Anyone there now that can comment on FP enforcement

[KellyNY]

It seems highly unlikely that is the cause. If it was taking so long to explain to people that they cant use fastpasses late that a completely empty fastpass line then suddenly backed up to the point as described, surely accomadations would be made to solve the problem (like adding additional cms to check fast passes while the rule is explained to others). It really isn't a reasonable conclusion that this scenario would play out as you describe, although it does fit in well with your blame it on the late fastpass users mentality.

Asserting that the current FP line back-ups are STILL the fault of late FP users because they are holding everyone up while they argue with the CM (not a first-hand observation, by the way). PRICELESS!

I am not sure what my mentality has to do with that. I think it is perfectly reasonable explanation, do you deny that talking to people takes time?

I can also play mentality card when all of the sudden people blame line increase on fact that people come on time. How is that reasonable? When in past people were comming sometimes like extra FP per particular time frame and yet it did not cause long FP lines, is it logical to say that now when there are no extras line is long because they are on time? So is it reasonable or this is your mentality talking.

BTW, Bob, you blaming me for not first-hand observation, don't you keep comparing Spring Break lines without being there?

 

[BNM]

I am not sure what my mentality has to do with that. I think it is perfectly reasonable explanation, do you deny that talking to people takes time?

I can also play mentality card when all of the sudden people blame line increase on fact that people come on time. How is that reasonable? When in past people were comming sometimes like extra FP per particular time frame and yet it did not cause long FP lines, is it logical to say that now when there are no extras line is long because they are on time? So is it reasonable or this is your mentality talking.

BTW, Bob, you blaming me for not first-hand observation, don't you keep comparing Spring Break lines without being there?

Yes, but we have no credible reports that extra discussion with CMs is what is causing backups. In fact, a CM from AK posted that, at his attraction, few people were turned away. At no point did he mention the resulting conversation causing backups. He said the FP line moved steadily and stayed short.

Anyway, why would extra conversation lengthen the FP line? Wouldn't this be taking place at the queue entrance? Therefore, those engaged in conversation could ONLY delay those trying to enter. Not lengthen the line itself.

 

[doconeill]

One possible explanation for the current FP backups (and I think there are enough reports that this is happening) is that Disney has begun increasing the number of FP available. Wasn't there a memo way back when alluding to the possibility that they would do this? Something about increasing the number of people who could use the service.
Possibly they overestimated the number of people who were using FP late and/or would not make the window and thus be no-shows. If they overestimated the number of no-shows and decided to increase the number of FP due to large observed crowds and long standby waits, you now have overly long FP lines.

With more FP per hour the likelihood of having a bunch of people all return at once increases. Just an idea.

Some of us read the memo that an increase was coming - but was expected to be part of the upcoming xPASS system, not an immediate increase in the number of FPs available. They may have increased the numbers, but given the results I would have expected them to dial it back by now. But I also would have expected them to first start the enforcement, and when that has settled down, up the FP numbers. Not much to be gained by forcing it all at once.

Can anyone remember back to past Spring Break weeks if there were similar backups? Or is that actually worse this year?

 

[kt_mom]

I'm here now and have not noticed any back ups or hold ups in the fast pass lines. I have been in stand y also on some rides and have not noticed any excess of people going through the fast pass line.

We had one instance on Tuesday morning where we got in the standby line for space mountain with a posted 20 minute wait at about 9:20. We had a fast pass with a 9:45 return time. The ride shut down for about 20 pr 25 minutes while we were in line and we didn't get out of the ride until 10:00. I went to the guy at the head of the fast pass line and explained what had happened and that we had a 10:20 ADR at CP and wouldn't be able to use our fast pass within the our time frame and he wrote us a little blue hand written pass for 2 to return at 11:30 and said it would be good any time around then. We came back right about 11:30 and used it with no issues.

 

[KellyNY]

Yes, but we have no credible reports that extra discussion with CMs is what is causing backups. In fact, a CM from AK posted that, at his attraction, few people were turned away. At no point did he mention the resulting conversation causing backups. He said the FP line moved steadily and stayed short.

Anyway, why would extra conversation lengthen the FP line? Wouldn't this be taking place at the queue entrance? Therefore, those engaged in conversation could ONLY delay those trying to enter. Not lengthen the line itself.

I am not saying we had such reports, we only had reports that people used some excuses from the same CM from AK and others who witnessed it. How long those conversations were I do not know. Also do not forget when CMs let late people in they use "talk". All I say it takes time in contrast to how FP admission usually works.
As for why would it backs up line, I pointed earlier that when conversations happens other people waiting to get to FP CM. And this is why instead of line move more or less constantly, line may move in stages, empty/full. This may be explanation to different reports, some people reported long FP lines and some reported them to be empty.
Once again, I am not saying this is what it is but it can be a possibility. Other then that I only see increase in FPs distributed, IF lines are actually longer and this is not just Spring Break and our sensitivity to this subject right now.

 

[BNM]

I am not saying we had such reports, we only had reports that people used some excuses from the same CM from AK and others who witnessed it. How long those conversations were I do not know. Also do not forget when CMs let late people in they use "talk". All I say it takes time in contrast to how FP admission usually works.
As for why would it backs up line, I pointed earlier that when conversations happens other people waiting to get to FP CM. And this is why instead of line move more or less constantly, line may move in stages, empty/full. This may be explanation to different reports, some people reported long FP lines and some reported them to be empty.
Once again, I am not saying this is what it is but it can be a possibility. Other then that I only see increase in FPs distributed, IF lines are actually longer and this is not just Spring Break and our sensitivity to this subject right now.

Your explanation is still a bit of a stretch for me, I'm afraid, but you're entitled to your opinion. Increase in number of FP could pose a problem. I think what is also possible is that the FP line is no longer as "self regulating" as it used to be. In the past, the opportunity was greater to Come back later if the FP line was long. Some people will no longer be willing or able to do that. Of course this assumes that a significant number of people knew you could use FP late. This, as we've seen, is debatable.

 

[KellyNY]

Your explanation is still a bit of a stretch for me, I'm afraid, but you're entitled to your opinion. Increase in number of FP could pose a problem. I think what is also possible is that the FP line is no longer as "self regulating" as it used to be. In the past, the opportunity was greater to Come back later if the FP line was long. Some people will no longer be willing or able to do that. Of course this assumes that a significant number of people knew you could use FP late. This, as we've seen, is debatable.

And this is where I see it is not possible. While people could come later if FP line was longer, they had to come after all. And if they were extras at some point, would it mean line had to be longer at that time? As I said before, lets say 100 FPs had to come during particulat time frame, lets say hour.. Lets assume we are talking 10 hours here. First 5 hours 20 did not show each hour and therefore FP line was shorter. Then we have 120 instead of 100 use FP line last 5 hours. So line could be slightly longer. But we also have reports that FP line was never long even at closing hours, so how is it possible that extra people did not create longer line but regular number does? It does not make sense to me. Maybe I am missing something but I do not see it.

 

[Wadecool]

I'm here now and have not noticed any back ups or hold ups in the fast pass lines. I have been in stand y also on some rides and have not noticed any excess of people going through the fast pass line.

We had one instance on Tuesday morning where we got in the standby line for space mountain with a posted 20 minute wait at about 9:20. We had a fast pass with a 9:45 return time. The ride shut down for about 20 pr 25 minutes while we were in line and we didn't get out of the ride until 10:00. I went to the guy at the head of the fast pass line and explained what had happened and that we had a 10:20 ADR at CP and wouldn't be able to use our fast pass within the our time frame and he wrote us a little blue hand written pass for 2 to return at 11:30 and said it would be good any time around then. We came back right about 11:30 and used it with no issues.

That's good to hear that the CM's are helping out when extenuating circumstances arise. Have fun Ktmom!

 

[ftballfan7]

I am not sure what my mentality has to do with that. I think it is perfectly reasonable explanation, do you deny that talking to people takes time?

I can also play mentality card when all of the sudden people blame line increase on fact that people come on time. How is that reasonable? When in past people were comming sometimes like extra FP per particular time frame and yet it did not cause long FP lines, is it logical to say that now when there are no extras line is long because they are on time? So is it reasonable or this is your mentality talking.

BTW, Bob, you blaming me for not first-hand observation, don't you keep comparing Spring Break lines without being there?

I have not once stated that any percieved increase in fp lines is due to the recent change in policy. I have no idea if that is the case or not. I am simply pointing out that your theory is a major stretch. I do not find it plausible that the fp line completely empties while the entrance is blocked by the cm "talking" to guests about return times, while at the same time a sufficient number of people pile up at the entrance to cause lines the likes of which have been described. Just think about for a minute, it defies common sense.

I also pointd out that attacking late fp users seems to be a theme with many of your posts (as well a few others) in multiple threads, often times with far-reaching nonsensical theories. I am waiting for some highly imaginative (and probably entertaining) connection between late fastpass users and the Kennedy assassination.

 

[TwiddleDeeTwiddleDum]

And this is where I see it is not possible. While people could come later if FP line was longer, they had to come after all. And if they were extras at some point, would it mean line had to be longer at that time? As I said before, lets say 100 FPs had to come during particulat time frame, lets say hour.. Lets assume we are talking 10 hours here. First 5 hours 20 did not show each hour and therefore FP line was shorter. Then we have 120 instead of 100 use FP line last 5 hours. So line could be slightly longer. But we also have reports that FP line was never long even at closing hours, so how is it possible that extra people did not create longer line but regular number does? It does not make sense to me. Maybe I am missing something but I do not see it.

It's possible that while people could come later if FP line was longer (pre-enforcement) that they did not return at all....perhaps they got back to the resort for a rest & decided they were too tired to return? That is a possibility, therefore, they took a FP but didn't use it on time or late

Again it is possible, not stating fact, just possibility that the FP lines were not long at closing hours because people weren't stockpiling FP's to the extent people seem to think they were. However, if you really feel they were stockpiling them, and now they can't with FP enforcement, they don't have the late use option, therefore it is possible they are indeed using them in the window....perhaps more people are now using FP so you are seeing the lines getting a little fuller

Just a thought

I am so glad to read of the CM that gave the person stuck in a line who had an ADR at Crystal Palace a replacement FP. If they aren't going to honor late FP anymore, IMO they should have a plan to assist guests with a prebooked ADR when things like this happen.

 

[ftballfan7]

I am so glad to read of the CM that gave the person stuck in a line who had an ADR at Crystal Palace a replacement FP. If they aren't going to honor late FP anymore, IMO they should have a plan to assist guests with a prebooked ADR when things like this happen.

 

[keishashadow]

I will indeed take them to task - gifts given and then taken back do not reflect well on the gift giver. Let's face it, the "rule" was that the return time has NEVER mattered. Make no mistake - they have taken away a significant portion of the benefit of FP... and it has negatively impacted our trip in a material way... so much so it may tip the scales against coming back. Here's hoping this is just a transition phase to a better system... we'll be planning our trip to Universal next Spring Break... unlimited fastpass at any time sounds a lot better, and Harry Potter looks fun.

Rules are rulesenforcement can be non-existent or selective but that doesn't negate the stated rule, no matter how it's phrased, as long as the issuer decides to follow them. IMO allowing people to use fast passes late jammed up the FP system and I'm hoping this will work out well once people adapt. I'm concerned how the to be announced system could possibly negate the benefits, but if anybody is good at logistics it's disney.

enjoy Universal & HP! be aware that the pass currently doesn't work on HP and several other attractions. Several years ago (summer of 2009 or so somebody else will remember) Universal during peak summer hours restricted onsite FOTL percs to once per individual ride until 4 pm. I haven't seen any mention of it since then and have never experienced it, but it goes back to the rules/restrictions of said percs in the fine print.

 

[KellyNY]

I have not once stated that any percieved increase in fp lines is due to the recent change in policy. I have no idea if that is the case or not. I am simply pointing out that your theory is a major stretch. I do not find it plausible that the fp line completely empties while the entrance is blocked by the cm "talking" to guests about return times, while at the same time a sufficient number of people pile up at the entrance to cause lines the likes of which have been described. Just think about for a minute, it defies common sense.

I also pointd out that attacking late fp users seems to be a theme with many of your posts (as well a few others) in multiple threads, often times with far-reaching nonsensical theories. I am waiting for some highly imaginative (and probably entertaining) connection between late fastpass users and the Kennedy assassination.

Well, so we back to discussion of my personality, that is nice. I do not see my or others opinion on late FP practice as attacks on anyone in particular, so thank you very much for trying to put words in my mouth, like it was not done before you. I guess it is just easier to disregard any theories with simple "your mind is blocked by your mentality" instead of openning your own eyes. What other nonsense did I say? I pointed out that Zero Sum did not work on individual level, I showed that affect of Late FPs exists on individual level. You may disagree but many actually admitted that all of it actually true and believe it or not makes sense, many who explored topic in great details. So maybe you are one of few who can open our eyes on Kennedy assassination, great pyramids and so on and not me.
And in case you wonder I did not bring up the past discussions, you did.

 

[CandleontheWater]

It's possible that while people could come later if FP line was longer (pre-enforcement) that they did not return at all....perhaps they got back to the resort for a rest & decided they were too tired to return? That is a possibility, therefore, they took a FP but didn't use it on time or late

Again it is possible, not stating fact, just possibility that the FP lines were not long at closing hours because people weren't stockpiling FP's to the extent people seem to think they were. However, if you really feel they were stockpiling them, and now they can't with FP enforcement, they don't have the late use option, therefore it is possible they are indeed using them in the window....perhaps more people are now using FP so you are seeing the lines getting a little fuller

Just a thought

THIS!

I know that I and many of my rule-breaking, fastpass-hoarding, immoral friends, would take FPs early in the morning, with plans to use them later in the day. By the time later in the day rolled around we often were busy doing something else and never managed to make it back. That was our loss, but the people in line's gain.

Now with the new enforcement, we have more incentive to actually use that FP within the window, and adding to the line.

I'm sure I'm not the only one tossing FPs in the trash as I walked out of the park at the end of the day.

 

[Balt ravens fan]

THIS!

I know that I and many of my rule-breaking, fastpass-hoarding, immoral friends, would take FPs early in the morning, with plans to use them later in the day. By the time later in the day rolled around we often were busy doing something else and never managed to make it back. That was our loss, but the people in line's gain.

Now with the new enforcement, we have more incentive to actually use that FP within the window, and adding to the line.

I'm sure I'm not the only one tossing FPs in the trash as I walked out of the park at the end of the day.

I could argue the opposite though, Since the window is now "enforced" many people will miss the window, leading to less people in the FP lines, and less people affecting the Stand by lines.

I bet just as many FP get thrown in the trash because people missed the window , probably more than in the past.

 

[mesaboy2]

Here now and did MK yesterday.

Got FPs for Space, Splash, Pan, and Pooh. Saw the signs, heard CMs only at Splash FP kiosks actively announcing the enforcement. Lines for Splash and Pan were longer than I've ever seen them, but moved quickly. Space and Pooh queues were like I'd seen before. Asked CM at Pan about the long line there and her thoughts why, and she said she thought it was due to crowds and enforcement.

Didn't see anyone turned away, but wasnt paying that much attention. Watched the same old non-English-speaking, I-waited-in-this-line-not-knowing-what-it-was-so-let-me-through-without-a-FP-anyway routine once though, and it was successful for them. One of this party pushed past us to catch up to the others too, so I'm betting it was premeditated all along.

I didn't have ADRs, so can't comment on logistics of coordinating those with FPs. But I will say it stunk having to rush through a meal at CHH because my FP window was in danger of expiring. It was either do that or wait until after Pooh to eat, doubling back on our route from Splash after a long day.

The short-term benefits of the new policy are difficult to fathom, based on my own ability to reason and now what I've observed personally. But then it was only one day. Time will tell, and for now what choice is there?

 

[seashoreCM]

I had this happen at SOarin one painful trip, S/By line posted wait 40 minutes, I entered the line about 11 having a 12:30 lunch in France. About 10 people back from the CM, she literally left hundreds upon hundreds of people through FP, not even allowing 1 or 2 people at a time in the S/By line enter. It was so frustrating.

THis is why I get miffed reading on the boards to "plan your time better, blah blah blab" about FP and ADR's. I entered a 40 minute posted line with 90 minutes before my ADR. After investing an HOUR of my time in S/by, I'm not going to leave the line for a lunch app't. Fortunately my family was meeting me at lunch & had arrived, checked in & seated when I got there 10 minutes after our ADR time. .

Another use for a "truth in waiting" rule. In this instance the restaurant suffered a delay of several minutes where a table would be occupied longer than expected.

This could be alleviated by having the restaurant or Guest Relations cash you out of your investment in the standby line in the form of issuing you a fastpass for use elsewhere later.

 

[Balt ravens fan]

And Disney wants people to go even more "insane" and "worried about return times" with X-PASS (which will supposedly schedule everything! meals, parades, shows, attractions, rides). The line at Guest Relations is going to get really really long, when there is a break down in a ride, or a problem at a restaurant, and someone paid extra to stay at a Deluxe resort or paid extra for an X-PASS, and they missed such and such on their "X-PASS" schedule.

Nightmare, stressed people, stressed CMs, doesn't sound fun.

Did Disney think this thing all the way through?

FP enforcement and X-PASS type systems are really sounding crazy, and not fun. Especially during super busy weeks - Christmas/New Years, Easter, Spring Break weeks, 4th of July, Summer weeks, etc...

Instead of paying millions on developing X-PASS, how about spending millions on bringing CARS Land to Florida, or a new villans park, or Disney Sea, that would TRULY alleviate lines! Instead of this fake pay more for short lines!

 

[TwiddleDeeTwiddleDum]

Another use for a "truth in waiting" rule. In this instance the restaurant suffered a delay of several minutes where a table would be occupied longer than expected.

This could be alleviated by having the restaurant or Guest Relations cash you out of your investment in the standby line in the form of issuing you a fastpass for use elsewhere later.

That particular day, restaurant didn't suffer too much After a rapid jaunt from Soarin to Chefs De France in the heat of the August sun, I arrived red faced, hot & sweaty to find DH had a tall glass of ice water waiting for me and a lovely glass of french wine while enjoying his beer and talking to our waiter. Restaurant was NOT nearly as crowded as SOarin had been

We don't just eat at WDW, we "dine" - that is, drinks, apps, meal & oft times a dessert and TS are a big part of our vacation fun - I do not want to rush through a $100+ meal for a FP window, in fact I won't & I believe we are agreeing it was good to hear the CM was able to assist the guest in their issue. I do hope to hear more reports of them being proactive in addressing ADR related problems without a guest having to "just don't take the FP" nonsense.

Here now and did MK yesterday.

Got FPs for Space, Splash, Pan, and Pooh. Saw the signs, heard CMs only at Splash FP kiosks actively announcing the enforcement. Lines for Splash and Pan were longer than I've ever seen them, but moved quickly. Space and Pooh queues were like I'd seen before. Asked CM at Pan about the long line there and her thoughts why, and she said she thought it was due to crowds and enforcement.

Didn't see anyone turned away, but wasnt paying that much attention. Watched the same old non-English-speaking, I-waited-in-this-line-not-knowing-what-it-was-so-let-me-through-without-a-FP-anyway routine once though, and it was successful for them. One of this party pushed past us to catch up to the others too, so I'm betting it was premeditated all along.

I didn't have ADRs, so can't comment on logistics of coordinating those with FPs. But I will say it stunk having to rush through a meal at CHH because my FP window was in danger of expiring. It was either do that or wait until after Pooh to eat, doubling back on our route from Splash after a long day.

The short-term benefits of the new policy are difficult to fathom, based on my own ability to reason and now what I've observed personally. But then it was only one day. Time will tell, and for now what choice is there?

Thanks for the update, wish it was more optomitic

 

[Senator Tressel]

Here now and did MK yesterday.

Got FPs for Space, Splash, Pan, and Pooh. Saw the signs, heard CMs only at Splash FP kiosks actively announcing the enforcement. Lines for Splash and Pan were longer than I've ever seen them, but moved quickly. Space and Pooh queues were like I'd seen before. Asked CM at Pan about the long line there and her thoughts why, and she said she thought it was due to crowds and enforcement.

Didn't see anyone turned away, but wasnt paying that much attention. Watched the same old non-English-speaking, I-waited-in-this-line-not-knowing-what-it-was-so-let-me-through-without-a-FP-anyway routine once though, and it was successful for them. One of this party pushed past us to catch up to the others too, so I'm betting it was premeditated all along.

I didn't have ADRs, so can't comment on logistics of coordinating those with FPs. But I will say it stunk having to rush through a meal at CHH because my FP window was in danger of expiring. It was either do that or wait until after Pooh to eat, doubling back on our route from Splash after a long day.

The short-term benefits of the new policy are difficult to fathom, based on my own ability to reason and now what I've observed personally. But then it was only one day. Time will tell, and for now what choice is there?

Good stuff. Please continue to keep us updated on what you're seeing. I wonder if they are giving out more fastpasses and that's why some of the lines are getting backed up. I am so used to having absolutely zero wait with fastpass, so this is odd to hear reports of.