Flying Smarter: Air Travel Explained

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We have to take a week off unfortunately, but we’re revisiting Episode 8 instead of skipping this week altogether! Flying Smarter will be back with an all-new Episode on September 9th.

This episode is special because it doesn’t follow the normal episode format. Andrew spends the entire episode chatting with airline pilot Owen Zupp about turbulence and what you need to know about it. Topics discussed in this episode include:

Turbulence makes some passengers a bit nervous and there can be some discomfort in the cabin when a plane hits some rough air. But what happens in the flight deck when a flight encounters turbulence? Learn all about it in this episode.
Should passengers be worried about turbulence breaking the wings off a plane or sending the aircraft into a dive? Andrew asks Owen about some worst-case scenarios that passengers might consider.
There are lots of ways that pilots can anticipate, avoid, and remove planes from turbulence, but we sometimes hear of incidents of severe turbulence causing injuries. Owen explains how these types of scenarios usually happen and how you can keep yourself safe onboard.

Owen Zupp is an airline pilot an awarding-winning author. You can check out his work on his website at www.owenzupp.com. There you can find various articles that he’s written, as well as details on his books and how you can get them. You can also find him on his YouTube channel and on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter.

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Andrew starts this episode by talking about aircraft painting and secret crew rest areas. The main segment for this episode features Michael Taylor from data analytics and consumer insights firm J.D. Power.

How often do aircraft get repainted? And why is the process so important? Find out more in this episode. Plus, did you know that some airliners have hidden crew rest areas?
Michael Taylor is the Senior Managing Director, Travel, Hospitality, Retail and Customer Service at data analytics and consumer insights firm J.D. Power. He joins Andrew to talk about the drivers of passenger satisfaction in the air travel experience. From personal and friendly service to clean bathrooms, Mike provides insight on what travelers care about the most.
J. D. Power produces the annual North American Airline Satisfaction Survey and Mike shares the results in this episode. Find out which airlines did the best and what the key findings were.

Michael Taylor is the Senior Managing Director, Travel, Hospitality, Retail and Customer Service at data analytics and consumer insights firm J.D. Power. Mike is responsible for providing industry thought leadership and advice to the company’s clients in the airline and airport segment, and has worked with a whole host of airlines and airports across North America and around the world to measure and manage customer satisfaction and loyalty. J.D. Power conducts the annual North American Airline Satisfaction study: Learn More Here

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In this episode, Andrew starts by looking at why airlines and aircraft sometimes struggle in hot temperatures. Then he explores five unique air travel experiences.

Why do planes have trouble taking off in hot temperatures? The answer has to do with science. Learn more about why this happens and what airlines and travelers can do about it.
From a “milk run” through the rugged Alaska wilderness to sipping champagne in your own private suite with a bathroom and bedroom, there are lots of special experiences in the world of air travel. As a follow-up to Episode 31, Andrew looks at five of these unique journeys.
When you fly with certain airlines, you don’t have to go through the typical airport processes. Andrew talks about how there are no security lines or crowded terminals with helicopter airlines and public charters.

Materials mentioned in this episode:

I flew on a major airline’s Pokémon-themed plane. The unforgettable experience didn’t cost extra — and it came with souvenirs. (Business Insider)

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This episode contains the second part of our conversation with Joelle Cuvelier from global travel technology company Amadeus. Plus, Andrew takes a look at whether a plane can fly with only one engine.

Can a plane fly with only one engine? Most commercial aircraft today have two engines, but what happens if there is an engine failure? Find out in this episode.
We continue our interview with Joelle Cuvelier, Senior Vice President of Customer Success Management at global travel technology company Amadeus. In this episode, she discusses the exciting technological developments in the air travel world.
The airport experience can be stressful and unpleasant. But there is a movement towards frictionless travel to help remove pain points in our travels. From biometrics to artificial intelligence to wayfinding technology, Joelle shares what is being done to improve our air travel journeys.

Joelle Cuvelier is the Senior Vice President of Customer Success Management at Amadeus, a global travel technology company that provides solutions for airlines, hotels, travel agencies, and other travel businesses. Joelle started her career as a check-in agent and issued the first paper ticket produced by Amadeus. After working in various roles throughout the industry, she rejoined Amadeus in 2013 and has been with the company ever since. Learn more about Amadeus: Website | Facebook | X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram

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In this episode, Andrew starts off by talking about mileage runs. Then for the main segment, he looks at tools that you can use to find flight deals and cheap flights.

What is a mileage run and should you consider doing one for airline status or for points and miles? Learn more about this tactic in this episode.
Finding an inexpensive flight is often a goal for travelers. And there are lots of tools and resources out there to help us find cheap flights. In this episode, Andrew talks about the features of these different tools, exploring the pros and cons, and sharing some general insights.
Google Flights is a powerful tool with a lot of great features. Andrew talks about some of his favorites, and also takes a look at other websites and services that you can use to find flight deals.

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Andrew starts this episode by talking about some exciting innovations in the onboard experience. The main segment for this episode features Joelle Cuvelier from travel technology company Amadeus.

Last week was the 2024 edition of the annual Aircraft Interiors Expo, and there were some exciting announcements at the event. From a high-tech business class suite to an all-business class turboprop, Andrew shares some highlights.
Did you know that there’s one state that has been without scheduled air service for roughly 20 out of the last 35 years? Learn more in this episode.
Joelle Cuvelier is the Senior Vice President of Customer Success Management at global travel technology company Amadeus. She joins Andrew to discuss the business of travel selling, talking about what goes on behind the scenes when you search for flight options and buy a ticket, how travel selling will evolve in the coming years, and much more.

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In this episode, Andrew starts by looking at how you can get your Global Entry or NEXUS membership revoked. Then he explores Tokyo’s two international airports, looking at what you need to know about each of the facilities.

A listener sent in a question asking how your Global Entry can be revoked. Learn about the different ways that this can end up happening.
Japan is a hot travel destination, and Tokyo’s two airports are the gateway for most international travelers. In this episode, we delve into what you need to know about Tokyo Haneda Airport versus Narita International Airport.
From observation decks to shower rooms, Tokyo’s airports have so much to offer. Andrew takes a look at some of the amenities available at each of the two airports.

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Travel Plans with Fernando Pinho
Join pilot and adventurer Fernando Pinho as he takes you on journeys to discover...
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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In this episode, former flight attendant Ally Murphy joins Andrew to share fascinating stories and lessons from the skies. But first, Andrew talks about requalifying for elite status.

How does requalifying for elite status in an airline’s loyalty program work? Different airlines have different requirements, with some making it easier for existing status holders to requalify. Learn more in this episode.
Ally Murphy is a former flight attendant turned voice actress and podcaster. She joins Andrew to talk about everything ranging from cautionary tales, to frightening experiences, to bad passenger habits and air travel tips.
Not all interesting inflight stories are bad though, and Ally also covers one of her best memories from her time as cabin crew. Ally also shares some of her best tips for flying with children, based on her experiences as a flight attendant and as a mother.

Ally Murphy is a podcast host and former flight attendant who worked in the industry for fourteen years. Ally started as a cabin crew member with Virgin Atlantic in 2002 and worked her way up to the position of Cabin Supervisor. She is now a voice actor and the host of The Red Eye, a storytelling podcast that came about when she realized that cabin crew have a lifetime of stories from their days of flying around the world. The Red Eye tells stories from the sky, covering everything from life-changing stories of love to unbelievable stories of passenger interactions. You can learn more about Ally on her website and on social media (Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) | LinkedIn). You can find The Red Eye on all major podcast platforms, on the podcast website, and on social media (Instagram | X (Twitter)).

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In this episode, Andrew starts off by talking about the longest domestic flights in the world. Then for the main segment, he looks at airline loyalty program status.

There are domestic flights out there that are over ten hours long. And the longest regularly scheduled flight ever was a domestic route. Learn more in this episode.
What is airline status and how does it work? How have frequent flyer programs evolved? And what are the benefits? Andrew addresses these questions and much more in this episode’s main segment.
In addition to covering how earning and benefits work with airline loyalty program status, this episode also looks at whether or not it’s worth chasing status and what the business rationale is for airlines when it comes to offering status.

For more air travel content, check out the Insights section of the Flying Smarter website!

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This episode starts by looking at why you shouldn’t inflate your life jacket until you are about to leave the aircraft. Andrew then talks with Edmond Huot about airline design and branding.

Why are we told not to inflate our life jackets until we are about to exit the plane? There are some important reasons that could mean the difference between life or death. Learn more in this episode.
An airline once planned to charge passengers to use the onboard toilets. Find out more about the carrier that wanted to install coin-operated lavatories on their aircraft.
Forward Studio Chief Creative Officer and aviation geek Edmond Huot joins Andrew to talk about what it takes to design an airline brand. They talk about the creative process, the relation between branding and the passenger experience, examples of projects that Edmond has worked on, and much more.

Edmond Huot is the Chief Creative Officer and founding partner at digital marketing agency Forward Media and their airline branding and public relations agency, Forward Studio. The company’s clients have included airlines like Canada Jetlines and New Pacific Airlines, as well as other transportation companies, insurance businesses, and professional and financial services. Edmond has more than 25 years of progressive experience in the advertising and digital media space and also harbors a lifelong passion for aviation. You can learn more about Forward Studio and their airline branding and public relations agency Forward Studio on their website and social media pages: Forward Media | Forward Studio | LinkedIn (Forward Media) | LinkedIn (Forward Studio) | Instagram | X (Twitter) | Vimeo

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In this episode, Andrew starts by looking at whether you can get your expired points and miles back. Then he talks about aviation safety, looking at recent incidents and news as well as the bigger historical picture.

If your points and miles are expired, can you get them back? Learn more about reinstating your points in this episode.
There has been a lot of negative press around commercial aviation safety, and it seems like the number of incidents has increased. What’s going on and should we be concerned? Andrew delves into the recent developments in aviation safety.
Has flying gotten safer or more dangerous over time? This episode also explores aviation safety more broadly, looking at historical trends and developments.

Here are the Andrew’s two appearances on other podcasts mentioned in this episode:

Non-Rev Lounge (Episode 167, March 2024): Apple Podcasts | Spotify
Had To Be There (Episode 52, February 2023): Apple Podcasts | Spotify

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This episode features the second part of Andrew’s chat with aircraft maintenance engineer and professor Brian Bermudez. Plus, he looks at whether your points and miles will expire.

Do your points and miles expire? If you’re collecting airline loyalty points, you will want to know the answer to this question. With some loyalty programs, the points never expire, but others have expiration policies and ways to prevent your points from expiring. Find out more in this episode.
Andrew continues his discussion with Brian Bermudez, an aircraft maintenance technician and professor of aviation maintenance. In this episode, Brian talks about how maintenance operations keep track of parts and ensure the rights ones are used, what it takes to be an “A&P” and much more.
Did you know that an aircraft can fly with multiple items that don’t work? Andrew and Brian discuss the concept of deferred items, the minimum equipment list, and the redundancies and technological improvements in aircraft design and maintenance.

Brian Bermudez is an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer and a Professor of Aviation Maintenance. Having worked for two major US airlines as an Aircraft Maintenance Technician, he now teaches aviation maintenance and runs CraftoftheAir, an aviation maintenance initiative involving multiple aspects like consulting and tutoring. Brian also hosts the CotACasT, an aviation podcast where he explores various facets of maintenance and brings his experiences and knowledge to listeners who share his enthusiasm for this field. You can learn more about Brian, his work, and his podcast at www.craftoftheair.com and on social media: Instagram | LinkedIn | X (Twitter)

Looking for the post about where you can find airline snacks? Check it out on the Insights section of the Flying Smarter website by clicking here.

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Andrew starts this episode by talking about airline flight numbers. The main segment for this episode features aircraft maintenance technician and professor Brian Bermudez.

How do flight numbers get assigned? It depends, but there are some common practices and conventions. Learn more about how airlines choose their flight numbers in this episode.
Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Brian Bermudez joins Andrew in this episode to dive into the world of aviation maintenance. He talks about what’s going on when you see maintenance engineers boarding your flight, the most common reasons that maintenance puts your aircraft out of service, and much more.
What parts of a plane can an aircraft maintenance technician work on? Do they specialize in certain parts of the plane? How often do aircraft go in for maintenance? How does maintenance work at outstations? Brian takes us behind the scenes of airline maintenance operations.

Brian Bermudez is an Aircraft Maintenance Technician and a Professor of Aviation Maintenance. Having worked for two major US airlines as an Aircraft Maintenance Technician, he now teaches aviation maintenance and runs CraftoftheAir, an aviation maintenance initiative involving multiple aspects like consulting and tutoring. Brian also hosts the CotACasT, an aviation podcast where he explores various facets of maintenance and brings his experiences and knowledge to listeners who share his enthusiasm for this field. You can learn more about Brian, his work, and his podcast at www.craftoftheair.com and on social media: Instagram | LinkedIn | X (Twitter)

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In this episode, Andrew starts off by talking about what the different cabin class names mean. Then he looks at round-the-world tickets and how you can take a trip around the globe.

Club World, Delta One, Signature Class, and Mint. These are all names of airlines’ lie-flat business class products. What’s with all the different names? What does the term first class really mean? Andrew unpacks it all at the beginning of this episode.
There’s something special about circumnavigating the world in a single trip. And airline alliances offer you the ability to book a round-the-world itinerary on a single ticket. Andrew looks at the Star Alliance and oneworld round-the-world ticket options.
What if you want to book your own itinerary to go around the planet? This episode looks at your other circumnavigation options as well, comparing the different ways in which you can book a round-the-world ticket and talking about how you can save money to find the cheapest option.

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This episode starts by looking at why involuntary downgrades happen and what to do if you get involuntary downgraded. Andrew then talks to airline captain Doug Morris about aviation weather and how it affects your flight.

Nobody likes purchasing a premium cabin ticket and then being downgraded to a worse seat. Why might this happen and what should you do if it does? Find out more in this episode.
Doug Morris joins Andrew to talk about aviation weather, drawing from his experiences and expertise as an airline captain and as a meteorologist. He talks about the most common misconception about weather, the differences between aviation products worldwide, and much more.
Extreme and unusual weather phenomenon undoubtedly make passengers nervous. Doug and Andrew talk about some different ones, ranging from thunderstorms to low visibility and winds. Plus, Andrew asks Doug what weather phenomena make pilots nervous.

Doug Morris is a Boeing 787 Dreamliner captain for Air Canada. He is also a certified meteorologist and worked as a weather forecaster for four years during his early pilot days. He is a longtime teacher of aviation weather to new and aspiring pilots and is the author of four books and a blog. His latest book, titled This is Your Captain Speaking, draws from his extensive experiences and goes through the A to Z of airline travel with a bit of humor, covering things ranging from whether airliners have keys to what aircrew get up to on layovers to how to become a pilot. Longtime Air Canada flyers will also recognize him as the author of the aviation page in Air Canada’s enRoute magazine for over two decades. You can find Doug on his blog and on LinkedIn and Instagram.

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Andrew starts this episode by talking about how much airliners weigh and important takeaways from recent aviation incidents. Then he looks at the international organizations that exist to keep the world of air travel functioning seamlessly.

It’s no secret that the aircraft that we fly on are massive, but how much do they actually weigh? Andrew delves into aircraft weights to give you an idea of how heavy the objects that we fly on are.
Did you know that Gibraltar International Airport has a road that intersects the runway? Yes, you can walk or drive right across the runway!
How do pilots safely operate all around the world? How do bags transfer seamlessly across airlines and airports? The answers to these questions show how we have created a miraculous system of standards and practices that keep global aviation functioning. The main segment of this episode delves into the international organizations that makes this interconnectedness possible.

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In this episode, Andrew starts by looking at how you can fly on the world’s largest airliner – the Airbus A380 – these days. The main segment features Expedia travel expert Christie Hudson who is here to share data-driven air hacks and travel trends.

Have you ever wanted to fly on the Airbus A380? Nicknamed the superjumbo, it’s the largest passenger aircraft ever built. Find out more about where the A380 currently flies in this episode and then check out Episode 26 for more about this engineering marvel.
Christie Hudson shares data-driven tips and trends from Expedia’s air travel hacks. She reveals the cheapest days to book a flight and to fly and how far in advance to book to get a good deal.
What are some trending destinations for air travel (and travel more broadly) in 2024? Christie shares the findings of Expedia’s 2024 travel trends report. From “set-jetting” to “dupe” destinations, tune in to this episode for lots of travel data and inspiration.

Christie Hudson is a travel expert, data correspondent and Head of PR for Expedia US. She is a pro at turning travel data into tips and advice to help travelers get the most out of their travels. You can find Expedia’s latest Air Travel Hacks and Travel Trends reports online (links provided to the United States versions).

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This is the second part of our 2023 year-in-review. Our guests from throughout the year are sharing their travel tips and insights in a series of previously unaired clips.

What are some essential items to pack according to a flight attendant? Episode 30 guest Lara Ketterman shares her thoughts. What is the Southwest Companion Pass? Episode 36/37 guest Kendyl Grender talks about this great budget travel tool. In this episode, you’ll hear from five of our 2023 guests.
Have you ever wondered where Flying Smarter’s listeners are located? Or what the most popular episodes have been? Andrew pulls back the curtain to share some behind-the-scenes statistics and insights.
In celebration of the holiday season and 50 episodes of Flying Smarter, we are holding a giveaway for a Flying Smarter luggage tag and a $100 gift card for the airline of the winner’s choice! Enter on our Instagram page throughout the month of December. Plus, check out the Insights section of the Flying Smarter for stories from Andrew’s travels, articles about air travel, and more.

Our 2023 guests featured in this episode:

Dave Grossman – founder of MilesTalk and creator of Your Best Credit Cards (Episodes 27 and 28): Facebook (group and page) | Instagram | (X) (Twitter)
Lara Ketterman – flight attendant and Non-Rev Lounge podcast co-host (Episode 30): Lara: X (Twitter) and Instagram |Non-Rev Lounge: X (Twitter) and Instagram
Mark Ross-Smith – loyalty expert and CEO of Loyalty Status Co (Episode 32): LinkedIn
Kendyl Grender – budget travel blogger, travel hacker and content creator (Episodes 36 and 37): Instagram |www.kendyltravels.com | Southwest Companion Pass Trick: Earn it Quickly! | How I’m Earning the Southwest Companion Pass
Tyler Crook – ramp agent and Non-Rev Lounge podcast co-host (Episode 47): Tyler: Instagram and X (Twitter) |Non-Rev Lounge: X (Twitter) and Instagram

Thank you for a fantastic year! Flying Smarter will be back with an episode on travel hacks and trends on January 1, 2024.

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Flying Smarter is celebrating 50 episodes! This episode contains some special announcements as well as the first part of our 2023 year-in-review.

What training do flight attendants get for dealing with panicked passengers? Former flight attendant and Episode 45 guest Carrie Bradley answers this question in this episode. Air traffic controller Andy Watson shares a story about Air Force Two. In this episode, you will find unaired clips from some of our amazing 2023 guests.
In celebration of Episode 50 of the podcast and the holiday season, we are holding a giveaway for a Flying Smarter luggage tag and a $100 gift card for the airline of the winner’s choice! Enter on our Instagram page throughout the month of December. Plus, check out the Insights section of the Flying Smarter for stories from Andrew’s travels, articles about air travel, and more.
Thank you to all our listeners and friends for your ongoing support. Flying Smarter has grown tremendously over the past 50 episodes and it’s all thanks to our wonderful listeners.

Our 2023 guests featured in this episode:

Andy Watson – air traffic controller and author of The Pilot’s Guide to Air Traffic Control (Episode 39): www.atcandy.com
Joey Gerardi – aviation writer, photographer, video producer (Episode 42): AirlineGeeks | X (Twitter) | Instagram | YouTube
Carrie Bradley – family travel expert, founder/editor of Flying with a Baby, former flight attendant (Episode 45): www.flyingwithababy.com | Facebook | Instagram | X (Twitter).
Ganesh Sitaraman – law professor and author of Why Flying is Miserable and How to Fix It (Episode 49): www.ganeshsitaraman.com | X (Twitter)

The next episode of Flying Smarter will be the second part of our 2023 year-in-review. It will feature travel tips from the rest of our guests from this year, so stay tuned!

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Andrew starts this episode by talking about why we board and deplane from the left side of the aircraft. Afterwards, the main segment of this episode features law professor Ganesh Sitaraman, who joins Andrew to talk about why flying is miserable and what we can do about it from a regulatory perspective.

In the last episode, we talked a lot about boarding. One question that came up is why we always board and disembark on the left side. Learn more in this episode.
Did you know that there are some airlines that don’t fly on Christmas Day? The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year for the air travel industry, but some airlines don’t fly on December 25th itself.
In the main segment of this episode, law professor Ganesh Sitaraman shares his insights about airline regulation and deregulation in the United States. From delays and cancellations to poor service, there’s no shortage of reasons why flying isn’t always fun. Ganesh brings a regulatory perspective to the podcast, looking at the impacts of deregulation on the travel experience today, what potential changes in the regulatory regime could look like, and much more.

Ganesh Sitaraman is a law professor at Vanderbilt University and the director of the Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator for Political Economy and Regulation. He teaches and writes about constitutional law, the regulatory state, economic policy, democracy, and foreign affairs and is the author of numerous books. In addition, he is a member of the Federal Aviation Administration’s Commercial Space Transportation Advisory Committee. His latest book, Why Flying is Miserable and How to Fix It, offers insight into the state of air travel in the United States from a regulatory perspective. You can learn more about Ganesh and his work and books on his website and find him on X (Twitter) .

The next episode of Flying Smarter is Episode 50 and we have some things announcements planned, including a giveaway. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast and follow Flying Smarter on social media so that you don’t miss anything!

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In this episode, Andrew starts off by talking about whether you can sleep overnight in an airport terminal. Then he looks at the different ways we board and deplane our flights.

Can you sleep overnight in an airport terminal? The answer depends on where you are and there are a lot of factors at play. Some airports have facilities to help travelers nap, while others close overnight. Learn more in this episode.
Some airlines allow you to bring skiing and snowboarding equipment on the plane for free, above your regular checked baggage allowance. As winter approaches, Andrew takes a look at airlines that are particularly friendly towards winter sports.
What is the most efficient way of boarding an aircraft? Airlines have a lot of different options. This main segment delves into the different options for boarding, comparing their efficiency and talking about why they are or aren’t used. Plus, Andrew looks at the physical methods that we use for getting on and off aircraft. Jetways are the most common, but there are some other ones out there as well.

Other material mentioned in this episode:

Sleeping in Airports – A website with tips, advice and guides for sleeping in airports around the world.
Optimal Boarding Method for Airline Passengers – Jason Steffen’s 2008 study on boarding methods.
Comparative Study of Aircraft Boarding Strategies Using Cellular Discrete Event Simulation – Shafagh Jafer and Wei Mi’s 2021 boarding methods study.
The Better Boarding Method Airlines Won’t Use – CGP Grey’s video on boarding methods.

Episode 50 of Flying Smarter is coming up soon and we have some exciting announcements planned. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast and follow Flying Smarter on social media so that you don’t miss anything!

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This episode starts by looking at how to ensure that you are within your baggage allowances so that you avoid surprise fees at the airport. Andrew then talks to ramp agent Tyler Crook to get a look at what goes on outside your plane on the airport ramp.

Have you ever been surprised by extra bags fees at the airport? Or have you had a carry on that is allowed on one airline but doesn’t fit in the bag sizer for another airline? Learn about baggage allowances and how to find them in this episode.
Tyler Crook talks about life on the airport ramp in this episode of Flying Smarter. He chats with Andrew about different parts of the job, interesting cargo that he has handled, how ramp agents ensure that aircraft don’t hit each other, and much more.
There’s always a small risk of your checked bag getting lost or damaged. However, there are some simple things that you can do to help avoid damage to your bag and to help the airline reunite you with your bag if it gets lost. In this episode, Tyler shares insider tips and advice about your baggage.

Tyler Crook has worked as a ramp agent for a major airline in the United States for over a decade and a half. He is one of the co-hosts of Non-Rev Lounge, a travel and aviation podcast. In addition to being a ramp worker, he is an avid traveler and aviation photographer. You can find Tyler on Instagram and X (Twitter). Non-Rev Lounge is also on Instagram and X (Twitter) and you can find the show wherever you listen to podcasts.

Episode 50 of Flying Smarter is coming up soon and we have some fun surprises planned. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast and follow Flying Smarter on social media so that you don’t miss anything!

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In this episode, Andrew starts off by talking about where airliners are assembled. Then he looks at schedule changes and how to deal with them.

The planes that we fly are on are huge and aircraft manufacturers therefore have massive facilities to produce them. Find out where these aircraft assembly facilities are located around the world.
Did you know that Lufthansa has a series of collectible rubber ducks? You don’t have to take a bath to get one, but you do have to be part of a very exclusive group of travelers. Learn more in this episode.
Schedule changes can be annoying and stressful. Whether they happen in advance of your travels or on the day of your flight, they can create problems for your travel plans. In this episode, we explore what you can do about them. Join us as Andrew looks at various tips and tricks to handling changes to your flights.

Do you have a particularly nasty schedule change story? Or have you encountered a delay or cancellation that ended up working out in your favor? Andrew would love to hear your story. Reach out on social media or on our website!

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Andrew starts this episode by talking about airline seat map websites. The main segment for this episode features family travel expert and former flight attendant Carrie Bradley.

Where can you find airline seat maps? The ones provided by the airlines often don’t have much information. Learn about third-party websites that provide valuable details about the plane that you’re flying on.
Some airports allow visitors to access their post-security areas without a boarding pass? Find about airports that allow airside access to non-passengers, allowing them to spend more time with family and friends, enjoy airport shops and restaurants or surprise an arriving passenger.
Carrie Bradley joins Andrew as this episode’s guest. She is the owner and editor of Flying With a Baby, a website dedicated to helping parents fly with young children. Carrie talks about everything from booking considerations to packing and special baggage allowances to how to handle crying babies (both as a parent and fellow passenger).

Carrie Bradley is a family travel expert and former flight attendant who runs the family travel site Flying With a Baby. The website covers all aspects of family travel, including family holiday destination guides, hotel and airline reviews and comparisons, as well as attractions and trip plans. There are also tons of resources and tips for family vacations, flying and travel in general. She previously worked as a flight attendant and her and her work with family travel has been featured in media outlets like USA Today and the BBC. You can find Carrie and Flying with a Baby at www.flyingwithababy.com as well as on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter or X.

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In this episode, Andrew starts off by talking about why airplane cabins are so dry and what you can do about it. Then he looks at the lasting impacts of the 9/11 attacks on air travel today.

Why do aircraft cabins feel so dry? If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re not wrong. Find out why this is the case and what you can do about it in this episode.
This episode has been released on September 11 and it is fitting to talk about the 9/11 attacks and its impacts on aviation. Andrew starts off by recapping the event and its immediate aftermath, before looking at longer term effects on air travel.
There once was a time where family and friends could accompany passengers to the gate and children could visit the cockpit in flight. This episode looks at how the September 11 attacks changed aviation forever. We also explore some of the subsequent developments in airport security that weren’t directly the result of the attack but were implemented in a post-9/11 context.

Other material mentioned in this episode:

Zero Hour: A History of 9/11 – This is a narrative nonfiction limited podcast series that looks back on the people and events that led to the September 11 terror attacks and their consequences.
9/11 Memorial & Museum – Located at the World Trade Center site in New York City, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum remembers and honors the 2,983 people killed in the horrific attacks of September 11 and those who risked their lives to save others.
Come from Away – This heartwarming musical tells the story of the 7,000 passengers who ended up stranded in a small town of Newfoundland, Canada as a result of the 9/11 attacks.
Talking About Trusted Traveler Programs – Episode 41 of Flying Smarter covers TSA PreCheck, including what it is, what the benefits are and how you can get it. Learn more about how to skip the line at airport security and get expedited screening.

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Andrew starts by talking about why fares are so cheap in Europe when compared to North America. Then, the main segment for this episode looks at how you can avoid getting bumped from your flight.

Why are fares in Europe cheaper than those in North America? It comes down to a bunch of factors, including geography and government legislation. Learn more in this episode.
Flying Smarter’s 50th episode is coming up in December! We have some exciting things planned so be sure to tune in and follow us on social media so you don’t miss anything.
Getting bumped, also known as being involuntarily denied boarding, can be incredibly frustrating. But there are some things that you can do to help you avoid this fate. Andrew lays out some tips and looks at how airlines determine which passengers are the most and least likely to get bumped.

If you’re enjoying Flying Smarter, please take a minute to leave a five-star review for the podcast if you’re listening on a platform that allows you to do so like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Goodpods. It helps the grow the podcast and convince guests to come on the show and we would greatly appreciate it!

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This episode of Flying Smarter starts off by talking about Real ID and which plane has lavatories on the cargo hold level. Aviation writer and video producer Joey Gerardi then joins Andrew to talk about the United States Essential Air Service.

In the last episode of Flying Smarter, we covered trusted traveler programs including Global Entry. A listener brought up a great point about another use for Global Entry cards, and we explore this more in this episode.
Joey Gerardi is an aviation writer, photographer and video producer with an expertise in the Essential Air Service (EAS) and regional flying. He joins Andrew to discuss the EAS, covering what it is, how it works, how it keeps small communities connected and much more.
There are some interesting EAS routes and experiences out there, from planes with six feet of legroom to flying straight to the doorstep of Yellowstone National Park. Joey talks about all this and more in this episode.

Joey Gerardi is an aviation writer, photographer and videographer. He is a writer at AirlineGeeks, an aviation news site, and has a special interest in the Essential Air Service and regional flying in the United States. Joey documents and shares his travels through photography and video production. He is also an airline employee and holds a degree in aviation operations and management. You can find him at AirlineGeeks and on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

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In this episode, Andrew starts off by talking about the future of jumbo jets. Then he looks at trusted traveler programs that can help you save time at the airport.

The Airbus A380 and Boeing 747 are both out of production, so what is the future of jumbo jets? Listen to what Andrew has to say in response to this listener question.
Want to save time going through airport security? This episode looks at two programs that can help you expedite your security screening process. Learn more about TSA PreCheck and CLEAR in this episode, including how they work, how to apply and the differences between the two.
Another stressful part of the airport experience that can take up lots of time is customs and immigration processing. This episode also covers some programs that can make your border control experience smoother.

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Andrew starts by talking about whether or not you should build your own connection. Then, the main segment for this episode looks at the airports of New York City.

Should you book connecting flights on two separate tickets? This is a practice that could save you money when booking your flight but also comes with substantial risks. This episode takes a look at why building your own connection might not be a good idea and how you can do it safely and effectively.
Some airline pilots in the United States board each flight with a loaded firearm. They’re federally trained law enforcement agents that are armed to protect against terrorism. Find out more in this episode.
New York City is massive and is appropriately home to three major airports. In the main segment of this episode, Andrew explores the three airports, looking at airlines and destinations, ground transportation and the facilities and amenities available at each airport.

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This episode starts by looking at which planes have an upper deck. Andrew then talks with air traffic controller Andy Watson to get an inside look at what goes on inside the world of air traffic control.

Have you ever seen a double-decker aircraft? Or have you ever been on one? Find out how to tell what they are in this episode.
Andy Watson shares insights from his experiences as an air traffic controller in this episode of Flying Smarter. He talks about who your pilots talk to throughout your flight, where air traffic controllers work, and much more.
What happens from the perspective of air traffic control during an emergency? Why is bad weather so challenging for air traffic controllers? Andy provides a look behind the scenes of this important aspect of the global aviation system.

Andy Watson is an air traffic controller, pilot, author, and public speaker. He has worked as an Air Traffic Control Specialist and Front-Line Manager at several Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) facilities in places such as Cleveland, Chicago, Charleston, and Washington D.C. He has also served as a subject matter expert for the FAA’s Air Traffic Safety Oversight branch at FAA Headquarters in Washington, D.C. He is the author of the book The Pilot’s Guide to Air Traffic Control, which helps pilots and passengers gain a better understanding of all that ATC does to keep the flying public safe. You can learn more about Andy and his book at www.atcandy.com.

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In this episode, Andrew talks about why flights often don’t divert to the nearest airport. For the main segment, he looks at the story of the infamous Boeing 737 MAX.

Why do flights sometimes divert to an airport that hours away? Doesn’t make it the most sense to land at the nearest airport? There are lots of considerations that go into diversions. Learn more in this episode.
Did you know some airline seats have a massage function? Andrew talks about this unique feature found on some airlines.
The Boeing 737 MAX is loved by airlines for its increased fuel efficiency, but the general public tends to know the name because of two tragic crashes and a subsequent worldwide grounding. This episode looks at the story of the Boeing 737 MAX, covering what happened, what’s changed since and what it means for travelers.

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This episode has the second part of a two-part discussion about travel hacking and budget travel with Kendyl Grender. In this episode, Andrew continues his talk with her, covering points and miles, how budget travel can include luxury experiences, and more. Plus, he looks at airplane age.

How old is the plane that you’re flying on? How do you find out? And does it even matter? Learn all about it in this episode.
Wouldn’t it be cool to use your wireless Bluetooth headphones with your seatback entertainment? You actually can on some airlines! Find out more in this episode.
Andrew continues his conversation with Kendyl Grender, a budget traveler and travel hacker who has saved tens of thousands of dollars in travel over the years. Kendyl talks about her approach to collecting points and miles, how budget travel can involve high end and luxury experiences, and how you can make your airport experience more pleasant and enjoyable.

Kendyl Grender is a full-time travel blogger, travel hacker and content creator. She has saved tens of thousands of dollars on travel over the years and spent a month in Europe last year for a third of what it should have cost. She offers tons of resources to help travelers save money, from guides to coaching sessions. Kendyl recently launched Stacking Academy, a course focused on helping you use stacking to make sure you don’t miss out on earning points and miles. You can find Kendyl on Instagram and at www.kendyltravels.com.

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Treasures of our Town
An exciting new travel podcast that explores towns in USA
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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Andrew starts this episode by talking about birds in airport terminals. The main segment for this episode is the first part of a conversation with Kendyl Grender, a budget traveler and creator of Kendyl Travels.

Have you ever seen a bird flying around the interior of an airport terminal? Learn about why this is fairly common and what airports do about it.
Andrew talks with Kendyl Grender, a budget traveler and travel hacker who has saved tens of thousands of dollars in travel over the years. In this episode, they talk about finding cheap fares, tools and resources for finding and booking flights, and much more.
Should you book with points or cash for a particular flight? What does it mean to use a positioning flight? Kendyl talks about all this and much more in this episode.

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In this episode, Andrew talks about an essential piece of airport infrastructure: runways. Plus, he looks at airline codes.

In Episode 33, we covered airline codes. But what about airline codes? Learn more in this episode.
Did you know that there’s a secretive US government airline that flies people to places like Area 51? Find out about this airline in this episode.
Runways play a critical role in your air travel experience. Without them, your plane isn’t going anywhere. This episode takes a look at runways, helping you better understand this key piece of aviation infrastructure.

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Andrew starts by talking about why flight deck doors are often open during boarding. The main segment for this episode features previously unaired clips from our 2022 guests.

If you board through the front door of an aircraft, you may have noticed that you can often catch a glimpse of the cockpit through the open flight deck door. Why is this door open? Find out in this episode.
Our guests have a wealth of knowledge from their travel and work experiences that extend beyond the topic of each interview. We also sometimes have to edit interviews to shorten them. This episode features “deleted scenes” from 2022, in which our guests share tips, stories and insights.
What happens in the flight deck when a passenger has a medical emergency inflight? How safe is it to fly with pets? Hear what our guests have to say.

From Episode 18 - How Pilots are Trained: Greg Krino is a pilot with a major US airline who was previously a fighter pilot in the US Air Force. You can find Greg’s podcast, The Greg Krino Show, on your podcast app and at www.gregkrino.com. You can also find him on Facebook and Instagram.

From Episode 20 – Bringing Pets to the Sky: Gayle Martz is a pet travel expert and former flight attendant who revolutionized how pets travel. If you want to learn more about Gayle’s story, the SHERPA bag and her two books visit www.gaylemartz.com. You can also find her on Facebook and on Instagram.

From Episode 22 – Taking the Skies Less Traveled: Michael Hilliard is a conflict journalist whose work has taken him on flights to unique destinations all over the world. He is the founder and host of the geopolitics podcast The Red Line. You can also find Michael on Twitter and The Red Line on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Andrew starts by talking about one of the aspects of flying that causes the most nervousness: turbulence. Then, the main segment for this episode looks at airport codes.

Should we be afraid of turbulence? While turbulence can be nerve-wracking even for frequent flyers, there isn’t all that much to be worried about. Learn more in this episode and check out Andrew’s chat with airline pilot Owen Zupp about turbulence in Episode 8 for more.
JFK, LHR, SYD – these airport codes clearly represent New York’s JFK Airport, London Heathrow, and Sydney Airport. But these airports also have the codes of KJFK, EGLL, and YSSY. Why is this, what are these codes used for, and what do they mean? Find out more in this episode.
Did you know that there’s a single airport with three airport codes? Andrew talks about where this unique airport is located and why it has so many codes.

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Places I Remember with Lea Lane
Award-winning writer shares travel memories, tips w/ savvy travelers. Smart, lively, fun!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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This episode starts by looking at why you have to put your seat back and tray table up before landing. Andrew then talks with StatusMatch CEO and former airline loyalty program head Mark Ross-Smith about airline loyalty programs.

Why do you have to put your seat back and tray table up before landing? It’s all about safety. Learn more in this episode.
Mark Ross-Smith brings his wealth of knowledge and experience with airline loyalty programs to this episode of Flying Smarter. He talks with Andrew about how the airline loyalty business works, why airline loyalty programs can be worth more than the airlines themselves, and much more.
What are the trends and challenges with loyalty programs these days? What are some of the top programs out there? Mark shares valuable insights, tips, and advice for travelers when it comes to airline loyalty.

Mark Ross-Smith is the CEO of StatusMatch, which creates customer acquisition technology for airlines while helping travellers enjoy the full potential of their loyalty and status. He is also the Editor of Travel Data Daily, a resource for loyalty program owners including airlines, hotels and other industry professionals. He was previously the head of Malaysia Airlines’ Enrich Loyalty Program, where he managed the program to the most successful point in the history of the airline. You can find Mark on LinkedIn.

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Places I Remember with Lea Lane
Award-winning writer shares travel memories, tips w/ savvy travelers. Smart, lively, fun!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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In this episode, Andrew starts off by talking about the dirtiest parts of a plane. Then he explores five unique air travel experiences, sharing some of the most interesting offerings out there.

What are the dirtiest parts of a plane? Is it the lavatory or is it closer to where you’re sitting? Find out more in this episode.
Did you know that there’s an airline that allows you to shower in flight? What’s it like and how does it work? Andrew explores onboard showers in this episode.
How does Southwest Airlines’ open seating policy work? What is the Island Hopper route? There are so many fascinating experiences in the world of air travel and this episode takes a close look at a few of them.

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Places I Remember with Lea Lane
Award-winning writer shares travel memories, tips w/ savvy travelers. Smart, lively, fun!
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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This episode of Flying Smarter starts off by looking at why some window seats are missing a window. Flight attendant Lara Ketterman then joins Andrew to provide a behind-the-scenes look at long-haul flying.

Why are some window seats missing the window? This can be frustrating for those who choose a window seat to look outside. Learn more in this episode.
Lara Ketterman is a flight attendant with a major US airline. In this episode, she talks about long-haul flying from a flight attendant’s perspective, covering things from crew scheduling to what flight attendants get up to during long flights.
Have you ever wondered about people getting frisky in the aircraft lavatory? Or are you curious about what pilots and flight attendants eat on board? Lara talks about all this and more in this episode.

Lara Ketterman is a Phoenix-based flight attendant with a major US airline. She is one of the co-hosts of Non-Rev Lounge, an airline employee travel and aviation podcast. She has flown all over the world and has a wealth of airline and travel experience. She also writes for an online travel magazine called Travel Awaits. You can find Lara on Twitter and Instagram. Non-Rev Lounge is also on Twitter and Instagram and you can find the show wherever you listen to podcasts.

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In this episode, Andrew talks about the dreaded problem of flight delays. Plus, he looks at runway incursions.

What is a runway incursion? Runway incursions pose a risk to aviation safety but there are systems in place to prevent them. Learn more in this episode.
Did you know that one airline has installed hands-free lavatory doors? There’s no doubt that lavatory door handles are covered in germs and one airline has a solution.
Perhaps one of the most frustrating things that can happen during air travel is a flight delay. In this episode, Andrew explores some of the most common reasons that your flight could be delayed and then talks about what you can do when your flight is delayed.

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This episode has the second part of a two-part interview about points and miles with MilesTalk founder and editor Dave Grossman. In this episode, Andrew continues his talk with him, covering credit cards, memorable redemptions, and more. Plus, he looks at why your plane might look like it has duct tape on it.

Have you ever seen duct tape on a plane and gotten worried? Airlines don’t actually use the household product to repair their aircraft. Find out more in this episode.
Did you know that some airlines have rear-facing seats? In this episode, learn more about how you could end up facing the back of the plane.
Andrew continues his conversation with Dave Grossman, the founder and editor of points and miles website MilesTalk. In this episode, Dave talks about finding the right credit cards, addressing concerns on how credit cards affect your credit score and how to use them responsibly, some of his most memorable redemptions, and more.

Dave Grossman is the founder of MilesTalk, a website with the latest on how to best earn and spend credit card rewards, frequent flyer miles, and hotel points. As part of MilesTalk, he has also created a resource called Your Best Credit Cards which is designed to give consumers a data-driven answer to the question of which credit card is best for them. He has run seminars at South by Southwest and the New York Times Travel Show and is also the author of the book MilesTalk: Live Your Wildest Travel Dreams Using Miles and Points. You can find Dave and MilesTalk on Facebook (group and page), Instagram, and Twitter.

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Andrew starts by talking about what airport slots are and how they can affect your flight. The main segment for this episode is the first part of an interview with Dave Grossman, the founder of points and miles website MilesTalk.

You’re sitting at the gate on a delayed flight and your captain makes an announcement saying that your flight has missed its departure slot. What is this all about? Learn all about how airport slots work and what they mean for your journey.
With some airlines, a portion of your itinerary could be operated by a bus or train. Find out how your “flight” could actually be a trip on the ground.
Andrew talks with Dave Grossman, the founder and editor of MilesTalk, a website that is dedicated to helping people learn more about airline miles, credit card points, and other rewards programs. In this episode, Dave talks about the importance of building a points and miles strategy, some of the things to consider when doing so, how to determine whether a particular redemption is a good one, and much more.

Dave Grossman is the founder of MilesTalk, a website with the latest on how to best earn and spend credit card rewards, frequent flyer miles, and hotel points. As part of MilesTalk, he has also created a resource called Your Best Credit Cards which is designed to give consumers a data-driven answer to the question of which credit card is best for them. He has run seminars at South by Southwest and the New York Times Travel Show and has been quoted in countless publications. He is also the author of the book MilesTalk: Live Your Wildest Travel Dreams Using Miles and Points. You can find Dave and MilesTalk on Facebook (group and page), Instagram, and Twitter.

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In this episode, Andrew starts by talking about what it means if you have SSSS printed on your boarding pass. Then, he looks at the Airbus A380, also known as the super jumbo.

What does it mean if you have the letters SSSS printed on your boarding pass? It’s not something you want to see. Find out more in this episode.
The A380 is the world’s largest passenger plane, with a maximum capacity of over 850 passengers. It’s brought things never seen before in the world of air travel. In this episode, Andrew explores this mammoth aircraft.
In the main segment for this episode, Andrew shares the story of the Airbus A380, going over how it brought wonder and new possibilities, what it meant for passengers, how its production came to an abrupt but somewhat predictable end, and how you can fly on an Airbus A380 today.

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This episode starts by looking at the busiest days of year for air travel. Andrew then talks with therapist and retired airline captain Tom Bunn about addressing a fear of flying.

What are the busiest days of the year for air travel? The answer actually depends on where you are in the world. Learn more in this episode.
Did you know that some airlines now offer grab and go lounge concepts? Find out which airlines have this offering.
Tom Bunn is a licensed therapist, retired airline captain and ex-United States Air Force fighter pilot. He has spent decades helping people address their fears and anxiety surrounding flying. He joins Andrew to talk about the causes behind a fear of flying, how to address fears and anxieties around flying, how you can help those around you, and much more.

Tom Bunn is the President and founder of SOAR, which has helped over 10,000 fearful fliers control anxiety, panic, and claustrophobia when flying. He is also the author of the award-winning book Panic Free: The 10-Day Program to End Panic, Anxiety, and Claustrophobia. You can learn more about Tom, his book, and SOAR’s fear of flying program at www.fearofflying.com.

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This is the second part of a two-part series on seat selection. In this episode, Andrew talks more about seat selection, providing helpful advice, tips and warnings. Plus, he looks at why LaGuardia Airport in New York has such a bad reputation.

New York’s LaGuardia Airport has had a horrible reputation for years. It has been described as horrible and even “third world” by travelers and public figures alike. Why is this the case and why might this reputation be a thing of the past?
Even within an airline, the seating products out there can vary greatly. For example, your seat may or may not have a seatback personal entertainment screen. Or your business class seat may be a recliner seat or a lie-flat suite. There are tools that you can use to find out more about the specific seat that you’ll be flying on. Find out more in this episode.
Did you know that there are ways that you can learn more about desirable and undesirable seats on your flight? Or that seating assignments and selections aren’t guaranteed? Join Andrew as he shares more advice about seat selection.

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Andrew starts by talking about border preclearance and the world’s longest flights. The main segment for this episode is the first part of a two-part series on seat selection.

What is border preclearance? These arrangements between countries allow passengers to clear border processes before departure on an international flight. Learn about the implications and benefits for travelers.
Would you spend almost 19 hours on a plane? There are some really long flights out there and we cover some of them in this episode. Plus, find about the world record for the longest flight ever (hint: it was more than two months long!)
Where you sit on a plane can have a big impact on your air travel experience. Whether you are looking to avoid the middle seat, sit with your travel companion, or save money, there are a lot of things to consider when it comes to seat selection. In the first part of a two-part series on seat selection, Andrew talks about whether you should pay for seat selection, how you can save on fees, how seat type can be a consideration when booking flights and more.

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In this episode, Andrew answers the question of why you can’t board a flight after the gate closes even if the plane is still sitting there. He then chats with Michael Hilliard, a conflict journalist who has travelled to many unconventional destinations around the world, gaining unique experiences and insights on air travel.

Why can’t you board a flight after the gate closes even if the aircraft is still sitting at the gate? The answer involves a bunch of different factors involving aircraft, airline, and airport operations. Find out more in this episode.
What’s it like flying to airports that see very few foreign travelers? How do you fly to a conflict zone? Andrew talks to conflict journalist and podcast host Michael Hillard about his fascinating air travel experiences.
Michael has travelled to many uncommon destinations that are hard to access, having reported from places like Iran, Belarus, and Russia. Listen as he provides travel tips, his thoughts on flight safety, and much more.

Michael Hilliard is a conflict journalist with extensive air travel experience around the world. His work has taken him to places ranging from Iran, to Kyrgyzstan, to Belarus and Russia and he has worked with governments, think tanks, and other organizations across the globe. He is the founder and host of The Red Line, a geopolitics podcast that brings together three guests to tell a key story each episode. You can also find Michael on Twitter and The Red Line on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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In this episode, Andrew starts off by talking about departure and arrival times as well as North Korea’s airline. Then he talks about three important safety features that all happen to be yellow, looking at how they work and what you need to know.

What do departure and arrival times actually mean? Do they refer to your gate departure and arrival times, takeoff and landing times or something else? The answer to this isn’t all that simple. Learn more in this episode.
Did you know that North Korean has an airline? This episode talks about Air Koryo, North Korea’s state-owned airline. Find out about its history, where it flies and much more.
Oxygen masks, life jackets and life rafts – these are three yellow safety features that you probably know from the safety demonstration but haven’t thought much of beyond that. In this episode’s main segment, Andrew breaks down why they’re needed, how they work, and what you need to know about them.

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This episode starts by discussing invitation-only airline loyalty tiers and the difference between non-stop and direct flights. Andrew then chats with former flight attendant and pet travel expert Gayle Martz about bringing pets into airline cabins.

Some airlines have special tiers in their loyalty programs for their highest spenders and most influential customers. We take a look at some examples of these loyalty tiers and the special benefits that come with them.
What is the difference between a non-stop and a direct flight? While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, there is a difference. Find out more in this episode.
Gayle Martz was a TWA Hostess (now known as a flight attendant) when she embarked on a journey to change the way that pets fly. Her hard work led to the introduction of the first airline-approved soft-sided pet carrier in the world. For this episode’s main segment, she is here to share her insights and advice on bringing your dog or cat on a plane.

If you want to learn more about Gayle’s story and the SHERPA bag, visit www.gaylemartz.com. There, you can also find information on her two books, No Pet Left Behind: The SHERPA Guide for Traveling with Your Best Friend and IT’S IN THE BAG: How to Turn a Passion into a New Business. You can also find her on Facebook and on Instagram @gaylemartz.

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In this episode, Andrew answers questions about how airlines determine their scheduled flying times and why they pad their schedules. Then, he dives into the past and future of supersonic air travel.

How do airlines determine flying times for their schedules? It’s a little bit more complicated than doing a calculation with the aircraft speed and route distance. Learn more in this episode.
Why do airlines sometimes pad their schedules by adding extra time to flying times? Andrew discusses how this practice works and why airlines do it.
Travelers were once able to cross the Atlantic in under four hours while flying faster than the speed of sound. However, that’s no longer possible today. This episode’s main segment explores how we were once able to jet around in supersonic airplanes, why we no longer have that option, and what the future holds for supersonic flight.

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This episode of Flying Smarter starts off by looking at why you have to take your shoes off when going through airport security in the US. Airline pilot Greg Krino then comes onto the podcast to talk about how pilots are trained.

Why do passengers have to remove their shoes when going through airport security in the United States? This requirement only exists in a few countries and has been in place in the US since 2006. Learn more in this episode.
Passengers put a lot of trust in the training and experience of their pilots. Greg Krino is a pilot with a major US airline who was previously a fighter pilot in the US Air Force. In this episode, Greg Krino shares his insights on pilot training, starting by talking about his experiences from learning to fly in the Air Force.
Greg then shares what pilots go through when they first arrive at a major airline, including what flying with passengers for the first time feels like. Finally, he covers what type of ongoing training an airline pilot has throughout their career.

To listen to Greg’s full account of his US Air Force flight training journey, visit our website: www.flyingsmarter.com/episode-18

You can find Greg’s podcast, The Greg Krino Show, on your podcast app and at www.gregkrino.com. You can also find him on Facebook and Instagram.

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In this episode, Andrew starts off by answering the question of why some airplane window shades are “upside down” and retract downwards. Then he talks about who is actually operating your flight by exploring airline partnerships and what it means for travelers.

Why do some airplane window shades retract downwards instead of upwards? Find out in this episode and keep an eye out for it on your next flight.
In today’s complicated world of air travel, we often book flights with one airline when the flight is actually operated by another one. This happens because of airline partnerships. Andrew talks about the different types of partnerships and how to tell who will actually be operating your flight.
It’s important to know who is actually operating your airline as it has implications on your journey and experience. This episode’s main segment helps you prepare.

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In this episode, Andrew starts off by talking about the return of Flying Smarter before diving into what happens to uneaten airline food. Then he looks at the hectic world of air travel in the summer of 2022.

What happens to food at the end of a flight? While some of it can be saved for later, many perishables end up being thrown out. However, some airlines are coming up with ways to reduce food waste.
Did you know that you can listen to live air traffic communications on some United Airlines flights? Learn more in this episode.
For this episode’s main segment, we talk about how this summer has been a stressful time to fly. Andrew looks at how you prepare yourself and maximize your chances of having a smooth experience. Even if you are listening to this episode well into the future, there are lots of tips that are helpful even in normal times.

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This is a unique episode because it doesn’t follow the normal episode format. Andrew spends the entire episode chatting with flight attendant Jennel Senior about cabin safety. Topics discussed in this episode include:

Passengers often don’t pay attention to the safety demonstration. How much of it do we actually need to know? Why do we have to store bags under the seat in front of us or put our own mask before helping our child? Learn all about it in this episode.
What do flight attendants do if passengers get violent or there’s a bomb threat? What if someone is about to give birth on a flight? Andrew asks Jennel about some bad scenarios that passengers might worry about.
Why do cabin lights get dimmed for takeoff and landing? What happens if you get stuck in the lavatory? Hear the answers to these and much more.

Jennel Senior is a flight attendant with a major North American airline. You can find her blog at www.jaayfearless.com and follow her on Instagram at @jaayfearless.

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This episode starts by covering why airliners don’t have parachutes for passengers. Then, learn about how airports make money, who owns them, and why it matters to travelers.

Why don’t airlines carry parachutes for their passengers? Parachutes are expensive and heavy, but the reasons go way beyond that. Find out why air travelers don’t get parachutes and what would happen if you parachuted from an airliner.
Did you know that UPS once operated a passenger air service? For a few years, UPS converted cargo planes to passenger jets every weekend. Learn more in this episode.
When we’re flying, we don’t really care about who owns or runs an airport. However, these are factors that can have a major impact on your airport experience. Andrew discusses airport money-making, ownership, and what it means for you.

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In this episode, Andrew answers the question of which airline in the world is the safest. He then chats with Gary Arndt, an award-winning travel blogger and writer who has travelled to over 130 countries.

What is the safest airline in the world? Some airlines have better safety reputations than others, but does this really matter? Find out more in this episode.
What’s it like flying around small Pacific islands? Or taking a small plane up to a fly-in only area in northern Canada? Andrew talks to world traveler Gary Arndt about some of his most unique air travel stories.
Air travel is what connects the globe. Gary Arndt has flown all around the world, visiting over 130 countries. In this episode, he shares his wisdom, experiences, and insights on air travel.

Gary Arndt is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. He has flown all over the world and has travelled to over 130 countries. His blog, Everything Everywhere, features stories about travel, history and much more. He also writes and produces a daily podcast called Everything Everywhere Daily which covers stories about people, places, and things from around the world. Plus, he is the co-host of This Week in Travel, an award-winning weekly podcast that covers travel industry news. You can also find him on social media on Instagram and Twitter.

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In this episode, Andrew starts off by answering questions about how planes avoid mid-air collisions and why airlines overbook flights. Then he talks about how you can get upgraded on your next flight.

How do planes avoid colliding in the air? Mid-air collisions do happen, but there are a bunch of different safeguards put in place to prevent these unfortunate incidents. Learn more in this episode.
Why do airlines overbook flights? It might seem like an unethical and nonsensical practice, but there may be a good reason why airlines do it. This episode explores why overbooking happens.
For this episode’s main segment, we explore how you can increase your chances of getting upgraded on your next flight. While it’s harder to get a free upgrade than it was in the past, there are still things you can do to help your chances.

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This special episode of Flying Smarter looks at the top five non-pandemic air travel stories of 2020. There’s no doubt that it has been a rough year for the aviation industry. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on air travel, and news headlines have been filled with how the pandemic has impacted aviation.

But it hasn’t all been bad news and there have been some other exciting things going on in the industry. In this year-end episode of the podcast, Andrew discusses five interesting and significant pieces of air travel news from 2020. From a new airline with huge potential to a policy change that could save travelers hundreds of dollars, these stories could have impacts for travelers for years to come.

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This episode of Flying Smarter starts off by looking at whether or not airplane doors can be opened inflight. Travel writers Felice and Peter Hardy then come onto the podcast talk about flying and skiing.

Is it possible to open an airplane door during your flight? We’ve seen scary scenes of this happening in movies, but the reality is quite different. Learn more in this episode.
What’s the largest airline in the world? There’s a different ways to measure airline size, but this episode answers this question based on the number of passengers carried.
As winter arrives and the ski season in the norther part of the world draws near, avid skiers and travel writers Felice and Peter Hardy come to the show to talk about flying and skiing. Andrew chats with them about everything from flying with ski equipment, to some of their more memorable winter flying experiences.

Peter and Felice Hardy are travel writers and avid skiers based in the United Kingdom. They host their own travel podcast called ActionPacked Travel and are co-editors of the ski website Welove2ski. You can also find them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Some of the ski resorts mentioned in this episode are Val d'Isere in France, Kitzbuhel in Austria, Champoluc in Italy, Zermatt in Switzerland, Baqueira Beret in Spain, Whistler in British Columbia, Canada, and Jackson Hole in Wyoming, USA.

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This episode starts by answering questions about soft versus hard shell luggage and the difference between pilots, co-pilots, first officers, and captains. Andrew then takes a look at why the Boeing 787, also known as the Dreamliner, has won the hearts of airlines and passengers alike.

Should I use hard shell or soft shell luggage? There are advantages and drawbacks to both and this episode begins by comparing the two types to help you decide.
What is the difference between a pilot, copilot, first officer, and captain? These terms get thrown around a lot in air travel. Learn what the difference is between the different types of people flying your plane.
Long-haul flying can be rough. It can be tiring: you’re stuck on a cramped plane with dry, stale air, and you might have a lot of connections. There’s a revolutionary plane out there that tries to change all this though, and that is the Boeing 787, also known as the Dreamliner. For this episode’s main segment, Andrew explores what makes this aircraft so special.

As you know, the first part of each episode of the podcast is based on questions submitted by listeners or that I’ve had in the past. If you have a question that you want to be answered on the show, get in touch with us on social media (see below) or at www.flyingsmarter.com/contact. You can send us a message from there, or even record your question.

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Turbulence makes some passengers a bit nervous and there can be some discomfort in the cabin when a plane hits some rough air. But what happens in the flight deck when a flight encounters turbulence? Learn all about it in this episode.
Should passengers be worried about turbulence breaking the wings off a plane or sending the aircraft into a dive? Andrew asks Owen about some worst-case scenarios that passengers might consider.
There are lots of ways that pilots can anticipate, avoid, and remove planes from turbulence, but we sometimes hear of incidents of severe turbulence causing injuries. Owen explains how these types of scenarios usually happen and how you can keep yourself safe onboard.

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In this episode, Andrew starts off by answering questions about how far in advance you should buy a plane ticket and why Singapore Changi Airport is considered the world’s best airport. Then he talks about airline alliances, looking at why they exist and what the benefits for travelers are.

How far in advance should you buy a plane ticket? The answer to this isn’t as clear as you may think it is. Learn more in this episode.
Why is Singapore Changi Airport considered the world’s best? Singapore Changi Airport has won tons awards for being an exceptional airport and providing an amazing experience. We take a look at what makes this airport revered around the world.
Airline alliances are strategic partnerships between groups of airlines. Airlines join these alliances for a number of reasons, including an expanded network and opportunities to cooperate and find operational efficiencies. They also provide many benefits for passengers, particularly when it comes to frequent flyer programs. This episode’s main segment is all about these alliances.

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This episode of Flying Smarter starts off by answering questions about how high planes fly and how to get into airport lounges. Airline industry expert Dr. Kerry Tan then chats with Andrew about COVID-19’s impact on airlines and what the future holds for passengers.

How high do planes fly? Commercial jets fly within a certain altitude range. Find out why this is the case and how it compares with other things in the sky.
How do I get into an airport lounge? Airport lounges allow you to wait for your flight in a more comfortable environment. Learn about the different ways you can gain access to one of these fancy spaces.
COVID-19 has had a huge impact on the airline industry. Airline industry expert Dr. Kerry Tan is here to talk share his insights on airlines, the pandemic, and the future. He talks about how airlines have dealt with the challenges of COVID-19, how air travel might have been changed forever, what this all means for passengers, and much more. He also shares his advice to people who are itching to travel.

Dr. Kerry Tan is an Associate Professor of Economics and an airline industry expert at Loyola University Maryland’s Sellinger School of Business. You can learn more about him and his work here.

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This episode starts by answering questions about why there are carry-on liquid restrictions and why airlines fly empty planes around. Then, learn about duty-free shopping, what happened to SkyMall, and why things are so expensive at airports.

Why are there restrictions on bringing liquids through airport security? Restrictions on liquids at airport security are just a regular part of flying these days. Find out why and how these rules came to be.
Why do airlines sometimes fly empty planes around? We look at why an airline would operate a flight even if it only has one or two passengers on it. Plus, airlines fly empty planes around for many operational reasons. Learn more in this episode.
When we’re flying, we’re presented with a many opportunities to make some purchases. Some of these opportunities are better than others and this episode looks at shopping throughout the air travel experience. Andrew discusses what you need to know about duty-free shopping, what happened to SkyMall, and why food and other necessities are so expensive at airports.

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In this episode, Andrew answers questions about airplane sewage and finding the best seat. He then chats with Alyssa Cerchiai about the world of points and miles.

Where does airplane sewage go? You may have heard stories of frozen toilet waste landing in people’s yards but do we really jettison human waste into the sky? We take a look at what actually happens to airplane sewage once it’s flushed down the toilet.
What is the best seat on a plane? The answer depends on what your priorities are. If you really don’t like turbulence for example, a seat over the wings or towards the front of the plane will likely give you a smoother ride. Find out what you need to know about selecting a seat on your next flight.
Using points and miles is a great way to reduce the cost of your next trip. However, earning reward travel can seem like a daunting task if you aren’t a frequent flyer or big spender. For this episode’s main segment, writer and podcast host Alyssa Cerchiai is here to cover the basics of the world of points and miles and talk about how to get started.

If you want to hear more from Alyssa or learn more about the world of points and miles, check out her podcast, She Made Points. You can also find her on Instagram at @shemadepoints and @alycerchiai, on Twitter at @shemadepoints and @alycerchaiai, and on the She Made Points Facebook Page.

For a breakdown of the flight redemption example from this episode, click here.

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This episode starts by answering questions about birds and planes as well as in-seat power. Andrew then takes a deep dive into low-cost airlines, explaining how they work and what you need to know about flying with one.

How dangerous are birds to planes? When a bird hits a plane, it is known as a bird strike. Our episode begins by talking about the dangers that birds pose to planes and what aircraft manufacturers and airports are doing about it.
Do all airlines seats have in-seat power these days? As people travel with more devices, airlines have installed power plugs on their planes. However, not all planes are equipped with in-seat power. Learn how to find out if your seat will have a power plug or not.
Low-cost carriers can be a great way to travel cheaply if you are travelling on a budget or just looking to save a bit of money. They do a bunch of things to keep their costs low, which leads to cheap flights for passengers. For our main segment, we talk about what low cost carriers are, how they work, whether or not they are safe, and what should know before flying with them.

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Andrew starts this episode off by answering questions about runway numbers and where planes go when they are retired. He then chats with Flying Smarter’s very first guest, Flight Attendant Joe Thomas, who shares valuable insights from his time as a flight attendant and gives some tips to make your flying experience a bit better.

How do runway numbers work? Each runway has a giant number painted on it at either end. Find out what these numbers mean and how the numbering system works.
What happens to planes once they are retired? When an airline removes a plane form a service, a number of things can happen to it, from being sold to another airline to being sent to an aircraft boneyard. Learn more about the fate of retired aircraft in this episode.
Did you know that your flight attendants aren’t getting paid during boarding? Or that you might not be great at ordering beverages when flying? Flight Attendant Joe Thomas is here to talk everything from how to treat your flight attendants to how you can increase your chances of getting a free drink on your next flight. Joe draws from his experience to share some hilarious but valuable insights.

If you want to hear more from Joe, you can find his podcast, Grounded with Joe Thomas, on your favorite podcast app. You can also follow him on Instagram at @groundedwithjoethomas, Like his Facebook Page, or check out his books and blog at www.flightattendantjoe.com.

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In this very first episode, Andrew introduces himself and the podcast, and then talks about ash trays and the best day of the week to buy a plane ticket. He then takes you through the journey of your checked luggage and talks about how your bag gets lost.

Why do brand-new planes still have ash trays? Airlines in the United States are even required by regulation to have them on their planes. We talk about why you will still find ash trays on planes, despite the fact that smoking has been banned on planes for a long time.
What is the best day of the week to buy a plane ticket? Traditionally, Tuesday has been the best day to get a deal, but this may no longer be the case. Learn more about how the day of the week affects your ticket price.
Your checked baggage goes on a marvelous and complex journey, often more complicated than that of its owner. Sometimes though, bags end up delayed or lost, creating an inconvenient and frustrating situation for passengers. For this episode’s main segment, Andrew explores the fascinating journey of your checked bag and looks at how bags end up getting lost.

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Welcome to Flying Smarter! In each episode, we will delve into the fascinating world of air travel, answering your questions and exploring different topics. By sharing our knowledge and our guests’ wisdom, Flying Smarter will expand your horizons and make you a smarter and savvier air traveler. Whether you are looking to make the most of your next flying experience or are a naturally curious learner who wants to know more about how air travel works, this is the podcast for you.

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Flying Smarter: Air Travel Explained: Recent Episodes

Flying Smarter