Today was scheduled to be a travel day. But my planned route took a detour - through traveler's hell!
I got up early today to finish prepping the house and car (always disconnect the car battery when leaving on a long trip. Saves the battery from being drained byj alarm, and the car is harder to steal). Water off, alarm on, etc. Neighbor Ed dropped me off at airport an hour before fight. I checked my box onto AA, played with Chuck until I noticed time. Held up by TSA due to leg brace. Barely made flight to Chicago (door to jetway was already closed). Phew, that was close! Plane 100% full.
Arrived Chicago, no problem, waited at gate for 7 pm departure. What happened next is almost unbelievable:
1. First plane not available ("mechanical). One hour delay.
2. Second plane arrives. "Mechanical issues" found. Two more hours delay.
3. Third plane not available ("mechanical"). Another hour delay.
4. Fourth plane arrives. Doors close about 1 a.m.
5. Drunk couple threatens flight crew. Captain orders drunk couple off plane. Police come.
6. Flight crew 'times out' (exceeds FAA work limits) from delays. Flight cancelled. Everyone off!
7. Wait in long line, etc., in hotel bed by 4:30 a.m.
What a day! But at least I am not one many going to Paris for a long weekend. One woman breaks into tears. She'll miss seeing her Army husband the one chance he had all year.
Net Blog Entry: Is Paris Burning?
