Here are some (almost useless) airline tips:
What is Departure Time for a Flight: Is it the time the plane starts it's taxi to the runway? Is it the time the wheels lift from the ground? Nope, it is the time the door closes on the plane. Even if the door closes at 11:00 am for instance and the flight doesn't take off until 11:45, 11:00 is the departure time.
What is the Arrival Time for a Flight: Is the it time the wheels touch the ground? Nope, but you guessed it. It is calculated at the time the door is opened on the plane for passengers to depart.
Lifting the Armrest: Did you know that on most planes and on most coach seats (if they are not bulkhead or exit row) there is a little button or lever under the armrest near the back? If you press that button, you can lift up the armrest.
Buying an Empty Seat: If you don't want someone to sit next to you, an empty seat can be purchased. Think about it. Musicians do it all the time so they can put that expensive instrument next to them while flying. You can buy that seat too (or get in on award miles) to spread out a bit more. Usually, it can't be reserved online. We did this recently when two of us flew to a small group tour to Austria when we were sitting in a 3-across configuration. We bought the middle seat with award miles and had plenty of room to relax on the flight without paying for expensive Premium Economy or Business Class seats.
Meal Orders on American Airlines: On domestic flights flights flying from West to East the meal orders are taken front to back. On flights traveling East to West the meal orders are taken back to front. Is this really true? Check it out on your next flight.
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Professor Steve Solosky, The Traveling Professor, is the founder of Small Group Tours by The Traveling Professor, operating since 2009. A former college professor and author of The Traveling Professor’s Guide to Paris, Steve has planned and led small group tours throughout Europe, Canada, South America, and beyond. His travel expertise has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, WCBS Radio, and The New York Times Travel Show.
Each article is written or reviewed from the perspective of a working tour operator who plans real itineraries, works with local guides and hotels, and helps travelers prepare for successful small group trips.