Since almost everyone seems to dislike MIA, I thought it would be a good idea for some of us FTers to share some of our traveling tips when going in/out/thru MIA.

I fly in and out of MIA probably 10 or more times year. Unlike others, I've generally have very positive experiences in MIA (but I used to live there for 10 years and maybe I know what to expect - which isn't much).

In any event, I still love to fly into and out of MIA b/c it's such and exciting place. I started following the airport back in the mid 1990's when I was going to graduate school at UM. I remember when they broke ground for the A terminal and now can't wait for the new AA terminal to completed! In addition, they just finished adding a new runway, they have their intermodal center going up SLOWLY, plans continue for and east-west Metro-rail project thru the airport, and they're building a new *A terminal.

Here are a few things I've learned to do when at MIA.

1) I ALWAYS try to minimize contact with airport employees.

2) Use internet check-in or Kiosks, the check-in lines are almost alway too long (esp. F/C) and many people traveling through MIA are bringing goods/"biggest bags I've ever seen" bags or "everything but the kitchen sink" bags.

3) Present my PLT card to security agent with photo ID and ask discretely for Elite security line.

4) I just about strip when going through the metal detectors ... some of the most sensitive in the U.S. IMHO.

5) Always identify myself to the gate agent when listed for an upgrade. This is usually done by asking her/him to confirm that I actually AM on the list and giving them my PLT card with my name instead of telling them my name.

6) Don't expect much from ACs or AC staff. Don't get me wrong, E terminal is nice but becoming more inconveinent, D is closed and B is very small. Will have to wait until new terminal is completed.

7) 90% of the time you'll always have better luck dealing with the gate agents directly if you want something for the flight.

8) If you're stuck or in a jam, don't be afraid to ask for something you want or make suggestions on how to resolve a problem.

Insert story here - One morning I was bumped from an MIA-DFW flight on my way MIA-DFW-ORD-MKE. It was during spring break and all of the remaining ORD and DFW flights were oversold too. Instead of accepting a flight the next day, I suggested a MIA-LAX-ORD-MKE routing since it was the same number of segments (OH THE BEAUTIFUL MILES ) ... guess what happpend! ......... The gate agent laughed at me, said no way and overbooked me in F on the next flight to ORD.

9) Last but not least, I try NEVER to check bags. You can always buy it, wash it, or mail it!

Feel free to add any additional tips!

Oh yeah, always leave enough time to buy a lottery ticket and a colada (sp?)

[This message has been edited by crAAzy (edited Nov 17, 2003).]