Tag: Years

Americans Can Fly Nonstop To This Beautiful European Island For The First Time In 25 Years

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For years, savvy American travelers have dreamed of an easier way to reach one of Europe’s most stunning and historically rich island gems. Tucked away in the heart of the Mediterranean, this tiny nation has always been a bucket-list destination, but reaching it required a long, often frustrating journey with at least one connection through a busy European hub.

Well, get ready to update your travel plans, because that’s all about to change.

Here at Travel Off Path, we’re all about giving you the breaking news that makes your travel dreams a reality. In a landmark announcement that has been more than two decades in the making, Delta Air Lines has just confirmed it will launch the first regular, nonstop flights between the United States and the beautiful island of Malta in over 25 years.

A True Game-Changer For U.S. Travelers

This isn’t just another new route; it’s a historic breakthrough. For the first time since the mid-1990s, Americans will be able to fly directly to this Mediterranean paradise, slashing travel time and making a trip more accessible than ever before.

The Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) is hailing the news as a “game-changer” and the “missing piece of the puzzle” for the country’s tourism industry. For years, the lack of direct flights has been a major hurdle, but this new connection is set to open the floodgates for American travelers eager to explore Malta’s unique blend of ancient history, stunning coastlines, and vibrant culture.

All The Flight Details You Need To Know

Delta has laid out a clear plan for the new service, giving travelers plenty of time to get this incredible trip on their calendars.

The New Nonstop Flight to Malta: All The Details

Get the full scoop on the historic new Delta flight. Click on each item below to reveal the details.

New York (JFK) to Malta (MLA)

The inaugural flight is scheduled for June 7, 2026.

The service will operate three times per week.

Flights will run from June through October 2026.

A wide-body Boeing 767-300ER with multiple cabin classes.

The best news? The flights are expected to go on sale soon, allowing travelers to lock in their plans well in advance for the 2026 summer and fall seasons.

Why Is Malta About To Be The Hottest Ticket In Europe?

So, why is this new route such a big deal? Because Malta is an absolute gem. This tiny island nation packs an unbelievable punch. Its capital, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage city, a stunning fortress built by the Knights of St. John with golden-hued limestone buildings and a grand harbor that is one of the most beautiful in the world.

Beyond the capital, you’ll find ancient megalithic temples that are older than the pyramids, the silent, walled medieval city of Mdina, and the crystal-clear waters of the famous Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino.

Malta’s tourism authority has made it clear they are targeting high-value American travelers who are interested in culture, history, and gastronomy. This new direct flight is the key to unlocking that potential, making it easier than ever for Americans to discover a side of Europe they’ve only dreamed of. For 2026, the “hidden gem of the Mediterranean” is officially on the map.

Check the latest entry requirements and travel advisories for you destination in seconds using our new flagship tool, The 1 Minute Trip Check.

Happy travels!

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September 18, 2025
The Galapagos Islands Will Raise Its Entrance Fee Dramatically For The First Time In 25 Years

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One of the most beautiful destinations you can visit is the Galapagos Islands.

Despite this, only around 150,000 people visit the islands each year.

The Galapagos Islands are a remote chain of 19 volcanic islands located around 1,000 km off the coast of Ecuador.

They attract travelers keen to explore its natural beauty or snorkel in the pristine waters.

But if you’re considering traveling to the Galapagos islands this year then your trip is set to become even more expensive.

Here’s why:

Increased Entry Fee

Tourists have long had to pay an entrance fee to visit the Galapagos Islands.

This fee is intended to fund the islands’ environmental sustainability and help maintain their communities.

When the entrance fee was introduced 26 years ago it was set at $100 per person.

But from August 1 2024 this fee will double to $200 per person.

Children under the age of 12 pay less, but the cost is still $100 per child when the new pay system is introduced.

If you are an Ecuadorian resident then you will pay a reduced rate, but this has also been increased substantially from $5 per person to $30 per person.

This is a one-off fee, and tourists can spend up to 60 days on the Galapagos islands without a visa.

That means you will pay the same amount regardless of whether you are visiting for a day trip with a cruise liner or spending 30 days exploring the islands independently.

Mass tourism has had a negative impact on the delicate eco system here.

According to the local authorities the increase is ‘long overdue’ and the additional funds raised will be used to introduce more sustainable tourism practices, update infrastructure, and contribute to ongoing conservation schemes.

By increasing the entrance fee and increasing the conservation schemes on the islands, the elements that attract so many tourists can be preserved for years to come.

Why Visit The Galapagos Islands?

Tourist arrivals to the Galapagos Islands hit a record high in 2023.

And it’s easy to see why so many people are keen to experience and explore this beautiful destination.

One of the main reasons people visit the Galapagos Islands is for the incredible wildlife spotting opportunities.

From giant tortoises to penguins, marine iguanas to the blue-footed boobie bird, which is perhaps one of the most famous animals on the Galapagos islands.

Because the wildlife on the Galapagos Islands has been exposed to little human contact or major predators over the past century, it is both abundant and unique.

There’s nowhere better to visit as a wildlife lover.

Away from the wildlife, you can relax on pristine white sand beaches which are always in perfect condition thanks to the isolation of the islands, as well as the conservation efforts in place all over the islands.

Another incredibly popular reason visitors choose to travel to the Galapagos islands is to snorkel. And for good reason.

Snorkeling here is said to be some of the best in the world, especially when you are hoping to spot sea turtles.

You can often find them swimming and basking on the surface of the water in groups here.

Some of the best snorkeling spots in the Galapagos include Los Tuneles, Bartolome Island, Black Beach, and La Loberia.

Marine life is abundant here, and the waters are pristine.

The Galapagos are also a popular destination for small ship cruise lines so if you want to explore these islands within a larger group setting and as part of a more extensive trip then cruising is also a great way to visit The Galapagos.

Whether you want to walk in Charles Darwin’s footsteps, take to the beautiful turquoise waters, or visit a destination that feels relatively underexplored, there are plenty of reasons to visit the Galapagos Islands.

Tor Brierley

Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.

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March 13, 2024
These Are The Top 6 Destinations To Spend New Year’s Eve This Year

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New Year’s Eve is one of the most overrated holidays. Your favorite bars are too crowded and too expensive. There’s too much pressure to make great plans and have the night of your life.

You could call it a night and stay home in your pajamas. Or you could use it as an opportunity to travel, explore, and have the night of your life!

Some of my favorite New Year’s Eves are ones I spend surrounded by strangers on the other side of the world.

These are the top 6 destinations to spend New Year’s Eve this year:

1. New York, New York

Watching the ball drop in Times Square, New York, is so iconic that people from all over the U.S. and even around the world tune in to watch it happen. Why not enjoy the experience in person?

Spending New Year in New York is an experience that’s on many people’s bucket lists as long as you don’t mind braving the cold. Up to 100,000 people attend the New Year’s Ball Drop event each year and as an added bonus access is free.

Happy woman tourist taking photo picture with tablet in New York City, Manhattan, Times Square. Girl traveler taking selfie joyful and happy smiling. Multiethnic Asian Caucasian woman in her 20s.

Outside of this focal point event the bars and clubs of New York City are a great place to spend the New Year if you want to party.

Other fun informal traditions to celebrate the city include seeing in the New Year on the Brooklyn Bridge, watching the fireworks that are launched in Central Park, or joining the New York Road Runners Club to start the New Year with a 4 mile run!

2. Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is a fun and exciting place to spend New Year’s Eve, especially if you want to celebrate in the sunshine.

All of the bars are decorated with bright and colorful decorations to get you into the party spirit and there are glitzy and glamorous parties hosted all over the region particularly in the hotels and all-inclusive resorts. Cancun might not be the cheapest place to celebrate New Year’s Eve but you are guaranteed a wild celebration.

If you want to put on your glad rags and dance all night long then Cancun is one of the best places to see in the new year.

Stop at midnight to eat 12 grapes as quickly as possible – this is a longstanding tradition where each grape represents an upcoming month and will bring you luck. Most bars and clubs will offer grapes to their guests on New Year’s Eve.

3. Edinburgh, Scotland

Perhaps the world’s most famous New Year’s celebration is in Edinburgh where Hogmanay is celebrated with gusto. The whole city pours into the streets to celebrate, to join hands to sing ‘Auld Lang Syne’, and to enjoy the fireworks.

Edinburgh has been awarded the best outdoor celebration of New Year’s Eve in the world and the party lasts for around 3 days. Start by joining the torchlight procession through the city on December 30 to warm up for the epic street party on the 31^st.

If you’re not feeling delicate after a few too many malt whiskeys the night before then on January 1 you can enjoy other public entertainment options such as a traditional ceildh.

The Discovery Channel listed spending the new year in Edinburgh as one of its ‘Top 25 World Travel Experiences’, and it is one of the best and most exciting New Year’s Eves I have ever experienced.

4. Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

The 2 million people that head to Rio De Janeiro for New Year’s Eve every year can’t be wrong! It’s summertime in Brazil so if you want to see in the New Year with sunshine this is a great place to be.

Live music is set up on Copacabana beach with performances starting from 8pm. Because the Copacabana beach is so big there are several stages set up along the shore meaning there’s plenty of room for everyone and you can see the hottest Brazillian singers and bands.

It is traditional to wear white for New Year’s Eve in Brazil. This is a tradition that originated in rituals to seek peace and spiritual purification. And it’s a great way to show off your tan.

Many people also wear brightly colored underwear because it’s thought to be lucky. Red to bring you love or yellow to bring you money.

5. Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland is known as the land of fire and ice thanks to its dramatic contrasts. No time of year shows this more clearly than New Year’s Eve.

Set against a freezing cold background of snow and ice, New Year’s Eve is celebrated in Iceland with fireworks and huge community bonfires.

In Reykjavik you will find a Nordic bonfire in the heart of the city and fireworks displays like no other. In the greater Reykjavik area, there are usually around fifteen bonfires and these really stand out against the cold night sky.

Watch the bonfires as the fireworks explode in the sky then find a cozy bar to retreat to. And because bars in Reykjavik don’t have entry fees it’s a great place for bar hopping too!

New Year’s Eve is considered a night of magic and mystery in Icelandic folklore – a night when the elves come out to play. This makes it a fun place for a lighthearted night of celebration.

6. Sydney, Australia

Ring in the new year early by heading to Sydney where you can enjoy the largest and most technologically advanced New Year’s Eve fireworks display in the world.

Sydney celebrates twice with spectacular 9pm and midnight fireworks displays, ideal for Cinderellas that can’t stay up past midnight!

Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks are watched by more than one million people around the harbor, plus another one billion people on television around the globe. It is a bucket list experience to see this incredible display in person.

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December 3, 2023
Top 7 New Year’s Eve Fireworks Displays To Welcome 2023

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The countdown is on, and within weeks we’ll have 2022 in our rearview mirror. Nothing says end of the year like fireworks, and with travel fully reinvigorated this year, countries are pulling out their best. Residents and tourists have been waiting patiently to celebrate New Year’s Eve since most cities canceled their end-of-year celebrations for the past few years, but this year should be bigger and better than ever.

Below are some of the most extravagant fireworks displays you’ll be able to gaze at while celebrating the new year.

Las Vegas, United States

Party city wouldn’t live up to its reputation if it didn’t go grand on the biggest party night of the year. Vegas is considered one of the best places to spend New Year’s in the USA due to its eye-catching fireworks and live entertainment. For a special treat, the city closes its famous Las Vegas strip to vehicles and turns it into one giant block party.

At midnight, 8 major casinos set off fireworks from their rooftops in a choreographed display, while the Plaza Hotel holds an exclusive rooftop fireworks-viewing party. You’ll have plenty of options for entertainment, with popular musicians such as Usher, Maroon5, and Rick Ross offering celebratory performances at their respective locations.

Sydney, Australia

This list wouldn’t be complete without the city that throws the world’s largest New Year’s Eve fireworks. Not only will you get bragging rights as the first to ring in the new year (Sydney is GMT +11 hours), but with Australia fully reopening its borders this year, the fireworks display is bound to be like no other. Millions of people flock to Sydney each year to watch this remarkable spectacle, with the main attractions coming from Sydney’s iconic Harbor Bridge and the Opera House.

Each year, Sydney hosts two different fireworks displays, one at 9 pm for families, with this year’s theme reflecting the local histories and contemporary experiences of Indigenous storytellers, and a big 12-minute finale at midnight, which is perfectly synchronized to music.

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Dubai, UAE

Dubai does not fall short of locations that are competing for the best displays. If downtown is more your scene, head towards Burj Khalifa, which is the world’s tallest manmade structure known to be center stage for the most extravagant fireworks with a 20-minute display.

Further south, the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, located on a man-made island, will host eight-minute synchronized fireworks over water that stretches a mile along the beachfront of Dubai. With over 6,000 fireworks and pyrotechnic special effects, guests can watch the fireworks glisten in the water’s reflection from multiple vantage points.

Other hot spots include the heritage district of Al Seef, Atlantis at the Palm, where pop princess Kylie Minogue will be performing, and family-friendly La Mer.

London, U.K.

London New Year’s Eve is finally returning after its 2-year hiatus, which is probably why tickets to its allocated viewing areas have already sold out. This doesn’t mean you won’t be able to find other vantage points and locations to check out the show. The iconic Big Ben will ring out at midnight with UK’s largest annual fireworks display happening near the London Eye.

Take your pick from watching the fireworks on a New Year’s Eve cruise on River Thames, dancing until the early hours in one of London’s many clubs, or catching the view while dining for a delicious meal.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is bringing its 3-day festival Edinburgh Hogmany back with a bang which brings together live music, street parties, and incredible fireworks to lead up to the new year. Considered one of the best New Year’s Eve events in the world, you’ll find plenty of entertainment to keep you occupied.

The popular fireworks show kicks off from Edinburgh Castle, which has been designed to be watched from the street party in Princes Street Gardens — one of the locations of the festival. Although the festival is a ticketed event, there are still other spots around the city that give you a great view, such as Inverleith Park, Calton Hill, or Bruntsfield Links. Just make sure you bring a blanket and something warm since it’s quite chilly at this time of year.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Known as Rio’s second-largest party after Carnival, Copacabana Beach turns into a spectacle for New Year’s Eve, known by locals as “Réveillon.” The best part is the beach is free, which means anyone can enjoy the celebration but expect to share it with 2.5 million tourists.

Ahead of the fireworks, enjoy listening to live music along the beach, with several stages set up along the way. At midnight, a 20-minute firework display goes into action with fireworks set off from the boats and barges on the water, where you can also watch the giant cruise ships lighting up the harbor with their festivities.

Paris, France

Paris has more than just fireworks on display for new year’s. All around the city, famous landmarks are lit up in spectacular displays as visitors and locals get ready to ring in the new year.

The main event takes place at the famous Arc De Triomphe, where residents and tourists flock to the world’s most beautiful avenue des Champs-Élysées to catch the magical show. You can also check out the dazzling Eiffel Tower, which will be displaying a stunning light show to ring in the new year. Once midnight arrives, an incredible fireworks display takes place at Champs-Élysées as the city rings in the new year in style.

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December 17, 2022
Watch Out New York: These Cities Will Throw A Better New Year’s Eve Party

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New York City’s Times Square is famous around the world for its epic New Year’s Eve party attended by tens of thousands of people and broadcasted on television across the world. Scenes of the city in its holiday bliss packed with merrymakers and celebrities, performances from top acts, and the epic crystal ball drop at midnight certainly make it appear as an incredible place to ring in the new year, but is it really the best?

New Year’s In NYC Is Cold, Crowded, And Expensive

Behind the polished façade we have all seen on TV lurk some serious downfalls to celebrating New Year’s Eve in Times Square. The popularity of the event from visitors from around the globe means that finding a viewing spot for the ball drop or one of the performances can be extremely competitive.

Revelers often have to arrive many hours before the start of the festivities in order to get into a good viewing position. The increased crowds in the city at this time also means that prices for accommodation soar in an already expensive market, and the weather is often below freezing and can even include snow.

While there are plenty of other ways to celebrate the new year in New York, there are also many other cities around the world that host spectacular parties on December 31st. Here are our picks for cities that will throw better parties than what you will find in Times Square:

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Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The famous Copacabana Beach in Rio is home to one of the most epic New Year’s Eve celebrations in the world. Far from the freezing temperatures of Times Square, Rio’s beach parties can attract upwards of 2 million people. Streets throughout the city close to traffic from 6 pm to 8 am allowing plenty of time for street parties, samba dancing, and of course, an impressive fireworks display.

What you need to know: It is tradition to dress in white clothing – a symbol of welcoming the new year with peace and prosperity. So if you don’t want to stick out, be sure to follow suit.

Edinburgh, Scotland

The Scottish capital of Edinburgh is a fantastic place to spend New Year’s. The city’s epic 3-day Hogmanay celebration runs from the 30^th of December to the 1^st of January and features a torchlight parade throughout the City, a massive street party, live music, and fireworks.

Celebrations conclude on January 1^st with the Loony Dook, an event when around 1,000 locals and visitors march through the streets of nearby South Queensferry decked out in wacky costumes before ultimately plunging themselves into the frigid waters of the Firth of Forth Estuary, costumes and all.

What you need to know: Most events are ticketed, so be sure to visit the official website and book early. Unfortunately, officials have just announced that this year’s Loony Dook celebration is canceled, but hopefully, it will return in 2024.

Koh Phangan, Thailand

It may come as no surprise that the Thai island famous for its full moon parties also throws an incredible New Year’s Eve party. Koh Phangan’s celebrations typically begin days before and take place along the bar and club-lined beaches in Haad Rin. Think bumping techno music, neon clothing, buckets of booze, and plenty of dancing. If you make it to midnight, you’ll surely be blown away by the fireworks display.

What you need to know: If you’ve visited before, know that prices for accommodation will be much higher during New Year’s as it is one of the most popular and most crowded times to visit.

Las Vegas, Nevada

If you are looking for an unforgettable New Year’s party in the U.S., look no further than Las Vegas. The strip is shut down to traffic, setting the perfect stage for an all-out celebration. At midnight, the casinos along the strip coordinate a massive fireworks show that will put other cities to shame. Vegas’s venues attract top acts, and the parties always spill into the next day, as bars in the city have no regulated closing time.

What you need to know: If you are planning to celebrate on the strip, make your hotel and dining reservations as early as possible to ensure availability. If you want to be on the strip at midnight, make sure to plan extra time to get there, as the road closures and crowds can make getting there slower than normal.

Reykjavik, Iceland

New Year’s Eve in Reykjavik is a truly unique experience. The night begins with massive bonfires throughout the city. Each year, the Icelandic Search and Rescue Team sells fireworks as a way to raise funds for their operations. The locals turn out in a big way to support them, meaning that the city is FILLED with fireworks at midnight.

After all the pyrotechnics are used up, the party moves to the bars and house parties throughout the city, where they last until the early hours of the morning. Conveniently, the sun does not rise until 11:19 am, so you’ll have plenty of time to sleep off your hangover the next day.

What you need to know: On New Year’s Eve, anyone is permitted to shoot off fireworks, and accidents are not uncommon. So be alert, and bring eye protection if you are concerned. For tourists hoping to get a glimpse of the Northern Lights, be advised that you’ll have to wait until the smoke from the fireworks clears to have a chance to see them.

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November 30, 2022
Cancun Expecting Its Worst Seaweed Season In 5 Years

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Cancun is expecting its worst seaweed season in five years – with record amounts of Sargassum expected to be washed ashore along its coastline and beaches.

With Mexico’s Navy Secretary, José Ojeda, having recently described the situation as “alarming” – the nation’s officials are bracing themselves for what could be the largest amount of the seaweed-like algae seen on beaches in the Mexican tourist hotspot of Cancun, since 2018.

And, with Cancun having recently been ranked as the most popular destination for American travelers, the news that the city could soon be experiencing record amounts of sargassum smothering its beaches could be catastrophic.

What Is Sargassum?

Sargassum is a type of seaweed that is brown in color and stringy with regards to its feel and texture.

It is often found in large amounts – and due to it not becoming attached to the seafloor – it constantly floats on top of the sea, which is why it gets continually washed up onto the shores of the Mexican Caribbean.

Although sargassum is not toxic for humans, it can cause a considerable stench when present in large amounts along the coastline – with its bad smell being comparable to that of rotten eggs.

You can find out a bit more about Sargassum by clicking here.

The Mexican Navy Has Already Removed Record Amounts Of Seaweed

Not that long ago, Mexico’s Navy Minister announced that the nation’s navy had already removed 97 tons of sargassum from its seas – with more than 9,000 of the seaweed being cleared from the country’s beaches.

How Much More Sargassum Is Expected?

It has since been reported that a further 32,000 tons of sargassum is being monitored not that far from the coast of Quintana Roo – which is a Mexican state located on the Yucatán Peninsula.

And, this is why Cancun is bracing itself for an overwhelming amount of the algae – which is expected to appear in its largest amount since 2018 – which saw the Mexican Caribbean experience its worst encounter with Sargassum – which completely covered its beautiful white sand beaches.

One Of Mexico’s Most Popular Beaches Was Recently Closed Due To Sargassum

Just a matter of weeks ago we reported that one of the most popular beaches in the coastal resort town of Playa del Carmen – El Recodo – had been closed due to an accumulation of Sargassum along its coast.

And, the news came following the announcement that local authorities in the area were to create seaweed barriers in the popular tourist hotspot of Playa del Carmen and Cancun.

How Does Mexico Plan To Deal With The Large Amounts Of Sargassum?

With Cancun having already seen an 83% recovery in its tourism figures – since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic – at the end of last year (2021), the first few months of 2022 has seen Cancun welcome even more tourists.

Therefore, with the nation becoming ever-popular amongst international travelers, the authorities inside the country are implementing measures to try and cope with the battle against sargassum.

At this moment in time, Mexico’s navy is operating 11 boats in the worst-hit areas – which have the capability of collecting sargassum before it reaches the nation’s shores and beaches.

However, it has recently been reported that the amount of sargassum being collected by these vessels at present is in fact less than the amount that they were able to collect in previous years.

In 2020, the navy was reported to have collected 4% of the seaweed-like algae before it reached the Mexican shores – with the remaining 96% having to be cleared from the nation’s beaches.

So far this year, though, authorities are said to have only managed to collect up to 1% of the Sargassum from the sea – with almost all of it being washed ashore the coastline.

Hotels Are Also Helping To Clear The Beaches

As well as Mexico’s Navy working hard to battle the nation’s sargassum problem, hotels in the local area are also doing their part to help.

Some resorts have been using machinery such as tractors to sweep away the sargassum from the beaches close to their accommodation, whereas hotels that do not have such resources are adopting a more ‘manual’ approach – with workers using rakes to clear away the algae.

Read more:

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Cancun Beaches Are Safe, Clean And Ready For Tourists

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Cancun Ranked As The Most Popular Destination For U.S. Travelers This Summer

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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May 9, 2022
Florida Is Seeing Its Worse Flights Delays In Years Causing Frustration For Travelers

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Federal Aviation Authorities Are Working On Solutions To Fix The Mass Flight Delays In Florida

If you are traveling to Florida, pack large amounts of patience in your bags. Now that pandemic restrictions have been eased, more airlines are expanding their flight services and more travelers are eager to go on vacations. As a result, air traffic is busier than ever, especially in Florida.

There are different factors jamming up the skies: more airlines resuming flight services, new low-cost airlines adding services—Avelo recently opened its third base in Orlando—, private jets, space launches, thunderstorms, staff shortages, and soon hurricane season. Florida’s air traffic is facing a terrible gridlock and it’s becoming a huge problem affecting thousands of travelers.

Last weekend thunderstorms in Florida and technology issues were the main reasons why over 10,000 flights were canceled or delayed. Local and national authorities are working together to find solutions to meeting air traffic demands, which have surpassed pre-pandemic levels. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced on Wednesday that they are working on fixing the aviation system.

The situation is already troubling many travelers. Thousands of passengers that have been affected by recent delays and flight cancellations have had to pay extra for meals, hotels, and transportation alternatives.

Federal Aviation Administration’s Solution

One of the main solutions the FAA—responsible for the traffic control system across the United States— finds essential is to increase staffing in Florida to improve traffic flow.

In a statement, the agency said: “Because representatives said Florida operations will continue increasing past 2019 levels, the FAA will immediately increase the number of authorized staff at Jacksonville Center and evaluate other Florida facilities.”

The FAA held a “productive” two-day meeting with industry members, including airlines, aviation groups, and unions, to discuss the issues and the possible solutions. Airlines executives will continue to expand services in the region due to high demand, so the solution is to optimize the system and hire more air traffic controllers for the Jacksonville Air Route Traffic Control Center.

Other factors discussed were weather conditions, space launches, and military exercises that usually translate into airspace closures, stopping airlines from flying and delivering services on time.

The FAA promised to work on alternatives: “The agency will also work with stakeholders to develop a playbook to keep aircraft moving safely when weather, space launches or other events constrain capacity.” And added: “The FAA will increase the ability for airlines to keep aircraft moving during these events by using alternate routes and altitudes when possible.”

The agency also assured that authorities will be meeting with airlines throughout the summer to improve services and guarantee continuous plane flow.

Members of the industry are feeling hopeful. Barry Biffle, Frontier Chief Executive Officer, said on a conference call that the current situation of the traffic control is “an unsustainable thing” and added: “We’re really excited that the FAA is stepping in knee-deep on this.”

Travelers Love Florida

According to data shared on CNBC, Florida hit a record of 118 million domestic visitors last year. Americans have been finding ways to travel to the Sunshine State, including hiring private jets during the pandemic.

Peter Maestrales, chief executive officer of charter broker Airstream Jets, said to Bloomberg: “Palm Beach was typically a pretty quiet airport, now it’s unbelievable the departure delays, and just the amount of aircraft parked on the tarmac out there.”

Compared to 2019—before the pandemic— now services to West Palm Beach have increased by 132%, Tampa by 107%, and Miami by 113% according to FAA data. Travelers are eager to visit these coastal cities and the trend suggests that these numbers will keep going up.

Travelers visiting Florida in the following weeks should bear in mind that delays and flight cancellations might still happen, but feel hopeful that local authorities and the industry members are already working on solutions.

Read More:

7 Off The Beaten Path Things To Do In Florida

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

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May 7, 2022