Cornell University's travel needs are diverse, as faculty and staff members and students travel frequently to international locations using multiple airline carriers. Travel may be funded from a grant or a specially designated account. It is important that the traveler understand the nuances of the Fly America Act and review flight options with the department financial administrator or financial transaction or business service center before purchasing tickets. A travel reimbursement can be denied if Fly America Act regulations are not followed.
The Fly America Act, 49 U.S.C. App. 1517, as implemented in the Comptroller General's guidelines, Decision B-138942, on March 31, 1981, required federal employees and their dependents, consultants, contractors, grantees and others performing United States government-financed foreign air travel to travel by U.S. flag air carriers when U.S. flag air carrier service is available within the guidelines as specified, unless travel by foreign air carrier is a matter of necessity.