Travel Advice and Tips for Nashville

We'll start putting some travel tips and advice on here again for you all but if you have any questions or problems, please email me and I will get the answer for you or offer suggestions depending on your need.

Good Life Aficionado - Keycards and Pay to use toilets

Read the story about Ryanair in the Washington Times newspaper. http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2009/feb/28/ryanair-chief-mulls-pay-toilets-on-flights/

Ignore the revolution!

What kind of innovation will next revolutionize the travel industry?

Southwest Airlines is reducing a flight a day in Nashville

Southwest Airlines has notified Nashville International Airport (BNA) that effective Aug. 16 through Oct. 30, 2009, it is reducing one flight each to nine markets it currently serves from BNA. Southwest will continue to offer service to each of these cities.

Effective Aug. 16 through Oct. 30, Southwest will reduce one daily flight to each of the following markets:
- Chicago Midway (MDW)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- New Orleans (MSY)
- Orlando (MCO)
- Philadelphia (PHL)
- Phoenix (PHX)
- Raleigh/Durham (RDU)
- San Diego (SAN)
- Tampa (TPA)

“These are seasonal changes that impact early morning and late evening flights. Southwest added an additional flight to several of these markets earlier this year – in March and May schedules. Southwest and several other airlines continue to offer service to these cities,” said Raul Regalado, president and CEO of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority, which owns and operates Nashville International.

Nashville Airport terminal roadway project update

April 20 through end of May:

Monday through Saturday
10am – 11am

Allow extra time when traveling to the airport during this time and watch for construction detour and speed limit signs. The blast time may vary as the project progresses, so please look for updates on our Web site, www.flynashville.com.

Background on Terminal Roadway Project
Phase I of the Terminal Access Roadway Improvements (TARI) Project began in October 2008 and is expected to be completed in the fall of 2009. TARI is designed to improve traffic conditions on Terminal Ring Road, the one-way thoroughfare that surrounds the airport’s short and long-term parking lots and provides access to the terminal. TARI will eliminate the need for vehicles to merge and weave through multiple lanes of traffic on Ring Road, and will improve ingress/egress from both I-40 and Donelson Pike.

Nashville Airport has advice for spring travelers

With spring break fast approaching and road construction in progress at Nashville International Airport (BNA), the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority wants to ensure that all travelers are prepared for takeoff. The following tips will help passengers and guests enjoy the Nashville Airports Experience this spring break travel season.

Watch for Roadway Construction: Phase I of the Terminal Access Roadway Improvements (TARI) Project is underway. TARI is designed to improve traffic conditions on Terminal Ring Road, the one-way thoroughfare that surrounds the airport’s short- and long-term parking lots and provides access to the terminal.

-Temporarily, no cell phone/waiting area is available.

---If waiting for arriving passengers, drivers may use either the 10-minute waiting area outside the baggage claim area or the short-term parking garage, where the first 30 minutes of parking are free.

- All existing parking lots remain open. An additional Remote Holiday Parking Lot will be available if needed. Rates are as follows: Short-term: $22/day; Long-term: $10/day; Economy: $8/day; Overflow: $8/day; and Valet: $20/day.

A complete list of travel tips is available at FlyNashville.com

Update on Nashville Airport construction

Beginning today, the temporary two-lane Ring Road will be reduced to a single lane in one stretch through the long-term parking lot to install a utility duct bank across the road. Depending on weather, this lane reduction may continue for up to one week. Ring Road is the one-way road that surrounds Nashville International Airport's short- and long-term parking facilities and offers access to the terminal.

In addition, the entrance and exit to the long-term parking lot will be impacted with upcoming construction.

Nashville International Airport passengers and guests are advised to watch

for construction detour signage, reduce speed, and stay alert for construction workers.

Temporarily, no cell phone/waiting area is available. If waiting for arriving passengers, you may use either the 10-minute waiting area outside the baggage claim area or the short-term parking garage.

The terminal entrance off of Donelson Pike, nearest I-40 and adjacent to the Economy Parking Lot, is temporarily closed. Drivers can still access the Economy Parking Lot from Donelson Pike, but terminal access from that entrance has been closed. NOTE: The main airport entrance off of Donelson Pike, adjacent to the Long-term Parking Lot, remains open

Visit the Nashville International Airport website for more information.

Southwest Airlines Adding Flights from Nashville

Southwest Airlines has notified Nashville International Airport (BNA) that effective March 8 through May 8, 2008, Southwest is adding one additional flight each to five markets it currently serves from BNA and beginning May 9 through June 26, 2008, is adding back nonstop service to Oakland and Seattle plus an additional flight each to four other markets.

Starting March 8 through May 8, Southwest will add one additional flight to each of the following markets:
Baltimore/Washington (BWI)
Chicago Midway (MDW)
Jacksonville (JAX)
Phoenix (PHX)
Tampa (TPA)

Effective May 9, 2009, to June 26, 2009, Southwest will add back nonstop service to the following markets:
Oakland (OAK)
Seattle (SEA)

In addition, May 9, through June 26, Southwest will add one additional nonstop flight to each of the following markets:
Kansas City (MCI)
Los Angeles (LAX)
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)
San Diego (SAN)

Nashville International Airport is served by 14 carriers. More than 400 average daily arriving and departing flights operate from 47 air carrier gates. Nashville International provides nonstop air service to 90 markets.

For more information, visit FlyNashville.

Cell Phone/Waiting Area to Temporarily Close During Roadway Project at BNA aka Nashville Airport

Beginning Monday, Jan. 5, the cell phone/waiting area at Nashville International Airport (BNA) will close temporarily due to the ongoing Terminal Access Roadway Improvements Project.
Alternate options for customers who are meeting and waiting for arriving passengers include the short-term parking garage and the 10-minute waiting area on the baggage claim level.

During road construction, BNA encourages travelers and guests to allow extra travel time. All short-term, long-term, and economy parking lots will remain open during the TARI Project. The overflow lot will be open only as needed.

Visit the airport website for more info.

Holiday travel deasl with Southwest Airlines

$49 - $109 one-way (Monday – Thursday & Saturday) or $59 - $159 one-way (Friday & Sunday)!

Book by November 20 for travel December 9, 2008 - February 28, 2009. 21-day advance purchase.
~~~
Fares do not include federal excise tax of $3.50 per takeoff and landing, airport-assessed passenger facility charges (PFC) of up to $9, and government-imposed September 11th Security Fee of up to $5.00 one-way.

• 
  Available only on southwest.com and swabiz.com 21-day advance purchase is required.
• 
  Purchase November 18 through November 20, 2008, midnight central standard time.
• 
  Travel December 9, 2008 through February 28, 2009.
• 
  Fares do not include federal excise tax of $3.50 for each flight segment. A flight segment is defined as a takeoff and a landing.
• 
  Fares do not include airport-assessed passenger facility charges (PFC) of up to $9.00 and government-imposed September 11th Security Fee of up to $5.00 one-way.
• 
  Seats are limited. Fares vary by destination and may not be available on all flights during key travel dates (12/20/08 - 1/4/09). Seats may be limited to/from FL between 2/11/09 and 2/28/09 due to Spring Break.
• 
  Travel not available to/from New Orleans, LA, Orange County, CA, Salt Lake City, UT, or Washington (Dulles), DC.
• 
  Offer applies to Southwest Airlines-operated, published, scheduled service.
• 
  This fare is available for one-way travel.
• 
  If combining with other fares, the most restrictive fare's rules apply.
• 
  Tickets are nonrefundable but (except for tickets purchased through our Group Tickets program)may be applied toward future travel on Southwest Airlines.
• 
  Fares are subject to change until ticketed.
• 
  Any change in itinerary may result in an increase in fare.

Visit Southwest Airlines Hot Fares to get these special deals.

Nashville International Airport provides holiday travel tips

As the holiday travel season arrives, Nashville International Airport (BNA) wants to ensure that all travelers are prepared for takeoff.

BNA is expecting increased travelers throughout Thanksgiving week.

BNA has more than 11,250 available parking spaces in four lots. An additional Remote Holiday Parking Lot will be available if needed. As you enter the airport, check the display for latest parking updates.

The following tips will ensure easier holiday travel and the Nashville Airports Experience, where passengers can count on top-notch customer service and facilities:

~Arrive early: Due to the heavy volume of anticipated passenger traffic, we urge all travelers to arrive inside the terminal at least two hours before their flight. This time will allow you to check-in with your airline, go through security and arrive at your designated gate. Call your airline in advance to obtain the status of your flight and their recommended check-in time. You may also log on to www.flynashville.com to check arrival and departure times.

~ Watch for Roadway Construction: Phase I of the Terminal Access Roadway Improvements (TARI) Project is underway. TARI is designed to improve traffic conditions on Terminal Ring Road, the one-way thoroughfare that surrounds the short- and long-term parking lots and provides access to the terminal.

During construction, BNA encourages travelers and guests to enter the airport from Donelson Pike (I-40 exit 216B from the west, exit 216 from the east) and allow extra travel time. All existing parking lots and the cell phone/waiting area will remain open during the TARI Project.

~Utilize the Frequent Parker Program. The new frequent parker program at BNA allows travelers to earn free parking, enjoy easier access in and out of gated parking lots, and make payments online. The program excludes valet parking. Interested individuals may join online at www.flynashville.com.

~Do not leave vehicles unattended: Curbside access is for vehicles that are actively dropping off or picking up passengers. BNA offers a free cell phone/waiting area at the north end of the Long-term Parking Lot and passengers can be picked up on the baggage claim level by vehicles utilizing the 10-minute waiting area. Vehicles left unattended within 300 feet of the terminal building will be ticketed and towed due to security restrictions. Also, 30 minutes of free parking is available in the Short-term Parking Lot.

~Consider using an airline kiosk for check-in.

~Adhere to the 3-1-1 rule: Liquids, Aerosols & Gels for Carry-On: 3 oz. (travel- sized) liquids/gels; 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed separate from carry-on in screening bin. The one-quart bag per person limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring. The 3 oz. (travel-sized) container is a security measure. Consolidating the bottles into one bag and X-raying separately reduces clutter in the carry-on and expedites screening.

Place liquids in checked baggage when you can. Prescription medications, baby formula and milk are allowed in quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint.

~Know what you can carry with you: Don not forget your boarding pass and photo ID. Before you pack your luggage, be sure to log on to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Web site, www.tsa.gov. The site includes a detailed list of what you can and cannot take on an airplane. There is also a link to the Nashville International Airport site, www.flynashville.com.

~Do not leave luggage unattended.

~Use TSA-recognized locks if you choose to lock luggage: Visit www.tsa.gov for a listing of locks accepted and recognized by the TSA.

~Do not travel with wrapped holiday gifts: Do not carry wrapped gifts in your carry-on baggage. You may be asked to unwrap gifts in order to pass through security checkpoints.

~Carry your film with you: Put all undeveloped film and cameras with film in your carry-on baggage. Checked baggage screening equipment will damage undeveloped film.

~Keep pets in their travel case when inside the terminal: This does not apply to service animals.

~Tips for entering security screening:
- Choose the right lane. Self-select lanes are now in place at BNA, allowing passengers to choose the appropriate entry lane for their needs. Choose from Expert (designated by black diamond), Casual (designated by blue square) or Family/Special Assistance (designated by green circle) for smoother processing.
- Remove your shoes, coats and jackets: Shoes and outer coats, including trench coats, ski jackets, leather jackets, overcoats and parkas, must go through the X-ray machine for inspection. - Have your boarding pass and photo ID in hand. Children under the age of 18 do not require an ID.

- Put all liquids in one-quart bags out of your luggage and place them in a plastic bin.

- Avoid wearing clothing, jewelry or other accessories that contain metal. Place metal items in your carry-on. Avoid placing metal items such as keys, pagers, loose change, money clips, PDAs, large metal belt buckles, metal hair decorations and mobile phones in your pockets.

- Be mindful of electronic equipment: If you will be traveling with these items, please place them inside your carry-on luggage prior to entering the screening checkpoint. This will allow for easy retrieval as you exit. If you are traveling with a laptop, camera and/or video camera, remove them from their cases and place them in the TSA-provided plastic bins.
Travelers with Children

~Utilize the Family Lane: The family self-select lane at the security checkpoint is designed to allow passengers traveling with small children a less stressful entry into the security screening area.

~Allow extra time when traveling with children: Please allow extra time for check-in and security checkpoint.

~Every person must be screened: Even babies must be individually screened. If you child can walk unassisted, it would be best to have the child walk through the metal detector independently.

~Strollers must be examined: All child-related equipment must go through the X-ray machine or be inspected by a checkpoint screener.

~Arrange for an escort: If a child is traveling alone, at least one parent or relative may receive a pass from the airline to escort the child to the boarding gate. Call your airline ahead of time to make special arrangements. If you require a companion or assistant to accompany you through the security checkpoint to reach your gate, speak with your airline representative about obtaining a gate pass for your companion before entering the security checkpoint.

Travelers with Special Needs

~Make arrangements in advance: Provide advance notice to your airline or travel agent if you require assistance, have special needs or have medical concerns.

~Utilize the Special Assistance Lane: The special assistance self-select lane at the security checkpoint is designed to allow passengers with special needs a less stressful entry into the security screening area.

~Simplify the process: If you have a medical implant or other device that is likely to set off the alarm on the metal detector, bring evidence verifying this condition.

~Note these permitted items: Mobility aids and assistive devices permitted through the security checkpoint include: wheelchairs, scooters, canes, walkers, crutches, prosthetic devices, body braces, augmentation and communication devices (e.g. Braille note takers, slate and stylus), service animals and diabetes-related equipment and supplies.

Use Donelson Pike to get into the Nashville Airport

Nashville International Airport (BNA) advises travelers and guests traveling eastbound on I-40 to use Donelson Pike to access the terminal and parking lots as the Terminal Access Roadway Improvements (TARI) Project moves forward. Beginning Monday, November 10, work in the median of the discrete access roadways off of I-40 will begin. These entrances to and from I-40 will remain open at this point; however, BNA encourages customers coming from the west to use Donelson Pike to avoid construction areas.

To learn more about the work being done at the airport visit the FlyNashville website.

Nashville International Airport delays the start of construction

Due to the challenging economic times, bond market instability and increased materials and labor costs, the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority (MNAA) is delaying the start of construction on the consolidated rental agency complex (CONRAC). This project includes the design and construction of a consolidated rental car facility in the long-term parking lot, north of the existing short-term garage.

This is just a delay, not the cancelation of the project. The MNAA does not yet have an expected date to re-activate the project, but looks forward to doing so in a stronger financial environment.

Visit Fly Nashville to learn more about this project.

Nashville International Airport to Launch Frequent Parker ProgramEarn Points Each Time You Park

If you park at the airport quite a bit it will cost you a fortune. Here is something the airport is doing to make it a little easier for you all.
~Corey

Here is the official release from the Nashville International Airport:
Nashville International Airport (BNA) announces a new program designed with frequent parkers in mind. BNA’s new frequent parker program allows travelers to earn free parking, enjoy easier access in and out of gated parking lots, and make payments online. The program excludes valet parking. Interested individuals may join online starting today and begin taking advantage of the program on Nov. 1.

Read all about it on the official Nashville International Airport website.

Pictures of some interesting luggage tags

Change and construction at the Nashville International Airport

• Sub-Phase I (Oct. 2008-May 2009): Entrance to/from I-40 – currently one lane each way separated by a median – will shift to two-way traffic on one side of the median. The cell phone/waiting area will move to the current economy parking lot and will increase in size. Ticket spitters for short- and long-term parking lots will move.
• Sub-Phase II (May-July 2009): Ring Road will be extended and routed through current long-term parking lot.
• Sub-Phase III (July-Sept. 2009): Demolition of current cell phone/waiting area; finish roadway tie-ins.

Why are you overhauling the airport’s roads?
TARI will eliminate the need for vehicles to merge and weave through multiple lanes of traffic on Ring Road, and will improve ingress/egress from both I-40 and Donelson Pike.

For up-to-date information on airport construction, please visit FlyNashville.com and sign up for AIReport, the airport’s e-newsletter. Or, tune in to the airport’s radio station at 1610 AM.

I love Southwest Airlines!

We despise fees as much as the other airlines seem to love them. So we'll just keep taking care of you, rather than charging fees for the stuff that should come with your fare in the first place. We believe in not asking you to pull out your wallet every few minutes.

~~~

Also within a couple of days, you won't need cash to get a drink while on a flight. They will only take debit or credit cards.

So now go book a flight! Visit Southwest.com

Free imaginary "flights" from JetBlue

Step up for JetBlue Airways Corp's trial of bag check and security systems at its new John F. Kennedy International Airport terminal, which is set to open in September.

New York-based JetBlue is looking for 1,000 of its frequent flyers to show up at JFK on August 23 to check bags given to them by the airline, go through security and wait at the assigned gate for their imaginary "flight."

In return, the airline is promising unspecified "giveaways," free parking and lunch.

Southwest Airlines will not charge for two checked bags

Southwest Airlines said it doesn't plan to charge passengers to check up to two bags on flights.

The Dallas, Texas-based carrier issued the statement in response to a New York Times article that said Southwest was considering matching a fee American Airlines Inc. will begin imposing on June 15.

Fort Worth, Texas-based American Airlines on Wednesday said it plans to charge passengers on discounted fares $15 each way to check their first bag.

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Read the rest of the story in the Nashville Business Journal.

Corey talks about how American Airlines has started charging for all checked baggage