Bits: why Mastercard FX rates are better than Visa, Air India returns to London-New York route

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News in brief:

The difference between Visa and Mastercard FX rates

It is easy to assume that Visa and Mastercard would use the same exchange rates when processing overseas credit card transactions.

In truth, that is not the case. In most cases, Mastercard appears to come out cheaper. Both Visa and Mastercard publish their rates online so this is easy to check.

I could have written a long analysis on this topic. However, US site Mile Value ran an excellent piece this week which went into it in great detail. It is worth a read if you want to know more about the difference between Mastercard and Visa and why Mastercard comes out ahead.

Air India to begin serving London – New York again

Air India, a Star Alliance member, has announced that it will resume flights between London and New York using its fifth freedom flying rights.

The route will start on 15th August. The plane will start in Ahmedabad and route via Heathrow to New York Newark. The flight time outwards is very reasonable, with a 12.30pm departure getting you into Newark for 3pm.

The 2 x 2 x 2 business class seating is not state of the art but, with a 74 inch pitch, will do the job for a short flight. There appear to be two economy and one business class seat opened up for redemption for the Heathrow to New York leg, which can be booked via any Star Alliance airline.