Safety issues leave carrier grounded

AERO California, a low-cost regional airline with service between LAX and Mazatlan, Guadalajara and other cities in Mexico, remained shut down last week, more than a month after Mexican authorities grounded it because of safety concerns.

Baltazar Arce, an Aero California sales representative reached by phone last week in La Paz, Mexico, said the airline expected to resume at least some flights Tuesday, pending government approval.

Mexico’s transport ministry said on April 2 that it suspended Aero California service because the airline had failed to correct safety problems, which allegedly included using parts from decommissioned planes.

The suspension stranded hundreds of passengers at LAX.

“We are working very hard to resume operations,” Arce said.

Arce said he expected the airline eventually to offer refunds to some customers or allow them to reschedule but said he couldn’t say for sure because “all the offices are empty.”

Aero California, he added, doesn’t have a website. Its phone is (800) 237-6225.

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LAX adds valet parking

WEDNESDAY was the scheduled launch day for valet parking at LAX’s central terminal. The cost has been set at $38, which covers the regular $30 daily charge for central terminal parking plus an $8 valet fee (cash and credit cards accepted).

The valet lot is across from Terminal 4 on the arrivals level. It serves Aeromexico, American Airlines, American Eagle, China Southern, Delta and all the carriers at the Tom Bradley International Terminal. Information: www.lawa.org/lax.

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Whisking visitors from Anaheim to Universal

UNIVERSAL Studios Hollywood is pitching for customers in Anaheim, stronghold of competitor Disneyland, 35 miles to the southeast.

Starting July 1, Universal Studios and Southern California Gray Line will start running a free shuttle bus from Anaheim hotels to the Universal City tourist attraction.

“We want to make it as easy as possible for someone to visit us,” Universal spokesman Eliot Sekuler said. “A lot of people are intimidated by the freeways.”

The shuttle, leaving Anaheim in the morning and returning at night, will pick up near Disney hotels, although it won’t go onto Disney property, he added.

Details of the service are expected to be posted by June 1 at www.universalstudioshollywood.com.

Several restrictions will apply. For instance, you will have to buy a full-price -- not a discounted -- ticket to Universal Studios, which charges $59 for ages 8 and up and $49 for ages 3 to 7; those younger than 3 are free.

Bob Tucker, Disneyland Resort spokesman, seemed unconcerned.

“We do not anticipate any impact on our summer attendance,” he said last week.

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Credit cards OK for in-flight food, headsets

PASSENGERS can use credit and debit cards to buy food, alcoholic drinks and headsets aboard American Airlines flights under a program being phased in this month that is expected to be available on all flights by mid-June. The airline accepts American Express, MasterCard and Visa, but not Diners Club or Discover cards, said spokesman Tim Smith.

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One pass, many N.M. culture sites

VISITING New Mexico’s museums and cultural sites is now a little easier if you plan to go to more than one. The state’s Department of Cultural Affairs has a $20 pass allowing access to 14 museums and historic monuments, including the Palace of the Governors and the Museum of Fine Arts in Santa Fe. Get the pass at participating sites or www.newmexicoculture.org.

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-- Compiled by Jane Engle