Hi, I've been a frequent viewer of this great board but just now have a good reason to get involved. I'm interested in learning about the flight diversion procedure for the airlines.

I hope this is the right place for this question!

I recentely had an experience where our flight was diverted from the intended destination (Monterey, CA) to Fresno, CA. This isn't that far away 3 hours +/- but the thing is there are three closer international airports that service this airline (US Airways). I am curious why they would choose Fresno over other airports that are much closer.

I have looked into the FAA alternate rules and it seems to discuss only that the alternate airports must meet the weather requiremetns. I know our original flight was diverted from Monterey due to fog but I am positive there was no fog or weather problem in San Jose.

My gut feeling is that US Airways flew us to Fresno because it was easier for THEM, and not for their customers.

Is there any way to figure out why they took us to Fresno?

Thanks so much!

JH