Vital tips for domestic air travellers this season

December 19, 2012 by Okechukwu Nnodim Leave a Comment

Biztoon Wednesday, December 19, 2012.
| credits:

Domestic air traffic usually increases during the Christmas and New Year celebrations. As a result, passengers must be smart in their dealings with airlines and airports personnel, Okechukwu Nnodim writes

Another characteristic of the Yuletide is the increase in the number of travellers. This is not out of place in any way, transporters say. They note that most individuals seize the opportunity to visit their loved ones in states far away from where they are based. The airports, especially, domestic terminals are often crowded with passengers, as many scramble for air tickets, while others either wait for or board their flights. Passengers should understand that before embarking on any trip, they must be subjected to some checks at the airport. This takes time; hence, the traveller must be at the airport early, otherwise, he may be denied entry to the aircraft.

Experts in the aviation industry say the rules for travel are changing rapidly, and every airline has different regulations. They note that it is important to check with your airline when you make your reservation and again, right before you fly, to check for hidden fees and new rules of what can go onboard with you, and what needs to go in the luggage compartment. Below are some basic tips that will guide you while travelling this season, according to experts:

Book flight two days before your programme

If you are to attend a programme in a state far away from your base, it is important you book your flight two days before the date of the programme. According to a renowned aviation expert and former President, National Cabin Crew Association, Mr. Olumide Ohunayo, it might be tough to get a flight scheduled for your destination on the date of the programme. If there is a flight, its ticket cost will be highly expensive considering the rush this season. So, passengers are advised to book early if they must catch a flight for their scheduled programmes this season. “Passengers should book for flights two days before a programme to ensure alternate plans are used when necessary,” he says.

Group travel should be booked very early

Airlines take advantage of the rush associated with the Yuletide. “This is business; we all know that the higher the demand of any service, the higher the price,” says a flight attendant at the Murtala Muhammed Airport 2, Lagos, who simply identifies herself as Amara. She notes that large families wishing to travel this season should book their tickets early enough, “otherwise they will pay more.” Ohunayo notes that the group travels should be booked far ahead and you should ensure reconfirmation is made before the departure date. To avoid making things difficult for you and your family, always start early and you will be glad you did.

Avoid airport touts and unsolicited services

Ohunayo says airport touts may increase the cost of travel if you employ their services. He notes that they should be avoided and advises that you shun unsolicited services from illegal flight attendants. According to experts, unsuspecting passengers may lose their belongings to touts who are often seen around the airports posing as airline personnel. Passengers should ensure they make vital flight arrangements early with their airline before coming to the airport. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria often times arrest touts and illegal airport attendants, but this has not stopped the inflow of miscreants, experts say.

Hold extra cash for excess luggage

In our piece on guidelines for air travellers, it was stated that first time flyers should not put too many things inside their luggage, especially things that may get the attention of airport security personnel. According to experts, if you carry too much items then it will take much longer to get past the security check since they check if you are carrying deadly weapons or unauthorised items. As for your carry-on bag, bring only the necessary items like your passport, ticket, identification cards, credit cards, and medications, experts say. However, many air passengers travel with much luggage during the Yuletide. Experts advise that individuals who travel with lots of baggage should carry along extra cash to make payments for such items.

Check in on time

This is one of the most important air travel guideline which travellers must take note of. According to experts, international air travel guidelines is that passengers go to the airport at least two hours before their flights so as to have enough time to put all travel documents, passport, and tickets in order. Make sure you check the flight schedule from time to time so that you won’t miss the final call. Also, listen attentively to announcements made in the airport to avoid missing your flight. Don’t forget to check your luggage for the last time if you have what you need. If anything goes wrong, you still have enough time to check in with plenty of time to take a cup of coffee and relax.

Understand how to check-in you luggage

Carry valuable items such as electronic equipment, cameras, film, cash, medication, prescriptions and keys with you on board the aircraft. Place your name and address on the outside of your baggage. Nametags are available at all airport baggage check-in locations. Experts recommend that you place your name and address on the inside of your bag. Be sure to inform airline staff of your final destination if you are connecting so that your baggage will be checked to your final destination. Claim your baggage immediately upon arrival at your destination. Be aware of what items are restricted to be in checked baggage. If you are not sure, review the list of items permitted and prohibited stated on the airline’s website or on the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority’s website.