Edition No. 3

     The holidays are a time that bring friends and family together from near and far. This summer’s travel season saw staffing shortages, flight delays, and many rescheduled and cancelled flights. Expecting a busy holiday season, many airlines are preparing now by reinforcing their staffing and adjusting flight schedules to help avoid delays and cancellations outside the impacts of unpredictable weather conditions.

     Booking. Holiday flights have increased about 25% in the past year. If you haven’t already booked your flight for Christmas, you may find fewer available options and should not delay in securing your seat. Try to avoid December 22^nd, 23^rd, 26^th, and 27^th as flights are more expensive, more booked, and you’ll see long lines and congestion in the airports. If you can book a longer stay, flights on December 18^th and 19^th with returns on December 28^th and 29^th are cheaper options and will help you avoid the big Christmas crowds in airport security. Try to fly direct to avoid possible connection delays. If you can’t find your flight at your preferred airport don’t forget to check on flights in and out of other nearby airports.

     Pre-Flight. Check the CDC destinations page for up-to-date travel and health information. Doctors recommend you get up to date on all routine vaccinations before travel and prepare a health travel kit with your regular medications, vitamins, and other healthcare items you may need for your trip, remembering to pack for a few extra days in case of a delay. If you can, consider packing in a carry-on size suitcase you can keep with you in the cabin of the plane. This can decrease the risk of losing luggage on connections. You should check with your airline for their maximum dimensions for carry-on luggage, but most major American airlines restrict carry-ons to 14 inches wide, 22 inches tall, and 9 inches deep. Keep in mind that some -but not all- airlines also have restrictions on weight for carry-on baggage. If you end up checking your luggage, it’s a good idea to keep some essential items with you in a carry-on or personal item in case of lost luggage. This should include your essential medications, valuables, your passport or ID, and a full change of clothing. 

     Flying. Make sure your phone is charged and has all the phone numbers, itineraries, and apps you will need for your trip. Leave for the airport with plenty of time to arrive and move through security. You may want to consider being dropped off or pre-reserving airport parking. You may also be able to check in to your flight in advance online and download or print your boarding pass, and many airlines offer the option to check your bags curbside. This could help you avoid the check-in counter, which may have long lines. Make sure you pack reading, listening, or other in-flight entertainment and comfort items like snacks to make your down-time pass quickly. Lastly, be patient, kind and flexible. Remember that hiccups are bound to happen. Airlines are working hard to resume normal travel accommodations, but the airline industry is still facing a huge shortage in the number of pilots. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 18,000 new pilots would need to be hired every year for the next decade to resolve the commercial pilot shortage the industry is facing. This means fewer and busier flights. 

     Traveling for the holidays can be intimidating and stressful but heading into the season with a plan and the right mindset can make all the difference. It’s a special time for many to be reunited with families after months or years apart, and the destination and the happy memories you will make together are worth the hassle. Be safe and happy travels!