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To decrease accident chances choose non-stop routes (only one takeoff and landing) and larger aircraft
(more safety requirements)
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To increase your safety: listen carefully to the preflight briefing, don't drink too much alcohol, keep
your seat belt fastened while seated, don't store heavy objects in overhead storage bin
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If you have a choice, choose early flights to avoid ripple-effect delays and choose non-stop flights to
avoid delays
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Check your flying times to avoid peak times of the day (4 PM - 6 PM) and major holidays
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Take weather into consideration: for example snowstorms are possible in northwest during winter.
Check weather forecast for your destination airport.
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Call the airline or check its website to check your flight's status ahead of your departure to the
airport.
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If your flight is cancelled, the airline should rebook you on the next flight to your destination for no
extra charge. If there is a long wait, ask about seats on another airline's flight and for your original carrier to endorse your
ticket.
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Arrive at the airport two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight.
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Pack a snack for a domestic flight as many airlines have discontinued in-flight meals on domestic
flights. It's best not to get on an airplane hungry.
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Check the limits on carry-on luggage with the airline (there is no single standard) before packing.
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Don't put valuables, medicines, keys, passport, important papers, fragile items in checked baggage.
Instead carry them on you or in a carry-on bag.
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Put a tag on the outside and inside of your baggage with your contact info.
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Be polite to airline employees.
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Few carriers, like Southwest Airlines, don't have assigned seating. It pays to show up early for
your flight with such an airline.
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If you are tall, choose an aisle seat so you can stretch your legs.
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Think about buying a motion sickness drug before you fly if you get motion sick easily.
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Take water with you because air inside the cabin gets very dry during the flight.
