In another example of the travel agency consolidation trend, Altour has entered into an agreement to acquire The Travel Authority (TTA).

Back in July, Phoenix was in a frenzy, and the news media were circling like a pack of hungry coyotes. The cause of all this consternation would have gone unnoticed in any other era: The Social Security Administration had sponsored a three-day training conference for employees at the upscale Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa in Phoenix, at a reported cost to taxpayers of $700,000 to $750,000.

American will charge passengers $50 for a second checked bag on some international flights, effective for ticket purchases on and after Sept. 14. The charge applies to flights to India and the following European countries: Belgium, England, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain and Switzerland.

Unity House Inc., a nonprofit organization that serves union workers, bid $8.5 million for the Lotus Diamond Head Waikiki hotel on Aug. 18 at a Honolulu foreclosure auction.

Virgin America has increased its fee for each checked bag from $15 to $20, a move that matches several U.S. carriers. The new policy is in effect for bookings made on or after Aug. 21 for travel starting on or after Sept. 10. Premium-class travelers and customers who buy Main Cabin Select (coach with more legroom) or refundable fares are exempt from paying fees for checked bags.

TUI Travel PLC plans to add capacity as needed, as it confronts a late-booking trend the company estimates will continue into 2010.