Need Advice for First-time Flyers
Jun 13, 2018, 10:48 am
#16
Join Date: Jul 2017
Location: PHL
Programs: AAdvantage EXP
Posts: 67
For such a long flight (relatively speaking) check the aircraft type for them. If they are tech savvy and plane has power outlets, then download app for IFE. (and power bank if no outlets). If not, then pack a book and earplugs. Newbies are often amazed at how noisy a plane can be or how bored you will get with nothing to do even if everything is “new experience” and you have a companion to chat up.
Jun 13, 2018, 5:31 pm
#17
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jun 2005
Posts: 38,411
I'd recommend that they not be afraid to tell the FAs that it's their very first time flying. It's relatively rare for people in their 60s to have never flown, and I'm betting at least one FA will be intrigued and help them through all the little questions on board. They might even do a PDB. 
If an Airbus, you can tell them that the plane may shake a bit on takeoff, but that's normal just before the landing gear comes up. (On a Boeing, this isn't an issue, but I have had seatmates raise their eyebrows over the shaking that can occur on Airbii.)
If an Airbus, you can tell them that the plane may shake a bit on takeoff, but that's normal just before the landing gear comes up. (On a Boeing, this isn't an issue, but I have had seatmates raise their eyebrows over the shaking that can occur on Airbii.)
Jun 14, 2018, 4:48 pm
#18
Original Poster
Join Date: Sep 2017
Location: Orcas Island, Washington
Programs: Amtrak Guest Rewards Select, Maika'i Card
Posts: 257
We could have had them connect with a flight from a closer airport, but thought that might be too much for a first flight. It also puts them on a bigger, more comfortable plane.
Jun 14, 2018, 6:58 pm
#19
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Jul 2010
Programs: AA
Posts: 14,741
Jun 14, 2018, 7:48 pm
#20
Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: USA
Programs: SA Air, Air Canada, KLM, BA,Lufthansa, United, AA, Hawaiian, Air New Zealnd, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic
Posts: 777
My first thought is.... are you familiar with the airports they will be in, and their ability to handle them physically?
Again, with airports, are they likely to be overwhelmed with the size, number of terminals, how to move between terminals, etc.
The website for the airline they will be traveling with should give them information on baggage, carryons, etc. in addition to TSA's website. Maybe have them do some reading on Flyertalk if you think that would interest them.
Again, with airports, are they likely to be overwhelmed with the size, number of terminals, how to move between terminals, etc.
The website for the airline they will be traveling with should give them information on baggage, carryons, etc. in addition to TSA's website. Maybe have them do some reading on Flyertalk if you think that would interest them.
Jun 14, 2018, 8:18 pm
#22
Original Poster
Join Date: Sep 2017
Location: Orcas Island, Washington
Programs: Amtrak Guest Rewards Select, Maika'i Card
Posts: 257
Yes, they're excited! Just the concept of a vacation is new to them!
Jun 14, 2018, 8:44 pm
#23
Join Date: Jun 2010
Location: USA
Programs: SA Air, Air Canada, KLM, BA,Lufthansa, United, AA, Hawaiian, Air New Zealnd, Qantas, Virgin Atlantic
Posts: 777
Neither my wife nor I are extensively familiar with CLT or SEA, but I don't really know how much more to tell them than to follow the signs. I think it is a good idea for them to identify themselves as first-time flyers to airline and TSA staff. Physically, they shouldn't have any problems.
Yes, they're excited! Just the concept of a vacation is new to them!
Yes, they're excited! Just the concept of a vacation is new to them!
Last edited by Jeannietx; Jun 14, 2018 at 8:44 pm Reason: spelling
Jun 17, 2018, 12:31 pm
#24
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Seattle
Programs: AS MM, MVPGold100k, Hilton Diamond, Hertz Presidents Circle
Posts: 1,475
Explain the process to them, from checking in online prior as much as 24 hours in advance, arrival at the airport (which terminal and how to find that info), checking their bags, and heading to heading to security. Have them look for TSA Precheck on their boarding passes and explain what that will mean (which line to go through, what to remove from carry on etc) I would also echo those that say stay near the gate, depending on how early they are there. I tend to tell my family to be at the gate itself at 15-20 minutes before boarding (not departure!) so that they are not waiting for a bill at a restaurant when they should be at the gate. For first time flyers the airport itself can be fun - walking around and seeing all the shops, restaurants, and people, but remind them that gates can change, and to not only check the monitors but also check the gate itself. At SEA the main monitors are updated by the Port of Seattle not the airlines themselves and can often have the wrong gate information, but the monitors at each gate does have the latest info.
For the return trip out of SEA, AA flies mostly out of the D gates, which are best accessed through checkpoints 4 or 5 -north checkpoints, both precheck only or 3 main terminal no precheck. SEA changes things often due to cruise season and construction but lately it has been this way.
For the return trip out of SEA, AA flies mostly out of the D gates, which are best accessed through checkpoints 4 or 5 -north checkpoints, both precheck only or 3 main terminal no precheck. SEA changes things often due to cruise season and construction but lately it has been this way.