EU/UK Entry Requirements Update

Sharing this information courtesy of Nonstop Travel: 

Entry to the EU with ETIAS

This has been postponed until 2026 with no definite start date, but eventually, travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the U.S., will need to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) to enter the Schengen Area. This is not a visa but an online authorization aimed at improving border security. It’s a quick and simple process that travelers can complete online before their trip. For more details visit the official ETIAS website at https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en.

UK Entry with ETA

The UK has introduced a new electronic travel authorization called ETA. This is required for visitors from countries that currently do not need a visa to enter the UK. Just like ETIAS, it’s an easy online application aimed at streamlining entry procedures. You can find more information and submit your application on the UK government's official website at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta.

Time to Start Planning for Spring Break Travel!

It's mid-April, and what does that mean? Planning can commence for spring break 2026 trips! The points and miles opportunities will start to be available across airlines and hotels - I was able to confirm two business class tickets over the weekend Heathrow to Doha in Qatar Airways Business class for 86,000 Avios. Excellent value!

Changes to United Club Card

I finally received the expected notification that United is changing the benefits and process for United Club access - this won't affect my access via the United Club card and overall I think the additional benefits offset the change in annual fee.  Membership will be split between Individual or All Access levels.  There is still a purchase option though the price and miles are significant. 

The overall annual fee will be going from $525 to $695 starting on/after August 1st.  In addition, they are adding a number of new benefits including:

I'm particularly interested in the rideshare credits, however, I get a separate benefit from the Sapphire Reserve card so I may need to alternate for a time in order to get the credit.  I don't use instacart so that isn't a net positive for me.  The rental car credits may be possible to use though there are other perks when reserving direct from Avis/Budget.

Additional details and benefit updates can be found here: https://cardmembers.united.com/Club

Starlink Approved for United

Great news this week that federal regulators have approved Starlink for use by United.  Link is here:

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/united-launch-first-flight-free-171702639.html

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved the use of satellite internet from Starlink, a division of Elon Musk’s SpaceX, on a regional jet model. United said it plans to install Starlink Wi-Fi on 40 planes per month and complete its fleet of more than 300 regional jets by the end of the year. The company plans to run beta tests of the technology prior to its first customer flight in May.

In September, United signed a deal with Starlink to bring satellite internet access to its more than 1,000 planes over the next several years. The airline said it will work with the FAA to get approval to install Starlink on every aircraft.

Starlink Wi-Fi, which United says is 50 times faster than the internet service currently available on its regional planes, will be free for customers with MileagePlus, United’s free frequent flyer program.