SUBJECT:  State of California Airfares Available to UCSD Travelers

The State of California annually contracts favorable rates with airlines for frequently traveled routes between two cities, called "city pairs." While the city pairs selected by the state are non-negotiable, there are several that are often used by UCSD travelers. Therefore, the UCSD Travel Office has been working with the State of California to make these fares available to UCSD travelers.

Effective October 2002, we are pleased to announce that these fares are available to our travelers. Beneficial features regarding these fares:

*No restrictions for advance purchasing
*Fully refundable
*While limited to certain city pairs, the cost often is very reasonable

To use these fares, UCSD must follow the state's requirement that the tickets be issued by a state certified agency. For UCSD, this is our partner agency, Balboa Travel. Other guidelines for using these fares:

*Service fee of $15 per ticket issue, exchange, or refund will be charged (subject to change 01/03)

*Other typical fees, such as an airport facility charge, fuel surcharge, and U.S. domestic tax apply

To find out more about state fares, please check Blink:
http://blink.ucsd.edu/go/statefares

In some cases, state fares may present the best option for travel; however, comparison pricing should always be used to determine the most economical choice. Before purchasing a state fare, check prices that include the substantial UCSD discount on non-state fares on United Airlines, purchased through Balboa Travel or an Alliance Agency. For assistance in comparing costs, see the schedule of state fares and checklist of comparison points by following the links listed in the Blink page above.

Questions on state fares may be directed to the Travel Office by calling extension 4-3734 or by sending an email message to Travel@UCSD.edu.

                                                Faye E. McCullough
                                                Manager
                                                Disbursements and Travel