Expert Predict Significant Delays At Istanbul and JFK Airports This Summer

Written By: Chetan

Chetan

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July 8, 2024 16:20 GMT+5:30

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Leading experts in airport transfers foresee significant disruptions for travelers passing through Istanbul Airport (IST) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York this summer. These forecasts stem from recent traveler feedback, insider insights, and the inherent complexities of both airports—such as their size, high passenger volumes, intricate layouts, and operational challenges in security and customs.

To mitigate risks and alleviate stress during peak travel periods, Servantrip, a premier B2B platform for tours, activities, and transfers, offers essential advice to travel sellers, including agents and tour operators, as well as individual travelers:

1. Allow Buffer Time: Utilize services that factor in extra time to accommodate potential delays at customs and security checkpoints. Servantrip now provides a buffer time feature specifically designed for airports with complex processes.
2. Plan Ahead and Arrive Early: Familiarize yourself with airport layouts, terminal maps, and key locations such as check-in counters, security checkpoints, and departure gates. Recommend early arrival to facilitate navigation, security clearance, and handle unforeseen delays.
3. Collaborate with Reliable Partners: Partner with service providers who maintain strong ties with airlines, ground transportation services, and local authorities. This collaboration helps minimize disruptions and ensures reliable service.
4. Adapt to Infrastructure Changes: Stay informed about ongoing developments, especially at JFK Airport, and strategize transfers to avoid congestion, thereby optimizing the travel experience.

By adhering to these recommendations, travelers and industry professionals can enhance their airport experiences and navigate potential challenges more effectively.

Manuel Núñez, CEO at Servantrip says: “Navigating complex airports like Istanbul Airport and JFK can be a daunting task for any traveller. At Servantrip, we are committed to providing solutions that alleviate these challenges. We have therefore designed our new ‘buffer time’ service to give travellers the extra time they need to navigate the complexities of customs and security, resulting in a smoother and more stress-free airport experience. By planning ahead and leveraging our professional transfer services, travellers can significantly reduce the risks associated with navigating these complex environments.”

To address the challenges mentioned earlier, Talixo, a key service provider partnered with Servantrip, specializes in operating at highly intricate airports. They employ advanced measures such as automatic flight tracking for all airport pickups. This enables them to adjust pick-up times dynamically in response to any changes in the scheduled arrival of flights. They also incorporate buffer time to accommodate potential delays at customs and other checkpoints.

Moreover, Talixo utilizes proprietary fleet management technology that conducts automated checks. This system proactively monitors the locations of drivers and optimizes routes to ensure punctual service. In cases where a designated driver is unable to fulfill a ride, an emergency dispatch protocol ensures seamless continuity of service.

Gabriele Tagliavia, Chief Operating Officer at Talixo, warns that: “We anticipate significant disruptions to passengers’ travel experiences through JFK this summer, despite the long-term benefits of the redevelopment of the airport’s infrastructure. Airport transfers will experience this even more keenly. Where drivers used to wait in the airport’s extensive parking areas before picking up their passengers curbside, the closure of 3,500 spaces has led to severe congestion at pick-up points.”

Speaking specifically about Istanbul airport Feyza Akpinar Global Supplier Account Manager & Pricing AirportTransfer.com highlights that: “This summer is likely to be busier than ever and a variety of other factors combined too mean that many visitors arriving to the beautiful city of Istanbul will face delays when it comes to getting through the airport sadly. But the good news is that with the right planning on behalf of the travel agent or tour operator who booked the transfer and the technology we have in place to monitor flights and airport flows, we can together manage passenger expectations and get people to where they want to be on time”.