Top Airports & Airlines: September On-Time Performance - Who's Soaring High and Who's Hitting Turbulence?
September is usually a busy month for air travel, with summer vacationers heading home and fall getaways kicking off. But how did airlines and airports measure up when it came to on-time performance? We've dug into the data to see who's soaring high and who's experiencing some turbulence.
Airports Taking Flight:
The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) provides monthly data on on-time performance for major U.S. airports. Here's a quick rundown of the top performers in September:
- Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP): MSP took the crown for best on-time performance, with over 85% of flights arriving on time.
- Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): Coming in a close second was SLC with an impressive 83% on-time rate.
- Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT): CLT rounded out the top three, clocking in at 82% on-time.
Pro Tip: When booking flights, consider checking the on-time performance stats for your chosen airport. You might be surprised at what you find!
Airlines: Hitting the Mark
While airports play a role, airlines themselves have a major impact on on-time performance. Here are a few airlines that stood out in September:
- Delta Air Lines (DAL): Delta has consistently performed well in on-time performance, and September was no exception. They boasted an impressive 81% on-time rate.
- United Airlines (UAL): United also delivered solid results in September, with an 80% on-time performance.
- Hawaiian Airlines (HA): Rounding out the top performers was Hawaiian Airlines, with an on-time rate of 79%.
Important Note: On-time performance is affected by many factors, including weather, air traffic control delays, and mechanical issues. These numbers reflect industry averages, and individual experiences may vary.
Navigating Delays: Tips for Travelers
Even the best airports and airlines can experience delays. Here are a few things you can do to prepare and stay calm:
- Check for flight status updates: Use your airline's app or website to track your flight's status and be alerted to any changes.
- Arrive early: Allow ample time for security and check-in, especially during peak travel times.
- Pack essentials: Keep a small bag with snacks, entertainment, and essential toiletries in case of unexpected delays.
- Download entertainment: Keep yourself entertained with books, podcasts, or movies.
- Don't hesitate to ask for help: If you're facing difficulties, airline staff are there to help.
Stay informed, be prepared, and enjoy your travels!
