In-Flight Incentives

By Clayton Neuman

Jet-setters just can't catch a break. Ticket prices are rising, and U.S. airlines, trying to pump up their bottom lines, keep stripping amenities. So book a flight overseas: international carriers are rolling out unique luxuries that could offer solace to the weary traveler.

BLAZING TAILWINDS Guess what the new German airline Smintair (Smokers International Airways) will let you do? When flights begin next October, every passenger--and crew member--is welcome to light up, from takeoff to landing.

CELLULAR CABIN As early as January, Dubai-based Emirates will become the first airline to let passengers use cell phones during flight, provided they're set to vibrate. And please, no loud yapping with on-ground friends during the in-flight film.

JET-STREAM JACKPOT Ryanair is testing its luck. The budget Irish carrier recently formed a partnership with the Internet bingo group Jackpotjoy.com to offer in-flight gambling--with winnings as high as $380,000--by mid-2007.

FIRST-CLASSICAL The Spanish low-cost operator Vueling prides itself on landing below industry averages for lost luggage. It also names its aircraft after passengers and occasionally brings a string quartet on board to serenade them.