April 1st, 2013

Traveling, Airports, Airlines….US Airways, Patience….Venting!!

During the 1940’s and 1950’s , it was when the U.S. interstate system came about.  People took to the roads….much easier now to see the states; more direct routes. States wanted to capitalize on tourism.  They made packable souvenirs.  Tablecloths were one of such souvenirs.  They showed the tourist areas of that particular state traveled.  These vintage tablecloths are now sought after.

Taking to the roads, that’s what I should have done on Easter Sunday when I found myself traveling south.  US Airways is the reason for my venting.

The international airports closest to the Delaware and Maryland Beaches are BWI, and Philly.  But, there is one regional airport that when it does go smoothly, then, it is very convenient.  It is in the town of Salisbury, Maryland.  US Airways flies from this airport with stops in Philly or Charlotte.  You will then have to connect to your final destination.

Getting up at 5 a.m. with plenty of time to get to Salisbury.  About one hour’s drive.  Flight was at 8:30 a.m.  Lots of people were there already; the plane holds about 50 people or even more.

First delay….I already missed my connection. They put me on a later flight from Charlotte.  People started panicking.  Some were even getting on cruises.

What’s the problem?…I asked.  “The plane is broken.  They are trying to fix it.” Hmmm, that was comforting.

Another hour goes by.  Next delay.  Now instead of PBI (West Palm), I am now being sent to Ft. Lauderdale.

Another hour goes by. A later plane to Ft. Lauderdale.

Finally, they said….an indefinite delay, but it could take off.  Well, they told me that there was a flight leaving from Baltimore at 3:30 p.m.

So, there I was driving to Baltimore, another 2 plus hours, which is where I should have gone in the first place.

The  people that were going on the cruise went home practically in tears.

The lady that had paid $150 extra to go through Salisbury instead of Philly….oh yes…she was rerouted through Philly.

BWI was not as crowded.  Of course, I am now in Baltimore and my return flight is to Salisbury.  No, they could not change that there.  That was a Salisbury thing.  I needed to call their Customer Service pronto and tell them my dilema.  They gave me the number and they graciously changed it to Baltimore with no added charges.  Surprise, surprise!!

Charlotte airport was crazy. It was packed and you better be in good shape otherwise you will miss your connection.  People were running to get to their gate.  I took my time.  I had one hour.

By this time I was thinking that if I had driven to Florida, I would have been almost to Jacksonville.

Of course, there was a slight delay as we sat on the runway.  Imagine that.

We got to Ft. Lauderdale at 8:20 p.m.  My 4th airport, and not a soul in sight.  Easy drive to my final destination…about 25 minutes.

Then, I opened my email and there is a survey from US Airways….asking me to let them know how my last experience flying with them was.  I am still laughing.  I cannot wait to really vent to them.

Talk to you later..Have a good one!