There have been ground stops all over the country this summer due to severe thunderstorms at major airports. It’s not safe for airport ground workers or for passengers during thunderstorms so all activity comes to a halt until lightning strikes cease. This can result in long delays at both the departure and destination airports with missed connections, delayed luggage arrivals, and very late plane arrivals.
Having a few chosen items in your carry-on or personal item can make ground stops easier to manage. Here are a few to give you some ideas:
• A bottle of water that can be refilled in the airport.
• Some snacks, both healthy and comfort treats. Don’t count on being close to a shop in the airport. Remember you don’t want to venture very far from your gate in case things change quickly.
• Something to do – book, electronic device, compact game, music, coloring book and colored pencils, etc.
• Anything you might require if there is an extended delay such as medications taken at regular intervals.
• Cash or card.
• Phone.
• Airline app for your airline on your device so you can receive updates and, if you are lucky (or unlucky enough to qualify), food vouchers.
How do I know these things? It’s a long story that resulted in a 7-hour trip becoming an almost 15-hour trip. I was very glad for what I had put in my personal bag.
