Peter Greenberg makes a big deal about the in-flight airphone *xxx numbers, but never puts his money where his mouth is. If such numbers existed, how difficult would it be for him to post them on, say, a Today Show website link, or list them in an on-screen graphic. "Ask your flight attendant" is a laughable suggestion.

First of all, there does not appear to be a * number on DL. I've looked all through the inflight magazine (I usually find the number listed along with the in-flight phone fees). I've also e-mailed GTE airpone for a list, and they tell me there is none.

Perhaps it is a non-GTE airphone service. I have used the * numbers on NW and AA. (I found the AA number in the magazine and, contrary to my comments above, I think the NW FA asked another FA who actually knew the number).

I don't think the airphone companies would be thrilled to know this, but I use the * number to get arrival information whenever there is no on-screen display and when the pilot doesn't make frequent announcements.

Note, if you do have the * number, remember that you can use it to have the airline reservation agent transfer you to their affiliated car rental company. This is particularly helpful if you were able to clear the standby list at the last minute and are arriving at a nearby but alternate (and obviously co-terminal) airport (e.g., JFK/LGA/EWR or DCA/IAD/BWI).