With Christmas and New Year just around the corner, it is expected that the number of Americans traveling during the holidays this year will surpass the record numbers from last year, adding an extra level of challenge due to the unpredictable weather. To ensure a smooth journey, relaxed flight time, and a peaceful holiday season, here are some important points to keep in mind.
Fox News reported on December 15th that former flight attendants from major airlines shared some of the best tips and tricks for end-of-year air travel, including the best time to board and which seating positions on the plane are the worst.
One of the most surprising and unexpected tips is possibly the best day to board – the day before Christmas Eve.
“Most people plan to fly back home in the days leading up to Christmas, but for a smoother flying experience, consider booking a flight on Christmas Eve,” revealed a former flight attendant with over a decade of experience in the American airline industry.
The flight attendants discussed their flying experiences in a recent press release from Air and Cruise Parking, a parking company at Tampa Airport in Florida.
“Christmas Eve is surprisingly calm. By that time, most passengers have reached their destinations, the airport is relatively quiet, and flights are usually not as crowded. Additionally, there’s a holiday ambiance on board – the crew often goes the extra mile to make the flight special, whether it’s wearing Santa hats or providing holiday gifts,” the flight attendant added.
It’s a good time to fly with family or large groups to avoid the extreme crowding in the days leading up to Christmas.
When it comes to seating, while the middle seat is typically one passengers try to avoid, flight attendants suggest steering clear of sitting in the middle section of the cabin – usually the window seat in the 11th row (typically 11A or 11F).
“If you want to disembark quickly, try to avoid sitting in the 11th row,” the flight attendant stated in the press release.
Flight attendants revealed, “Sitting in the middle section, especially the window seats, typically A or F, almost guarantees you’ll be one of the last to disembark.”
If you reside in a city with unpredictable winter weather, such as Denver, Chicago, or New York, and wish to avoid the hassle of flight delays and cancellations during your travels, be prepared beforehand for holiday flights. Check the weather apps and allow yourself extra time to ensure everything goes according to plan.
If you want to catch some sleep during the flight, recline your seat, or have more legroom, the best way is to request an upgrade to a higher class.
Though there is no guarantee of a free upgrade, a British Airways flight attendant mentioned in the press release, “Ultimately, if you don’t ask, you won’t receive.”
“The gate agent can see if there are available seats and have the authority to make changes. Even if a free upgrade isn’t available, they may offer a discounted price,” the flight attendant continued.
Lastly, an American airline stewardess shared a tip for this season, “If you’re bringing gifts, don’t wrap them before the flight.”
“The TSA might need to inspect them, and unwrapping gifts at the airport is not fun!”
“The TSA recommends either waiting to wrap gifts after passing through airport security, or placing items in gift bags to facilitate inspection without unwrapping them,” the TSA spokesperson added.