NEWS RELEASE
WASHINGTON, Aug. 23, 2007 – The Air Transport Association of America (ATA), the industry trade organization representing leading U.S. airlines, forecasts 15.7 million passengers will travel globally on U.S. airlines during the 2007 Labor Day period, spanning Wednesday, Aug. 29 through Wednesday, Sept. 5, resulting in a 2.6 percent increase in passengers over the same period last year.
All airlines understand that ongoing significant delays are trying for passengers – they are frustrating for the airlines as well. The vast majority of flight delays are weather-related – but, while, as they say, “You can’t change weather,” when it comes to air traffic control (ATC) delays, a modernized ATC system would produce major improvements. The fact is that a modernized ATC system would enable safe operations under weather conditions that today result in gridlock. It is time for Congress to give the go-ahead for rapid ATC modernization and to provide a fair funding system in which passengers no longer subsidize business aviation.
“There is continued growth in the number of people flying over Labor Day, so passengers are reminded to plan ahead and provide plenty of time for airport check-in and security screening,” said ATA President and CEO James C. May.
May added, “While we cannot get in the way of Mother Nature, passengers can demand that Congress fairly fund the sorely needed modernization of our nation’s airspace, which can help to mitigate future delays. Regrettably, without congressional action to update the ATC system, delays will only worsen.”
Passengers are encouraged to follow these recommended tips for a more pleasurable travel experience:
- Before leaving for the airport, visit your carrier’s Web site and print out boarding passes (if possible); check flight status and determine what type of meal service will be offered; and be aware of carrier carry-on and checked-baggage policies
- Have amenities readily accessible, including an extra supply of any necessary prescriptions or other medicines, snacks (and for those traveling with children, baby food/diapers) for use in the event of an extended delay
- If carrying liquids or gels in a carry-on bag, pack them in 3 ounce bottles or less in a one quart-sized clear plastic zip-top bag (one bag per passenger) and place the bag in the security screening bin
- Place keys, coins and metal objects in carry-on baggage
For more information on the need for a next-generation ATC system, fair funding, and how to contact members of Congress, visit www.smartskies.org.
ATA airline members and their affiliates transport more than 90 percent of all U.S. airline passenger and cargo traffic.
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