5 lesser-known air travel tips to enhance your journey

Air travel can be a stressful experience, especially for those who thrive on predictability and detailed information. While most seasoned travelers rely on well-known apps and common travel advice, there are additional lesser-known tips that can significantly enhance the flying experience. By tapping into detailed data and tools, you can set realistic expectations, minimize surprises, and make more informed decisions. Here are five lesser-known air travel tips that can help you navigate your journey with greater ease and confidence.

See the History of On-Time Status

FlightAware is an excellent resource for tracking the real-time status of any flight, but it also offers a historical perspective. By examining the history of a specific flight’s takeoff, landing times, and durations, you can identify patterns. For example, if a flight consistently departs and arrives late, you might consider scheduling a longer layover. To access this information, look up your flight on FlightAware and scroll down to “Past Flights.” For a more comprehensive view, select “View More Flight History” at the bottom of the chart. This data can help manage your expectations and reduce anxiety about potential delays.

Check the Official Record for Why Flights Are Delayed

The US Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) provides detailed information on the causes of flight delays, which can be quite revealing. Contrary to popular belief, weather is often not the primary cause of delays. For instance, from March 2023 to March 2024, less than 1% of delays at US airports were due to weather, while 7.4% were caused by aircraft arriving late. This insight suggests that tracking your aircraft’s previous flight might be more beneficial than focusing solely on weather conditions.

Track Your Plane’s Previous Flight

Knowing whether your aircraft is currently stuck elsewhere can be crucial. FlightAware allows you to track the status of the aircraft assigned to your flight. By looking up your flight and selecting “Where is my plane now?” or “Track inbound plane,” you can see if your plane is on schedule to arrive at your departure airport. This can give you a heads-up about potential delays and help you adjust your plans accordingly.

Look Up Where You Can Fly Direct

For those who live near multiple airports, finding direct flights can simplify travel plans. Websites like FlightConnections and DirectFlights allow you to explore nonstop flight options from various airports. This can be particularly useful for selecting the most convenient route or even choosing an optimal destination. For example, residents of Buffalo, NY, might opt to drive to Toronto for a wider range of international flights.

Review the Dirty Details of Your Seat Options

Choosing the right seat can significantly impact your comfort during a flight. SeatGuru offers detailed information about every seat on an aircraft, including potential drawbacks like limited legroom in bulkhead or emergency exit row seats. By entering your flight number, you can review specific seat details. However, be cautious when checking too far in advance, as aircraft assignments can change, potentially leading to different seating configurations.

By utilizing these tips, you can gain more control over your air travel experience, reducing stress and increasing the likelihood of a smooth journey.