In this guide, we will cover everything from A to Z on how to travel by air easily, affordably, and safely. Many of us have traveled by bus, train, and other vehicles, but never by plane. Similarly, many simply do not have frequent flying experience. Therefore, it is important to know the proper rules and procedures before your flight.
As the saying goes, people never forget their first flight. Your first air travel experience is usually wonderful. Many people feel nervous, wondering how they will manage and assuming it will be a huge hassle. In reality, there is nothing to fear. If you know a few basic rules, you won’t have to be scared of flying ever again.
Ticket Booking
Just like you need tickets for buses, trains, or ferries, you need an airline ticket for both domestic and international flights. However, the rules for air tickets are slightly different from those of other modes of transport. You need several documents (such as your ticket, passport, visa, etc.) for air travel.
- No Standing Room: Once the seats for a specific flight are fully booked, you will not be able to get on that flight. Unlike local buses, there is no standing room! So, match the flight schedule with your desired date and time, and book your ticket in advance.
- Baggage Allowance: Different airlines have different checked baggage limits (e.g., 20 kg, 25 kg, 30 kg, 40 kg, 45 kg, etc.). If you plan to check in luggage, make sure you know your maximum weight limit when booking your ticket. Additionally, almost all airlines allow you to carry a 7 kg hand/cabin bag.
Preparing for the Flight
- Domestic Flights: To book and board a domestic flight within Bangladesh, you do not need a visa or a passport. A copy of your National ID (NID) card is sufficient.
- International Flights: For international flights, you will need a passport, an applicable visa, and other relevant travel documents.
- Arrival Time: For international travel, you must arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight; otherwise, the check-in counter will close. For domestic routes, arriving 1 hour before your flight is enough.
Airport Check-In
Before flying, you must complete the airport check-in. Once you enter the airport and your flight’s check-in counter opens, you can join the line. After checking in, keep an eye on the flight information monitors in the terminal.
You will need to show your ticket, travel documents, and ID to the designated airline staff. If everything is in order, you will drop off your check-in luggage. The staff will give you a boarding pass and luggage tags (as receipts for your bags). Make sure to keep these documents with you safely.
Security and Boarding
To board the plane, you must proceed to the departure lounge. Here, security personnel will check you and your carry-on items.
- If everything is clear, they will stamp your boarding pass and hand luggage.
- If they find anything highly suspicious, your flight could be canceled.
Note: If you are traveling abroad, you will also have to go through Immigration. Once everything is cleared, simply wait in the departure lounge for your flight to begin boarding.
Boarding the Plane
When it is time to board your specific airline, you will either walk to the aircraft or be taken to it via a shuttle bus. Once allowed inside, find your assigned seat and sit down. Your seat number is printed on your boarding pass.
Before takeoff, the pilot and cabin crew will announce the safety rules. Listen to them carefully and follow their instructions.
- Seatbelt Sign: Do not stand up while the seatbelt sign is illuminated. Once the plane reaches a certain altitude, this sign will automatically turn off. You can then comfortably eat, stand up, or use the washroom.
Landing and Arrival
Landing is the process of the airplane descending from the sky back to the ground. You will physically feel the plane coming down. The plane will eventually taxi to the terminal and stop.
- Wait for the Signal: Do not stand up the moment the plane stops. Remember, do not unfasten your seatbelt until the crew announces that it is safe to do so.
- Baggage Claim & Immigration: After getting off the plane, head to the baggage carousel to collect your luggage. If you are returning from an international trip, you must show your passport to the immigration officer before leaving the terminal.
Hopefully, by following these rules, your air travel will feel incredibly easy. Always listen closely to the detailed instructions provided on the plane and abide by them. Additionally, there are information desks at the airport to help with any inquiries; don’t hesitate to ask them for assistance if needed.
Credit: goarif.com