Check early and often
IN THE CITY
Today, there are more options than ever before to obtain travel information.
People are now able to avoid showing up at the airport only to discover that the flight their family member is on has been delayed. For the savvy traveler, today’s technology also allows the consumer to check ticket pricing whenever and wherever they wish. Traditional sources of obtaining travel information, such as your local travel agent, are still available. The value of the local travel agent for convenience and the peace of mind of working with a person face-to-face cannot be overstated.
The internet has opened up vast opportunities to obtain current flight information. For example, on the Pen Air website (www.penair.com), information on the current status of every Pen Air flight can be obtained. By knowing the approximate time the flight is arriving or departing Presque Isle, the flight number and current status can be identified.
More sophisticated sources of information include flight trackers. By using a flight tracker service, the exact location of the aircraft en route to or from Presque Isle can be determined. One such service is available free of charge by going to www.flightaware.com. This service shows the aircraft superimposed on a map covering the area from Boston to Presque Isle.
The internet has also given the consumer access to powerful tools for selecting a flight. Some air travelers are interested in getting the lowest price possible. For example, if travel and departure dates are flexible, several of the online tools can do a search between Presque Isle and most destinations based on price only. The search will give the consumer several prices based on departure and return dates. A little flexibility here can result in big savings.
These powerful tools also enable the consumer to check prices as often as they wish. The airline industry is very volatile and prices can change dramatically. However, to get the big savings the consumer has to be flexible with his or her travel plans. Finding the lowest price possible really does require checking pricing as early as possible before the trip and checking them often.
For those wanting a convenient travel planning experience with the personal touch, local travel agents have the experience necessary to help the air traveler put together a trip. Many consumers like the security of working with a local travel agent. Let’s face it, taking a vacation requires an investment in time and money so you don’t want it to be a disaster. Travel agents have the experience necessary to help the air traveler avoid some of the pitfalls associated with today’s airline industry and traveling to a new destination. They can take the time to determine what you want.
A typical travel agent has been to many different vacation destinations and can provide valuable guidance in selecting one for you. An online service cannot help you assess whether a particular destination will be enjoyable to you. When a flight is cancelled or delayed, an online service cannot help you get rebooked and get your vacation back on track but a travel agent can.
In conclusion, there are several outlets for air travel information. Each has its strengths. The key is to know and understand the sources available and to use them to maximize your travel experience.
Scott Wardwell is airport director for the city of Presque Isle’s Northern Maine Regional Airport. He can be reached at 764-2550 or via email at scottw@flypresqueisle.com.
