Well, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Happy Hanukkah and Seasons' Greetings. I don't know what is politically correct but I like to greet someone with a phrase I believe relates to them-not what I believe it. Maybe because I grew up in a JudiacChristian household. I had the blessing of celebrating both holidays; lighting Hanukkah candles one day and putting tinsel on an evergreen the next. What fun that was. The best part was that I did not have to go to Temple or Church and recite the beliefs of each., That would have been too much. So, instead growing up was simple about being with families, being sensitive to each side's cultural roots and enjoying the presents.

I personally believe in a sense of spirituality rather than a religion. But I respect whatever makes you believe and hope that we all can be part of a peaceful and good-will-toward-others world.
Today however is Christmas Day. I am too old to believe in Santa although I love the innocence of youth in their belief of this happy man. It is a day I look forward to being with my immediate family and my siblings and parents.It is a day to get past all the stupid stuff we have been holding onto and just appreciate the miracle of life and our bonds to each other, both familial and with the rest of the world.
And a special thanks to the men and women who work our airports and facilities today making our air travel safer.
Happy One to however you celebrate today. I hope Santa is good to you. Oops. I guess I do believe just a little!

Happy T-Day, TSA Day that is.

Happy T-Day, TSA Day that is. Lots of comments online about retailers making employees work on Thanksgiving Day. Well, that is both good and bad. But in the meanwhile what about about all the TSA’s 45,000+ security officers, inspectors, air marshals and managers that either are obligated or rotate holidays working to make your flying experience safe? I know of one supervisor at JFK who is working both tomorrow and Christmas. He is not thrilled about it but takes his job seriously and regards his duty as important to travelers through the airport.

There is a lot of TSA bashing. I am not going to defend the handful of workers that may be rude or arrogant. This happens in every workplace in daily across the nation. But, most #tsar workers are just doing their jobs. I work JFK regularly and observe security operations. The fault, I hate to say, lies more with passengers than with the TSA personnel.

I see more people totally annoyed by a variety of things having nothing to do with security; cancelled or delayed flights, bad car traffic, long security lines, pushing travelers and unruly children. Many seem to take it out on the TSA agent on hand. Agents are the ones that have to remind you of what to do before entering the scanner area. They have to remind you to take off your shoes, they have to take away liquids that are more than 3.4 ozs*. This is the tipping point for many, who are angry, frustrated or feel imposed upon.

Perhaps if these travelers knew the rules for what is allowed to bring when flying, didn’t feel entitled; weren’t pushy and impatient they would be more relaxed and appreciate these small inconveniences. If flyers took the time to read up on the rules of travelling through security there would be a lot less negative interactions. More at issue are the people arriving late, don't know where they are going, have too many carry-ons and pack prohibited liquids in carry-ons. When challenged they get nasty and begin to have attitudes. 

Sure, agents are an easy target for frustration. Many flyers consider them an obstacle to their rush to the gates. Remember, TSA/Homeland Security are there to make sure that the person that may be standing next to you, is not trying to sneak something dangerous into the terminal. You know how many handguns, knives and other dangerous items were seized over the past years that were intercepted by TSA? This year this security found over 1300 guns. Other passengers continue to try sneaking prohibited items onboard, hiding them in their shoes or using hollowed-out books. All we need is just ONE to create havoc in one of these terminals. Just one.

So, just maybe we should give a little T-Day thanks to these people this year when we exit the scanner and let them know we appreciate their work.

TSA travel info: http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information
* The 3-1-1 Rule refers to the Transportation Security Administration's rule for how much liquid travelers can take on an airplane in their carry-on bags. It does not prohibit you from putting larger sizes of liquids in your checked baggage.
3-1-1 refers to:
- Each liquid you want to carry on must be in 3.4 ounce (or less) container. That's the "3"
- The containers must be in 1 clear quart-sized plastic bag. That's a "1"
- Each passenger is allowed only 1 bag. That's the second "1"

The clear plastic bag limits the total amount of liquid you can take to what fits in the bag

Twitter @jfknewsandviews

Can an LAX Shooting Happen at NY Airports?

The recent shooting at LAX has many of us wondering if that could happen here in NY? 

The question is-are we prepared?

In addition to our everyday NYPD, Homeland Security, Port Authority Police and National Guard, what more can be done to create a safer environment?

-Do we have enough plain clothes trained security people at the three largest airports?

-Do we have enough uniformed armed security people?

-Are these measures in place to spot and preempt a single or multiple assailant?

-Are the modes of transportation monitored, such as the Airtrains?

-Do we have eyes on the exterior of the terminals looking for suspicious individuals?

-Are we as individuals trained to react properly?

-Who do we call if we see suspicious behavior?

-What do we do if someone walks past us with an obvious weapon? Interact?

-Are our electronic devices capable of identifying and alerting authorities? 

 

I spoke with a couple of people who were in the LAX area where the gunman started shooting. He appeared intent on targeting a uniformed person. But the individuals who were nearby were scared to death and either hid behind something, in a closet or hugged the floor. They had no idea what to do. Luckily the demented individual with the gun did not have them in mind. But, what could they have done to aid in stopping or capture?

Why didn’t anyone see a man carrying or concealing an assault or hunting rifle.

How could this not be noticed by someone on one of the security teams?

This is not being critical of what took place but more of an opportunity to look at our current security measures that deal with a person/ people walking around highly populated areas with a visible weapon and being able to use it wantonly.

I am hopeful and certain that our law enforcement officials are reviewing the particulars in this case. I am hopeful that we will hear something concrete from these people with some added assurances why this will not likely happen here.

Italiano Marathon Man

Click, a glimpse of a happy man.
The NYC Marathon was last weekend. I never noticed how man Europeans participated until I saw tens of dull gold colored medallions hanging from the necks of travelers bound for Europe at JFK Airport. Every one of these people, predominantly men, were strutting and proudly displaying their achievement-running in the race. I am not sure the times or even placement were important. It was the fact they had participated.

I was able to find one man posing for the attendant behind the Alitalia counter. He had his arm around his wife while smiling victoriously. They bantered in Italian for a minute then I had my chance to chat.

He introduced himself as Giovanni from Salerno. I introduced myself as Jeff and I told him I Tweet on things happening at he airport. Asking him If he would pose for me was like asking him if he wanted a glass of Chianti. Still smiling he told me this was the seventh year he has come over to the states mixing the Marathon with work. To my surprise he said he has never trained for the race. Yes, he said, he plays tennis and is is good shape. Looking at him, a man of 5'9", about 165 lbs, I tended to agree. But I asked how he could run 27 miles without training. I told him I am in good shape but get winded after 3 blocks! He laughed even though his English was not great but obviously was enjoying the spirit of the moment.

Continuing he proudly told me that his time was 3hrs 40 mins. Me, what do I know? I asked if this was good. Obviously it was based on his recurring broad smile. All the while his wife stood by, generous with her support and too smiled all the while.

As is with many of my minute interactions with many of those I meet at the airport, I never got his last name, profession or details of his life. This was a Polaroid shot of a man with a passion in his life. I was feeling his warmth, success and achievement as we began to say goodbyes. Like many Italians, myself being half, we shook hands at least three times while physically separating distance with each shake.,

Congrats to all those runners walking the halls of Terminal One displaying their day's achievement for the world to see.

I saw them, and I extend them a belated welcome to this country, and wish them the best when they get home and recount their wonderful experience to their friends and families as I share this short experience with my friends and readers.

@jfknewsandviews

American Airlines and USAir Living Together Out of Wedlock

Out of wedlock, American Airlines and US Airways moved in together yesterday. Wednesday August 28, was the first day USAir operated out of the American Airlines JFK Airport Terminal 8. Formally engaged but not yet betrothed, the marriage is a bit down the road pending successful outcome of some legal challenges. But for now, both legendary airlines brands are operating flights out of the AA terminal 8 in the 34, 35, 38 and 40 numbered gates. 

Prior to today I had no clue that USAir was moving from its home of about 10 years in British Air T7. I had gone to do some work at T7 and found their normal gates empty, unlit signs and devoid of any people, not even TSA agents taking a break in the back area. Then I checked the Departures display and no flights were listed. Was I in the Twilight Zone? I looked for an agent but could not find one. Instead, I went to the man who knows all, Emmett, the shoe shine man. Of course he knew. USAir had moved last night and Wednesday was the first of its beginning flights from T8. So, off I went to find them and their fliers. 

On the one-stop on the Air Train I received a JFK alert on my cell stating that all USAir flights are now in Terminal 8. Thanks! Why did you wait so long? Why not a notice days before? Anyway, entering T8 I looked for some sign of USAir and came across a new “check-in” area by one of the front doors. It is small but works for now. Moving towards the “personed” agent area a bold sign announced this as the area for preferred passenger check-in.

Right past TSA Security is the Departures signage. I skimmed down the list to Charlotte and Phoenix. Strangely the Charlotte departure did not have a gate but Phoenix was gate 40. So, I figured let me start there. It worked. After looking around I got down to Gate 35 and found smiling agents amidst a few customers having the typical questions prior to flight. I was thinking of doing a Vine video but got side-tracked by two older women who looked tired and confused. They told me they came back from South Africa that morning and were to catch an 8:24 a.m. flight to Charlotte. But, for some unknown reason they were told the flight was closed an hour before takeoff and they “missed” the flight. They were told to sit and wait a while to get a standby ticket. These two women were certainly meek and did as told. I suggested they go back up and re-state their position to the agent. Reluctantly they shrugged and I moved on to take photos. 

As I walked around I noticed three men speaking. It seemed they were consulting each other on the new operations between airlines. After waiting for a pause I went over to ask if they were from AA and USAir. They all nodded. “Can I take a photo of you shaking hands symbolizing the merger’” I asked. They looked at each other and one said, “Perhaps that is best for corporate. “ The other said, "besides we are still competitors", and his made a fist towards the others and laughed. It turns out both airlines are working on two different certificates and not able to fully merge until one certificate for both is created. According to one of the managers, this takes some time, so as of now they are committed but competitive. So, the two brands and liveries will remain the same, share the terminal and go on with business as usual. 

We chatted a bit then I moved on back to the Charlotte line now boarding. As I passed I saw the two women who called out to me. These were the two from South Africa. Neither two women could thank me enough. Turns out the one agent who they spoke with understood the problem, tore up their standby passes and issued regular flight seats on this sold-out flight. So kudos to the agents in charge for helping them. 

By this time the 10:14 flight to Charlotte was queuing up. One immediate nice thing about their new bunking is the space. Cramped in T7 with lines snaking around pillars and tight quarters passengers were always confused. Here at T8, there is lots of room so the boarding process is more organized and much less stressful. The only hitch for some fliers was that the taxis companies brought them to T7 not realizing the change. But this was not a big deal and most fliers had no idea that just 20 hours earlier the whole operation was a terminal away.

. 

Hopefully this merger and the willingness of agents to help people like the stranded South Africans will be sign for good customer service to come. We all know that customer service is key in this business. Maybe the merger of these two brands will be a boon to customers who are tired of being confronted by unsympathetic workers. 

Let’s see the New American make positive customer satisfaction strides with its new USAir partner as they head to the altar.

Lots Happening at JFK Airport

JFK Airport is one fascinating place to work or pass through.
Certainly a lot of work has yet to be done to accommodate passengers, quicken security and provide a more satisfactory travel experience but these issues are being addressed daily. There is a lot of lots of renovation/expansion happening daily here-Delta moving into T4 on Friday and closing old Worldport T3, JetBlue expanding into old TWA ground, United adding new security gateway for Gates 11/12, T4 continuing security and concession renovation, American added new Flagship service area and Apple store, T1 completing entire new flooring and adding to premium store additions. Lots going on at JFK. I provide almost daily reports, observations, information, weather and other interesting facts and travel fun things. Follow me @jfknewsandviews for more info and regular updates.Any questions about travel issues or things you would like mentioned, at JFK, tweet or email me.

First Look New Terminal 4 Interior, JFK Airport

The newly renovated security area Terminal 4 at JFK Airport is now operational. March 14 was the opening day and officials proudly stated that over 10,000 fliers had gone through the gates. Shown here is the inside of the security area. Notice the many video cameras strategically located throughout.

All travelers now need to show tickets upon entry into the terminal. Just a few months ago everyone was able to go to ticket counter upstairs, then head below floor to shop or see family and friends off at the security area near either the A or B wing. Now all visitors say goodbye just inside the outer doors on the Departure level.

Once past this point all fliers line up in in a couple of queues to pass through one of currently 12 security lines. Shortly there will be 16 operational and max out at 20 when Delta is finished moving its ops here in May 2013.

After fliers pass through security once past ticketed area.There are both stairs and elevators down to the retails concourse level where travelers can find many restaurants, gift, duty free shops and a large area to eat or just sit and watch passersby. Some retailers are not happy since a large number of potential customers are no longer allowed. See the top security area and concourse below.

Just two days ago there were elaborate security areas enroute to either wing A or B. It seems that overnight operations were switched from the retail area to upstairs. Lots of equipment was left behind in the process. Looks like a ghost town.

Terminal 4 is one of the larger terminals in the #JFKairport complex. Within a couple of months Delta will have completed its expansion here and continue to have more flights from this international terminal. The old Worldport, currently Terminal 3,is expected to be demolished as part of continued growth plans for Delta.

More to come on this Terminal 4 and JetBlue Terminal 5 growth in future blogs.

Let.s hope this effort continues the security and safety for all those traveling. Thanks  to Homeland Security for your vigilance.
and determination to keep us efficiently and safely moving.

Airline Cancellation and Airline Apps for Blizzard Feb 8

*Flights cancelled due to blizzard. More than 2800 flights cancelled in Northeast due to developing snow and rain into blizzard. According to Flightstats many carriers have a good outbound schedule until sometime this afternoon.
Many airlines are cancelling ALL flights out of NY as of 5pm today, Friday. Get the mobile apps to check your flights;( these apps are for all airlines. Need flight number):
- Ipad-Airport Zoom                                                                                                                                                                                 -iphone-Flightstats for iphone
-Droid-Flightview                                                                                                                                                                                       -Droid Tracker

**On individual airline apps, you can create a notification on your phone. This is good since it updates any delays and gate changes.

On a PC, go to www.flightstats.com , select airport and airline. It will bring up a list of all flights and status. This will also give you =a lot of airport info on delays and weather.

Follow @jfknewsandviews for other generalized #jfkairport news and views. Good place for all JFK info including sights, interesting history, photos, observations and info for travelers not easily found.

Why Save the Worldport

The shot below was taken this morning. I was able to capture the fleeting moments of intense color from the sunrise as it rose and back-lit the saucer shape building in the rear; the original Pan Am Worldport. Having been useful for decades it is now being faced with demolition taking its many secrets with it.

What is the Worldport and why should it be saved you may ask.
Well, the Worldport building is currently owned and used by Delta at JFK Airport as its Terminal 3.
Originally owned by Pan Am, infamous airline and trademark which went bankrupt many years ago.
It was built in the heyday of our early passion in space travel.
You can see a lot of the story on Facebook at this link. There is a movement to save this ( which I am not involved).
Check it out from a curiosity POV. Interesting stuff on this FB page. Although quite busy with Delta flights, this terminal is old and needs lots of work and is being considered to be rumble unless it is saved.http://www.facebook.com/PanAmWorldport
Who really cares?
I can't answer that question but I can share my belief that there are many older structures scattered all around the country that speak of our past and show us from where we have come. Many of these have been converted to museums because they are part of our American legacy, and just plain intriguing.
Architecture is a wonderful thing. Look at all the structures around the world that are part of the so-called 7 Wonders of the world. 
We are all amazed and awed by their design, place in history and roots of our civilization.
So too is this building. It belongs to the 60's age along with the TWA International Arrivals building now owned by Jet Blue that can be seen not far away.
Yes, we no longer have a space program to hitch our imagination to anymore so why not allow these structures which are a part of our aviation and design history to remind us of our youth and our fascination back in the day of our forays into space. 
I say not always "out with the old and in with the new". Let's renew our relationship with the old and let it teach something about our past and where we might go in the future.
 An besides it is a really cool looking building!