Next Step for Premium Economy and 5 Other Aviation Trends This Week

Throughout the week we post dozens of original stories, connecting the dots across the travel industry, and every weekend we sum it all up. This weekend roundup examines aviation.

For all of our weekend roundups, go here.

>>Passengers flying on American and Delta may notice new boarding procedures this month. Now’s a good time to double check that boarding pass: American and Delta Are Mixing Up Their Boarding Procedures

>>Delta may not make as much money as expected in the first quarter, but the airline will be fine. Along with Southwest Airlines, it tends to be one of the best performers in the U.S. airline industry: Delta Air Lines Is Bullish Despite So-So February

>>A surprising number of airlines held out against adding premium economy as long as they could: What’s the Next Step for Airline Premium Economy?

>>One of the last bastions of true hospitality in the air is going through some belt tightening: 6 Things To Watch at Middle Eastern Carriers as They Cut Services

>>Will history judge the U-FLY alliance, comprising five LCCs in North Asia, as a game-changer that’s able to get fiercely independent players to work together? Asia Low-Cost Carrier Alliance Needs to Prove Its Benefits or ‘Die’

>>Maybe a $500 million cut to the budget of the agency that provides airport security isn’t the best way to keep the U.S. safe. It’s also likely to make life more difficult for flyers across the country: President Trump Wants to Cut TSA Budget to Help Fund His Border Wall