Alternate airports are secondary airports located near a major or primary airport. They offer travelers additional options for departure or arrival locations. These airports can be essential during peak travel times, in bad weather, or when there are disruptions at larger, more congested airports.
Utilization in Travel and Expense Management
Business travelers often use alternate airports to benefit from potentially lower travel costs, reduced travel times, and less crowded environments. For businesses, routing employees through these airports can result in cost savings and enhanced employee satisfaction due to less hectic travel experiences.
Factors Influencing the Use of Alternate Airports
Choosing an alternate airport might be influenced by several factors
How close the alternate airport is to the intended destination or the traveler's starting point.
The number of flights available that suit the traveler's schedule.
Cost Differences in flight costs, parking fees, and other associated travel expenses.
Available services that might appeal to business travelers, such as faster check-ins, fewer delays, and quicker security screenings.
By integrating the option of alternate airports into travel policies, companies can leverage flexible planning options. This practice can lead to improved travel experiences for employees and operational efficiencies in managing travel logistics and costs.
While there are benefits, using alternate airports may also present challenges such as additional ground transportation costs and time, especially if the airport is further from the city center or the primary business location.
Alternate airports serve as a valuable resource for business travelers seeking more convenient and cost-effective travel options. They are an integral component of strategic travel planning and expense management in a corporate setting.
What are alternate airports?
Alternate airports are secondary airports located in proximity to your primary destination airport. These airports can often provide additional travel options or serve as convenient substitutes in various scenarios such as flight cancellations or severe delays at the main airport.
How can using an alternate airport benefit business travelers?
Utilizing alternate airports may lead to advantages such as lower airfare, less congested terminals, cheaper parking fees, and reduced ground transportation costs. In some cases, flying into or out of an alternate airport can also reduce overall travel time.
Where can I find a list of alternate airports?
Most travel booking platforms, including Navan, offer tools that allow you to view and compare flights to and from alternate airports. These options are typically presented when you search for flights to a major destination, providing you with flexible choices.
When should I consider booking a flight to an alternate airport?
Consider using an alternate airport particularly if you notice that airfares to your primary destination are unusually high, or during peak travel seasons when larger airports might be more crowded. Alternate airports are also worth considering during events or conferences that increase traffic to your main destination airport.
Are there any potential drawbacks to using alternate airports?
While there are benefits, there are also some factors to consider such as the possible distance from the alternate airport to your final destination. This might lead to longer ground travel times or higher transportation costs from the airport to your hotel or meeting place. Always weigh up the total travel time and cost when choosing an alternate airport.
How can Navan help me with booking flights to alternate airports?
Navan integrates flight searching tools that automatically suggest alternate airports as part of your travel planning process. This feature helps you assess your options quickly and effectively, ensuring you can make an informed decision about which airport to fly into or out of.
Are alternate airports always smaller than primary airports?
Not necessarily. While many alternate airports are smaller and less busy, some are simply less utilized international airports that offer many of the same amenities as the primary airports. The designation of 'alternate' refers more to an airport's role as a secondary option rather than its size or capacity.
Do alternate airports offer the same services as major airports?
Services at alternate airports can vary widely. Some might offer fewer dining and shopping options, while others are well-equipped with amenities that rival larger airports. It’s a good idea to check the services available at the alternate airport to ensure you have everything you need upon arrival or departure.
By considering these FAQs, business travelers can optimize their journey plans for a smoother and potentially more cost-effective trip.