AAA Urges Patience While Air Travel System Recovers.

Business, News & Travel Editors

ORLANDO, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 14, 2001

Although most U.S. airports have reopened, passengers flooding the terminals are likely to find that security and other measures will slow down the boarding and take-off of flights, says AAA.

"Patience is the most important attribute passengers can bring with them when they arrive at the airport," said Mantill Williams, AAA spokesman. "We would like to commend the large numbers of air travelers who have put tempers and frustrations away, while cooperating with authorities to get planes flying safely again."

Major delays for flights will most likely continue to be the norm as the air travel system struggles to regain normalcy through the weekend, according to AAA. To help passengers who will be traveling in the next few days, AAA has these suggestions:

-- Prior to leaving for the airport, contact your travel agent or airline to
confirm your travel arrangements. Only travelers with confirmed reservations
should proceed to the airport.

-- If you do not already have a ticket, call an airline or travel agent to book
a flight rather than going to the ticket counter at the airport where there
will most likely be long lines.

-- Call the airport prior to leaving to make sure that they are open and
operating incoming and departing flights.

-- Curbside check-in for passengers has been discontinued so expect to proceed
to the ticket counter immediately.

-- Some airlines may have new requirements, such as exchanging an e-ticket for
a boarding pass or paper ticket at the airline ticket counter rather than the
gate. Call your airline prior to leaving for the airport and ask about new
security measures they have instituted.

-- Do not carry any sharp objects, such as a pocketknife or scissors, on your
person or in your carry-on luggage that could be deemed a weapon. It is likely
to be confiscated.

-- Understand that airports will be crowded and under a heightened state of
security so politely obey all reasonable requests from police, airport security
and airline personnel.

-- Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours ahead of time for a domestic flight,
and 3 hours ahead of time for an international flight.

-- Be prepared for more rigorous security checks than in the past. Expect more
frequent hand inspection of carry-on luggage.

-- Carry two photo identifications with you.

-- Do not leave luggage unattended or carry anything on board an airplane for
someone you don't know.

As North America's largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 44 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.