Layover time

[MyThreeKids123]

Airtran changed my flight time so that now we only have a 40 minute layover in Atlanta. I am traveling with DH and our 3 kids. Is a 40 minute layover enough time for us to make the connecting flight? I wouldn't think airtran would arrange it if it weren't enough time to make the connection, but 40 minutes sounds like a short amount of time in a such a big airport. Any thoughts or advice?

Thanks

 

[maxiesmom]

No, it is not enought time! Airtran will let you switch flights without paying a fee, so what you need to do is pick another flight with a comfortable connection time, and call Airtran. Explain to them that you flight time was changed, and you no longer feel comfortable with your connection time. And then tell them the flight number of the flight you want to be changed to. They will do it with no troubles.

 

[Betty Rohrer]

agree not enough time to switch planes. remember you will loose time getting off plane, could be 15 minutes getting off plane. now only 20 to 25 minutes to get to other gate, which may not be close. no time to stop at bathroom or change a little one. you will be almost running to your gate plus not much time for gate checking a stroller if needed.

 

[ChloroFiend]

Concur with the other posters. Change it around.

15 minutes to get off the plane (worst case).
You have to be on the plane 15 minutes before take off.
That leaves 10 minutes to figure out where the other gate is, get there, and make any needed pit stops.

That also assumes the first flight will get in without delay.....and ATL isn't exactly known for its stellar on-time reputation. That comes with being the busiest airport.

 

[ccgirl]

Airtran changed my flight time so that now we only have a 40 minute layover in Atlanta. I am traveling with DH and our 3 kids. Is a 40 minute layover enough time for us to make the connecting flight? I wouldn't think airtran would arrange it if it weren't enough time to make the connection, but 40 minutes sounds like a short amount of time in a such a big airport. Any thoughts or advice?

Thanks

I did a 40 min layover with just myself on AirTran. We were delayed 15 minutes out of original airport. Had to run to my gate. Had it not been the last flight out I would have missed it but they held it since it was the last flight out of the day. I was sitting next to someone that missed a 45 min. connection earlier in the day. I agree, I would try to change it so you had a longer layover. Personally, I would rather a layover of 2 hours so the kids can stretch and run and maybe grab a bit to eat. That way you know you are already in the airport waiting for you flight. Not sure where your seats in the plane are but just remember all of those people have to grab their carry ons (which a lot of people bring since they charge for luggage) and get of before you. Then you have to walk down the jetway and get to your next gate. I think it is way too close.

 

[dudspizza]

I am in the minority, but I would have no problem with the 40 minute layover...... though it would be tight. My kids are older and can carry their own stuff.

That said 1.5 to 2 hours is a perfect layover time. That gives you enough time to eat, shop, stretch, etc.....

Duds

 

[aubriee]

Airtran changed my flight time so that now we only have a 40 minute layover in Atlanta. I am traveling with DH and our 3 kids. Is a 40 minute layover enough time for us to make the connecting flight? I wouldn't think Air Tran would arrange it if it weren't enough time to make the connection, but 40 minutes sounds like a short amount of time in a such a big airport. Any thoughts or advice?

I agree with the others that 40 minutes would be cutting it too close, especially with three kids, who will probably need to go to the restroom.

As far as Air Tran allowing enough time, don't bet on it. My outgoing flight out of Dallas was once changed, but they didn't change the one in Atlanta. They had me arriving in Atlanta 30 minutes after my Atlanta to Orlando flight took off. When I called and asked the rep if she noticed anything strange about my flights, at first she said no, then almost immediately started laughing and made the comment that it would be pretty hard to catch a flight that had already taken off 30 minutes before I even arrived. She asked me which flight I wanted to change.