Author: Dawn Gilbertson, USA TODAY

Travelers due to fly to or from the East Coast this week can change their flights without the usual penalties. But there is fine print.

Airlines began eliminating costly ticket change fees in August, but the policy was initially limited to U.S. flights.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say Americans should stay home for the holidays but urges those who travel to take two COVID-19 tests.

If layoffs occur, they would be the first in the nearly 50-year-old company’s history.

For those who do travel, the CDC is now recommending travelers get tested for COVID-19 before and after their trip.

Delta’s policy of blocking middle seats will now be in place through March 30. Most airlines are filling their planes or plan to soon.

The airline will start selling beer, wine and food on select flights from Denver as it brings back in-flight service reduced during the pandemic.

The increase in COVID-19 cases hasn’t led to a decline in holiday travel bookings. Plus, passenger comfort levels increase once they resume flying.

United Airlines hopes the program gives travelers peace of mind and helps lead to fewer travel quarantines and restrictions.

Flights to Chicago O’Hare, which the airline is expanding to because it’s running out of room at crosstown Midway Airport, begin Feb. 14.