Riding A Plane For The First Time

Things people should know when they will be getting their plane ride for the first time is the procedure of booking a flight, airport security checks, airport locations and the means on how to get there. I made this post in a way that would help others and make their travel so much fun rather than nervous.:D

Booking a flight is a bit hard for people who neither have credit card or bank account that are in partnership of the airline you would want to provide you the service. Likewise, booking a flight is hassle when you do it just two days or less before your desired travel period. Furthermore, a lot of searching to assure travel safety and security is required: travel terms and conditions, airport location, airport security checks etc. I actually experienced these inconveniences when I traveled last holy week.

Choosing from the four main domestic and international airlines established in the Philippines: Philippine Airlines, Airphil Express, Cebu Pacific and Zest Air - Zest Air has the lowest offered fare. I purchased an e-ticket or electronic ticket through a travel agency nearby. From searching on the World Wide Web, I have compared the offered fares of the four airline companies. My purchased e-ticket has the same price to what was offered on the site though I paid an additional fee for the service of the travel agency. Fares on Zest Air were all inclusive of Vat, fuel surcharges and miscellaneous fees. Zest Air (and other airlines as well) has their travel terms and conditions on their website but I can give a brief summary of it:

BAGGAGES:

You are allowed to have one hand carry on baggage which size would not exceed from either under the seat in front of you or in the overhead locker. You could also carry with you your hand bag, reasonable amount of books or any reading materials and coat.

Liquids, especially flammable liquids that would exceed 100ml would not be allowed for hand carry on baggage.

Dangerous and explosive materials are also not allowed.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS:

For Domestic Flights, please present valid I.D and your e-ticket.

For International Flight, your e-ticket and passport are necessary.

Other important reminders can be read at the site.

WAYS TOWARD THE AIRPORT:

LRT/MRT

                From Metro Manila, the easiest and fastest way to get to Pasay where NAIA terminals are located is the LRT1 or MRT. You have to get off the EDSA or TAFT Station of the train then would ride a taxi going to NAIA.

BUS

                Ride a bus going to NAIA/MIA and drop off to Domestic road then wait for a taxi, get a ride going to the airport.

Taxis can be seen around Pasay but to lessen fare price they suggest you take a taxi from Mcdo near SOGO Hotel.

UPON ARRIVAL AT THE AIRPORT:

Security Check I

                Two hours time allowance is required for you  to get your flight. Upon entrance on the airport, you have to present your e-ticket to the security officer then pass through the airport’s x-ray machines. If you have nothing dangerous on your cells you may now proceed to the check in counter which will open two hours before your flight.

Boarding pass

                Look for the check in counter who has the sign of your designation area. Fall in line and ready your I.D/passport and e-ticket to be presented to the cashier/clerk/counter. If the counter had your documents checked she will now give you your boarding pass.

Terminal Fee

                Upon having your boarding pass, you should now prepare your cash for the terminal fee which is 200php for domestic flights and a more or less thousand bucks for international flight. Pay it on the cashier in front of the check in counters.

Security Check II

                Have your terminal fee pinned in your boarding pass and proceed to the second security check upon entering the departure area. You have to take off your shoes, pass the x-ray machine and security officers, have your baggage scanned then you could sit, relax and wait at the departure area until the boarding gate for your flight is open.

ON BOARD

Once the boarding gate has opened, you would fall in line and give your boarding pass to the counter and run toward the planes. Kidding!

Upon entering the plane don’t forget to take pictures and remind your contacts that electronic devices inside the plane

are not allowed and therefore should be switch off.

Always expect delay of flight because of traffics along airways and runways in the airport.

On board, cabin crew will demonstrate safety measures. They as well sell snacks and drinks that cost 6x greater than the selling price on convenience stores.

Also, expect ear pain during the flight. On my case especially 20 minutes before landing at Mactan International Airport I have experienced an ear ache. It was very painful. It was caused by the difference in air pressure and defects on some part of my body. You could search the web regarding this so you would know the things you might wanted to do or might as well see a doctor to check your health before boarding.

Above all, riding a plane would be easy and comprehensive. Just listen, be observant and don’t hesitate to ask questions and you would have a Zest trip. 

Also, don't leave your patience at home always expect delay in flights.

Don’t forget to leave comments.

Bon voyage!