Perspective

As the US airlines continue to tank, it is worth remembering that there are airlines beyond our borders that are doing quite well, even as fuel rises. This month's Air Transport World notes in its feature article that US airlines "will fall the farthest in 2008, as the collapse of the dollar means they are fully exposed to the run-up in fuel prices."

Also, if you happen to get a hand on ATW's "World Airline Report", a quick read reveals that carriers across the world are innovating to maximize revenues from the one segment that can consistently provide demand: premium travelers. Almost every other strategy out there involves upgrading the business class product and introducing or reconfiguring premium economy. This is a great thing for business travelers and leisure travelers looking for a step up. Need proof? Just check out Qantas' new premium economy product.