Holiday Shopping and its Impact on MDT

'Tis the season of gift giving as Christmas is just around the corner!  With gift giving comes an increase in packages being shipped to and fro across the country via train, truck and of course, aircraft.  Many of you may be aware that UPS, FedEx and DHL conduct air cargo operations at your hometown airport, Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), on a daily basis.  

UPS-contracted 747 at MDT

But, did you know that at this time of year, due to the increase volume of package shipment from online holiday shoppers, UPS contracts a 747 for their fleet at MDT to help offset the increased flights needed?  That's right, plane spotters!  There's a 747 based at MDT for the next week and its departing daily around mid-morning flying the country delivering your gifts where they need to go.

Today's flight departed around 9 am EST and was bound for Denver, Colorado.  If you 'plane spot' the 747, be sure to tweet us about it with the hashtag '#MDTplanespot' or post the photo to our fan page!

Ho, Ho, Holiday Travel Tips

A view from above, the MDT terminal tree

For those of you traveling to visit family between now and the end year, we have a few helpful travel tips to fly your way!

The key for a successful and less stressful trip is to be prepared. By following these simple suggestions, traveling to/from Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), or any airport for that matter, will a bit easier and more convenient:

1) Know the security rules before you pack. TheTransportation Security Administration (TSA) has a 3-1-1 campaign to educate travelers on the carry-on baggage restrictions. For specific details, visit www.tsa.dhs.gov before you pack your bags.

2) Call your airline’s toll-free flight tracking phone number for an update on your flight before coming to the airport. Flight status information is also available on your airline’s website.

3) Arrive at a MDT parking lot about 90-minutes before your scheduled departure.

4) Follow the signs and park in the Long Term/Economy lot. Shuttle buses run (24 hours a day) every 8-10 minutes from the numbered shelters in the lot and brings you curbside at the terminal building.

5) When picking up a passenger arriving at MDT, please use our free cell phone lot until your passenger arrives. Federal security mandates prohibit parking along the terminal curbside. Only the active loading and unloading of a vehicle is permitted in front of the terminal building.

6) Regarding the holiday gifts and food you want to travel with: gifts packed in your carry-on and checked luggage should be unwrapped. Don't pack snow globes in your carry-on luggage, please pack them in your checked luggage. Please be sure to review the TSA's policies for how to travel with holiday foods.

Finally, we ask that you remember to bring a smile and be patient. Generally the weather looks good nationwide for the upcoming holiday travel week, however delays can happen at any time. The airlines want to get you to your destination safely and on time, while the TSA has a responsibility to make sure that everyone getting on an aircraft is doing so without any prohibited items.

What do you still have questions about that we've not covered? We hope our tips contribute to making your trip to Tulsa to visit Aunt Beatrice and her world famous fruitcake as stress-free as possible! Although, you'll have to buy your own roll of Tums to help digest that fruitcake!

Snow, plows and ice - oh my!

With winter just around the corner and snow in this week's forecast, Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) employees are prepared to work hard to keep the airfield clear for aircraft take-offs and landings, the roadways clear for drivers and the walkways clear for visitors.

While most of us are thinking about swimming pools and jet-setting away from the region in the warm summer months, for the maintenance and operations crews at MDT it is strictly Christmas in July. This is when intensive planning stages begin for the coordination of plowing routes on the airfield and terminal roads, getting the essential winter vehicles prepped, and training drills take place.

Crews battle the snow and ice

And when the colder months and precipitation come, crews are ready to take on Jack Frost. To stay on top of the forecast, airport maintenance subscribes to Accuweather as well as checks with other weather sources to determine the incoming storm. Unlike highway road crews, MDT’s crews are called in before the snow hits, which means no build up on the runways or the public access ways.

Assistant Supervisor of Maintenance Mark Hake takes pride in his dedicated group of employees who maintain the terminal road ways and parking garages. Even when the team is not on airport grounds, they are always a call away. In the event of a storm, the crews begin the continuous process of plowing, brooming, and de-icing the grounds to ensure passengers can make their flights.

On the other side of the terminal, Airfield Maintenance Supervisor Shawn Rupert and his men work hard to make sure airplanes continue to travel to and from the airport. In his experience with the airport, MDT closed because of weather only one time. A direct reflection of the dedication his team of 16 workers possesses, which lets the airport continue to operate in hazardous conditions. It is not uncommon for both Rupert and Hake’s teams to sacrifice time with their families or even holidays to shack up in the bunk room at the airport for a 24-hour storm.

Plowing the runway one full length and one full width is the equivalent of plowing 31.5 miles of a single lane road. Using a variety of different sized plows and trucks with brooms, totaling at 20 different vehicles, and burning through an average of $190,000 of airport-safe chemicals and sand to help manage the snow, treating the airport passageways becomes possible. Also unlike regular highway crews, the airport does not use rock salt because it is too damaging to the airplanes.

The Operations Department works in conjunction with Airfield Maintenance to test the conditions of the ground. Using a machine called a Bomonk AFM, they are able to test the friction of the surface of the pavement to make sure each airline’s requirements for landing are met.

While conditions in the winter months at MDT can be cold and blustery, it is evident that there is a warm camaraderie and a high level of dedication burning inside each of these employees. At the end of the storm, when crews are finally able to rest, they are left with a keen sense of pride and a job well done.

Innovative Aircraft - Embraer 195

photo credit: FlickRiver.com

The Embraer 195 regional jet provides the highest passenger capacity of the Embraer 170/190 family of aircraft. The aircraft has a range of 1,800 miles. It has a wide aisle, large seats and a passenger capacity of 108 to 118 depending on the cabin layout providing a high degree of comfort. In addition, the aircraft offers low operating costs and operational flexibility.

Since the 190/195 models are of mainline aircraft size, many airlines will operate them this way fitting them with a business class section and operating the aircraft themselves, instead of having them flown by a regional airline partner.

The first flight of the E-195 was on December 7, 2004.

Local Tourism Spotlight: PA Renaissance Faire

The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire is winding down to the final weeks at the Mount Hope Estate & Winery. 

Upon your entry to the shire of Mount Hope, you are magically transformed into the year of 1590. Queen Elizabeth Regina Gloriana, Ruler of England, welcomes you with fanfare and cannon fire as the gates are opened to the celebration of theater, art, music and dance.

Situated on 35 glorious acres of land, the Faire offers a wide array of shows and performances.  Watch glassblowing and archery demonstrations; stop by the military encampment; listen to bagpipes and other musicians; see some of the many comedy acts or maybe take a ride on Wrinkles the elephant!

To follow the storyline, don’t miss the Magical Merriment Parade as the Queen proceeds to the Human Chess Match.  Here you will see William Shakespeare and Kit Marlowe vie for the Queen’s attention, which eventually leads to the Ultimate Joust.  The day ends with the Finale, as you join the Queen and all the performers for a celebration of your visit.

The Faire offers a wide variety of unique food choices like smoked turkey legs, Scotch eggs, tiger pies, and even deep fried peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. To quench your thirst, free wine tastings are available and is sold by the glass.  Beer is also offered by the glass or you can just grab a serve yourself Slush Puppie.

Artisans are on hand for purchasing clothing, accessories, swords, and numerous other crafts.

The Faire is located on Route 72 just north of Manheim, easily accessible from the PA Turnpike, and is open every weekend from 11:00 – 8:00 until October 28.  

For more information on The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire or the Mount Hope Estate & Winery, visit www.parenfaire.com.

Innovative Aircraft - Cessna Citation Longitude

Cessna Citation Longitude -
photo courtesy of AINOnline.com

Cessna’s newest, biggest jet is the Citation Longitude. The swept-wing Longitude has the roomiest cabin and the longest range of any Citation jet. Longitude will have a range of 4,000 miles.

The cabin will have a flat floor and six feet of headroom, and will seat eight in double club seating. The cabin also features a galley, a spacious lavatory and a large baggage area.  The Longitude is manufactured in Wichita, Kansas.  The engines on this aircraft are said to be industry leaders in fuel-efficiency, weight and manageability.

At 86-feet wide and 87-feet long, the Longitude is expected to be in service by 2017.

Have you flown on one of the other 9 members of the Citation family of aircraft?  Which ones and what features of these Cessnas did you enjoy?

Innovative Aircraft - Airbus A380

The Airbus A380 has been winning over business and leisure passengers since its introduction in 2007 with travelers specifically requesting flights around the globe.

Photo credit: Airbus.com

The double-decker A380 is the world’s largest commercial aircraft flying today, with capacity to carry 525 passengers in a three-class configuration and up to 853 in a single-class configuration that provides wider seats than its competitors. The A380’s two decks offer 50 percent more floor surface than any other high-capacity aircraft.

It has a main deck and an upper deck, which are conveniently linked by fixed stairs forward and aft.  The aircraft is actively being purchased by airlines for commercial flights worldwide, with 80 being in current operations.  

Have you flown on an A380?  Have you plane spotted one and photographed it?  We'd love to see your photos!

MDTrip Report: Colorado Springs, CO

Broadmoor Resort

Looking for an interesting summer vacation destination?  We encourage you to visit Colorado Springs, Colorado.  There are several attractions for all ages located in Colorado Springs, not to mention the breathtaking scenery around every turn. 

If you’re looking for a place to stay in the area, you cannot go wrong staying at The Broadmoor Resort.  The Broadmoor has three 18-hole golf courses with some of the most impressive views of the Rockie Mountains.  Along with the golf courses, there are several other activities for families such as horseback riding, swimming, paddle boats and much more.  After a long day of golf and hiking, The Broadmoor also has a spa to help you relax.

We also encourage you to visit the Garden of the Gods Park, which is a National Natural Landmark.  Here you can take a guided tour, hike or bike ride through some of the best views of Pikes Peak and tall sandstone rock formations.  A tour will teach you about the cultural history and geology of the Colorado Springs area. 

Garden of the Gods

 After viewing Pikes Peak from the Garden of Gods Park, take a short trip over to get an up close view of the peak 14,115 feet above sea level.  In order to reach the summit you can hike, drive or even catch a ride on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway.  If you are an adventurous person consider riding a bike 20 miles down the Pikes Peak Highway with the Challenge Unlimited Tour. 

Need even more of an adrenaline rush?  Located a quick hour away from Colorado Springs is the Echo Canyon River Expeditions where there are several different white water rafting options.  They have choices from a family rafting trip to the high adventurous class V rapids trip. 

Olympic Training Center

So you need a break from all of the high adventure?  Take a tour of the United States Air Force Academy with several aircraft exhibits.  Next on the tour list is the U.S. Olympic Training Center where athletes train for the Olympic Games.  A third great attraction to visit is the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum located downtown, with several exhibits to learn about the local history. 

There is much more than that to see and do in Colorado Springs so feel free to ask us.  You can also find more info by visiting www.visitcos.com/.        

Wanna visit Colorado Springs?  You can reach this lovely city with one connection from MDT.  Frontier Airlines has recently announced nonstop flights between Denver and Colorado Springs - so by booking your flight from MDT to DEN, you can then connect to Colorado Springs on the same airline! 

Innovative Aircraft - Boeing 787

Are you an aviation geek ("avgeek")?  If you are then there's a good chance you're already up-to-speed on the latest and greatest in aircraft innovations with the main airliner manufacturers.  Today we begin a new series which will profile and feature some of the latest and greatest airplanes! 

We're getting started with a look at the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.  

787 Dreamliner - Photo from FlightAware

Responding to overwhelming preferences of airlines around the world, an international team of top aerospace companies led by Boeing at its Everett, Washington facility near Seattle, Boeing Commercial Airplanes' launched a super-efficient airplane, the 787 Dreamliner.  The aircraft was originally slated as the 7E7 when its earliest design stages. The first delivery of the completed 787 to ANA took place on Sept. 25, 2011.

In addition to bringing big-jet ranges to mid-size airplanes, the 787 provides airlines with unmatched fuel efficiency, resulting in exceptional environmental performance. The airplane uses 20 percent less fuel than today's similarly sized airplanes. It will also travel at a similar speed as today's fastest wide bodies.

The 787-8 Dreamliner can carry 210 - 250 passengers on routes of 7,650 to 8,200 miles, while the 787-9 Dreamliner can carry 250 - 290 passengers on routes of 8,000 to 8,500 miles. With this new model of aircraft airlines are anticipated receive more cargo revenue capacity.  

Have you plane spotted a 787 yet?  Better yet, have you flown on one?  

Local Tourism Spotlight: National Civil War Museum

To continue our local tourism spotlight posts, today we share with you a recent visit that one of our marketing personnel, Cheryl W., enjoyed at the local Civil War museum.

The National Civil War Museum is the only museum in the United States portraying the entire story of the American Civil War.  Galleries offer equally balanced presentations without bias to the Union or the Confederate causes.            

                                          

Located on top of a hill overlooking the City of Harrisburg, the museum offers spectacular views of the city and the surrounding mountains.  A touching sculpture created by Terry Jones at the entrance of the museum entitled “Moment of Mercy” depicts the selfless act of courage by 19 year old Sergeant Richard Kirkland, a scene that could be found many times throughout the war.

                                                                                                         

Ascending the Grand staircase upon entrance, this self-guided tour begins on the second floor of the museum.  The American struggle is portrayed as a time line, focusing on the four actual years of the war.  The pre-War period includes a collection of artifacts reflecting the evolution of American Slavery.           

                                                          

The Creation of the Confederacy and the first shots fired upon Fort Sumter signal the beginning of the American Civil War.  The Making of the Confederate and Union Armies features uniforms, weapons and other items used by the Artillery, Infantry and Cavalry units as well as the Union Navy.                  

                                                                 

Pictures are on display of the military camp established in Harrisburg by Pennsylvania Governor Andrew Curtain.  Camp Curtain became one of the North’s most important training centers for volunteers and new recruits.  The camp also served as a supply depot and a center for the sick and wounded.  Governor Curtain is often referred to as “the greatest of the Northern war governors”.  During his term in office, Pennsylvania contributed 427,000 soldiers serving in the war.

Some of the battles depicted are:  Bull Run, Shiloh, Vicksburg, Chancellorsville, Antietam and Gettysburg.  More than 3 million men served in the military during the four years of war; 700,000 died and nearly 400,000 were wounded.  War related deaths from 1861-1865 were greater than the total number of American deaths in all American wars.  Gettysburg was the single bloodiest battle ever in American history.  Out of 170,000 men, there were over 50,000 casualties.                                                                                       

Disease killed more soldiers than battlefield wounds, claiming over 96,000 lives. One in sixty five was killed in battle - One in thirteen died of disease.  Cleanliness and proper sanitation helped reduce sickness.  Various artifacts of personal hygiene can be seen including; soaps, toothpaste, shaving kits and mirrors.  A field hospital is also displayed featuring a surgery.  Surgical instruments, syringes, crutches and artificial limbs are showcased; but the most impressive item on display has to be the hospital wagon - believed to be the last surviving ambulance from the civil war era!                                               

The tour concludes with General Robert E. Lee’s surrender at Appomattox Courthouse and the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln at Ford’s Theater in Washington.  On display are newspapers, a picture of the funeral procession, a sash from the funeral train and even a piece of the dress Mary Todd Lincoln was wearing that fateful night.  Less than a year later, slavery was abolished by approval of the 13^th Amendment to the Constitution.


Have you enjoyed a visit to the National Civil War Museum?  What are your favorite exhibits at the museum?  If you've not been there, are you planning a visit now that you've read this post?

MDTrip Report: Colorado at a Glance

If you follow Harrisburg International Airport on Twitter (@HIAairport) and were following the #MDT_DEN hashtag, you know that members of our team were recently in the Denver, Colorado region.  We traveled there for meeting with various travel professionals in the region and to gather info on what makes that region of the country so spectacular.  Over the next couple of weeks we would will share with you about the various cities in Colorado that we visited and the unique opportunities they afford travelers.  

Today, we'll share a quick glance at each of these towns and cities - short and sweet.


Denver is an exciting nexus of arts, culture, history, music, food and outdoor adventures for the entire family. 


Estes Park is home to the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park and the famed Stanley Hotel.  


Lyons is an adorable town nested in foot of a red rock cliff and is a bedroom community featuring its own unique charm. 


Boulder is noted as one of the "Foodiest" locations in the United States and is situated in the midst of the Rockies.


Golden is full of small town charm and home to the Coors Brewery, this adorable city is nicknamed, the "Two Hour Vacation" spot. 


Colorado Springs boasts a plethora of attractions for varied interests including the Broadmoor resort, Garden of the Gods, the Olympic Training Center and much more.


So, stay tuned as we blog about the highlights of our trip to the Rockies.  You're in for quite the adventure as you read along.  Getting the itch to 'Go West'?  We can't say we blame you!  You can fly nonstop from MDT to Denver on Frontier Airlines every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday through September 2, 2012.

Guest Blog: Air Traveling with Justin

Today we continue our guest blog series regarding air traveling with a disability.  Our guest blogger today, Justin a self-described die-hard Orioles, Ravens and Penn State football fan is an IT professional who lives locally.  


Justin writes for fly HIA blog about his experiences traveling as a deaf man and shares some fantastic tips that have made flying less stressful for him and others.

For last many years, I have heard many good, bad and funny stories from my Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing friends regarding their flying experience especially the service they received from staff of the airline itself.  One of the common stories I have heard is that the Deaf traveler had to ride in the wheelchair pushed by the airport worker to the destination gate or from one gate to another one at the airport when he or she can walk.  Another story is that the Deaf traveler was asked if he needs help being carried from the check-in desk all the way to the gate.  Another Deaf traveler was asked if he needs help getting off the plane when it landed at the destination.  These and other stories happened because the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing travelers did not first inform the airline or travel agent that they accessible communication services. That is how the airline or travel agent starts with assuming of what kind of services they would need for their safe journey when they could mistakenly provide the wrong services without asking them.

If you are a Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing air traveler that needs to require for accessible communication services during your flying journey with an airline, you can kindly notify them at the time of booking, and ticket counter or check-in desk at your destination gate upon your arrival at the airport.  They can arrange for one of their people helping you through check-in, baggage check, security-check and your awareness at the time of the boarding announcement.  At most airports, there are electronic monitors that display flight information and gate areas with their electronic displays that show the specific flight information of the destination you are traveling to.  Upon your arrival at your destination gate, it is important that you inform the check-in agent you are Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing so he or she can provide accessible communication services in case your flight is delayed or the departure gate has been changed.

When you get boarded on the plane, it may be a good idea to explain your accessible communication needs to the cabin crew, especially flight attendants, so they can keep you informed of any import announcements like delays or emergency landings.  Most of the planes have TVs with their pre-recorded video aircraft safety briefings which are captioned.  If no TV, the flight attendant can provide you a visual brochure with the safety information for you to prepare in case an emergency arises.  The airline would provide onboard headphones that would be helpful for you as you switch your hearing aids to the ‘T’ position.

If you would like to take the advantages of these accessible communication services as explained above you can inform the airline of your needs at the time of booking, at ticket counter or check-in desk.  Please inform them for your own sake to save yourself and the airline from being embarrassed if you end up in the wheelchair being pushed to your destination gate.  That would be unnecessary even though you can walk.

Tourism Spotlight - York CVB

On Thursday, May 10th, several of MDT's staff members had an opportunity to visit several local attractions as part of a tour set up by the York Convention and Visitors' Bureau (CVB).  The tour included pre-selected spots from the member businesses of the CVB in both York and Lancaster counties.   Our transportation for the tour was provided by Wolf Bus Lines; we had the privilege of touring on one of their newest fleet members.

Accomac Inn

We began our tour at the Accomac Inn, located along the Susquehanna River in Hellam, the Inn specializes in gourmet meals at it's onsite restaurant, events, catering, and weddings.  We enjoyed a quiche, home fries and blue berry muffin plate while hearing a brief overview of the Inn from Mrs. Campell, owner and operator since 1971.

Accomac Inn Cornerstone

Upon departing the Accomac, we headed to George's Woodcrafts in Marietta.  Tucked away among miles of farmland, the family owned and operated furniture workshop boasts a full range of products from foot stools to bedroom suites.  Our next stop was the Haldeman Mansion in Bainbridge.  The Haldeman has a beautiful waterfront view of the Susquehanna across meticulously groomed lawns.   The mansion, constructed in the 1770s, is host to many weddings, events and occasionally tour groups.

Haldeman Mansion

Our next stop took us back to York county to Flinchbaugh's Orchard and Farmer's Market.  We were created by the owner's daughter, Julie, who provided us a quick snapshot of the family's operations and invited us to visit their 5-acre corn maze in the fall.  She explained the maze was concise in size to keep children from getting lost and/or bored in the maze.  Flinchbaugh's Farmer's Market is the site of fresh fruits, veggies, baked goods and other locally sourced items.  And, they provided our tour group with a fabulous locally sourced lunch, too!

Following our visit and lunch at Flinchbaugh's we drove into York City to visit the little-known gem of a restaurant, run by the students of the York School of Culinary Arts (part of the Yorktowne Business Institute).    Students in the last semester of their education prepare all meals from scratch, not out of a box.  Choices of a  four-course monthly menu or a three-course seasonal menu are offered.  Although the restaurant does not have alcohol available for purchase, you are invited to BYOB.  The restaurant is open Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.  Reservations are recommended by calling 717-846-5000.

Wine Selection at Allegro Winery

Last, but certainly not least on our tour was a visit to the Allegro Winery in Brogue.  Out in the middle of the York county country-side, this delightful winery has been in operation since 1980, with its first official wine tasting in 1981.  We were treated to a tasting of six of the wines curated on site at Allegro and a behind the scenes tour of their facility.  Some of the Allegro wines are available for purchase at PA Wine & Spirits shops and the entire selection of their wines can be purchased at the winery.

Tasting & Barrel room at Allegro

While it was a wide-range of activities in the tour mix - all offered something uniquely there own and equally delightful for local residents and tourists to the York and Lancaster areas to enjoy!

We'd love to hear your experiences with visiting any of the attractions and properties we mentioned in this post.  Do you have plans to visit any of them in the near future?

#MDT324 from @User47

MDT hosted our second annual fly in tweet-up, #MDT324 and over the course of the next week or two will be sharing the blog posts from the attendees.   Attendee JLJ was a first time attendee.  JLJ astutely self-describes as a Biz Analyst. INTJ. Pescatarian. Info sponge, #avgeek. I love: @JLJ_2, NPR, documentaries, #planespotting, travel, wildlife, sci, tech, #photog and root beer.

JLJ shares, today, about his experience at #MDT324:

My friends tell me I’m a nut. You see, at least twice a year I take a three to four-day weekend for the sole purpose of planespotting, trying out a new airline, adding lines to my flightmemory, flying just to fly, or in most cases, some amazing combination of these. It turns out there are lots of folks out there like me, avgeeks, propheads, milerunners, aerophiles, really, it’s all the same. We are folks who love everything about aviation. Planes, airports, runways, airlines—We love ‘em all.

My most recent aviation-themed weekend involved a multi-legged trip to and from Harrisburg International Airport for a small tweet-up, that is, a meet up of tweeters/twitter-ers hosted by the airport. The second annual MDT tweet-up, affectionately dubbed #MDT324 as a throw-back to the first event’s date, involved a tour of the airport’s secured and non-secured facilities to include the administrative offices, baggage handling operations, common areas, and my personal favorite, the tarmac apron where commercial, private and military traffic could be seen just yards away.

The tour ended with awards of swag-bags, containing an assortment of goodies and an incredibly complex (designed for ages 6-12) LEGO aviation set. We spent a good 45 minutes or so racing to build our airplanes, but we all basically ended up with duds. I’m sad to report that my blatant disregard for the instructions coupled with my terrible design skills “won” me the least defined, least likely to fly hodge-podge of plane parts. All I really needed to complete my hybrid plane to nowhere was some speed tape, the aviation industry’s answer to duct tape.

My visit to MDT was delightful and exceeded expectations. It's clear that the airport leadership wants to build a facility with passenger experience and comfort in mind. As a matter of fact, I can honestly say that all but one of the people I met who were employed directly or indirectly by the airport, its vendors or airlines were genuinely happy, an odd and terribly uncommon phenomenon. The exception? A single TSA agent, there's always one, isn't there? I don't see this as a negative, though. Because of all the TSA staff I encountered, all but this one were, like the others, genuinely happy.

As a Business Analyst by trade, I'm always considering how organizations can build upon what works and address what doesn't. Comparing the strategy and operations of one company to its industry-peers, and finding pros and cons is what I do for a living. And, while I'm not in any way involved in the aviation business, I cannot seem take off my continuous improvement hat while traveling or on holiday.  Strolling through the airport terminal prior to our meet-up I was able to check everything off of my list of need-to-haves and nice-to-haves for the perfect airport, this was a fist for me. I won't share my list, because the contents aren't important. What I will share is that I generally add one or two things to my list when I visit a new airport, with this visit not only did I check everything off, I added three.

We concluded the evening with dinner at a restaurant just off of the Lancaster Airport’s tarmac. I could write an entire blog just on that experience, but suffice it to say, it was an excellent way to end a busy and exciting day. Planespotting at sunset over great food and excellent conversation, it doesn’t get much better than that.

#MDT324 is an event designed to cater to the most extreme and dedicated aviation enthusiasts, or "avgeeks."   We look forward to meeting some newbies and seeing the old crew at next year's event!

The Power of Curiosity

MDT hosted our second annual fly in tweet-up, #MDT324 and over the course of the next week or two will be sharing the blog posts from the attendees.   Attendee Mike Morgan visited us for the event for a 2nd year in a row.  A little about Mike: He loves to fly.  He became a passionate #avgeek when he lived in Orlando and watched planes for hours at ORL.  He self-describes as being obsessed with Boeing, Marriott, United, and Taco Bueno. He is working towards a private pilot certificate and mostly flies in a C172.  He hopes one day to own his own airline, and proudly fly an all Boeing fleet.

Mike shares, today, about his experience at #MDT324:

Friday, April 20th started just like any other normal Friday for me.  Wake up early. Take a shower.  Fumble out of my Marriott hotel room.  Find my rental car.  Drive to some airport.  TSA.  Board.  Fly.  

But, my destination would not be home on this Friday.  After a two hour layover at EWR (Newark, NJ), I hopped on a Bombardier Q200 and flew at 8,000 feet to MDT.  It was time for the second annual #MDT324 tweetup! 

At 3:24pm we all met up to spend some serious time in #avgeekery.  @airport_girl, Stephanie Gehman, Harrisburg's Marketing Manager, treated us to a behind the scenes look at the airport.  Stephanie had lego airplanes for us to build (needless to say, Boeing won't be hiring us as engineers any time soon).  We also took an airport quiz (Did you know that there are 4,200 window panes in the airport?  Also, the apron takes up 45.1 acres.). Then we headed to dinner.  Among us were @airport_girl, @BruceBere, @user47, @GehmanAndCo, and myself.  I have met each of these great people at other airports around the country.  

Here's what made this year's #MDT324 so amazing.  We had a real conversation about the good that plane spotting offers.  @user47 is an avid plane spotter, and he works hard educate others that plane spotting isn't doing any harm.  We ate dinner at a restaurant that sat next to the ramp at another airport.  While we were talking a little girl ran up to the fence to take a picture of a plane passing by.  @user47 said, "That's why plane spotting is good."  And he was right.  Plane spotting encourages people to learn about engineering, physics, and it's even pushed me to learn more about business!  

How many of you first watched a plane fly over head and thought, "I wonder how that giant hunk of metal stays in the air?"  Maybe you watch planes at a hub and ponder what it takes to manage all of that.  Plane spotting encourages curiosity.  It causes people to learn and grow.  The airline industry is treated like a bus service for potential terrorists, but should be regarded as an industry that makes the impossible possible.   

Plane spotting builds community.  Look at the folks who spot together with NYC Aviation, and other like groups.  MDT offers an observation deck at the airport, and with visitors like Air Force Two it's well worth the trip (so book a round trip to MDT, you need the miles anyway!).  My hope is that other airports will catch on and start to encourage the love of aviation, and stop trying to ban those of us who are passionate about it.  

This was my second year to #MDT324, and once again I am very thankful for the opportunity to join my #avgeek friends.  I am already planning next year's trip!  I would really like to thank Stephanie and the Harrisburg International Airport for their hospitable spirit towards #avgeeks. 
But, hey, I'm just some guy who likes to look at airplanes, so what do I know?

We look forward to having another crew of #avgeeks fly in for next year's #MDT324!  Hope to see you there, Mike.


The thoughts shared in this post are those of the author and don't represent the viewpoints of Harrisburg International Airport.

#MDT324 - @BruceBere

Bruce Bere

MDT hosted our second annual fly in tweet-up, #MDT324 and over the course of the next week or two will be sharing the blog posts from the attendees.  Today's post is from Bruce Bere, a self-described 'airline, aviation and travel enthusiast' from the Midwest.  This was Bruce's first time joining us for fly-in tweet-up.

I love aviation—quite a bit. When I got an email and an invitation to the tweet-up, #MDT324, I jumped at the chance to go. Flying in from all different areas of the country, a group of people met at HarrisburgInternational Airport (MDT) and started what was the second consecutive tweet-up for this group.

Our lovely host, Stephanie Gehman (@airport_girl), who showed us around the airport including a behind the scenes look at the baggage operation and the tarmac, met us. Working for United Airlines at ORD, it was quite an experience to see a completely different airport. I am used to a baggage room with over 100 belts for different flights--MDT has only three. Overall, it was a great experience getting to compare a larger and smaller airport. The neat thing about MDT was the fact that so much goes on there that I certainly would never have guessed before touring the facility. Between the commercial aviation, military presence, and the FBO on site, it is always a full day.

Going into the tweet-up, I was a bit uneasy. I am shy by nature but by the end of the night, I felt great connecting with such a great group of people. Here’s to #MDT324 2013! 

We look forward to having another crew of #avgeeks fly in for next year's #MDT324!  Hope to see you there, Bruce.

Tips for Germ-Free Hotel Stays

No one realizes how beautiful it is to travel until he comes home
and rests his head on his old, familiar pillow. 

-Lin Yutang

In a time of year when colds, coughs, runny noses and the like are plaguing many travelers, MDT offers a few tips to minimize your exposure to germs when staying at a hotel year round. 

• Choosing a newer hotel as opposed to the charm of a older hotel may lessen your exposure to allergens and dust.
• If your allergies are working over time - speak to front desk about an allergy-free room, or ask if they have allergy packs (face masks, special pillows and mattress covers).
• Carry sani-wipes with you when you travel - wipe down common use areas such as phones, door handles, faucet knobs, drawer pulls, remote controls and the like in your room.
• Wandering about the bedspread?  Consider removing it from the bed before you go to sleep.
• If you want to drink from the glassware in your hotel room, wash it before you use it.
• If coffee/tea stirrers offered in your room are unpackaged, don't use them in your drink.
• Pack flip flops. Don't walk across your hotel room or its bathroom floor barefoot.
• Don't be shy - wear your flip flops in the shower!  Protect your feet.
• When using the hotel gym equipment - be hygiene cognizant.  Wipe down the machine before and after use.  Don't traverse the locker room floor in your bare feet.

What tips and tricks for a cleaner hotel stay do you have?  Share 'em and we'll repost them in a future blog post!  

Spotlight on Local Tourism: Roundtop Mountain Resort

Cheryl W., a member of the Harrisburg International Airport staff had the opportunity to visit Roundtop Mountain Resort for a snow tubing trip.  She enjoyed it so much she wanted to share her experience.  Learn more...  

Last month I had the pleasure of going to Roundtop Mountain Resort.  This was my first time to visit Roundtop, which is of course best known for its skiing and snowboarding.  The mountain has 17 trails with 5 chairlifts and features some of the steepest terrain in the state.  So if you’re planning on hitting the slopes, this is the place to go.  Roundtop Mountain is an easy drive from I-83, I-81, Route 15 and the PA Turnpike.

For my first experience, I chose to go snowtubing.  After grabbing a tube, it was time to jump on the Magic Carpet lift to the top of the run.  I chose a lane and the staff assisted me in how to get positioned on the tube and where to hold on to the handles.  You are given the choice of going down the run feet first or face first and you can choose just a single run or doubles with a partner.  There were many possibilities to pick from.  With a gentle push, I was screaming with delight as I took my first snowtubing ride.  It was so much fun.  Several rides later, it was time to take a break.  My first stop was the giant fire pit located next to the lanes.  I was wishing I had a stick and a marshmallow to toast.  After stepping inside the lodge to warm up next to the fireplace, it was time to once again grab my snowtube.  With each run, from the first to the last, the rides only got better. 

With my snowtubing adventure complete, it was time to head up the road to the main lodge to check out the Fireside Pub & Grill.  This restaurant is a great place to kick back, grab a drink and relax while enjoying a front row view of the slopes.

The enthusiastic staff made this visit such an enjoyable experience.  As soon as I entered the Mountainview Lodge to get my tickets from the cashier, the employees at the tubing lanes and the magic carpet lift, the housekeeping staff and the guys at the Pub; the whole team made you feel welcome.  I can’t wait to go back again.

Just because winter is over doesn’t mean you have to wait until next year to visit.  Beginning next month, Roundtop will be open with Mountain Adventures.  Play a game of paintball, take a ropes course, go for a ride in a Go ball or jump in a bumper boat.  If your adventure includes a zip line, you’ve come to the right place.  The vertical trek begins with a chairlift ride to the top of the mountain.  Come back down using a series of 10 exciting zip lines as you descend over 600 feet through the treetops.  If that seems a little too adventuresome though, you may choose a roundtrip ride on the chairlift.    

For more information on Roundtop Mountain Resort, visit www.skiroundtop.com. 

Are you a regular at Roundtop? What are your favorite year round activities at this local destination?

Guest Blog: Air Traveling with Nikki and Laura

Today we continue our guest blog series regarding air traveling with a disability.  Our guest blogger today, Laura has had a mobility impairment from birth.    She’s a private dog trainer living in Eastern Lancaster County, helping others with disabilities train service dogs. And, in the process she helps others learn to advocate for themselves, and considers this the best part of her job.  She has a passion for writing and music.  She creatively authored today's guest post from the perspective of her service dog, Nikki.

Nikki and Laura write for fly HIA blog about their shared experiences traveling as a woman with a mobility disability and service dog and the gals share some fantastic tips that have made flying less stressful for them.

Guest Bloggers, Laura and Nikki

Hi, everybody! 

Normally my person, Laura McLean, is the writer.  She’s a service dog trainer.  She helps people like herself who want a service dog find and train them.  She can teach dogs like me to do all kinds of cool things to make people with disabilities lives easier.  She has a her own blog where she talks about life with me and what it’s like to have cerebral palsy.  In her case it mostly affects her ability to walk   Like I said normally she does all the writing but since this is about me and some of my friends she said it would be ok for me to talk with you just this once.   I am so excited.   I am Nikki the wonder dog and I am nine years old.  I have been Laura’s service partner for seven years but I have been her buddy my whole life.  I have a lot to say because she rarely lets me speak my mind.  I have to be honest with you all though right up front.  I have never been on an airplane myself.  Laura has flown out of HIA several times.  She wants me to tell you that she’s kind of a nervous flyer and when she is nervous that makes me unsettled and that’s why I’ve never been on a plane.  But I have lots of service dog buddies who love flying with their partners.  So we decided to ask them for some stories and tips for a safe and enjoyable trip.  We worked together and came up with a list of things we think are the most important things you should know if you are flying with your service animal or are on a flight with someone who is.

It’s very important for you to let the airline know when your book your flight that you will be traveling with a service dog.  The airline staff will often ask for your dog’s weight.  It helps the staff to help you pick the best seat for everyone to be comfortable.    You can of course pick any seat you like but it is the law that we cannot block the aisles.  Keep that in mind when picking your seat.   I weigh all of 36lbs.  I am smaller mobility dog and even I take up a lot of room when I am in the mood to stretch out and relax.   My friend Nugget is a Great Dane.  When she and her partner fly he actually buys her a seat so she has extra floor space to be relaxed.  What a great Dad!!

 

Leave yourself and your service animal plenty of time to get where you need to be rushing isn’t advisable when traveling for anyone.  But having a service animal is in some ways like having a child.  You should always plan for the unexpected.  Airports are busy noisy places and even the most well trained service dog needs a little time to adjust.  Our friends who travel often told us the earlier you can get to the airport the better is for both you and your dog!  It’s best not to feed us before the flight to prevent upset stomachs and accidents.  No one wants that!  It is also not a good idea to medicate your dog before a flight without the advice of her vet.  Some medicines react differently at higher altitudes.

Airport security is very important these days.  We all have to go through it.  Service dogs too!!   According to my friend Ranger and his partner it helps to tell the staff that he is a service dog and NOT a pet.  Use that exact phrase. It is very important to have your service dog under control in the area.  For my Furry friends this means we have to be on out best behavior.  TSA staff may want to touch you or have you walk through a machine or wave a wand the beeps over you.  They may want to inspect your leash vest or collar.  Don’t worry they won’t take them off, and you won’t have to leave your person. They want to make sure everyone is safe.  For our partners please help the TSA by telling them how this can be accomplished in the easiest and safest way possible.  Ranger and his Dad also told us that it is important for your dog to take his bathroom breaks before going through security because if you take your dog out after the security check you and your dog will need to do it again.  Thanks for the tips guys.

Once it's time to board your flight you and your partner will often be afforded the opportunity to board first.  This will give you both a few extra minutes to find your seats and get settled in before the other travelers’ board.  Then you’ll both be all set for take off.

Some other important tips we learned in talking to our friends about their best and worst trips

Always have id on your dog and travel with a copy of his or her medical information just in case.

Have extra supplies for your dog in your carry on the same way you pack for yourself.  Cause even the dogs bags get lost sometimes.

Fly nonstop whenever you can.  No one wants to be rushing through a crowded busy airport with a service dog in tow.  It’s a disaster waiting to happen.  I am not a dog who likes to be rushed so running to make a connection doesn’t sound like fun to me.

In closing, Laura and I would like to remind you that you are the best advocate for yourself and your dog.  It is important to remember that the staff is there to assist you in making your travel experience a pleasant one.  In the event that you need something or a problem arises ASK for HELP.  Approach problems or issues with a cool head.  It makes it easier to get what issues resolved and makes life easier for everybody.

Happy travels,

Nikki, the wonder dog and friends 


Thank you, Nikki and Laura, for sharing your experiences with us and our readers!  Are you a traveler with a service animal and/or mobility disability - what tips might you have to share that compliment those offered by our guest blogger today?