Following the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001, all flights in the USA were grounded, and international flights to the USA were suspended or cancelled. Anyone planning a flight to or in the USA should check if the flight is still scheduled with their carrier and expect continuing travel delays. The USA may be crossed within five hours from east to west and within two hours from north to south. Strong competition between airlines has resulted in a wide difference between fares. Categories of fares include first-class, economy, excursion and discount.
Night flights are generally cheaper.
The traveller should buy tickets 21 days in advance. Delta, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic offer a Discover America Pass which includes a minimum of three and a maximum of 10 coupons entitling the passenger to that number of flights within the USA at a discounted fare. The traveller must commence travel within 60 days of arrival in the USA and use all the coupons within the following 60 days. The cost of the pass is according to the number of coupons requested. Agents are advised to contact the offices of individual airlines once a basic itinerary has been organised.