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Comic-Con International => SDCC Housing, Parking, and Transportation => Topic started by: alyssa on September 20, 2022, 07:43:16 AM

Title: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: alyssa on September 20, 2022, 07:43:16 AM
Reports are that Jetblue has it's July schedule live
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Michaelnaut on September 20, 2022, 07:49:56 AM
I am seriously considering splurging next year to go on like American, or Delta, whichever gets me a direct flight.  While I love travelling on SW, those 3-4 hour layovers and such were taxing...
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: sessionka on September 20, 2022, 07:57:34 AM
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I am seriously considering splurging next year to go on like American, or Delta, whichever gets me a direct flight.  While I love travelling on SW, those 3-4 hour layovers and such were taxing...

I do everything in my power to avoid connecting flights.  For me, it's too stressful.  Will I make the connection.  Will my bags make it.  I 'splurge'.  :)
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: rickythump on September 21, 2022, 02:32:20 PM
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While I love travelling on SW, those 3-4 hour layovers and such were taxing...

I don't even love traveling SW anymore, I've had too many issues with them within the last year (service, scheduling, etc) that I can't see myself booking with them again. I just can't find the appeal of flying with them anymore, at least with the flights that I would need. They've dropped to bottom tier for me.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: stl_ben on September 22, 2022, 09:31:33 AM
Southwest or bust for me.  Partially because STL is a major hub for them and I don't have to worry about lay overs.  But man I've yet to find anywhere that beats their price.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: perc2100 on September 22, 2022, 10:17:43 AM
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Southwest or bust for me.  Partially because STL is a major hub for them and I don't have to worry about lay overs.  But man I've yet to find anywhere that beats their price.
Especially with their luggage policy.  When my family flew to OH last summer before Comic-Con it was easily the cheapest when factoring in their "you get 2 suitcases" policy.  The layovers aren't fun, but I've resigned myself to the fact that's just part of traveling and we plan layovers to avoid cities with weather delays (we like to have the layover in AZ or Vegas, vs TX in the summer w/thunderstorms, or midwestern cities in the wintertime that could have snow/ice issues).  While the terminal for SW is in the 'B' hub of the San Diego airport, with not-as-much food and whatnot, it's also less crowded with typically MUCH easier/quicker security lines: so for me, another bonus for SW!
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Michaelnaut on September 22, 2022, 10:48:12 AM
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Especially with their luggage policy.  When my family flew to OH last summer before Comic-Con it was easily the cheapest when factoring in their "you get 2 suitcases" policy.  The layovers aren't fun, but I've resigned myself to the fact that's just part of traveling and we plan layovers to avoid cities with weather delays (we like to have the layover in AZ or Vegas, vs TX in the summer w/thunderstorms, or midwestern cities in the wintertime that could have snow/ice issues).  While the terminal for SW is in the 'B' hub of the San Diego airport, with not-as-much food and whatnot, it's also less crowded with typically MUCH easier/quicker security lines: so for me, another bonus for SW!
And this is why I fly SW to SDCC.  Being able to bring a possible 2nd "swag case" for free is very compelling.  But this last time the layover just hit me more. We'll see once we start prepping for next year...
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: alyssa on September 22, 2022, 11:07:07 AM
i'm flying American back from NYCC- I am not looking forward to paying for luggage back from con.

Maybe fly non-Sw to con & SW from con?
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: stl_ben on September 22, 2022, 01:39:09 PM
We all got that double luggage coming home need for 2 free bags!
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: hikanteki on September 23, 2022, 01:20:51 AM
I can usually get a round trip flight to SDCC on Southwest for under $100. On any other airline, the baggage fees alone would cost well over $100!!!
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: sessionka on September 23, 2022, 05:28:32 AM
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I can usually get a round trip flight to SDCC on Southwest for under $100. On any other airline, the baggage fees alone would cost well over $100!!!

if you don't mind me asking....from where are you flying?
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: hikanteki on October 04, 2022, 10:01:36 PM
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if you don't mind me asking....from where are you flying?

SF Bay Area.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: sessionka on December 15, 2022, 02:47:44 PM
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Southwest or bust for me.  Partially because STL is a major hub for them and I don't have to worry about lay overs.  But man I've yet to find anywhere that beats their price.

I saw on reddit that Southwest schedule for July and August is up.

Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: alyssa on December 15, 2022, 05:44:56 PM
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I saw on reddit that Southwest schedule for July and August is up.

We are currently accepting air reservations through August 14, 2023. On February 9, 2023, we will open our schedule for sale through October 4, 2023. This date is subject to change! Please check back frequently.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Michaelnaut on December 15, 2022, 05:52:26 PM
I think I may splurge on a nonstop airline flight in '23...getting there w/no layover will be a nice treat.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: alyssa on December 15, 2022, 08:58:29 PM
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I think I may splurge on a nonstop airline flight in '23...getting there w/no layover will be a nice treat.

i hear u, I'm flying back from philly with a 5 hr layover in Chicago on New Years Day. the only thing that makes is bearable is the fried chicken place -

don't forget to calculate the extra bag fees etc

Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Michaelnaut on December 16, 2022, 10:48:16 AM
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i hear u, I'm flying back from philly with a 5 hr layover in Chicago on New Years Day. the only thing that makes is bearable is the fried chicken place -

don't forget to calculate the extra bag fees etc
Yeah, the baggage is gonna be a killer...well, not a killer, but tack on maybe ~$150 if I return w/2 bags...but the direct flight is soooooooooo much more bearable...
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Transmute Jun on December 16, 2022, 12:07:44 PM
I drive to SDCC, but I did purchase my flights for Gen Con this morning. I have to get a connection to Indianapolis, but at least the flight on the way out is only a stop... don't have to change planes! :D
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Angology on December 16, 2022, 01:00:25 PM
SW Flights are booked! Will keep an eye on fares, since it's pretty easy to change if they go down (and SW travel credits no longer expire - correct?)
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Transmute Jun on December 17, 2022, 01:58:57 PM
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(and SW travel credits no longer expire - correct?)

Correct!
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: FlamedLiquid on December 19, 2022, 05:39:40 AM
I don't mind layovers if they aren't too long, like under 2 hours.

I've had problems with luggage with southwest before one time of the like 10 times I've went through them. Went Delta one year. That was really nice. The quality if their seats is better. But of course it is a little more costly. Will more then likely be using my tax return for my plane ticket so......if its more then I think it will be that opens up the splurge a little more. :p

Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Cubs23331 on December 20, 2022, 10:32:59 PM
Last year was the first time that we had trouble getting a direct flight out of Midway to San Diego.  I'm with everyone on the direct-flights, it makes getting home so much easier.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: stove19 on December 25, 2022, 04:58:17 PM
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Will keep an eye on fares, since it's pretty easy to change if they go down

This is the best tip for SW! I end up saving money for future travel by frequently checking and getting credits when prices drop.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: marcia29 on December 29, 2022, 04:57:46 PM
Southwest has been in chaos this holiday season! Not just because of weather challenges. Thousands of flights have been cancelled because of flight crew availability and an outdated scheduling system.  They even stopped selling tickets at all for a day or so. Yikes.

Here is just one report on their woes:
 https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/disruption-weve-never-seen-whats-causing-the-southwest-airlines-meltdown/ar-AA15KOdS   (https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/disruption-weve-never-seen-whats-causing-the-southwest-airlines-meltdown/ar-AA15KOdS)
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: alyssa on December 29, 2022, 05:46:02 PM
I'm scheduled to fly on Sunday from Philly to Denver to San Diego.
My days have begun and end with SW updates.
I am holding out hope for an uneventful trip on Sunday with my luggage. I will report back.

I got this today at 1pm
Dear Southwest Customer,

We want to provide you with an update regarding your upcoming trip. While we have recently experienced operational challenges, we expect to resume a full schedule of flights with minimal disruptions on your day of travel.

We encourage you to check your flight status regularly for more details. In the event that your flight experiences a disruption, you should receive a notification. If you do receive a notification, please visit our Travel Disruption page for options: Southwest.com/TravelDisruption. If you do not receive a notification, you should plan to travel as scheduled.

The Southwest Team

And

https://www.reddit.com/r/SouthwestAirlines/comments/zyao44/the_real_problem_with_the_software_at_southwest/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=10&utm_content=share_button
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Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: marcia29 on December 29, 2022, 07:39:39 PM
Best wishes for a swift, efficient, and dare I say fun flight! Looking forward to your report.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: FlamedLiquid on December 30, 2022, 09:52:12 AM
Delta is looking even better now with all this SW chaos.

Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: alyssa on December 30, 2022, 10:51:00 AM
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Delta is looking even better now with all this SW chaos.



according to the tech posts i'm reading, the core problem was SW being run by businessmen who essentially nixed **any** technological modernization. The CEO who retired in early 2022 was an accountant by trade and his philosopy perculated down to to  middle management. For 20 years the IT folks did not have a seat at the decision table and they're suggestions were actively squashed and not brought up the food chain for fear of offending the bean counters.


Quote
From a former Senior Software Engineer at Southwest Airlines that was responsible for fixing, maintaining and keeping the software running that scheduled flights, pilots and crew.
....
Directly at fault
Senior Director Technology Services and Operations at Southwest Airlines

Senior Manager Technology Services and Operations at Southwest Airlines

Co-conspirator and Enabler
Management that supports his circle of trust to keep things secret and bury issues.

Why they are at fault
They own the Crew application and other apis and services that caused this chaos and did nothing to prevent this catastrophe by ignoring the recommendations that I and other Software Engineers made to sure up this application's reliability and performance.

They refused to change antiquated software development processes and practices. They also covered up major software problems, software bugs and ignored performance issues that ultimately led to this disaster.
https://www.reddit.com/r/SouthwestAirlines/comments/zyao44/the_real_problem_with_the_software_at_southwest/

This hopefully will change with the retirement of the Old CEO last year. The New guy is an operations guy & immodestly cleaned house on the operations side. Obviously, he now needs to turn his eye to updating the IT.
It remains to be seen if SW can innovate their way out of the crisis. For the sake of the operations crew, pilots to ticketing to baggage I hope the New CEO can make the needed changes.
I can not find citations for the CEO change earlier this year. I am sorry.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: alyssa on December 31, 2022, 05:12:23 AM
This is the link I was looking for yesterday. It gives and idea of the upper level corporate structure. https://www.reddit.com/r/SouthwestAirlines/comments/zxg6op/the_history_of_swa_destruction_from_within/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android_app&utm_name=androidcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button

Sent from my SM-S906U using Tapatalk

Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: alyssa on December 31, 2022, 08:03:23 AM
here's one more well thought out post regarding the upper management issues at SW. The poster doesn't seem to acknowledge the change in CEO earlier this year but he seems to have nailed the upper management culture prior to the retirement of the old ceo.
https://www.reddit.com/r/SouthwestAirlines/comments/zzbarv/engineer_reacts_southwests_tech_leadership/
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: alyssa on January 01, 2023, 02:53:30 PM
SW feels normal
Business as usual

Sent from my SM-S906U using Tapatalk

Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: marcia29 on January 01, 2023, 03:29:36 PM
Yay! So good to hear!
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: rushfanyyz on January 04, 2023, 04:15:24 PM
Southwest flight prices at least for me were down from the initial prices when they released sdcc days so went ahead and booked. Still up from last year and up considerably from years before that. If you were scared off from the initial prices it's worth another check now.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: FlamedLiquid on January 05, 2023, 06:23:11 AM
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Southwest flight prices at least for me were down from the initial prices when they released sdcc days so went ahead and booked. Still up from last year and up considerably from years before that. If you were scared off from the initial prices it's worth another check now.

More scared off on delays then prices. :D

Ironically I'm not even seeing Southwest as an option for me. Seeing some Delta and United for cheaper options. And more Delta flights with no layovers so will probably go that route.



Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: marcia29 on January 05, 2023, 07:36:09 AM
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More scared off on delays then prices. :D

Ironically I'm not even seeing Southwest as an option for me. Seeing some Delta and United for cheaper options. And more Delta flights with no layovers so will probably go that route.

What about the $$ for bag fees, though? And airlines crack me up with the fees for added comfort space...but not first class. Last time I flew other than Southwest, it was Delta. I liked Delta's seats and food choices at my seat level. Poking around for current options. I detest plane changes, like almost everybody I know.

Hmmm...Maybe start a new choice in travel. Canon Express. Load me in, with my suitcases, point and 'Wheee!' 🤣 Right into the hotel lobby of my choice. Finis.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: sessionka on January 05, 2023, 07:59:44 AM
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What about the $$ for bag fees, though? And airlines crack me up with the fees for added comfort space...but not first class. Last time I flew other than Southwest, it was Delta. I liked Delta's seats and food choices at my seat level. Poking around for current options. I detest plane changes, like almost everybody I know.

Hmmm...Maybe start a new choice in travel. Canon Express. Load me in, with my suitcases, point and 'Wheee!' 🤣 Right into the hotel lobby of my choice. Finis.

 :D :D :D
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: sessionka on January 05, 2023, 08:05:45 AM
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More scared off on delays then prices. :D

Ironically I'm not even seeing Southwest as an option for me. Seeing some Delta and United for cheaper options. And more Delta flights with no layovers so will probably go that route.

Southwest hasn't been an option for me in a while.  Some years ago, yes.  They were cheaper then.  Now, I'm not seeing much of a price difference.  Maybe for shorter hops, but from the east coast, they're not looking cheaper.  And add to that (for me),  the very few non stop flights.  Granted, I do look, but my expectations at finding what I want from them is low, so I'm not really disappointed when I don't find anything.  I've been leaning toward United for the most part, although I will take a peak at Delta as well.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: marcia29 on February 01, 2023, 10:56:38 AM
Southwest has been in the news and discussed here a bunch, so I could not resist posting this SNL commercial parody skit from the past weekend. 

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cN9ECvpIXkA   (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cN9ECvpIXkA)
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: sessionka on February 01, 2023, 11:18:37 AM
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Southwest has been in the news and discussed here a bunch, so I could not resist posting this SNL commercial parody skit from the past weekend. 

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cN9ECvpIXkA   (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cN9ECvpIXkA)

I haven't watched SNL in years, but that was HILARIOUS!!!   :) :)
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Cubs23331 on February 04, 2023, 10:36:05 AM
I've been getting a bunch of Southwest emails talking about summer travel with San Diego specifically called out.  Fares doesn't seem ridiculous (fingers crossed) so far.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: NCDS on February 06, 2023, 01:21:24 PM
I had a voucher with Southwest because we had to land the plane on my way to NYCC (Bathrooms didn't work).  So I am of course using them for SDCC. 

Does anyone know what color luggage I need?
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: kneque on February 19, 2023, 04:51:37 PM
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Southwest flight prices at least for me were down from the initial prices when they released sdcc days so went ahead and booked. Still up from last year and up considerably from years before that. If you were scared off from the initial prices it's worth another check now.

Just a couple years ago I could book round trip for about $200. Now I'm looking at double if I want direct. Geez... shame I'm not sure it can get much better than that
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Transmute Jun on February 21, 2023, 06:05:54 AM
The price of a lot of things has doubled in the last 2 years. Gas and groceries are about double for us. Makes sense that travel costs would be too. Not that I like it…
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: sessionka on March 06, 2023, 09:59:22 AM
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The price of a lot of things has doubled in the last 2 years. Gas and groceries are about double for us. Makes sense that travel costs would be too. Not that I like it…

For those of us flying, a number of reasons fares have jumped up.   ???
(I wasn't going to play it, but his accent got me.  So sue me.  :). )

https://youtu.be/emsiKkShGQA
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: marcia29 on March 06, 2023, 11:11:25 AM
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For those of us flying, a number of reasons fares have jumped up.   ???
(I wasn't going to play it, but his accent got me.  So sue me.  :). )

https://youtu.be/emsiKkShGQA

Ah, I get it better now.  That accent.  Yes. :D. What was he talking about again?

Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Michaelnaut on March 06, 2023, 11:58:23 AM
Yup, a bit pricier...this time around going direct via American, instead of SW...~$800 round trip...ouch.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: lowgun on March 06, 2023, 01:35:03 PM
Costco had a deal earlier that just expired 430 for 500. But current price still nice 450 for 500

https://www.costco.com/.product.1588972.html
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: RighteousRita on March 07, 2023, 09:17:41 AM
(Reuters) - The U.S. Justice Department filed a lawsuit to stop JetBlue Airways from buying Spirit Airlines, saying that the planned merger "would put travel out of reach for many cost-conscious travelers".
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: accelerate on April 09, 2023, 11:41:15 PM
My sis bought Southwest tix less than 3 weeks ago because the airfare kept going up and up over the past few months, and then she checked just an hour ago, and it had gone down by nearly $200. So she called Southwest intending to cancel and rebook at the lower fare, and the rep was able to just reprice her on the call. So... yay.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: NCDS on April 10, 2023, 07:36:00 AM
I booked mine months ago, it went down once and I got a $60 credit, it's remained high since.  I now dream of it going down $200
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: kneque on April 11, 2023, 10:44:39 AM
It's not a huge difference but I was able to get $28 flight credit with Southwest for a price change. Yay it's something... I try to check periodically
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Xircuits on April 11, 2023, 01:11:27 PM
Any sites to recommend? Otherwise, I'm going to use my miles, which isn't a lot, but it's still about $600/person.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Wkdbriss on April 12, 2023, 10:10:12 AM
We decided to go totally unconventional and take Amtrak from northeast Texas. It's a couple of days but we haven't ever done that before. We got a sleeper car and all the meals are included for the trip so it should be fun.  ;D
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: jamiesugah on April 19, 2023, 04:26:12 PM
I just booked my flight and am flying Alaskan for the first time ever. I was hesitant to book because I still have to make sure I can get Sunday night added to our hotel reservation, but I was afraid to wait too long.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: darqamin on April 19, 2023, 04:51:53 PM
Westjet usually has a direct flight in past years for the Wednesday of Comic Con, I think they realized there is enough demand from people attending from here in Canada. But I don't see one this year on that day, going to have to put some thought into my flight plans/routes.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: dkd on April 20, 2023, 11:16:54 AM
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I just booked my flight and am flying Alaskan for the first time ever. I was hesitant to book because I still have to make sure I can get Sunday night added to our hotel reservation, but I was afraid to wait too long.

I booked two days ago and Alaskan popped up as the best option for me also.  I wouldn't worry about a Sunday night hotel room, though.  They are plentful and even cheaper outside of onPeak.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: NCDS on April 20, 2023, 11:20:40 AM
I am glad I booked awhile ago, it just keeps going up and up.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: darqamin on April 20, 2023, 02:50:45 PM
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I am glad I booked awhile ago, it just keeps going up and up.

Yes, that was my concern as well, that there is no point in waiting on my end for the dim hope of things getting better. I booked today with a decent rate and non-stop flights, making good use of Westjet's companion voucher. The only problem is we'll have to stick around until Tuesday after the convention as the flight options for Monday were horrible (i.e. it was cheaper to stay for another day and fly then, and avoid a lengthy stop and/or late flight times). Normally, I don't mind an extra day in a city like San Diego, but like most people I just want to go home and rest after SDCC. Now I'll just have to find an OK place to stay for Monday night and maybe something relaxing to do that day. 8)
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Transmute Jun on April 20, 2023, 03:01:14 PM
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Yes, that was my concern as well, that there is no point in waiting on my end for the dim hope of things getting better. I booked today with a decent rate and non-stop flights, making good use of Westjet's companion voucher. The only problem is we'll have to stick around until Tuesday after the convention as the flight options for Monday were horrible (i.e. it was cheaper to stay for another day and fly then, and avoid a lengthy stop and/or late flight times). Normally, I don't mind an extra day in a city like San Diego, but like most people I just want to go home and rest after SDCC. Now I'll just have to find an OK place to stay for Monday night and maybe something relaxing to do that day. 8)

You might be able to book Monday night at your con hotel for a reduced rate. Try checking with the hotel directly to see what they'd charge.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Xircuits on April 22, 2023, 09:11:51 PM
Just got my JetBlue card and nearly had a panic attack when I tried to use JetBlue's official website to buy flight tickets. It quoted me $1870 for 2 tickets round trip. Fortunately I mentioned it in the forum Discord and everyone there were super helpful with suggestions. Things like fly in to LAX, drive to SD, or fly into LAX and take the Pacific Surfliner, and suggesting Expedia. I eventually went with the Expedia tickets because it came to $963, but the train from LAX was a big contender as I would love to take a train in California for the views alone. Definitely next time I will seriously consider it. That's the last part of the SDCC trip puzzle for me finished. Such a relief! It's real now! I'm going to SDCC!!! *tries to hold back the excitement*
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Wkdbriss on April 22, 2023, 09:36:28 PM
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Just got my JetBlue card and nearly had a panic attack when I tried to use JetBlue's official website to buy flight tickets. It quoted me $1870 for 2 tickets round trip. Fortunately I mentioned it in the forum Discord and everyone there were super helpful with suggestions. Things like fly in to LAX, drive to SD, or fly into LAX and take the Pacific Surfliner, and suggesting Expedia. I eventually went with the Expedia tickets because it came to $963, but the train from LAX was a big contender as I would love to take a train in California for the views alone. Definitely next time I will seriously consider it. That's the last part of the SDCC trip puzzle for me finished. Such a relief! It's real now! I'm going to SDCC!!! *tries to hold back the excitement*

We're taking Amtrak from Dallas to LA then down to SD. I can't wait!  :woohoo:
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Michaelnaut on April 23, 2023, 04:26:25 AM
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We're taking Amtrak from Dallas to LA then down to SD. I can't wait!  :woohoo:
Wow, really? From Dallas, TX to LA?  So cool! How long a trip is that?
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Wkdbriss on April 23, 2023, 09:40:21 AM
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Wow, really? From Dallas, TX to LA?  So cool! How long a trip is that?

It's two nights and three days. We got a sleeper car from Dallas to LA and then coach from LA to San Diego. It includes three meals a day too. We're flying back though.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: marcia29 on April 23, 2023, 09:44:31 AM
When my sister lived in Long Beach, I visited her and took the Amtrak home from LA to Florida. It was so much fun.  I was watching the MLB World Series on a little tv my son gave me.  I would do it agan, but...they have never restored passenger straight through service from FL.   :hystery:
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Wkdbriss on April 23, 2023, 10:26:15 AM
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When my sister lived in Long Beach, I visited her and took the Amtrak home from LA to Florida. It was so much fun.  I was watching the MLB World Series on a little tv my son gave me.  I would do it agan, but...they have never restored passenger straight through service from FL.   :hystery:

I wish we had train service like they have in Europe. We lived in Germany for three years and it was so easy and cheap to hop on a train and go anywhere.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: chocolateshake on April 23, 2023, 11:33:11 AM
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I wish we had train service like they have in Europe. We lived in Germany for three years and it was so easy and cheap to hop on a train and go anywhere.

I love taking trains.  I also wish that we had a decent train system here in the US.  They are much better in Europe.  They are much much better in Asia.  While it may have been great at some point, DB is not what it once was.  Particularly it's on time performance is not good.  The trains don't run on time.

In Asia, Japan and China, you can really set your watch by when trains arrive and depart.  It's just not punctuality, it's frequency.  They have so many trains running all the time that it's not worth hurrying to catch a train, since another one will be leaving in a few minutes.  There's also the speed.  It makes it not only possible but reasonable to say go from San Diego to Los Angeles for lunch.  Or to day trip from San Diego to San Francisco.  I keep hoping for California HSR to be a thing.  But as time goes on, I have less and less hope that it'll be completed in my lifetime.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: accelerate on April 23, 2023, 12:28:38 PM
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I love taking trains.  I also wish that we had a decent train system here in the US.  They are much better in Europe.  They are much much better in Asia.  While it may have been great at some point, DB is not what it once was.  Particularly it's on time performance is not good.  The trains don't run on time.

In Asia, Japan and China, you can really set your watch by when trains arrive and depart.  It's just not punctuality, it's frequency.  They have so many trains running all the time that it's not worth hurrying to catch a train, since another one will be leaving in a few minutes.  There's also the speed.  It makes it not only possible but reasonable to say go from San Diego to Los Angeles for lunch.  Or to day trip from San Diego to San Francisco.  I keep hoping for California HSR to be a thing.  But as time goes on, I have less and less hope that it'll be completed in my lifetime.

This made me look up what the status of the high speed rail is for California.

The report is here:
https://hsr.ca.gov/about/project-update-reports/2023-project-update-report/

Basically, it's... inching along and won't be done (optimistically) until well into the next decade. In fact, they only expect 120 miles worth to be done by 2028, and only Merced <-> Bakersfield by 2033. Oh, and the rail line only goes from San Francisco to Anaheim, and not all the way down to San Diego.

So yeah... train systems in the states suck
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: NCDS on April 24, 2023, 07:57:27 AM
 :off:  This is Air not ground.

* small print:  I just wanted to use the emoji   :razz:
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: accelerate on April 24, 2023, 08:32:12 AM
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:off:  This is Air not ground.

* small print:  I just wanted to use the emoji   :razz:

Would Maglev trains count as air since it technically floats above the ground?  :47:
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: alyssa on April 24, 2023, 08:37:00 AM
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:off:  This is Air not ground.

* small print:  I just wanted to use the emoji   :razz:

I should relable this thread, Traveling to SDCC ;)
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: NCDS on April 24, 2023, 08:38:08 AM
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Would Maglev trains count as air since it technically floats above the ground?  :47:

Absolutely!   :hystery:
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: sessionka on April 24, 2023, 09:09:37 AM
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:off:  This is Air not ground.

* small print:  I just wanted to use the emoji   :razz:

I think @alyssa (https://www.friendsofcc.com/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=1)  should get at least 1 karma point for the new emojis.  They are a lot of fun!!!    :drinking24:

Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: darqamin on April 24, 2023, 10:32:10 AM
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Would Maglev trains count as air since it technically floats above the ground?  :47:

A moot point since USA (and Canada) don't have any Maglev routes  :smilie_character_police:
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: sessionka on April 29, 2023, 04:31:03 AM
The unofficial Blog posted this on Twitter for anyone planning on using Amtrak.

https://twitter.com/SD_Comic_Con/status/1652142728673632259

Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Wkdbriss on April 29, 2023, 07:43:42 AM
Lol! That figures. I think we'll be okay since we're arriving on the 17th. We've got plenty of time to get there.  :sport_25:

Thanks for the heads up!
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Miterin on April 29, 2023, 07:59:36 AM
Well I was able to snag our flight tickets from Southwest yesterday from Orlando to LAX for $630 for 3 people!!! I was able to use points for some. A HUGE difference from last year when I had to pay $2200 for the 3 of us. We will be doing Disneyland and Universal before SDCC.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Wkdbriss on April 29, 2023, 08:13:13 AM
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Well I was able to snag our flight tickets from Southwest yesterday from Orlando to LAX for $630 for 3 people!!! I was able to use points for some. A HUGE difference from last year when I had to pay $2200 for the 3 of us. We will be doing Disneyland and Universal before SDCC.

Dang! That's amaazing! You're really going to have a lot of fun on this trip.  :smilie_happy_clapping:
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: highgiant on April 29, 2023, 04:55:41 PM
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Well I was able to snag our flight tickets from Southwest yesterday from Orlando to LAX for $630 for 3 people!!! I was able to use points for some. A HUGE difference from last year when I had to pay $2200 for the 3 of us. We will be doing Disneyland and Universal before SDCC.

The say a perfect family size is 4... want to adopt one more :grin:!

Seriously though glad you were able to get such a good deal on the flight and that sounds like a great trip with lots of great memories to be made.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: kneque on May 09, 2023, 07:07:55 AM
My Southwest flights dropped in price again and I got more flight credit. If only they'd been cheaper from the start
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Transmute Jun on May 09, 2023, 12:55:06 PM
Fortunately, that credit (now) no longer expires, so you can use it to purchase next year's airfare!
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: NCDS on May 09, 2023, 01:54:56 PM
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Fortunately, that credit (now) no longer expires, so you can use it to purchase next year's airfare!

I love this fact! I used mine for my NYCC airfare!
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: stove19 on May 22, 2023, 06:09:50 PM
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Fortunately, that credit (now) no longer expires, so you can use it to purchase next year's airfare!

This perk is great news! I frequently check for lower prices and get travel credits.

Those travel credits are like a small deposit for next year’s flight! (*fingers crossed*)
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Devorah on May 22, 2023, 07:11:57 PM
United prices have gone down a bit since I first booked. Just booked an earlier flight in,  and got a flight credit for the difference.


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Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: sessionka on May 23, 2023, 05:38:49 AM
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United prices have gone down a bit since I first booked. Just booked an earlier flight in,  and got a flight credit for the difference.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Question...

Did you get the credit because you saw your original reservation was cheaper or because you changed your reservation.
Title: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: Devorah on May 23, 2023, 01:29:37 PM
I got the credit because I changed to a different flight. IDK if they would do it the other way but it can’t hurt to ask.

ETA: Since there are no more cancellation fees with United, even if they said no to the above, you could technically just cancel your flight for a credit, then rebook the same one.
Title: Re: SDCC 2023: Air Transportation
Post by: kneque on June 02, 2023, 12:03:09 PM
I'm not sure about United, but I do know Southwest will give you flight credit on the same flight. Online you would "change" your flight to the same one and you'd see a (-) for the price difference. You can also call. I've had to call a couple times because the site was bugging out and wouldn't let me change it myself. My Southwest flights have come down in price significantly since I first booked