As inclement weather leaves travellers stranded at airports all over Europe and disrupts flight connections all over the world, Prince George appears so far immune.
"No delays as a result of their weather. We have more than enough of our own weather for that," said Westjet Airlines spokesman Robert Palmer.
Air Canada's transatlantic connections have been severely impacted by Europe's snowfalls, but the path of stranded Christmas travellers has not led to B.C.'s northern capital, yet.
"Any isolated delays we are seeing here are to do with weather at downline stations, but the ones we have had issues with are minor and not as far away as Europe," said Prince George Airport (YXS) spokesman Todd Doherty on Tuesday.
"I was speaking with Air Canada only five minutes ago, they are noticing that people here are making other arrangements for their flights out, they are looking after their loved ones in other ways if they are coming in, so everyone here seems to be making due in a situation beyond anyone's control."
Doherty said he had heard stories about local people who just got in or out the day before the storms hit England and continental Europe, but no horror stories of anyone currently stranded at Heathrow, Gatwick, Frankfurt, or any of the other stalled air centres.
"I spend most of my life in airports, and you know, I still enjoy being in that setting. If you just relax and take it all as it comes, it usually leads to a much more enjoyable experience when things do go wrong," he said.
Each company has different business philosophies about how to look after delayed customers, he said.
YXS is not prepared with blankets or pillows or other commuter camping supplies if something ever caused the flights to halt, said Doherty. But Prince George is close enough that planeloads of people could be brought to local hotels, if required, and that would be co-ordinated through each airline.
The Citizen would like to speak with anyone from the local area who has been affected by the flight disruption. Call 250 562-2441 or email [email protected] with your story.
Todd's Tips
Holiday air travel will happen best if you...
- Arrive early, to adapt to any delays or lineups;
- Give yourself lots of extra time to check bags and go through security;
- Research road conditions as well as airline schedules before leaving;
- Do not wrap seasonal gifts ahead of time unless you check them through with luggage. If you attempt to bring them in your carry-on bags they might be opened by security;
- Be well aware of your airline's rules regarding luggage size and weight;
- During the holiday travel spell, YXS provides free coffee and hot chocolate in the post-security lounge, so you can go clear security in ample time and relax in the waiting area with a warm refreshment until your flight is called.
- Relax. Be patient. Delays are almost always caused by things beyond the control of anyone in the airport, so keep an open disposition if you want to reduce your own stress while travelling.
