Countertour: We love to travel.

DHS Revokes Decision, Keeps TSA PreCheck Program Active
Previously, I discussed how the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) revealed intentions to discontinue TSA PreCheck and Global Entry due to the partial government shutdown. Now, there’s an update, which likely comes as no surprise. In this post: TSA PreCheck will remain operational after all, naturally The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has issued a statement…

Assessing the Worth of First Class: A Handbook for Making a Knowledgeable Choice
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Delta Pilot and JFK Air Traffic Control Conversation: “Don’t Panic on Me,” “I Err Too”
Isn’t it a bit astonishing how a single air traffic controller can create such a “reputation” for himself, and not in a positive light? Delta pilot makes incorrect turn at JFK, receives reprimand The YouTube channel ATC AUDIO has shared a video showcasing a rather captivating exchange involving *that* air traffic controller at New York…

Trump Administration Halts TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Initiatives
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Lufthansa Travelers Left Overnight on Aircraft Due to Flight Cancellation and Airport Shutdown
**Lufthansa’s Overnight Stranding Incident at Munich Airport** On February 19, 2026, Lufthansa flight LH2446 from Munich (MUC) to Copenhagen (CPH) encountered an unusual situation. Scheduled to depart at 9:30 PM, the Airbus A320neo never took off, leaving travelers stuck overnight on the aircraft. Despite being situated at one of Lufthansa’s primary hubs, resources for returning…

Weekly Evaluation for February 21, 2026
**Weekly Travel and Aviation Update** As the weekend arrives, many are seizing the opportunity to relax and recharge. For those coming back from overseas journeys, such as a recent visit to Asia, the battle with jet lag serves as a reminder of the hurdles associated with long-haul flights. In spite of the tiredness, the realm…

Assessing the Worth of an Expensive Lufthansa Gate Upgrade Encounter
In an earlier post, I detailed how I secured a last-minute Lufthansa economy ticket using points from Frankfurt (FRA) to Copenhagen (CPH) after my Scandinavian Airlines flight was canceled. I had a unique experience with upgrading this Lufthansa flight that I would like to recount. My experience upgrading my Lufthansa flight using cash As previously…

Contrasting Bilt Credit Cards: Blue, Obsidian, and Palladium – Discover the Ideal Match for You
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The Concealed Expenses of Terminating Hotel Points Bookings
Did you realize that if you exchange points for a hotel booking and subsequently need to cancel within the cancellation timeframe, you might actually be liable for the cash price of the stay? As strange as it may seem, this is true for some major hotel loyalty schemes, and it often surprises individuals. Hotels may…

EL AL Forfeits 140 Luggage Items at LAX Because of “Free Palestine” Labels
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