USA- Quick Solution for uncollected taxes and troubles for elegance.

The weekend's revelation that the current US financial standoff meant that pasenger taxes could no longer be applied has given airlines a major headache. The prospect of having to make a mountain of refunds on forward sold tickets is horrific. The administrative task would be monumental and costly. Some carriers have already solved the problem at a stroke. They have simply raised the fares by exactly the same amount as the taxes would have been. Never say the industry isn't capable of swift action when neccesary.

From elsewhere in the States comes a report that the 787-8 is 13ft too long for certification of operations at Chicago, San Francisco, Houston and Newark. Now where is that nice stubby looking A380? Score : Elegance 0. Tubbies 1. Extra time expected.

(ALW)