Major delays at RSW International Airport loom ahead of the bustling holiday weekend, leaving travelers anxiously peering at the flight information board.
Catch the detailed report from Fort Myers Community Correspondent, Miyoshi Price, as she navigates the airport chaos:
According to the FAA, RSW’s average delay is currently around one hour.
On a hectic Friday, Miyoshi Price connected with weary travelers who arrived at the airport with heightened awareness of potential setbacks. Many opted to arrive earlier than usual, hoping to beat the crowds and the dreaded uncertainties that the holiday rush often invites.
David Zagnoli, amidst the flurry of airport activity, reflected on his own travel experience. He received a notification from Southwest about a brief delay—a mere 12 minutes. “To me, that’s not a delay,” he expressed, his confidence somewhat tempered by the chaotic environment.
The FAA confirms that this time of year often brings delays, with an average waiting period stretching to an hour. Zagnoli admitted that while he braced himself for the inconvenience, his disdain for holiday travel remained strong.
“It’s just too busy for my liking,” he remarked, recalling a plethora of travel escapades from his past work experiences.
His stories were vivid, particularly one involving a grueling seven-hour stint at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport with a restless two-year-old. “I’ll never fly through O’Hare again,” Zagnoli vowed, a wry smile hinting at the absurdity of the situation at the time.
Thankfully, Zagnoli’s current itinerary bypasses Chicago, a city notorious for heavy delays this season. The Lee County Port Authority’s communications officer echoed the sentiment, advising travelers that delays could range from 10 minutes to several hours and urging them to check directly with their airlines for current updates.
As passengers, young and old, conveyed their frustrations at the information desk, empathetic airport employees did their best to assist. While so many waiting children began to tire, staff handed out coloring books, offering a momentary distraction amid the growing anxiety.
Amidst the tension, a mother-daughter duo—Nichelle Ferribee and her child—found humor in their situation. “It’s been a delight,” Nichelle proclaimed, recounting their long wait just to check in their bags. With that hurdle behind them, their sights turned toward finding a bite to eat.
As they planned their time at Bell Tower Shops, a local gem, it became clear that despite the frustrations, there is still lightness to be found in moments like these. Traveling through the chaos, a mother and her child effectively reminded those around them that even in turmoil, a sense of adventure—and a snack—can often soothe the soul.
