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How a viral post led to Juurnee, a travel site matching passengers with helpers | Consumer affairs

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It started as a cry for help that went viral. Rachel Crampton was facing a 23-hour flight with three children under the age of five. Unable to recruit a family member or friend to help out, she took to social media and offered a sizeable cash payment – A$1,000 (about £560 at the time) – to someone who would accompany her on the epic London-to-Sydney flight.

Crampton, a Briton based in Sydney, was inundated with responses and found an “amazing Aussie girl” living in London who was homesick but could not afford the flight back to Australia.

She has since turned that experience into a business which has just launched in the UK after success in Australia. Her website, Juurnee, matches those who want help on a flight with people willing to be their travel companion.

Rachel Crampton. Photograph: Rachel Crampton

Those needing help could include a parent travelling solo with toddlers, an older person requiring some assistance, someone with a disability, an unaccompanied child, or a nervous flyer.

The companion receives a payment that will cover part, or all, of the cost of their flight.

At the time of writing there were 30 live requests for help on the site. These included a London-to-Switzerland return flight, where the full cost is offered to someone who can help an older passenger who uses a wheelchair; and a London-to-Sydney return trip, with 50% of the flight cost paid, for someone who can help a mother with her one-year-old (there is an option to help just one way).

Crampton says more than 12,000 people have signed up to be a companion and many are qualified teachers, nurses, midwives, childcare workers and others who have clearances to work with children, or qualifications to assist people with disabilities.

But she adds: “You don’t need to be a nanny or nurse – just a decent person willing to lend a hand.”

People seeking a companion can post their offer for free and don’t pay for a successful match. They list the route, the date, the flight details and the sum they are willing to pay someone to travel with them.

They can choose their own payment amount, although the website recommends 50% to 100% of a companion’s flight cost.

Companions sign up for free and can view the offers, but pay a £15-a-year subscription to be able to message people directly to offer their services. They buy their own flights, so, to that extent, the person who needs help is not responsible for them.

Once a companion has applied for an offer, the person requesting help has 14 days to accept and match with them. If selected, the companion will be put in touch with the individual needing help.

Airports and flying produce an array of challenges, from crowded planes to the baggage hall. Photograph: Remko de Waal/EPA

Crampton recommends companions get paid at the end of the trip, and that an escrow service is used to hold the payment from when the agreement is struck until 48 hours after landing. “At the moment we are recommending our matched travellers use Escrow.com,” she adds.

There is no official “contract” between the two parties provided by the site – for example, outlining what is expected of the companion – but Crampton says users are free to create one themselves. The website does provide a guide that covers different scenarios.

What if the companion doesn’t turn up at the airport? “We haven’t had this situation crop up just yet,” says Crampton.

If, say, the companion rearranged their flight, they would not be paid their fee. “Hopefully, they would inform Juurnee, or the person they were meant to be helping, in advance, and then we can find another companion,” she says.



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Spirit Airlines Launches New Flights to the Caribbean and Central America—With Deals From $66

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August 8, 2025

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  • Spirit Airlines announced new flights to Belize and the Cayman Islands.
  • Both routes will operate three times per week from Fort Lauderdale, FL, this winter. 
  • The airline is celebrating the new routes with introductory fares as low as $66.

Low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines is expanding its network to warm-weather destinations, making jetting off to a tropical beach vacation easier. 

Starting Nov. 21, Spirit will launch flights from the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) to Belize’s Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) three times per week. Then on Dec. 4, the carrier will start flying three times per week between Fort Lauderdale and the Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM) in Grand Cayman on the Cayman Islands.

And best of all, Spirit is celebrating both route announcements with deals starting as low as $66 one-way.

“This is a win for travelers across our network, who are gaining more access to top destinations in the Caribbean and Latin America as we continue to expand service from Fort Lauderdale,” John Kirby, Spirit Airlines’ vice president of network planning, said in a statement shared with Travel + Leisure.

The new flights to Belize, which will operate Mondays, Fridays, and Saturday and start at $85 one-way, welcome travelers to explore the beautiful country, home to a variety of cultural, historical, and outdoor activities. Popular attractions include the Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary, St. Johns Cathedral, along with action-packed zipline courses and rainforest hikes, according to Belize Tourism.

Travelers looking to explore the Cayman Islands can expect white, sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, incredible snorkeling opportunities (including around a shipwreck), and even the chance to discover Caymanian art at the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands. The islands are also home to several special events, including the Cayman Islands Rum Festival and the Cayman Islands Marathon in December, according to Cayman Tourism. These new flights will operate on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and start at $66 one-way. 

These aren’t the only new routes Spirit is planning. In November, the airline also plans to start flying between Fort Lauderdale and Key West, significantly undercutting the time it takes to get there by car with a 50 minute flight rather than 4 hour or more drive.

Each of the new flights will feature Spirit’s version of first class, which boasts an included carry-on and checked bag, reserved overhead bin space, complimentary snacks and drinks, access to Wi-Fi, and more. Travelers will also be able to book premium economy seats, which come with extra legroom or a blocked middle seat. Additionally, the flights will feature Spirit’s “Value” seats in which passengers must pay extra for things like seat selection and carry-on bags.



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Hungary joins Czech Republic, Greece, Italy, Switzerland, USA, Argentina and Japan as American Airlines launches new direct flights creating scenic, culinary and heritage tourism corridors for global travelers

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August 8, 2025

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Home » AIRLINE NEWS » Hungary joins Czech Republic, Greece, Italy, Switzerland, USA, Argentina and Japan as American Airlines launches new direct flights creating scenic, culinary and heritage tourism corridors for global travelers

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August 8, 2025 |

In a major move poised to reshape summer travel patterns, American Airlines today announced the launch of six exciting new international nonstop routes for summer 2026, connecting the U.S. more closely with Central Europe, Southern Europe, and South America. Departures from Philadelphia (PHL), Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW), and Miami (MIA) will deliver seamless, high-comfort service to Budapest, Prague, Athens, Milan, Zurich, and expanded service to Buenos Aires. For discerning travelers, this means enhanced connectivity, premium experiences, and new cultural gateways opening up across continents.

From May through August 2026, passengers can look forward to premium widebody cabins, complete with mattress pads, multicourse meals, award-winning wines, and even pajamas on long-haul Asian flights—reflecting American Airlines’ commitment to elevated service. Central European aficionados now have direct access to the historic charms of Budapest and Prague via daily 787-8 Dreamliners out of Philadelphia. Meanwhile, Southern European flair beckons with daily flights to Athens and Zurich from Dallas, alongside a year-round Miami–Milan connection. And for travelers venturing south, the airline is extending its seasonal service to Buenos Aires, offering increased frequencies during the peak summer months.

This strategic expansion not only reinforces American’s transatlantic dominance but also positions the airline as a leader in premium leisure travel, especially in Central and Southern Europe. The addition of multiple daily flights, advanced lounges, and flexible routing—for example, fly-into one city and return via another—caters to modern itinerary preferences. Whether for cultural exploration, business, or sporting events, these routes offer a compelling blend of comfort, choice, and connectivity.

1. Central Europe: Philadelphia to Budapest and Prague

  • Route Launch: Daily nonstop flights from Philadelphia (PHL) to Budapest (BUD) and Prague (PRG) begin May 21, 2026.
  • Aircraft: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner—comfortable, efficient, and ideal for transatlantic travel.
  • Destination Appeal:
    • Budapest: Thermal spas, iconic Danube panoramas, grand architecture.
    • Prague: Medieval Old Town, Charles Bridge, rich cultural legacy.
  • Strategic Value: These are American’s first-ever flights to Budapest, marking a bold step into Central Europe.
  • Multi-city Flexibility: Travelers can conveniently fly into one city and return from the other—perfect for immersive regional journeys.
  • Hub Amenities: Philadelphia’s newly renovated Flagship® Lounge and Admirals Club® offer premium dining, panoramic views, and seamless boarding experiences.

2. Southern Europe: Dallas–Fort Worth to Athens and Zurich; Miami to Milan

  • Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW) to Athens (ATH):
    • Daily seasonal service using 787-8.
    • Becomes the fifth U.S. city with nonstop American service to Greece.
  • DFW to Zurich (ZRH):
    • Seasonal nonstop route operated by 777-200, running May 21 – August 4, 2026.
    • The only nonstop connection between DFW and Zurich during this window.
  • Miami (MIA) to Milan (MXP):
    • Year-round daily service launching March 29, 2026 on widebody aircraft.
    • Strengthens Miami’s longstanding position as American’s largest hub.
    • Complements existing Miami–Rome service, increasing U.S.–Italy connectivity.
  • Aggregate Impact: Summer 2026 will see 18 daily American flights to Italy and Greece combined, signifying record network depth.

3. South America: Extended Miami and Dallas Service to Buenos Aires

  • Service Extension: Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW) to Buenos Aires (EZE) extended seasonally May 21 – August 3, 2026.
  • Miami (MIA) to Buenos Aires (EZE):
    • Experienced a summer service ramp-up, with up to three daily nonstop flights during peak travel.
  • Travel Appeal: This expansion caters to leisure, cultural, and family travelers capitalizing on summer in the Southern Hemisphere, while also supporting major sporting events ahead of international competitions.

4. Premium Enhancements to Asia: Focus on Tokyo Haneda

  • Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW): Daily 777-300ER service to Tokyo Haneda (HND) begins March 29, 2026.
  • Los Angeles (LAX): Increases to twice-daily 777-200 flights.
  • Premium Capacity Growth: Compared to summer 2025, American Airlines is boosting premium cabin seating to Tokyo by over 45%, elevating comfort, space, and service quality.
  • Onboard Luxury: All long-haul widebody flights to Asia—Tokyo and beyond—will feature premium amenities including pajamas, mattress pads, multicourse meals, and award-winning wine selections.

Strategic Highlights & Travel Insights

  • Unprecedented U.S.–Central Europe Access: Philadelphia’s additions of Budapest and Prague represent new territory for American Airlines.
  • Southern Europe & Middle East Stronghold: Expanded service to Athens, Milan, and Zurich cements American’s leadership across key lifestyle and business routes.
  • South American Growth: Increased Buenos Aires service meets rising demand while supporting seasonal and event-driven travel.
  • Premium Travel Differentiation: Focused on high-value, comfort-oriented service—sleep options, luxury meals, and curated wine programs.
  • Hub Optimization: PHL, DFW, and MIA remain strategic departure points, each with enhanced lounges and transit options for globetrotters.

Bullet Points at a Glance

  • Six new nonstop routes for summer 2026
    • PHL → Budapest (BUD) – daily using 787-8
    • PHL → Prague (PRG) – daily using 787-8
    • DFW → Athens (ATH) – daily seasonal, 787-8
    • DFW → Zurich (ZRH) – seasonal, 777-200
    • MIA → Milan (MXP) – year-round daily, widebody
    • DFW and MIA → Buenos Aires (EZE) – extended summer schedules
  • Premium enhancements: pajamas, mattress pads, multicourse meals, award-winning wine on all long-haul widebody flights to Asia.
  • Tokyo Haneda service expansion: DFW adds daily 777-300ER; LAX increases to twice-daily 777-200.
  • Broader U.S.–Europe connectivity: 18 daily American flights to Italy and Greece.
  • Hub benefits: upgraded lounges, streamlined service, ideal for multi-city itineraries.

Conclusion

American Airlines bold summer 2026 international expansion marks a pivotal moment for global travel, enhancing U.S.-Europe and U.S.-South America ties while doubling down on premium comfort for long-haul flyers. Whether you’re exploring the thermal baths of Budapest, the ancient wonders of Athens, the fashion avenues of Milan, or the southern charm of Buenos Aires, these routes bring the world closer—on your schedule, in your style.

FAQs – American Airlines Summer 2026 International Routes

Q1: When do the new routes start operating?
Most new routes launch between March 29, 2026 and May 21, 2026, with seasonal services running until early August.

Q2: Which U.S. hubs will operate the new flights?
The primary hubs are Philadelphia (PHL), Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW), and Miami (MIA).

Q3: What aircraft will be used for these routes?
Routes will feature Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners, 777-200s, and 777-300ERs, all equipped with premium cabins.

Q4: Are the Budapest and Prague flights year-round?
No, they will operate as summer seasonal services from May to August.

Q5: Will there be premium cabin amenities?
Yes, long-haul widebody flights include pajamas, mattress pads, multicourse meals, and award-winning wines.

Q6: Can I book now?
Ticket sales for the new routes open August 11, 2025 on aa.com and the American Airlines app.



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American Airlines Praised For Breaking Out Of Slump With New Unexpected Routes Already Announced

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4 hours ago

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August 8, 2025

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American Airlines has made bold changes, and they start as early as August. The airline is scaling back on flights following weaker numbers during its third quarter. Hundreds of U.S. domestic flights are cancelled this month, resulting in a loss of over 76,000 seats.

In the meantime, American is looking to ramp things up elsewhere. They added the new Airbus A321XLR, according to Simple Flying, while they also caught Canadians by surprise recently, proposing a new codeshare partnership with Porter Airlines. This will allow for more travel options to Canada.

Additionally, American continues to move away from domestic U.S. travel, announcing new international routes. The new options have been praised and are already drawing hype for the summer of 2026.

Here’s a closer look at the new routes American Airlines just revealed, along with the perks that come with them.

American Airlines Announced Six New International Routes For Next Summer

via Shutterstock

Boeing 747 American Airlines flying over the blue sky, 28 Aug, 2022, Los Angeles, California.

American Airlines continues to be one of the top U.S. airlines. However, its recent projections failed to hit the mark. In the eyes of many, American Airlines is currently slumping behind the competition, including Delta Air Lines and United.

Despite the allegations, American Airlines spiced things up with an unexpected announcement. American Airlines has also bolstered its summer 2026 schedule with six additional destinations.

The add-ons start with a debut service to Prague, and its U.S. service to Budapest, Hungary, will become the only non-stop service in America.

Additionally, added routes include popular destinations such as Athens, Greece (ATH); Milan (MXP); and Zurich (ZRH). Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE) will also get a major jolt, with expanded service.

Brian Znotins, American’s Senior Vice President of Network and Schedule Planning, said in a statement:

“Customers continue to tell us that Europe is where they want to go each summer and these new routes make it even easier to cross the Atlantic in 2026. We are excited to grow our network to new destinations like Prague and Budapest and offer even more premium travel experiences on our flights to Tokyo.”

Tickets will be available for these new and exciting routes as of August 11th.

The Breakdown of the new routes:

  • Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) to Athens, Greece (ATH)
  • DFW to Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE)
  • DFW to Zurich (ZRH)
  • Miami (MIA) to Milan (MXP)
  • Philadelphia (PHL) to Budapest, Hungary (BUD)
  • PHL to Prague (PRG)

Flights to Athens, Budapest, Zurich and Prague are all set to be seasonal flights. On the flip side, the Milan flight from Miami will be a year-round service starting on March 29th, 2026. The Buenos Aires flight will extend service from May 21st to August 3rd.

The changes have been met with lots of positivity, especially given the timing. The move also favors soccer fans and those who love visiting Europe in general.

The Additional Perks Of American Airlines’ New Routes

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American Airlines Boeing 7.37-800 N301NW departure from runway 7L at Phoenix Sky Harbor Intl

American Airlines is pivoting and listening to what the consumer trends are these days. Europe continues to be a significant hot spot for Americans, especially with the decline in travel to Canada.

​​​​​​​American will not offer 18 daily flights next summer from the U.S. to both Italy and Greece alone. The decision is a very popular one, especially with Milan and Athens now added.

Another added perk of the new routes caters to soccer fans.

AA wrote on its website, “Special for global soccer fans, American will launch limited-time service between DFW and ZRH and offer expanded summer service from DFW and MIA to EZE. Flights from Argentina and Switzerland will connect soccer fans to Dallas-Fort Worth for the world’s premier sporting event.”

An exciting option for soccer fans, to say the least. Along with Europe, AA is also enhancing its journey to Asia, with premium options for flights to Tokyo and other areas. Pyjamas and mattress pads on all widebody flights to East Asia, the Middle East, India, Australia and New Zealand will be served for passengers in the business class, along with multi-course meals.

AA is ramping things up, and the timing couldn’t be any better.

American Airlines Is In A Slump After Its Third-Quarter Forecast Fell Short

In late July, American Airlines saw its shares dip to nearly 10% after its third-quarter forecast fell short of expectations. CEO Robert Islom issued a statement on the struggles. The numbers were driven by consumer weakness, according to CNBC.

American’s CEO said in a statement:

“July’s been a tough month … because of the domestic consumer weakness.”

American isn’t concerned, however, with the recent slump, expecting the demand to increase during the next couple of months, while it aims at scaling back on its capacity growth to rebuild. Although the rebuild is taking place with reduced travel, AA is already looking for a significant boost in 2026, with exciting new destinations. This is the exact type of pivot the airline needs during these uncertain times, with reduced travel to the United States.

Be sure to let us know your thoughts on American Airlines’ added routes. Is this the new approach what American needs to take moving forward, diversifying its routes? Chime in down below.



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