Exploring The World Without Leaving The Airport

Don't ever leave the airport is a phrase that can be used in various contexts. In video games, it is common etiquette to leave through the airport to save progress and avoid disrupting other players' experiences. In travel, the phrase can refer to long layovers or flight connections, where passengers may be advised to remain in the airport or explore the city within the time constraints. In customer service, the phrase can reflect negative experiences with airlines, such as Delta Airlines, where flight cancellations and apathetic staff led to frustration and dissatisfaction.

Delta Airlines

Delta Air Lines is a major American airline, with its headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia. Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta is the world's busiest airport and is a major hub for Delta.

Delta offers a range of services to its customers, including various check-in options. Customers can check-in online or via the Fly Delta app up to 24 hours before departure. They can also check-in at the airport, either at a kiosk or in-person at a Delta Air Lines desk. At most U.S. airports, there is also a curbside check-in option, where customers can check their bags at a counter outside the terminal before heading inside. Delta recommends that passengers travelling within the United States arrive at the airport at least two hours before departure.

Delta also provides assistance to passengers with unique circumstances. For example, the airline does not impose restrictions on flying while pregnant and does not require a medical certificate for travel. However, it is recommended that passengers consult their doctor if they are travelling after their eighth month of pregnancy. Delta also offers special policies and discounts for active U.S. Military members and Foreign Service Officials travelling with pets.

In terms of customer service, Delta has received some criticism from customers for issues with flight changes and cancellations. In some cases, customers have reported a lack of notification about changes to their flights and a lack of flexibility from Delta staff in resolving these issues. However, Delta does provide certain accommodations for customers impacted by delays, misconnections, or cancellations within their control. This includes meal vouchers, hotel accommodations, and ground transportation for overnight inconveniences.

Long layovers

Explore the city

If you have a long layover, consider leaving the airport to explore the city. Some airlines and cities encourage this, even offering free city tours or hotel stays for long layovers. For example, Turkish Airlines offers business-class passengers a stay in a five-star or boutique hotel in Turkey for up to two nights, while economy-class passengers can stay at a four-star hotel for one night. Similarly, Icelandair offers up to seven nights in Reykjavík as part of a layover.

However, when planning to leave the airport, it's important to consider factors such as transportation time and visa requirements. Some countries require a visa even for short layovers, so always check the visa situation before booking your flight.

Utilise airport amenities

If you don't want to leave the airport or don't have time, there are other ways to make the most of your layover. Many airports offer a variety of amenities to keep passengers entertained and comfortable. For example, LAX in Los Angeles allows passengers to wander from the domestic to international terminals, where they can enjoy various dining options, world-class spas, art galleries, and lounges. Miami International Airport also offers local dining options, art galleries, spas, meditation rooms, a yoga room, and outdoor park areas.

Plan your layover in advance

To make the most of your layover, it's a good idea to plan ahead. Use tools like Skyscanner to find flights with long layovers in interesting cities. You can also use the multi-city search tool to book stopovers in different cities, allowing you to explore multiple destinations on your trip.

So, the next time you're facing a long layover, remember that it's an opportunity to discover a new place or experience the unique amenities of a different airport.

Missing your flight

Missing a flight can be a stressful experience, but there are steps you can take to minimise the impact and get yourself on the next available flight to your destination. Here are some tips to help you navigate the situation:

Alert the Airline

Even if it seems obvious that you won't make your flight, it is important to contact the airline and let them know. This gives them a heads-up and can increase your chances of getting rebooked on a new flight.

Inquire About Rebooking

Once you've missed your flight, ask the airline about their rebooking policy. Some airlines may charge a rebooking fee, while others may allow you to wait on standby for the next available flight at no additional cost. It's important to understand the specific policies of the airline you are travelling with.

Understand the "Flat-Tire Rule"

Many airlines have a "flat-tire rule," which allows passengers who arrive within a certain time frame of their scheduled departure to be rebooked on the next flight without penalty. For example, American Airlines allows passengers who arrive within two hours of their scheduled departure to be rebooked as a standby traveller without paying change fees.

Consider Your Booking Type

If you've booked two one-way tickets and miss the first flight, check with the airline to see if your return flight will still be honoured. In some cases, the airline may cancel the entire itinerary if you miss the first flight. To avoid this, consider booking two separate one-way flights or using airline miles to book a last-minute award flight.

Standby Policies

If seats are unavailable on the next flight, ask to be placed on the standby list. Many airlines will allow you to stand by for a later flight at no additional cost. Be sure to explain your situation to the gate agent and request to be added to the waitlist. Standby policies vary by airline, so be sure to understand the specific rules of the carrier you are travelling with.

Remember to remain calm and polite when dealing with airline staff. They are there to help you, and a little kindness can go a long way in stressful situations like these.

Visa requirements

If you are travelling to a country that requires a visa, you will need to obtain one before you can board your flight. Some countries require transit visas even if you are not leaving the airport, such as the US, Australia, and countries in the Schengen area. It is important to check the visa requirements of your destination country before booking your flight.

Each country has its own visa requirements, which may include specific documentation, fees, and application forms. For example, the US requires a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stays and an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Some countries may also require additional documentation, such as proof of onward travel or vaccination certificates. It is important to review the specific requirements of your destination country before applying for a visa.

Transit visas are typically required for travellers passing through a country on their way to a third destination. These visas are usually valid for a short period, such as 24-96 hours, and must be obtained before travelling. Some countries may also require an electronic travel authorization, which is not the same as a visa but is necessary to keep track of who enters and leaves the country.

It is important to note that visa requirements can vary depending on your nationality. Some countries may impose exit visas, which grant permission to leave a specific country, and these may be required due to your nationality. It is always a good idea to check with the embassy or consulate of your destination country to understand the specific visa requirements that apply to you.

In some cases, it may be possible to obtain a visa online or at the airport, as long as you have the necessary documentation. However, it is always best to apply for a visa in advance to avoid any issues or delays during your travel. Obtaining a visa can be a complex process, and it is important to ensure that you meet all the requirements before embarking on your journey.

Luggage storage

While most airports offer luggage storage services, they tend to be inflexible and expensive. For example, Heathrow Airport charges £7.50 for storing luggage for 0-3 hours, and an additional £7.50 for every 24 hours after that. Airports also tend to charge extra for storing special items like canoes, surfboards, and bicycles. In addition, they often do not offer refund or insurance policies, and may not accept certain items like food products or pets.

As an alternative, some companies offer luggage storage services near airports, train stations, or hotels, which can be more flexible and affordable. For example, Stasher offers luggage storage near Heathrow Airport from £4.75 per day, with no size or weight restrictions, and a 100% money-back guarantee.

In the United States, most airports do not have luggage storage facilities. However, Las Vegas Airport is an exception, offering convenient luggage storage services for travellers exploring the city, waiting for a connecting flight, or attending a business meeting.

Frequently asked questions