Question 1

Do I need parking reservations and is parking space available upon my arrival?

Accepted Answer

After you select an airport on iFly.com, select the Airport Parking option in the main menu. There you will find all available parking choices - from valet parking to off-site parking, fees (the most current fee structure is most likely posted at the entrance of the parking facility), payment methods, and specific details. It will also provide you with information on which parking facility accepts reservations and the contact/reservation procedure. In general, most airports do not accept reservations. Some airport parking garages have automatic guides directing you to available space.

Question 2

I am a Disabled Person - where can I park and what is the Fee?

Accepted Answer

Disabled Parking is provided by all airports, usually clearly marked, in either specific parking facilities or in each parking facility and are available to those who either have the appropriate license plate or their disabled placard on the vehicle dashboard. As to special fees: Usually airports offer parking at a certain facility at a reduced price. Free disabled parking is rare.

Question 3

What transportation is available to/from the city, to/from the outlying areas?

Accepted Answer

iFly lists the following modes of transportation available at the airport: Buses and Trains, Taxis and Limos, Shuttles and Vans, Shuttles within the Airport, Hotel Shuttles, and Rental Cars. Each category provides you with choices offered either by public or private transportation, their names, telephone numbers, specific services offered, hours of operation, fares (if available), and links. If you decide on taking a taxi, make sure that you take airport-authorized taxis only. For your own safety and pocketbook, do not follow solicitation efforts to get you into a taxi. Larger airports have a staff guiding you to the next-in-line taxi at the taxi stands in front of the terminal entrance.

Question 4

I need to transfer to another Airport - what is the fastest way to get there?

Accepted Answer

After you navigate to your airport on iFly.com, from the main menu click “To and From” and then you will see transportation options including "Taxis and Limos", “Shuttles”, and "Buses and Trains".

Question 5

Where do I find my Rental Car Agency and How do I get to their Off-site Locations?

Accepted Answer

Rental Car Agencies have their counters at larger airports either inside the terminal, or at a separate Transportation Terminal, or within a parking structure, while some discount agencies may maintain their Offices and rental lots outside the Airport perimeter. Smaller airports may not have on-site Rental Car facilities at all. For all off-airport locations, you will have to wait (with your luggage) at the dedicated bus stop until your rental car agency's free shuttle bus comes around and brings you and your luggage to your off-site agency. If the agency's car lot is on-airport, but not within walking distance, a shuttle bus is likewise provided.

Question 6

I have never rented a car before, what do I do and where do I return the car to?

Accepted Answer

Rental Car procedures are very simple. Before you leave, it is a good idea to check your credit card agreement to see if they include collision coverage. Also take a close look at your car insurance policy's coverage. Take along a copy of your policy, or at least write down the policy number and what is covered. When you get to the counter, show your driver's license and other ID and ask for a directional map. They will ask you if you want collision insurance. Usually the answer should be “no,” as you pay twice as much.

Pay and ask for a map that shows you where you are, and how to get to the main highways. It will also show you where to return your car. Take the papers and your luggage and go to the designated spot where your car is waiting. Examine the car thoroughly. If you see a dent, etc., report it before leaving, as your car will be examined upon your return and any possible damage will be billed to you. Put the rental car papers in the glove compartment, look at your map - and off you go! Don't forget to tank up before you return your car, as they bill gas at twice the rate.

Question 7

How do I get to the train station, which is located outside the Airport?

Accepted Answer

Go to Ground Transportation in the top menu and look at either "Buses and Trains", "Shuttles and Vans", or "Taxis and Limos".

Question 8

What choices do I have to get to the City Center?

Accepted Answer

The best place to look for is under "Ground Transportation" - click on "Buses and Trains" or "Shuttles and Vans", or "Taxis and Limos". The Buses and Trains section will also guide you to connecting transportation to either the suburbs or farther away.

Question 9

How or where can I store my luggage at the Airport?

Accepted Answer

Few airports offer it due to security concerns. If luggage storage is available, iFly lists this service under "Guest Services".

Question 10

Can I have someone paged who is arriving on a Flight?

Accepted Answer

Few airports offer it due to security concerns. If luggage storage is available, iFly lists this service under "Guest Services".

Question 11

I am continuing my trip on a connecting flight, does the airport offer shower or exercise facilities?

Accepted Answer

Such services are listed under "Guest Services" at iFly.com; if you see no listing, the airport most likely does not have them. However many area hotels offer discount rates for their exercise facilities. Inquire at the information desk of the Airport.

Question 12

Where do I find Maps for Terminal, Parking Facilities, Airport Location, and Directions?

Accepted Answer

You can access all the above via "Maps and Directions" in the top menu.

Question 13

I have lost an item, how can I find out if it was found?

Accepted Answer

If you lost the item on the airplane, contact your airline. If you lost the item at the airport, contact the airport. If a piece of luggage is missing, contact your airline. For detailed information, go to "Lost and Found" listed under Airport Details at iFly.com. At some airports you will have to complete their own missing items form, explaining where and when you lost the item. If you have already left the airport, you can submit it online or via regular mail.

Question 14

Where can I obtain information and assistance navigating the airport?

Accepted Answer

Smaller airports usually have an Information Desk close to the ticket counters and maybe an additional one at arrivals. Larger US/CAN Airports usually provide various kinds of assistance, starting with the main Information counter close to the terminal entrance and placing smaller information points at strategic locations throughout the terminal. Larger Airports also provide trained roaming volunteers from the community (usually referred to as "Airport Ambassadors" and recognizable by their uniform). Do not hesitate to approach them for help or directions needed. The airport also may have a Travelers Aid station, staffed by volunteers. Each of these services is listed under "Guest Services" at iFly.com.

Question 15

What is Travelers Aid and what can they do for me?

Accepted Answer

Travelers Aid is a non-profit organization, dedicated to offer assistance to stranded travelers and travelers in need. It is staffed by volunteers, who are trained to assist travelers in the following ways:

Directing travelers to points within the Airport and to various community facilities;
Offering tourist information regarding accommodations and sightseeing attractions;
Assisting in map reading and in accessing local transportation;
Offering non-English speakers free access to the ATandT Language Line (interpretation of 130 languages and/or dialects);
Helping individuals in need to transfer from terminal to terminal.
Providing professional social service and emergency assistance to stranded travelers, military personnel, and runaways of all ages.

Question 16

Which Hotels are either close to, or on-Airport, or does the Airport have a Transit Hotel?

Accepted Answer

On-Airport Hotels and Transit Hotels (the latter usually rents by set hours, offers basic accommodations, and is ideal for travelers catching a later flight to their final destination) are listed under "Guest Services" at iFly.com. If the on-airport hotel offers Business and Conference facilities, look under "Business Services" at iFly.com. Either refer to iFly.com\'s "Hotels" and contact your choice directly or go to the Tourist or Information counters to make reservations. Another online hotel finder is to contact the local Convention and Visitors Bureau website and look for Accommodations.

Question 17

Is there a shuttle service to hotels?

Accepted Answer

Most area hotels provide their own courtesy shuttle service for their guests. For those who don\'t, refer to "Shuttles and Vans" at iFly.com, or "Taxis and Limos".

Question 18

We need a shoe-shine, a barber, a beauty parlor, and a massage - where do we find those services?

Accepted Answer

All these services are listed under "Guest Services" in alphabetical order, along with all other services not covered by separate links (i.e., dry cleaning and laundry service, luggage-related services, etc.)

Question 19

We travel with our children - how can we keep them entertained while waiting for our flight?

Accepted Answer

Playgrounds or playrooms, family rooms, entertainment for bigger children, nursing rooms, as well as airport-related puzzles, airport museums, and art exhibits are all listed under Guest Services at iFly.com. Many restaurants at the airports offer children\'s menus and high chairs (see "Restaurants and Stores" at iFly.com).

Question 20

I have to catch a connecting flight - how long will it take to get to the other terminal?

Accepted Answer

If the Airport has more than two terminals, it will depend on the terminals you transfer to/from. You must also take into account that during peak hours or high travel seasons the transfer may take longer than usual. Look under Transportation, "Shuttles" at iFly.com. The inter-terminal shuttle listed will tell you how long it will take and in what intervals they make their rounds, then add to that time the extra time in transit and the time you will spend from the time you enter the terminal until you arrive at the gate. Note that you will have to go through security again. You can also refer to the terminal map.

Question 21

Where do I get "real-time" flight information?

Accepted Answer

You come to the right site! Go to the iFLy flight tracker to get real-time flight tracking info.

Question 22

I want to take my dog with me on the flight. What are the requirements?

Accepted Answer

Airlines and Airports have separate rules to follow. If you take your pet out of the country, you also need to adhere to additional rules set by the country of your destination. Most airports rule that pets are not allowed at the airport unless they are working dogs or are in a safe kennel. You need to contact your airline as to their requirements, as each airline's rules vary. Many airlines let you keep a small animal with you on the airplane, if it is in a safe kennel, as long as it is either at your feet or on your lap. The kennel will count as one carry-on luggage. Therefore, you would have to check your luggage on entering the terminal. If you do not accompany the animal but ship it, contact your shipping agent as to their requirements. As to taking your animal out of the country, contact your vet as to required shots. Also, contact the embassy of the country of your destination as to their rules.

Question 23

I depend on my guide dog when traveling. What are the rules?

Accepted Answer

So-called working dogs are allowed at the airport. Many airports also provide relief stations outside the terminals. If they do so, iFly.com\'s "Pets" advises you where to find them. As to traveling on the airplane, most airlines permit the working dog to accompany you but do check with your airline first (as well as notifying them way before departure of any special needs you or your dog may have, so they can make the proper arrangements). You still will have to adhere to the regulations of the country of your destination regarding required shots and documentation if you take your dog out of the country.

Question 24

Where can I get up-to-date regulations regarding identification papers, security, and carry-on items?

Accepted Answer

You can either find this information on iFly.com under "Airport Security" or by visiting the TSA site at www.tsa.gov/public.

Question 25

Are there any special preparations that someone with special needs should be aware of?

Accepted Answer

If you are traveling with a loved one with special needs, or have special needs yourself, there are a few extra steps that may need to be taken to ensure that all of the needs are properly met.
For those that are blind or deaf, it is important to contact the airport prior to your flight. Each airline now carries instructions in Braille, for the seeing impaired, and written text, for the hearing impaired, and will be more than happy to assist in any way that you or your loved one may need.
Planes are also equipped to store wheelchairs and power scooters, though in some cases these may be moved to the cargo area. In which case, you will be provided an airport wheelchair and can pick your own up at the gate or baggage claim.
For those who require walkers, crutches, CPAP machines, medications, and other aiding devices, priority onboard storage is given. Portable Oxygen Concentrators may require extra preparations, so it is always important to check with the airport prior to your departure time to learn exact procedures, and to allow them to make arrangements to further your comfort if needed.

Question 26

My underage child will be traveling alone. Will they be given any special treatment to assure their personal safety?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In most cases when you take your child to the airport, they will be assigned a security officer to accompany them onto their plane. While on board, the in-flight staff will be more than happy to look after your child. Once they land, another security officer will escort them to their meeting party. Note that all children are required to have photo identification just like all other passengers.

Question 27

Why do I need to open my shade and lift my tray table during liftoff and touchdown?

Accepted Answer

You are asked to open your shade for a few different reasons. Having a clear view outside helps to keep you oriented, and allows the crew an unobstructed view of any problems there may be outside, such as fire, during an evacuation. It also lets in natural light, which not only creates a calmer atmosphere but can prove to be helpful in the case of a power outage.

The flight crew will ask that you lift the tray table during liftoff and touchdown to prevent excess injury in case of sudden deceleration or crash. It also keeps the path to the aisles clear if there is an evacuation.

These are, of course, all just safety precautions. The chance of a crash or evacuation is extremely low, but it is always best to be prepared.

Question 28

Why do I need to turn my mobile phone off?

Accepted Answer

While there is no concrete evidence that cell phones can cause interference with the airplane, airport regulations are still adamant that cell phones and other portable devices be turned off during flight to be safe. However, the most probable reason for this enforcement is that during a rapid deceleration or crash, cell phones and laptops can not only become hazardous debris but can prove to be a distraction during an evacuation. When flying, it is always best to turn all of your devices off and enjoy the quiet experience.

Question 29

Is it true that the oxygen level is lower in an airplane?

Accepted Answer

The rumor is that the pilots lower the level of oxygen in the cabin to keep passengers calm. This is nothing more than a superstition. Aircraft do not have separate compartments with different pressure controls, so that means that the pilot and crew are breathing the same air as you.

Question 30

What is turbulence and is it dangerous?

Accepted Answer

It is true that there is nothing scarier than hitting turbulence and being tossed about the cabin while flying many thousands of feet above the ground, but the occurrence is actually extremely normal. In fact, it is rare that turbulence will affect the plane in any way other than disturbing your comfort and giving your nerves a good jolt. When the pilot changes altitude, it isn’t because he or she is afraid for your safety, but only because he or she wants to ease your nerves and provide a smoother ride

During turbulence, you will be asked to remain in your seats and to put your seat belt on. This, however, is for your safety. Besides, if while sitting you feel like you are going to be seasick during turbulence, imagine the effect it would have on you while standing in the aisle?
If you want to alleviate some of the discomforts that normal turbulence can cause, the best place to sit is usually in the middle of the aircraft, over the wings.

Question 31

We are getting ready to touchdown, and suddenly the plane begins to climb again. Why?

Accepted Answer

Although not super common, this event can cause a lot of concern to passengers, but it isn’t something that should worry you. In most cases, it is just a traffic control issue or a missed approach, so the pilot maneuvers a "go around" to try again. It is understandable that this can be alarming when you don’t have any idea what is going on in the cockpit, but rest assured that the pilots have been trained well and have your well being in mind.
No amount of frequently asked questions will ease you of all your nervous discomfort when flying, but educating yourself beforehand of frequent flying events will give you some peace of mind. It is understandable that this can be alarming when you don’t have any idea what is going on in the cockpit, but rest assured that the pilots have been trained well and have your well-being in mind. Once your feet are solidly on the ground again, you will be surprised how comfortable flying can actually be.

Question 32

We have a long Airport layover - where can we find food, a drugstore and buy some gifts?

Accepted Answer

While smaller airports may only have a few basic eating facilities, and shopping may be limited to a newsstand and/or gift shop, larger airports have a smorgasbord of full-service restaurants, eateries, bars, snack bars, a grocer, and take-out food, as well as a highly diversified array of brand-name and discount stores offering everything you would find in a large department store. iFly.com offers you a listing by category, terminal location, name of the establishment, telephone, and hours of operation (as far as available). You also find a listing of duty-free shops. However, bear in mind that location and establishments are constantly shifting, as establishments come and go and ongoing airport construction may temporarily relocate some of them.

Question 33

What can I do while I have a Layover for a few hours or overnight?

Accepted Answer

You have several options, most of which depend on the time you will have available. One option would be to visit one of the airport restaurants and use the remaining time to browse the stores or take advantage of the services for families and individuals. However, if you plan to leave the Airport and return prior to your scheduled connecting flight, count in the traffic factor. The hour of the day when leaving from and returning to the airport is more of a factor than the distance, due to possible traffic congestion. Allow sufficient time to arrive back at the airport, through security check and to your gate.

If you decide to go sightseeing in town, either click on "Layover Ideas" at iFly.com, or stop by and get advice at the Airport's Tourist Information Bureau, or visit the City's site and click on Convention and Visitors Bureau. If you decide to stay overnight or for an extended time, the Airport's Information or Tourist Bureau will be happy to steer you in the right direction. You can also visit the on- or off-airport travel agencies and have them make your arrangements for accommodations and sightseeing, etc.

Question 34

What is an Airport Code?

Accepted Answer

Every airport has a unique three-letter identifier to streamline the process of tracking the millions of airport data transmitted daily from flight plans to weather reports.

Question 35

When should I arrive at the Airport?

Accepted Answer

Enhanced government-mandated security measures are in place at airports worldwide. The new measures require travelers to be aware of changes in baggage check-in and security screening. They also require extra travel time. Confirm your flight before leaving for the Airport and follow the Airline's recommendation as to arrival time at the passenger terminal. Peak travel periods (6:30 am-9 am for domestic, and 11 am-2 pm and 8 pm-11 pm for both domestic and international flights) require more time for the process of ticketing, baggage check-in, and security screening. Check traffic conditions and weather - so you can add in the extra time you may need to get to the Airport.

Question 36

Where can I wait for arriving passengers inside the Terminal?

Accepted Answer

Government aviation regulations now prohibit non-ticketed persons beyond passenger security screening at most airports worldwide (and all U.S. and Canadian airports). Please meet your arriving party in the terminal baggage claim area or at the terminal curbside. If you are picking up an unaccompanied minor, an elderly person or a person with special needs, contact their airline and they will try to accommodate you. You can also ask for a gate pass at the airline ticket counter, but there is no guarantee you will be issued one, or that security will allow you to pass.

Question 37

Can I pick up or drop my passenger at the curbside?

Accepted Answer

Almost always. The curbside drop-off is permitted, however, there is absolutely no waiting in front of the terminal. For passenger pick-up many airports have a free “cell phone waiting lot” or you can use the short-term parking lot.

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