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Guest Feature: Uncover the Fascinating Truth Behind the FAA from Jersey Drive Services– your trusted local limousine company.
The FAA plays a vital role in ensuring aviation safety, and while concerns about staffing or specific events may arise, there is no reason to panic. Before considering changes to your flight itinerary to Philadelphia, LaGuardia, or JFK airports, I would like to share my insights gained from over 10 years of experience in logistics and airport travel. Newark Airport is safe and has never performed better!
1. Prior to booking travel, assess whether the flight is essential. Utilize "Flight Radar 24" to cross-reference the flight and contact us at 908-210-8626 if you are unsure. Also, for the business traveler please inform your business administrators who book your travel about this precaution. By being proactive, you can determine an average delay and cancellation rate before making a decision which airport to choose.
2. The surrounding airports, including Trenton Mercer Airport, are experiencing a significant influx of passengers. Other airports will likely face similar challenges and may not be able to handle the increased traffic. Therefore, it is essential to recognize that these airports may not be safer alternatives.
3. Currently, Newark Airport has been relatively quiet, and flying in and out has been smooth for essential flights. (Refer to point 1.) Also, please download the United App and check in for your flight 24 hours prior to enable an “Easter Egg” The Shortcut Bag Drop Line.
4. JFK Airport is experiencing difficulties due to the Port Authority's $19 billion renovation project. Passengers are no longer allowed to be picked up curbside at certain terminals, and Terminals 7 and 8 are challenging to access, even for limousine drivers. If you plan to go out of a New York airport best times to be on the road is when the sun is down from 7:45 PM-5:45 AM. (no traffic)
5. The runway issue at Newark Airport is not uncommon and typically causes minor delays. As of late, the runway is now complete! The most significant disruptions occur during inclement weather, when "VFR" (Visual Flight Rules) are not enabled, and pilots must rely on less reliable systems such as relying on the TRACON in Philadelphia which is aged and crumbling. Pilots love clear skys!
6. While Philadelphia Airport may seem nearby, it is approximately 70 miles away and can take up to 2 hours and 20 minutes to reach, compared to Newark Airport, which takes around an hour or less! Additionally, there is a 14-minute delay when traveling to Philadelphia that may not be reflected in Google Maps. The New York Airports face similar challenges with congestion which is very stressful to your driver as well as the most seasoned traveler.
7. I advise against relying solely on news outlets for information until they begin reporting on the progress the FAA is making instead of the short falls. Most news reports I have seen are outdated. Hence the reason for this article. It is essential to be aware that the media often sensationalizes issues, and it is crucial not to fall victim to fear-mongering. Additionally, many credit cards offer compensation for delays.
8. Flying remains one of the safest modes of transportation, and any delays are typically due to safety precautions, especially when mandated by the FAA rather than the airline.
9. I commend United Airlines for reducing daily flights, as this is a crucial step towards managing air traffic and allowing for necessary system upgrades and adhering to the best safety practices. I am at Newark Airport daily and am seeing some progress there as well.
10. Although the Department of Transportation estimates that resolving the issues may take three or four years, I believe it will only take a year or two to address the problems with the Philly Tracon and Westbury Tracon, the worst systems in the country.
11. In the interim, I suggest the FAA implements 24-hour domestic flights to alleviate congestion during peak hours, creating new job opportunities and reducing delays. Not sure this will ever happen, but think it’s a great idea as it’s my own opinion.
12. Please note that car services on the East Coast, including ours, are facing unprecedented challenges due to the current situation. While it may not be widely reported, we are experiencing significant financial losses due to diversions, rescheduling, and conflicts arising from delays. I kindly request your understanding and patience during this difficult time. We havent witnessed anything like this since Covid. Many limo companies will go under during this time unless they adapt appropriately.
13. As a logistics professional, I feel it is my duty to inform you of the facts and the necessary steps being taken to address the issues in our industry and throughout the country. Rather than focusing on the problems, I urge the media to report on the progress being made and the timelines for resolving these issues. The time to act is now! Let’s make travel fun again!
Best Regards,
Joseph Garcia, President
Jersey Drive Services, LLC
Text: 908.210.8626
Website:
Jersey Drive Article from 2020:
My Local Community Facebook Group:
https://www.facebook.com/share/g/16Z53cq43M/?mibextid=wwXIfr
