[DeltAlum]

Hey Rose,

I fly all the time. Actually, I think it's a lot of fun.

Two hours at the airport should be more than enough time -- however I wouldn't plan on any less. Memphis is not that big of an airport, and you will probably end up with extra time at the gate after passing security. Take a book along to read.

Be absolutely sure to take a picture ID -- a drivers license or passport. You will need it a couple of times probably. At check in, and at the security checkpoint. Some airports still require them as you board the airplane.

While it is possible to lose your luggage, the airlines are remarkably good at getting you and it to the same place at the same time -- as long as you check in on time. I never used to check my luggage because of not wanting to wait for it at the other end -- but with new security restrictions, it's just a pain to carry-on, so I check it reasonably often these days. If you check it at the curb, be sure to tip the skycap. I usually do about $2 per checked bag. If you check it at the counter, no tip is necessary. Be sure to have your bags identified with luggage tags with your name and address so that you don't slow down the line when you check in.

Some thoughts about security. Try to be cognizant and not wear anything metal. This can include watches, beltbuckles, pocket change -- even the studs in your bluejeans can set off the metal detectors. I have shoes with steel shanks in them, so I take them off, along with my belt before I walk through. I also put just about everything in my pockets -- including glasses into the little trays they send through the x-ray machine. It's a pain to get wand searched -- but remember, they're doing it for your own protection.

Most airports have pretty good signage to point out the directions to the gates, baggage claim, surface transportation, etc.. If you get lost -- there are a lot of people in uniform with airline badges walking around who will be happy to help you. Also, take a moment to ask the ticket agent at check-in how to get to the gate if you are concerned. They are generally very helpful.

I guess my best advice as a frequent flyer is to THINK about your trip, and allow enough time for check-in and security. It's also nice if you can fly off-peak hours. In Denver, anytime between 11:00 AM and about 3:00 PM is fairly slow. Morning and evening, when all of the business travelers are flying can be frustrating.

At the end of your flight, get to luggage claim in time to get your bag as it comes off the carousel -- and remember that what they say is absolutely true -- a lot of bags look alike. It's amazing how many black roll around suitcases there are. Be sure you get the right one. My mother-in-law ties a yarn ball to the handle of her bag, or wraps a multi-color elastic type belt around it to make it easier to see. That also helps others know that it's not their little black roll around.

You might want to take a snack. Airport food is expensive, and generally not very good -- with the exception of national chains which are at more and more airports these days. Liquor is outrageous at airports. If you are over 21 and plan to drink on the plane, try to have the correct change. Flight attendants don't have it generally. And, by the way, very few domestic US flights have meals these days -- unless they're long (3-4 hours) and cross a major meal time like lunch or dinner.

Finally, here's one silly little thing to remember: As you board the aircraft and walk toward the rear, the seats A, B and C will be on your right, D, E and F on your left. If you're on a jumbo, the letters still go from right to left, but there will be two aisles and some will be in the center. Oh, and if you sit at an exit row or a bulkhead seat, you'll get extra legroom!

So, give yourself time, be organized and ask questions. You'll do fine.