American Airports: Shiny, New, and Empty

Even after airspace opens, huge backlog awaits

(NEWSER) - Even after airspace closed by volcanic ash reopens, the hordes of would-be travelers waiting at airports around the world shouldn't count on catching the first flight out. "An international airline system is such a carefully orchestrated network that any disruption, especially of this size, is really going to take many days for operations to get back to normal," a rep for a major industry group tells CNN . Getting back to normal could take as long as 6 days. More»

Few delays reported on roads, airports at start of Thanksgiving rush

(AP) - Travelers breezed through airport terminals and drivers cruised open roads today, the effects of a sour economy blamed for keeping people closer to home at the start of the annual Thanksgiving rush. Even though gas prices fell and airlines offered last-minute deals, many Americans appeared to be skipping trips this year. More»

Tiffany's, 42 restaurants, and a booze-friendly cinema

(NEWSER) - Heathrow’s new terminal has hit such turbulence with its opening that it may seem an odd time to sing its praises. But once the delays and lost luggage are solved, this massive addition, designed to eradicate the “Heathrow hassle,” will lure fliers with plenty of perks, reports Forbes.

1. From caviar to Krispy Kreme, 42 restaurants fill the terminal
2. Two spas serve up complimentary massages and facials
3. Hyper-fast check-in

Find tickets, new flights, even lounges

(NEWSER) - Every air traveler armed with a smartphone should load up on these five apps, says the Travel section of USA Today:

• SkyScanner (Free): This app will hunt down the best price for your ticket. It scans not only all of the airlines' websites but all of the online travel agencies (Expedia, Priceline) as well.
• Next Flight ($2.99): Yeah, it's relatively pricey, but worth the cost when needed. If your flight is canceled or delayed, or you just plain miss it, the app provides a list of all available flights from all carriers over the next two days. If none are there, it searches for hotels and car rentals.
• Priority Pass (Free): This app supplies a list of all the lounges at your airport. You can look through photos and amenities before deciding whether to shell out money for a pass.

Singapore! Where the Changi International Airport wows

(NEWSER) - An airport typically helps you get to your destination—but Singapore's Changi International Airport arguably is a destination. Since opening 30 years ago, it has racked up 370 awards, and with good reason. The Wall Street Journal takes a look at some of Changi's most fabulous features, which, pleasantly, aren't restricted to elite travelers:

• A nap room, where you can doze for three hours. Price: $23
• A swimming pool ($11 to access, or free if you're staying at an airport hotel)