fly HIA Blog

Packing Tips

2014-07-14T11:05:00.003-04:00

Summer vacation season is upon us and many of you are getting ready to dust of the suitcases and start the packing process. Our friends at AAA Central Penn have put together a number of packing tips to help ease the daunting task of what and how to pack. Here are some of the tips put together by their Travel Store staff:

Packing Tips:

1. Know your airlines baggage policy! Each airline has its own baggage policy with size and weight limitations. It’s important to be aware of such policies so you aren't surprised when you get to the ticket counter.

2. Make a packing list. Start making a list a few weeks in advance, this way you less likely to forget something if you plan ahead.

3. Pick a basic color scheme such as black, white, and red or khaki, black, and white. Then you can mix and match your clothing and layer.

4. Wear your heaviest and bulkiest clothing such as boots, sneakers, sweaters, or jackets.

5. Place all other heavy items at the bottom of your suitcase so when you stand up your luggage everything falls to the bottom. These items may include shoes, a toiletry bag, or a hair dryer.

6. Place a cardboard divider between the heavy items on the bottom and your top layer with clothing. This serves as a divider and easy access to the bottom layer.

7. Roll up all knit items such as sleepwear, workout clothes, t-shirts, and sweatpants.

8. Keep all valuables in your carry-on. These items may include your wallet, phone, keys, camera, jewelry, and medication.

9. Always follow the 3-1-1 rule for carry-ons set forth by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Only liquids less than 3.4 ounces, in a 1-quart zip lock bag per person are allowed in carry-on luggage/bags. If you are traveling for an extended amount of time, it’s best to place those liquids in your checked luggage.

10. Pack patience! When traveling there are things that often “pop-up” unexpectedly, always best to pack patience and a sense of humor!

AAA Central Penn also has a great packing checklist which is a great place to start!

Capital City Airport to Host the Oldest Historic Air Race

2014-06-16T08:08:00.002-04:00

New Cumberland, PA — Capital City Airport in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania will be the terminus, or final stop, of this year’s Air Race Classic (ARC) which spans over 2,338 nautical miles.

The 2014 Air Race Classic will be held June 16–19. Racers will zoom through ten intermediate stops in four days enroute from Buchanan Field Airport in Concord, California in the quest for the fastest time.

This year’s ARC will have fifty-two teams and over one hundred female pilots compete for the championship title in the transcontinental air race. Follow the ARC teams at https://www.facebook.com/AirRaceClassic or https://twitter.com/2014ARC.

The race is an annual, all-female pilot air race in which pilot’s race against their own best speed in the small airplane of their choice. Racers will undergo briefings, flight planning, and a fly by study prior to take off. Additionally, the aircraft must be “stock” models (no experimental) and have their handicap speed identified with a check pilot. Many of the pilots race not only for the experience, but compete to refine their flight skills as the route changes each year in order to keep the race challenging.

The Air Race Classic carries on the long tradition of women’s air racing that dates back to 1929. Air racing became popular in the 1920’s, but women pilots were forbidden to race against the men in that era, so the women started their own.

The race attracts competitors of all ages around the world. In 2013, pilots from Kosovo, Japan and Italy joined US pilots in the ultimate four day air race challenge. Collegiate teams make up nearly 20% of each year’s racers.

The race begins Monday, June 16, precisely at 8 A.M. and airplanes will take off every 30 seconds. There are 9 predetermined stops as the pilots make their way along the way eastward, where high speed low timing passes are permitted.

Once at the terminus, Capital City Airport, scores will be determined by a panel of judges and timers, and the winner will be announced at the gala Awards Banquet Saturday evening, June 21.

-###-

The Air Race Classic, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to: encouraging and educating current and future women pilots, increasing public awareness of general aviation, demonstrating women's roles in aviation, and presenting and promoting the tradition of pioneering women in aviation.

MDT Dodges Rain and High Fares

2013-08-06T12:41:00.000-04:00

Eleven teams arrived at Skyline Sports Complex on August 3rd, ready to dodge, duck, dip, dive and dodge for Allegiant’s “Dodge

Briefing the 11 teams

The Bad News Balls came out on top against Erie Insurance to secure the golden dodgeball trophy as well as gift certificates toArooga’s Grill House & Sports Bar. However, the biggest winner of the day was Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region who received $1100 from the event.

Bad News Balls - Tourney Winners

High Fares” charity event to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region. As tournament play began the rain stopped and the eleven teams battled hard until one team was left standing.

Thank you to all the teams who competed including Erie Insurance, Arsenal, Phoenix Contact, The Bad News Balls, MDT’s very own Turbulence and the six teams from HMS Host!

Allegiant’s “Dodge High Fares” tournaments will continue across the country at participating airports to support a variety of local charities. Visit www.dodgehighfares.com to register to win free airfare from Allegiant and find the next tournament.

Local Tourism Spotlight: Gettysburg 150th Anniversary

2013-07-01T14:00:00.000-04:00

Battle of Gettysburg by Thure de Thulstrup

A monumental battle of the Civil War that transpired at Gettysburg is celebrating its 150th anniversary this week and with gusto! Are you unfamiliar with the magnitude of the sacrifice that occurred at the site on July 1-3, 1863? Then, please take some time to read this account of Battle at Gettysburg.

Are you in town visiting Central Pennsylvania and interested in Civil War history? Then you've come to our region at an optimal time. This week and weekend is full of 150th anniversary-related events and activities. We've collected a sampling of what you can do and see this week:

150th Anniversary Park Rangers Program - held daily July 1-4, 2013
Guided Double Decker Bus Tours - held twice daily June 28 - July 7, 2013
Independence Day Parade - July 3, 2013
Gettysburg 150th National Civil War Battle Reenactment - July 4- 7, 2013
Historic 1776 Dobbins House Tours - May 25 - November 24, 2013
Civil War Heritage Foundation - July 5-7, 2013
Civil War Era Brunch & Fashion Show - July 7, 2013

The town of Gettysburg and the National Park are not the only places available to visit 150th anniversary celebratory events. The National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg, PA, the only museum in the country that tells the stories from both sides of the War, is also hosting a series of lectures and activities to commemorate the 150th. Check out their calendar of events.

For more on the 150th anniversary celebration visit the official website, and for a wide variety of attractions, restaurants and more in Gettysburg, visit the local convention & visitors bureau online.

If we might recommend an activity that we enjoy when visiting the battlefield? Make a point to see the Cyclorama - you won't regret it!

Share with us some of the great memories you've experienced when visiting Gettysburg Battlefield - we'd enjoy hearing about them!

Dodge, Duck, Dip, Dive and Dodge

2013-06-28T11:09:00.000-04:00

Do you have what it takes to dodge, duck, dip, dive, and dodge?

That's right, we're talking about a seriously fun game of dodgeball!

Join Allegiant, Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) and other local dodgeball enthusiasts for a fundraising effort on August 3 at Skyline Sports Complex to raise money for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region.

Plus while you're there you'll have a chance to win free airfare! What's not to like about that?

Visit Dodge High Fares online for more information and to register a team for the event.

So, gather up 6-10 of your friends, family, colleagues or coworkers and join us for the fun! We'll see you there!

2013 Summer Travel Trends

2013-06-18T14:00:00.000-04:00

Every summer seems to bring something new and exciting to do and see when it comes to travel. So, what destinations are the hottest sellers this season?

Music festivals – there are thousands of them to choose from around the country and in all genres. Think about your favorite type of music – chances are there are many options for festivals to choose from!
Disney dinners – to call this a popular destination for families is an understatement. To get a reservation of dinner with the famous characters, you’ll need at least a 6-month lead time!
Wilderness delight – the Cumberland Island off of Georgia’s coast boasts no paved roads, wild horses and pristine natural settings. Don’t miss out!
Island hopping – on the Grecian isles, you’ll find sun, sand and more! Study volcanoes, soak up the sun, enjoy white beaches and that’s just the beginning!

So if you know where you want to go for a later summer vacation, we urge you to book it sooner rather than later! Or, perhaps start planning your ideas for next summer’s travel. If you've already booked a trip – where are you of to this season?

Ugly Bags are Good!

2013-06-04T14:00:00.000-04:00

Did you read that right? Yes, we are advocating for ugly luggage. We didn't say in bad shape, we just said ugly. Making your luggage ugly has its benefits. And, what benefits are those and how should you make your suitcase ugly?

Personalizing your luggage with touches that are uniquely yours makes it more recognizable on the baggage belt and lessens the likelihood that someone will mistakenly grab it off the belt – thinking it’s theirs. We all are familiar with the ever-popular colors of luggage – black, grey, navy blue, red – and also the fact that innumerable fellow travelers also have bags in those colors. Make your mundane bag, uniquely yours!

Consider knotting a thick, brightly colored ribbon to one of the handles.
Write or draw something on the side or front of the bag using fabric paints or pens.
Create and laminate custom luggage tags.
Decorate the sides of the baggage with duct tape. Duct tape comes in more patterns and colors then just the standard dull grey anymore!
Luggage straps can serve two purposes – first they can hold your stuff inside the bag more securely and also can identify it as yours.
Fancy yourself a paracord artist? Make some special to tie onto your bag.
Iron or stitch patches to the sides of your suitcase.
If you use a hard-sided bag – perhaps decorate it with stickers from places you've traveled.

Have fun with the process. The sky’s the limit, literally! The uglier, the better!

Share your photos of your personalized, ugly luggage with us – we’d love to see your creativity at work.

MDT Plane Spotting: Beechcraft 1900D

2013-05-21T14:00:00.000-04:00

In this post we will take a look at one of the aircraft that you may spot flying to and from Harrisburg International Airport (MDT).

The Beechcraft 1900D is the smallest commercial aircraft that flies through Harrisburg International Airport. It was manufactured by the Beechcraft Division of Raytheon between 1991 and 2002. The 1900D is the third iteration of the Beechcraft 1900 series, following the 1900 and the 1900C. The 1900 series are all 19 passenger turboprop airliners which were themselves an evolution of Beechcraft’s Model 200 Super King Air.

The 1900C was an early redesign of the 1900, distinguished primarily by the removal of a second airstair door. The 1900D was a more significant redesign. The most obvious feature of the 1900D when compared with the earlier 1900 models is the shape of the cabin. The 1900D is notable in its class for being one of only two 19 passenger airliners in service with a ceiling height that allows most passengers to walk through the craft without bending over. Changing the shape of the body necessitated other changes to the design, including more powerful engines and a larger tail.

Although more than 70 airlines currently operate Beechcraft 1900Ds, the only ones you’ll see at MDT wear the livery of Air Georgian, operating flights for HIA’s airline partner Air Canada. As many as 900 passengers make their way between Toronto and Harrisburg on 1900Ds every month.

Best Practices for Booking Trips

2013-05-07T14:00:00.000-04:00

For some prospective travelers, the idea of booking a ticket for a flight can be stressful. At MDT we like to help take some of the hassle out of your air travel experience, not just in the terminal, but by offering tips and insights to make planning a trip just a little bit easier! While these tips cannot be guaranteed to assure you the lowest possible airfare, we do recommend considering them before you book your trip.

As soon as you have an idea of where you’d like to travel to begin comparison shopping for airfare. Check with a travel agent, online booking engines (Hipmunk, Kayak, Travelocity, Expedia, Orbitz, etc), and directly on the airline’s website.
Do not wait until the last minute or the day of, to book your trip. You will pay a premium for airfare if you wait too long. Give yourself at least three to six weeks prior to book airfare, if you can.
Shop on a Tuesday. Fare sales are often rolled out on Mondays and usually by the next day competitive airlines are matching their rates to that of sales.
Often airlines will have one-hour specials or short-notice sales that are debuted on social media, such as Facebook or Twitter. So, if you’re active on these sites, follow the airlines you are considering flying with to keep up with these specials/sales.
Sign up for e-alerts for notification of sales/specials from sites like AirfareWatchdog.com. The alerts are delivered right to your inbox as they’re available.
Be flexible, if you can, on your departure date and times, you can often save money on airfare by being willing to fly during the week as opposed to leaving on a weekend.
Go where the low-cost carriers fly!
If possible, avoid visiting popular destinations during peak season. You’re bound to run into limited seat availability and higher fares if you choose to travel to a location during its busiest season(s) of the year!

Did these tips help you book a trip with less hassle? Tell us about it! Where did you go and what type of Money, Distance and Time savings did you experience?

The History of Middletown, PA

2013-04-23T14:00:00.000-04:00

Early 1700 maps of Pennsylvania show that the area of land, now called Middletown, was once the village to the Conoy Indian Tribe of the Susquehannock Nation. When the town was planned out in 1755, some of their lodges were located in the area of where the town square is now located.

Middletown was founded in this rich agricultural area, thirty years before Harrisburg. Due to its location for trade, the town grew rapidly in the next century and a half both by land and water. The Scotch-Irish were the first white settlers in this area. It is estimated that nearly 200 Scotch-Irish families resided in the vicinity. With the sudden growth of settlers, several well-constructed roads had to be built. Middletown was named for its location midway between Lancaster and Carlisle along the Old Stage Coach Road on the Wagon Trail.

Many different architecture styles can be found in Middletown today since the town is so old. Log cabins, Victorian mansions, churches and several houses are all listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Middletown is noted in colonial records as being a supply depot for the Revolutionary Armies. Small boats for General Sullivan’s army were built here and his troops were supplied with provisions from local farms. The Swatara Ferry House is said to have housed Hessian prisoners during the Revolution.

Residents of Middletown published their “Resolves of Independence” from Great Britain at a meeting in 1774 chaired by Colonel James Burd. These ideas would later become incorporated in the colonies’ “Declaration of Independence”.

After the Revolutionary War, trade grew with the completion of the Pennsylvania and the Union Canals. Joined together at the confluence of the Susquehanna River and the Swatara Creek, the town was an important trading center for lumber, flour and iron. The Harrisburg-Lancaster Railroads were also in this area, as well as a ferry which ran back and forth across the River to York County.

Volunteers from Middletown enlisted in all wars leading up to the Spanish-American War of 1898. Camp Meade was set up as a troop garrison during the Spanish-American War. Named for the Civil War General George Meade, the camp was visited by President William McKinley.

The proud history of the Olmsted Air Force Base is said to have begun here when the United States Army Signal Corps established a military presence in Middletown with this temporary staging area during the Spanish-American War.

When the Middletown General Supply Depot broke ground on the site of what had been a pickle farm for the H.J. Heinz Company in 1917, the aviation section of the Army Signal Corps and the 113^th Aero Squadron of the Pennsylvania National Guard were assigned to the new facility and the first aircraft landed in 1918.

By 1941, with the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, the Depot became an important part of the war effort. As the largest airplane overhaul center in the world, it employed 17,000 civilian employees.

The Middletown General Supply Depot became Olmsted Air Force Base in 1948 and the Olmsted Field runway was expanded and modernized in 1958. During the Korean Conflict, the base continued to overhaul jets until its closing in 1964. Olmsted Field then became Harrisburg-York State Airport which would later become Harrisburg International Airport.

The lives of many residents of Middletown were impacted for nearly a half century by Olmsted Air Force Base; as well as playing a very important role during war times.

Have you visited Middletown to enjoy in its rich history? What aspects of this community appeal most to the traveler in you?

MDTrip Report: Denver, CO

2013-04-09T14:00:00.000-04:00

Lights of Denver at 16th Street Mall

Got the urge to go West? We recommend a visit to Denver, Colorado. This vibrant, thriving city situated in the midst of the Rocky Mountains is an eclectic mix of arts, outdoors, culture, history, food, shopping and more. Widely known on the East coast as a winter sports destination - there is far more to do and see while in the Mile High City.

Denver Art Museum

We encourage you to check out a few of the prime spots we visited on our recent trip to Denver. Starting with the Denver Art Museum located on 13th Avenue in the Civic Center Cultural Complex. The museum architecture is as much of a work of art as the timeless pieces housed within its many facilities, galleries and studios. We'd recommend at least the good part of day to tour the facility and to get your fill of artwork. And, for the readers in our blog audience, conveniently located right across the Complex from the Museum is the Denver Public Library.

Denver Public Library

So, you've had your fill of art and now it's time to decide what's for dinner! Hop in the car and drive over to Larimer Square situated between 14th and 15th Streets in downtown Denver. Larimer Square is district of Denver dedicated to one-of-a-kind chef-owned restaurants, unique boutiques and the like - all within a beautiful historic backdrop. So, what's on the menu? Choose from a few examples [or go visit and see for yourself]:

Larimer Square

Lime - features fresh Mexican food
Corridor 44 - Denver's only champagne bar and restaurant
Tag - continental social food from chef/owner Troy Guard
Rioja - Mediterranean cuisine by chefs Beth Gruitch and Jennifer Jasinski

16th Street Mall

If you've still have daylight on your side after dining, spend some time wandering around the Square taking the Historic Walking Tour. The self-guided tour introduces you to 10 historic properties within a loop around Larimer that are some of the oldest in Denver.

You've studied some artwork, read few books, enjoyed fine dining, and basked in some of Denver's amazing history - so now it's time for a wee bit of shopping! Where's the place to be to shop while in Denver? None other than the 16th Street Mall. This mile long district is dedicated to small shops, restaurants and big name retailers. It's a pedestrian foot-traffic area, other than that it's open only to the free shuttles that run the length of the Mall district all day long.

REI at Confluence Park

Before we depart Denver, we cannot miss out on the outdoors culture of the city. Visit the flagship store of REI (Recreational Equipment Inc) in Confluence Park to try your hand at kayaking and indoor rock climbing and to supply your every outdoor activity whim - biking, hiking, trailing, backpacking, running - the list goes on! Once you're geared up there are Open Spaces (parks) in every corner of this 2.5 million person metro area. Biking, walking, running and similar are a daily routine for the residents of Denver. Be prepared to adjust your activities levels to the altitude difference though. If you're not a regular visitor or resident of Denver, you may be at risk for altitude sickness - so take it easy and allow your body and your expectations to get acclimated to being at 5,280 feet above sea level.

REI Rock Climbing Wall

Do you have other interests about Denver that we've not covered? Ask us! We'll be happy to look into it for you and/or point you to the right location for more information. Or, you can take in more about the city on your own by visiting www.VisitDenver.com or actually flying there [NONSTOP!] on Frontier Airlines from MDT!

Nonstop, seasonal service to Denver resumes on April 22, 2013. Book your flight today!

Introducing XpressPARK

2013-03-21T10:39:00.005-04:00

'What is XpressPARK?' you ask. It's the latest in customer service programs and initiatives offered to patrons from Harrisburg International Airport (MDT). XpressPARK is the newest way to save TIME and add CONVENIENCE to your onsite parking experience at MDT. Is that possible? Of course it is. Get yourself enrolled in this new parking program and experience how easy it is!

How does it work? Sign-up for the program by dropping off your completed enrollment form and fee in person at our Administrative offices (located on the third floor of the MDT terminal) or mail the form and fee back to us. We'll process your enrollment and issue you a parking card. The parking card is affiliated with the credit card you used to enroll in the program. So instead of having to take a parking ticket and use your credit card each time you park at MDT, all you need is your parking card!

That's right - no parking tickets, no credit card in/out, automatic payment, emailed receipts, use of the express lanes and less hassle!

Anyone with a valid credit card whom parks onsite at MDT is eligible for the program - so tell your friends, family and colleagues!

XpressPark, the new way to park at MDT.

Tips for Speedier Check-In

2013-02-15T15:28:00.000-05:00

Did you know there are steps you can take to speed up your flight check-in process on the day of your departure? By following these few simple steps you can lessen your air travel hassles at any airport!

Check-in online for your flight before you arrive at the airport. Airlines allow you to do this up to 24-hours in advance as long as you have your confirmation number and of course your name!
If you need to check a bag, pay the baggage fee online before you get to the airport. Many airlines offer the ability to pay your fee by credit card via there website. This cuts down on the amount of time you spend at the ticket counter dropping off your checked bag with airline personnel.
Give yourself sufficient amount of time to arrive at the airport pre-flight. If you wait until the very last minute to depart for the airport, chances are Murphy will rear his ugly head and slow down your journey! For MDT, we recommend you show up at least 75 minutes prior to your flight departure time.
Know your flight number and the airline you're flying with before you depart for the airport. In the event that your flight is delayed, or your flight experiences a gate-change, you'll have the pertinent information to assist in tracking these changes.
Check your flight status before you depart for the airport! The best means to do this is directly with your airline via their website, phone or by signing up for flight tracking alerts which can be emailed or text messaged to you directly.
Pack your carry-on luggage appropriately. Be sure that you've followed the Transportation Security Administration's guidelines for packing carry-on luggage BEFORE you get to the airport. Review their website, www.tsa.dhs.gov for the full details.
Be prepared for the worst, but expect the best. Air travel is subject to weather, mechanical and other types of delays and cancellations - so be prepared. And, keep your airlines 800# and ticket counter location close-at-hand in case you get to the airport and find out that you need to re-book your flight.

What tips and tricks for speedier check-in do you use that we've missed? We'd love to hear what works best for you!

Plane Spotting: the Presidential 747

2013-01-11T13:06:00.001-05:00

Photo Credit: Eric Moon

Many of you may have plane spotted a large, low-flying aircraft in the airspace around MDT earlier this week. If you're not following the airport's Facebook fan page or Twitter feed, you may not realize that aircraft was the modified 747 used as 'Air Force One.' No, the President wasn't landing at Harrisburg, nor was he just flying around on the plane. The reason the 747 is an oft visitor to MDT is because of the flight crew's responsibility to practice flying the aircraft and its landing/departure maneuvers on a regular basis. It's not uncommon to see the modified 747, 757, 737 and other aircraft in the governmental fleet practicing maneuvers on our runway. Do we get fore notice that they'll be here? Not usually, we often know they're here when they're spotted by airport staff.

The various planes in the governmental fleet practice at MDT due to the abundant length and width of our runway (we can accommodate any type of aircraft flying in the world) and due to our proximity (via air) to Andrews Air Force Base (AFB), wherein many of the fleet are stored. We're an approximately 20-minute flight from the AFB.

So, you're now curious to learn more about the various aircraft that practice maneuvers at your hometown airport, aren't you? We've found a few resources that detail the various aircraft:

"Air Force One" (modified 747), otherwise known as the VC-25
"Air Force Two" (modified 757), otherwise known as the C-32
Boeing C-40 Clipper (modified 737), also occasionally fulfils the role of "AF-2"

Next time you see this aircraft or similar at MDT in your neck of the airspace, tweet us a photo using the hashtag, #MDTPlaneSpot or post a photo to our fan page wall. We love to see the various aircraft from your perspective, too!

Holiday Shopping and its Impact on MDT

2012-12-18T10:04:00.000-05:00

'Tis the season of gift giving as Christmas is just around the corner! With gift giving comes an increase in packages being shipped to and fro across the country via train, truck and of course, aircraft. Many of you may be aware that UPS, FedEx and DHL conduct air cargo operations at your hometown airport, Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), on a daily basis.

UPS-contracted 747 at MDT

But, did you know that at this time of year, due to the increase volume of package shipment from online holiday shoppers, UPS contracts a 747 for their fleet at MDT to help offset the increased flights needed? That's right, plane spotters! There's a 747 based at MDT for the next week and its departing daily around mid-morning flying the country delivering your gifts where they need to go.

Today's flight departed around 9 am EST and was bound for Denver, Colorado. If you 'plane spot' the 747, be sure to tweet us about it with the hashtag '#MDTplanespot' or post the photo to our fan page!

Ho, Ho, Holiday Travel Tips

2012-12-12T13:52:00.001-05:00

A view from above, the MDT terminal tree

For those of you traveling to visit family between now and the end year, we have a few helpful travel tips to fly your way!

The key for a successful and less stressful trip is to be prepared. By following these simple suggestions, traveling to/from Harrisburg International Airport (MDT), or any airport for that matter, will a bit easier and more convenient:

1) Know the security rules before you pack. TheTransportation Security Administration (TSA) has a 3-1-1 campaign to educate travelers on the carry-on baggage restrictions. For specific details, visit www.tsa.dhs.gov before you pack your bags.

2) Call your airline’s toll-free flight tracking phone number for an update on your flight before coming to the airport. Flight status information is also available on your airline’s website.

3) Arrive at a MDT parking lot about 90-minutes before your scheduled departure.

4) Follow the signs and park in the Long Term/Economy lot. Shuttle buses run (24 hours a day) every 8-10 minutes from the numbered shelters in the lot and brings you curbside at the terminal building.

5) When picking up a passenger arriving at MDT, please use our free cell phone lot until your passenger arrives. Federal security mandates prohibit parking along the terminal curbside. Only the active loading and unloading of a vehicle is permitted in front of the terminal building.

6) Regarding the holiday gifts and food you want to travel with: gifts packed in your carry-on and checked luggage should be unwrapped. Don't pack snow globes in your carry-on luggage, please pack them in your checked luggage. Please be sure to review the TSA's policies for how to travel with holiday foods.

Finally, we ask that you remember to bring a smile and be patient. Generally the weather looks good nationwide for the upcoming holiday travel week, however delays can happen at any time. The airlines want to get you to your destination safely and on time, while the TSA has a responsibility to make sure that everyone getting on an aircraft is doing so without any prohibited items.

What do you still have questions about that we've not covered? We hope our tips contribute to making your trip to Tulsa to visit Aunt Beatrice and her world famous fruitcake as stress-free as possible! Although, you'll have to buy your own roll of Tums to help digest that fruitcake!

Snow, plows and ice - oh my!

2012-11-26T15:42:00.002-05:00

With winter just around the corner and snow in this week's forecast, Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) employees are prepared to work hard to keep the airfield clear for aircraft take-offs and landings, the roadways clear for drivers and the walkways clear for visitors.

While most of us are thinking about swimming pools and jet-setting away from the region in the warm summer months, for the maintenance and operations crews at MDT it is strictly Christmas in July. This is when intensive planning stages begin for the coordination of plowing routes on the airfield and terminal roads, getting the essential winter vehicles prepped, and training drills take place.

Crews battle the snow and ice

And when the colder months and precipitation come, crews are ready to take on Jack Frost. To stay on top of the forecast, airport maintenance subscribes to Accuweather as well as checks with other weather sources to determine the incoming storm. Unlike highway road crews, MDT’s crews are called in before the snow hits, which means no build up on the runways or the public access ways.

Assistant Supervisor of Maintenance Mark Hake takes pride in his dedicated group of employees who maintain the terminal road ways and parking garages. Even when the team is not on airport grounds, they are always a call away. In the event of a storm, the crews begin the continuous process of plowing, brooming, and de-icing the grounds to ensure passengers can make their flights.

On the other side of the terminal, Airfield Maintenance Supervisor Shawn Rupert and his men work hard to make sure airplanes continue to travel to and from the airport. In his experience with the airport, MDT closed because of weather only one time. A direct reflection of the dedication his team of 16 workers possesses, which lets the airport continue to operate in hazardous conditions. It is not uncommon for both Rupert and Hake’s teams to sacrifice time with their families or even holidays to shack up in the bunk room at the airport for a 24-hour storm.

Plowing the runway one full length and one full width is the equivalent of plowing 31.5 miles of a single lane road. Using a variety of different sized plows and trucks with brooms, totaling at 20 different vehicles, and burning through an average of $190,000 of airport-safe chemicals and sand to help manage the snow, treating the airport passageways becomes possible. Also unlike regular highway crews, the airport does not use rock salt because it is too damaging to the airplanes.

The Operations Department works in conjunction with Airfield Maintenance to test the conditions of the ground. Using a machine called a Bomonk AFM, they are able to test the friction of the surface of the pavement to make sure each airline’s requirements for landing are met.

While conditions in the winter months at MDT can be cold and blustery, it is evident that there is a warm camaraderie and a high level of dedication burning inside each of these employees. At the end of the storm, when crews are finally able to rest, they are left with a keen sense of pride and a job well done.

Innovative Aircraft - Embraer 195

2012-10-23T12:12:00.003-04:00

photo credit: FlickRiver.com

The Embraer 195 regional jet provides the highest passenger capacity of the Embraer 170/190 family of aircraft. The aircraft has a range of 1,800 miles. It has a wide aisle, large seats and a passenger capacity of 108 to 118 depending on the cabin layout providing a high degree of comfort. In addition, the aircraft offers low operating costs and operational flexibility.

Since the 190/195 models are of mainline aircraft size, many airlines will operate them this way fitting them with a business class section and operating the aircraft themselves, instead of having them flown by a regional airline partner.

The first flight of the E-195 was on December 7, 2004.

Local Tourism Spotlight: PA Renaissance Faire

2012-10-08T13:56:00.004-04:00

The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire is winding down to the final weeks at the Mount Hope Estate & Winery.

Upon your entry to the shire of Mount Hope, you are magically transformed into the year of 1590. Queen Elizabeth Regina Gloriana, Ruler of England, welcomes you with fanfare and cannon fire as the gates are opened to the celebration of theater, art, music and dance.

Situated on 35 glorious acres of land, the Faire offers a wide array of shows and performances. Watch glassblowing and archery demonstrations; stop by the military encampment; listen to bagpipes and other musicians; see some of the many comedy acts or maybe take a ride on Wrinkles the elephant!

To follow the storyline, don’t miss the Magical Merriment Parade as the Queen proceeds to the Human Chess Match. Here you will see William Shakespeare and Kit Marlowe vie for the Queen’s attention, which eventually leads to the Ultimate Joust. The day ends with the Finale, as you join the Queen and all the performers for a celebration of your visit.

The Faire offers a wide variety of unique food choices like smoked turkey legs, Scotch eggs, tiger pies, and even deep fried peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. To quench your thirst, free wine tastings are available and is sold by the glass. Beer is also offered by the glass or you can just grab a serve yourself Slush Puppie.

Artisans are on hand for purchasing clothing, accessories, swords, and numerous other crafts.

The Faire is located on Route 72 just north of Manheim, easily accessible from the PA Turnpike, and is open every weekend from 11:00 – 8:00 until October 28.

For more information on The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire or the Mount Hope Estate & Winery, visit www.parenfaire.com.

Innovative Aircraft - Cessna Citation Longitude

2012-09-04T12:37:00.000-04:00

Cessna Citation Longitude -
photo courtesy of AINOnline.com

Cessna’s newest, biggest jet is the Citation Longitude. The swept-wing Longitude has the roomiest cabin and the longest range of any Citation jet. Longitude will have a range of 4,000 miles.

The cabin will have a flat floor and six feet of headroom, and will seat eight in double club seating. The cabin also features a galley, a spacious lavatory and a large baggage area. The Longitude is manufactured in Wichita, Kansas. The engines on this aircraft are said to be industry leaders in fuel-efficiency, weight and manageability.

At 86-feet wide and 87-feet long, the Longitude is expected to be in service by 2017.

Have you flown on one of the other 9 members of the Citation family of aircraft? Which ones and what features of these Cessnas did you enjoy?

Innovative Aircraft - Airbus A380

2012-08-15T12:48:00.000-04:00

The Airbus A380 has been winning over business and leisure passengers since its introduction in 2007 with travelers specifically requesting flights around the globe.

Photo credit: Airbus.com

The double-decker A380 is the world’s largest commercial aircraft flying today, with capacity to carry 525 passengers in a three-class configuration and up to 853 in a single-class configuration that provides wider seats than its competitors. The A380’s two decks offer 50 percent more floor surface than any other high-capacity aircraft.

It has a main deck and an upper deck, which are conveniently linked by fixed stairs forward and aft. The aircraft is actively being purchased by airlines for commercial flights worldwide, with 80 being in current operations.

Have you flown on an A380? Have you plane spotted one and photographed it? We'd love to see your photos!

MDTrip Report: Colorado Springs, CO

2012-07-20T10:45:00.004-04:00

Broadmoor Resort

Looking for an interesting summer vacation destination? We encourage you to visit Colorado Springs, Colorado. There are several attractions for all ages located in Colorado Springs, not to mention the breathtaking scenery around every turn.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in the area, you cannot go wrong staying at The Broadmoor Resort. The Broadmoor has three 18-hole golf courses with some of the most impressive views of the Rockie Mountains. Along with the golf courses, there are several other activities for families such as horseback riding, swimming, paddle boats and much more. After a long day of golf and hiking, The Broadmoor also has a spa to help you relax.

We also encourage you to visit the Garden of the Gods Park, which is a National Natural Landmark. Here you can take a guided tour, hike or bike ride through some of the best views of Pikes Peak and tall sandstone rock formations. A tour will teach you about the cultural history and geology of the Colorado Springs area.

Garden of the Gods

After viewing Pikes Peak from the Garden of Gods Park, take a short trip over to get an up close view of the peak 14,115 feet above sea level. In order to reach the summit you can hike, drive or even catch a ride on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. If you are an adventurous person consider riding a bike 20 miles down the Pikes Peak Highway with the Challenge Unlimited Tour.

Need even more of an adrenaline rush? Located a quick hour away from Colorado Springs is the Echo Canyon River Expeditions where there are several different white water rafting options. They have choices from a family rafting trip to the high adventurous class V rapids trip.

Olympic Training Center

So you need a break from all of the high adventure? Take a tour of the United States Air Force Academy with several aircraft exhibits. Next on the tour list is the U.S. Olympic Training Center where athletes train for the Olympic Games. A third great attraction to visit is the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum located downtown, with several exhibits to learn about the local history.

There is much more than that to see and do in Colorado Springs so feel free to ask us. You can also find more info by visiting www.visitcos.com/.

Wanna visit Colorado Springs? You can reach this lovely city with one connection from MDT. Frontier Airlines has recently announced nonstop flights between Denver and Colorado Springs - so by booking your flight from MDT to DEN, you can then connect to Colorado Springs on the same airline!

Innovative Aircraft - Boeing 787

2012-07-13T10:24:00.000-04:00

Are you an aviation geek ("avgeek")? If you are then there's a good chance you're already up-to-speed on the latest and greatest in aircraft innovations with the main airliner manufacturers. Today we begin a new series which will profile and feature some of the latest and greatest airplanes!

We're getting started with a look at the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

787 Dreamliner - Photo from FlightAware

Responding to overwhelming preferences of airlines around the world, an international team of top aerospace companies led by Boeing at its Everett, Washington facility near Seattle, Boeing Commercial Airplanes' launched a super-efficient airplane, the 787 Dreamliner. The aircraft was originally slated as the 7E7 when its earliest design stages. The first delivery of the completed 787 to ANA took place on Sept. 25, 2011.

In addition to bringing big-jet ranges to mid-size airplanes, the 787 provides airlines with unmatched fuel efficiency, resulting in exceptional environmental performance. The airplane uses 20 percent less fuel than today's similarly sized airplanes. It will also travel at a similar speed as today's fastest wide bodies.

The 787-8 Dreamliner can carry 210 - 250 passengers on routes of 7,650 to 8,200 miles, while the 787-9 Dreamliner can carry 250 - 290 passengers on routes of 8,000 to 8,500 miles. With this new model of aircraft airlines are anticipated receive more cargo revenue capacity.

Have you plane spotted a 787 yet? Better yet, have you flown on one?

Local Tourism Spotlight: National Civil War Museum

2012-06-28T14:48:00.002-04:00

To continue our local tourism spotlight posts, today we share with you a recent visit that one of our marketing personnel, Cheryl W., enjoyed at the local Civil War museum.

The National Civil War Museum is the only museum in the United States portraying the entire story of the American Civil War. Galleries offer equally balanced presentations without bias to the Union or the Confederate causes.

Located on top of a hill overlooking the City of Harrisburg, the museum offers spectacular views of the city and the surrounding mountains. A touching sculpture created by Terry Jones at the entrance of the museum entitled “Moment of Mercy” depicts the selfless act of courage by 19 year old Sergeant Richard Kirkland, a scene that could be found many times throughout the war.

Ascending the Grand staircase upon entrance, this self-guided tour begins on the second floor of the museum. The American struggle is portrayed as a time line, focusing on the four actual years of the war. The pre-War period includes a collection of artifacts reflecting the evolution of American Slavery.

The Creation of the Confederacy and the first shots fired upon Fort Sumter signal the beginning of the American Civil War. The Making of the Confederate and Union Armies features uniforms, weapons and other items used by the Artillery, Infantry and Cavalry units as well as the Union Navy.

Pictures are on display of the military camp established in Harrisburg by Pennsylvania Governor Andrew Curtain. Camp Curtain became one of the North’s most important training centers for volunteers and new recruits. The camp also served as a supply depot and a center for the sick and wounded. Governor Curtain is often referred to as “the greatest of the Northern war governors”. During his term in office, Pennsylvania contributed 427,000 soldiers serving in the war.

Some of the battles depicted are: Bull Run, Shiloh, Vicksburg, Chancellorsville, Antietam and Gettysburg. More than 3 million men served in the military during the four years of war; 700,000 died and nearly 400,000 were wounded. War related deaths from 1861-1865 were greater than the total number of American deaths in all American wars. Gettysburg was the single bloodiest battle ever in American history. Out of 170,000 men, there were over 50,000 casualties.

Disease killed more soldiers than battlefield wounds, claiming over 96,000 lives. One in sixty five was killed in battle - One in thirteen died of disease. Cleanliness and proper sanitation helped reduce sickness. Various artifacts of personal hygiene can be seen including; soaps, toothpaste, shaving kits and mirrors. A field hospital is also displayed featuring a surgery. Surgical instruments, syringes, crutches and artificial limbs are showcased; but the most impressive item on display has to be the hospital wagon - believed to be the last surviving ambulance from the civil war era!

The tour concludes with General Robert E. Lee’s surrender at Appomattox Courthouse and the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln at Ford’s Theater in Washington. On display are newspapers, a picture of the funeral procession, a sash from the funeral train and even a piece of the dress Mary Todd Lincoln was wearing that fateful night. Less than a year later, slavery was abolished by approval of the 13^th Amendment to the Constitution.

Have you enjoyed a visit to the National Civil War Museum? What are your favorite exhibits at the museum? If you've not been there, are you planning a visit now that you've read this post?

MDTrip Report: Colorado at a Glance

2012-06-12T12:50:00.000-04:00

If you follow Harrisburg International Airport on Twitter (@HIAairport) and were following the #MDT_DEN hashtag, you know that members of our team were recently in the Denver, Colorado region. We traveled there for meeting with various travel professionals in the region and to gather info on what makes that region of the country so spectacular. Over the next couple of weeks we would will share with you about the various cities in Colorado that we visited and the unique opportunities they afford travelers.

Today, we'll share a quick glance at each of these towns and cities - short and sweet.

Denver is an exciting nexus of arts, culture, history, music, food and outdoor adventures for the entire family.

Estes Park is home to the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park and the famed Stanley Hotel.

Lyons is an adorable town nested in foot of a red rock cliff and is a bedroom community featuring its own unique charm.

Boulder is noted as one of the "Foodiest" locations in the United States and is situated in the midst of the Rockies.

Golden is full of small town charm and home to the Coors Brewery, this adorable city is nicknamed, the "Two Hour Vacation" spot.

Colorado Springs boasts a plethora of attractions for varied interests including the Broadmoor resort, Garden of the Gods, the Olympic Training Center and much more.

So, stay tuned as we blog about the highlights of our trip to the Rockies. You're in for quite the adventure as you read along. Getting the itch to 'Go West'? We can't say we blame you! You can fly nonstop from MDT to Denver on Frontier Airlines every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday through September 2, 2012.