Author: Dawn Gilbertson, USA TODAY

Avelo Airlines began service Wednesday from Hollywood Burbank Airport. It’s starting with 11 western U.S. routes.

Southwest has touted COVID-19 safety measures for passengers. A lawsuit claims the airline didn’t employ the precautions for flight attendants.

Airlines are pushing ticket prices higher as travel rebounds, with some saying fares are back to 2019 levels on peak dates.

The federal mask mandate on planes is due to expire May 11. Airlines have required masks for nearly a year but the order has helped them enforce it.

The State Department said more than 80% of countries around the world will soon carry its “do not travel” level. Fewer than 20% carry that label now.

Iceland, Croatia and Greece are among the European countries reopening to vaccinated Americans, and airlines are adding flights there.

Maui will require travelers to test upon arrival, in addition to pre-departure, as an additional safeguard given an increase in COVID variants.

Most airlines have stopped the pandemic practice of blocking seats, saying safety measures are in place reduce travel risk.

Rental car prices are higher than usual due to surging travel demand and a shrunken fleet of cars due to the COVID pandemic.

Boeing said it recommends 16 airlines temporarily remove certain Max planes due to a potential electrical issue.