Riders on crowded city buses and streetcars have been familiar with it for at least a century, but will standing during flights become a reality? Just when you think airlines have run out of ideas to make flying less comfortable, this discussion has come up again.

New York State’s Erie County SPCA has started a program of providing a free service to travelers at the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. Aptly named Paws For Love (PFL), it consists of  well-trained dogs that are guided through the airport waiting areas to visit with harried passengers. The canines provide relaxation and friendly companionship while people wait for their flights.

The SPCA PFL airport services is an extension of its traditional programs of sending volunteers and dogs on visits to hospitals, nursing homes and other institutions. The PFL is also operating at other U.S. airports, including San Jose CA, Ft. Lauderdale FL, San Antonio TX, Grand Rapids MI, Los Angeles CA and Miami FL. For more info, go to www.pawsforlove.info

Many older people, widowed or otherwise without traveling companions, decline ocean voyages because of high cabin rates. Until recently, cruise lines always charged an extra fee for those sailing solo. Singles who occupied cabins alone often had to pay as much as for two people.

NCL now offers economical and compact, one-passenger studio-sized cabins on some of its ships. The nearby area also has an exclusive lounge for those singles who choose to mingle. For schedules, prices and other information, check with your travel agent or go to ncl.com

Starting Sunday, June 15, the airline offers its new Mint business class service on flights between New York's JFK Airport and Los Angeles. The round-trip cost starts from about $1,200.

Mint service on the seven daily flights to those cross-country destination includes flat beds, private suites, dual power outlets with USB ports, amenity kits and an upscale dining menu featuring tapas.

For schedules, prices and other info, go to www.jetblue.com