Air Travel Resources

by Paul Konrardy

Traveling by air? The following U.S. government sites can help make your trip easier and safer.

WHN TIP – Know your plane’s model: Want to know what type of plane you’re booked on? An NBC News article notes that the model of plane is listed with the ticket information. Already bought your ticket?  The plane information should be on it, or you can call the airline to check. Kayak is also adding a feature to allow travelers to filter trips by aircraft model.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) — Travelers
The FAA Travelers section has real-time airport status and delay information, what to know before you go to the airport, and important safety information.

  • Report Travel Problems, Concerns & Complaints — Information for reporting problems and concerns, including how to file airline passenger complaints. (Click here to file a complaint.)
  • Click here for information related to your rights regarding flight delays and cancellations.
  • Click here for questions about airline safety.
  • Click here for general airport conditions that could impact flight arrival and departures. (Airline-specific links are here.)

Dept. of Transportation — Aviation Consumer Protection Division (ACPD)
The Aviation Consumer Protection Division (ACPD) operates a complaint handling system for consumers who experience air travel service problems.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
Formed after the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, the TSA is tasked with protecting the nation’s transportation systems to ensure freedom of movement for people and commerce.

  • Click here for TSA’s Top Travel Tips
  • Click here for information about security screening for those with disabilities and medical conditions
  • Click here for information about TSA-Pre-Check
  • Click here for a searchable list of items that can or can’t be packed in carry-on or checked baggage, along with size or other restrictions information.

Photo Credit: Sebastian Grochowicz

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