Help changing planes in Philedelphia

[Tiggerish]

Never been to this airport so I ordered a map from them and have looked at the website and that has me more confused.

It seems that we will arrive in Terminal F and need to get to Terminal A to catch the next flight. In other words, the most distance you can possibly have to cover.

I had seen references to a tram or bus but the map is useless for explaining what there is or how and where to get it.

Anyone that uses this airport??? Help,please!!!

We are on a USair Express flight arriving to catch a regular USair flight.

Oh, and we only have 57 minutes between flights. And we are your typical, family that rarely flies, small town folks that are easily confused and stressed by the flying experience.

 

[sue1013]

First take a deep breath. Changing planes is not a big deal its done every day. Airports are easily marked and if you cannot find the signs ask an airline employee they will help you.

 

[MrsJ Henry]

We found that the signs at this airport were a little more confusing than I've seen anywhere else. We just asked and had no problem. We were in the same situation as you. Just go directly to where you need to go and you will be fine.

 

[safetymom]

I suggest asking on www.flyertalk.com Go to miles and points then the USAirways forum.

I thought I remember reading that there is a bus now that shuttles between the terminals for Express flyers. They would know on Flyer Talk.

 

[marksommerville]

There is a bus that runs from gate F-10 (I think) that takes you to the middle of the other Terminals ( C-14) I think.

Just follow the signs to gate F-10 (you will see the little bus icon) when you get off the puddle jumper (if you come in to F then i think thats the type of plane you will be on) and get on the bus. It runs every few minutes, and only goes to those 2 places so you cannot get lost.

Once you get to the end of the run, get off the bus and go into the terminal, up the escalator and follow the usual signs to your gate.

Trip from F to C approx 3 mins, no more than 5.

Dont panic, it is easier than it seems !!

 

[beccasmom]

http://www.ifly.com/ifly/philidelphia-international-airport/services-amenities

Also, try this website for info. I have the dubious pleasure of using PHL as my home airport. ......their website is far from helpful. And double-check your terminal info - I thought A was for transAtlantic flights only (but maybe that's where you're headed! ); we always depart from terminal B.

 

[Tiggerish]

Thanks to all for the advice and links. I did recheck and it appears that the connecting flight usually leaves from C and occasionally from B.

I am sure it will all work itself out but the changing planes in a strange airport is the most stressful part of the the trip. That is why I asked for info. I guess I think that old saying, "knowledge is power" is true and I knew I could get some knowledge here on the DIS.

 

[plutospup]

Check this link http://www.usair.com/travel/maps/terminal/phl.htm for a map of the PHL terminal. As mentioned simply look for the shuttle between gates F-10 & F-12, and it should take you near gate C-16. Very easy - you should not have a problem. It's easier than walking (I've learned from my mistake!!!).

 

[uva185]

Definitely re-check your connecting gate after you get off of your first flight. The flight attendant should give you your connecting gate information as you are about to land in Philadelphia but it is bound to change. I have had my connecting gate changed on me too many times to count. Additionally it is possible that your flight is in the A terminal; it is the international terminal but I have had many domestic flights depart from there.

 

[Anastasia]

I think that your best bet is to just ask as soon as you get off of the plane. I have always found the gate staff to be very helpful and knowledgable. The shuttle is fast and efficient. I believe that they will be checking to see if you have arrived yet and on the connecting flight. If you are running late the staff at the arrival gate can probably call your departure gate and let them know that you are on your way.

I wouldn't sweat it. Just double check everything with the gate staff and let them tell you the best way to get there.