With the holidays over and everyone going back to business as usual, I’m drawn to a topic that may help a weary traveler this year.
Even if you’re stuck 20,000 feet in the air like I was, you can still get lots of good information to soothe a worried mind. For example, I could see from my back-of-the-seat monitor (below), we had just broken out of our circling pattern and were headed to Reagan Airport. I was then able to see on my iPhone that I would make my connecting flight. End of worry.
And, on the ground, you have easier access to the same data, for example:
Incoming flight status on airlines’ websites lets you verify that the plane coming in to pick you up is on schedule BEFORE you leave home. You may also set up alerts to email or text you when it departs.
Layover times and proximity of gates are available so that you know what “cushion” you have in the event of delays.
In the event of delays, get on your smartphone and find alternate routes to your destination, using www.Google.com/flights, considering all airlines, and even alternate routing if advantageous. Then when you speak to your airline, you know your options. Fly easier in 2018!