Captain Nowhere Holiday Travel

The holidays are approaching and that means that air travel,
which is already crazy enough, is about to become a maddening
experience. Many people will try to fly somewhere for the
holidays and this means more people on flights, in the airports,
and just plain in your way.

Expect things to take longer and try to allow for this in your time
planning. The earlier you arrive the better. You can expect long
lines at the ticket counter, security checkpoints, and even the line
to board your flights. So, wear comfy shoes and store up your
patience, perhaps bring your I-Pod.

Not only are there more people but usually during the holidays
people bring more stuff with them this means more luggage and
crowded airports. Why should you care that much about this?
Well, more luggage must be screened and sorted for each flight so
again show up early not just to give yourself time but your luggage
as well. The other aspect of this you should care for is weight and
balance. Sometimes there are just too many people and too much
stuff to get it all on one flight and something must be pulled. So,
prepare yourself, at least mentally, that there is a chance you or
your luggage may not make it on the flight you were booked on.

One last factor I would like to touch on is de-icing aircraft. For
those of you in climates where snow falls be ready for this. You
may get to the airport early, on the aircraft in time but it is
possible due to local conditions that you will still be late getting to
your destination. Airplanes waiting to be de-iced can be a lengthy
endeavor or it can be fairly quick. Either way it's a delay worth
the outcome and you really have no control over it. You want to
be on a safe aircraft so, just try to relax and worry about the
outcome when you get to your location. Be prepared for the
holi-daze and you may just prevent a few more gray hairs.

Travel Safe, Travel Smart . . . Get Somewhere!