The Florida Airport Notorious For Being One Of America's Worst In Terms Of Flight Delays

Delayed flights are one of the most annoying things about traveling. Learning that you need to wait a few more hours in the airport almost always has a negative effect on the holiday vibes, and it can instantly remove the excitement of going on a trip. It's even worse when you have a connecting flight, causing anxiety to spike as the very fate of your trip comes into question. Will I still be able to catch my flight? Will I be stuck in transit? Will I be forced to spend all eternity in the purgatory of the airport? Delayed or missed flights inspire a lot of questions, and it isn't the best way to start the vacation of a lifetime.

Unfortunately, there are certain airports — and sometimes even airlines — where delays are expected. Based on data analysis from the Bureau of Transportation Services(reported in Business Traveller USA), Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) ranked as the second worst U.S. airport for delays after Provo Airport in Utah. With over 1,000 flights examined during the study period, 28% of flights from SFB were delayed for at least 15 minutes, with the average delay being an hour and a half. So, if you're planning your next trip to Disney and all the other things Orlando has to offer, be aware that delays could be in your future.

Orlando has two international airports — Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) and Orlando International Airport (MCO) — and both tend to be extremely busy as a result of their proximity to Disney World and other major attractions such as Universal Studios and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Tourists from all over the world travel to Orlando's airports on a regular basis. As the smaller of the two airports, Sanford does not run as smoothly or quickly as MCO, and it's normal to expect longer queues due to the smaller number of staff and facilities. 

However, that isn't the only reason for frequent delays at Orlando Sanford International Airport. One factor that is completely out of the airport's hands is the weather. Florida is known for its unstable weather and thunderstorms, and incremental weather is the reason for the majority of flight delays and cancellations at Sanford. Inconsistent weather, small staff numbers, and a large number of travelers all combine to create the conditions for delays.

So, what to do? One way to lower the chance of flight delays is to choose a journey at a less popular time or seasons. With many people preferring to travel by day, airports tend to be less busy during the early morning or late night, reducing the risk of delays in the process.

However, sometimes it is best to adapt to the circumstances or be prepared. Modern technology means people can get real-time flight updates, allowing passengers to be aware of flights delays in advance. There are no shortage of gadgets to keep you occupied during delays, and plenty of power banks to keep things charged and operating. Bringing snacks or homemade sandwiches can also reduce the expenses piling up at airport. Furthermore, there is never a bad time to read up on what compensation you are entitled to in the event of delays. 

Finally, before booking a ticket that lands or takes off from Orlando Sanford International Airport, it is also worth checking nearby alternative airports. Melbourne or Orlando International Airport are other potential landing spots. Most importantly, be prepared for anything when the big day is approaching, and keep those enthusiasm levels up; Orlando is worth the wait.