Wait times at security checkpoints have plummeted at Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, which was one of the hardest hit by Transportation Security Administration staffing shortages. While last week it warned passengers of four-hour lines, its website listed waits of less than five minutes at all checkpoints just after 6:20 a.m. ET.
One of the biggest mistakes passengers make is arriving at the bag drop or ticket counter with luggage that exceeds the airline limit, resulting in a mad dash to repack and shift items between bags.
Delta Air Lines has issued a travel advisory stating that travel from its main hub, Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International, 'may be affected' by longer security wait times, advising passengers to allow at least 4 hours for screenings.
Last August, my dream trip to India imploded before takeoff. A delayed flight from Orlando to Atlanta caused me to miss my connection to Paris. Delta Air Lines rebooked me 25 hours later through London, costing me $270 for hotels, meals and taxis. I'd wisely bought Trawick International travel insurance, which covers a trip disruption. But SureGo Claims, their administrator, became a nightmare. They demanded endless documents, assured me everything was received, then denied my claim with a lie: Your delay was only 3 hours.
When traveling by air, take a look at the type of aircraft you're expected to fly with, as it can make a difference in terms of overall flight experience. This can also help you get to know the different cabin classes so you can make the right seat selection for your comfort level and your wallet.
Gate changes, especially those sprung on travellers at the last minute, are a real pain point in air travel. The primary drivers are usually a last-minute aircraft swap due to a mechanical issue or an unexpected delay on an inbound flight occupying the planned gate.
Passengers can be removed from a flight for disruptive, violent, or aggressive behavior, making threats, or interfering with a crew member's ability to perform their duties. Once a passenger refuses instructions, escalates a confrontation, or distracts the crew during boarding or taxi, airlines have little flexibility because it becomes a safety issue. That stance is backed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which maintains a zero-tolerance policy for unruly or dangerous behavior, meaning passengers who interfere with crew duties can face removal, fines, or further action.
Rushing to get on board with your carry-on may seem like a good idea (there's only so much overhead bin space, after all), but attempting to take shortcuts during the boarding process can actually delay your travels even more. "We understand that boarding can make people anxious, but I promise: If you have a seat assignment, you will get on the plane,"