams into realities.  And why not?  You don't have to be betrothed to take advantage of this, of course.  Anyone can register and hope for the best.