« Save 20% on Weekend Stays - Extended Stay Hotels | Main | Google Voice »
Look Out New York
March 12, 2010 | Permalink
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, operators of JFK International Airport, are doing a little remodeling. The result could have road warriors across the country jockeying for fewer and more expensive flights. So what is a business traveler to do?
First, here’s the plan. Beginning March 1, 2010, JFK began reconstruction of the Bay Runway, one of the longest in the world, making it larger and converting it from asphalt to concrete. During the four-month construction period, the runway will be completely closed. This closure will move half of departures and a third of all JFK traffic to three smaller runways.
Travelers far from New York City will feel the impact of this shut down. Airlines are expected to reduce the number of flights to, from and through JFK. This will certainly mean higher fares and more sold-out flights. Flights to and from JFK are expected to experience delays similar to those during the busiest summer seasons - ranging from 30 to 50 minutes. Airports that are popular destinations from New York, like Los Angeles, San Francisco and Orlando, will feel the pinch as well.
If this is the problem, what is the solution? Time is the only real solution, but here are some ways a road warrior can minimize problems during the construction.
Book early - Fliers can no longer assume that flights during the spring season will be uncrowded. A reduced number of flights in and out of New York will affect flights everywhere. If you are reasonably certain you will travel, make reservations now.
Consider alternatives - If your flight is heading to or through JFK, find an alternate route. Keep in mind that delays at JFK will ripple to its major connector airports. Los Angeles, San Francisco and Orlando should be avoided, even if you aren’t heading for New York. One website, AlternateAirports.com, will help you find nearby airport options. If you must visit the Big Apple, consider local alternatives like LaGuardia and Newark. Don’t discount Westchester County Airport. This regional airport has scheduled flights with many major carriers from airports like O’Hare International and Orlando International.
Allow extra time - This isn’t rocket science, but it is sound advice. This includes more time for connections. If you must book a tight connection, consider taking only carry-on luggage or ship things ahead to your destination.
Use the tools - Knowing as early as possible that your flight has been delayed is crucial. Early warning, even by a couple of hours, can make all the difference. If you know about a problem ahead of all the other travelers on your delayed or cancelled flight, you have a better chance of booking a new flight. FlightCaster is an amazing service that will forecast the likelihood of your flight being delayed.
The conclusion here is simple. This won’t last forever, and the prepared traveler will fare better than the unprepared traveler who just shows up and hopes. Consider it one of life’s little lessons. Sort of like making Extended Stay Hotels your place of choice when you travel. Make the right choice, and you too can be comfortable about your travel plans.
TrackBack
TrackBack URL for this entry:
http://www.typepad.com/services/trackback/6a00d83452aac569e201310f94c502970c
Listed below are links to weblogs that reference Look Out New York:
