I could use some help. Are there links or could you guys fill me in on the most recent flying rules? I haven't flown in years, I usually drive everywhere. My grandmother passed away and I have to fly tomorrow and I want to try to make it as painless as possible. Thanks.
Sad to hear about your gran. If it's not international, flying shouldn't be a big deal. When you call to book your ticket, let them know why you're flying. Airlines used to have bereavement rates and policies that gave you either a better fare, or a more flexible itinerary due to your circumstances. I don't know if that still holds -- my info is several years old...
The only real issue with flying is going through security. I think "officially" you are supposed to be there 2 hours beforehand. Most don't do that, though. An hour is usually enough. Not checking a bag in is typically easier, unless you don't mind waiting for your bag when you arrive and have a lot of stuff anyway. In that case, check it in (Continental I think no more than 50 pounds) and have less to worry about at security and on the plane. For security these days, you have to take off your shoes. You have to take out your computer. And you're supposed to pack your bathroom liquids no more than 3 or 4 oz per bottle, and then in a clear plastic bag, which you are supposed to take out. Honestly, I never take the bag out of my carry on, but I do put it near the top in case they make me. Otherwise, same as it's ever been. No metals and such and you are good to go. Oh, you need your picture ID to get through security. You can put it away after that.
Thanks guys. My grandmother lived a very long life and I am lucky to have had her in my life. Tell your loved ones what they mean to you.
American Airlines is what I fly all the time. You are allowed 2 carry ons one for under the seat the other for in the overhead storage. If you have a small bag with wheels place it in the storage on the LEFT side of the aircraft as you are walking down the aisle, that side is bigger and it allows for the carry on to go in wheels first. Try to be at the the head of your group so that you are sure to get your bag in storage. Also at AA.com you are allowed to make seat adjustments, if you are on the Super 80 or MD-80/3 which I assume you are....rows 20 and 21 are exit rows and have excellent leg room....the RIGHT side has only 2 rows, so no middle...either seat on that side is my preference if not in first class. They also offer bereavement fares, but you will need to get a copy of the death certificate at a later date to ger reimbursed. Regarding your change over in Dallas: They now have this train system inside of security which is awesome, it can get you from terminal to terminal in a hurry, use it with confidence if necessary. Also, try to arrive 1.5-2 hours before your flight. Good luck, and I hope this helps. DD
I think they still won't let you bring manicure scissors, nail clippers, small pocketknife. I don't know about razor blades.
I don't think AA offers bereavement fares any more. They did in 2000 when my grandfather died. They didn't in 2007 when my aunt died. Check here for carry on rules... TSA Carry On rules
You can check in online 24 hours in advance. IAH's security is fairly efficient. You can walk in no more than an hour early and still have time to eat before you board.
It's actually 3 oz. http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm I fly every other week for work so it's a pain in the butt sometimes to have these little mini things to take with you.
