Interlude Tours: Arranging Travel from the New Indianapolis International Airport
On Wednesday I used the new Indianapolis International Airport to fly to Narita in Japan. Actually, I flew first to Detroit, but the international check-in process is the same whether your flight is direct or not.
I was flying for the first time in five years, so I had some catching up to do on the realities of flying today. I saw both pros and cons, but the pros definitely came out on top.
First, I thought Jo Ann, our president, was right on the money in her post about the new Indianapolis Airport. The new airport is beautiful, and the staff are most helpful. Here are some things I liked:
- The check-in process is highly automated and quick. There are no lines; instead, there are numerous terminals. You stick a credit card in the machine to identify yourself and later scan your passport. Your name is called, and then you check your bags. Done!
- The security process is much smoother and more professional than when I last flew in 2004. The security layout in the new airport is intelligent and efficient.
- The layout of the airport is simple as pie; it’s easy to find your gate. There are automated walkways down the long halls (see the iPhone photo I took).
- Beyond security, the selection of restaurants and shops is quite nice. Prices seem reasonable.
My experience this time was really quite good. Going through security was much better than in the past, and the new airport made things smoother overall.
I was pleased with my Northwest/Delta flight, too. My international flight was not crowded at all: I had all three seats in my row to myself (I was the exception in this regard, although plenty of empty seats were visible). I asked a flight attendant if this was normal these days, and she said it was.
What are the cons? The weight limit for luggage on an international flight is now 50 lbs. per bag (at least with Northwest/Delta; please ask us about your particular airline), and of course the airlines now only allow one piece of carry-on luggage and one “personal item.” Even 50 lbs. sounds like a lot, but if you are carrying gifts for family and friends, it all adds up quickly. You also have to check all liquor, which is heavy and quickly adds to the bag weight. A lot of airlines now charge for drinks in economy, too (Northwest/Delta provided beer and wine for free).
Overall, though, flying in 2009 was better than it was in 2004. The new Indy airport is truly fantastic, and I do believe you will have a very nice experience on your next tour with us!
–Matt
The Interlude Tours Blog Team
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Tags: indianapolis international airport, new indianapolis airport
