What is common use services at the airport?

At many airports, you’ll find Common-Use Self-Service (CUSS) kiosks. These are shared check-in machines used by multiple airlines, eliminating long lines at individual airline counters. This is a huge time-saver, especially during peak travel times.

Key advantages of using CUSS kiosks:

Faster check-in: Often significantly quicker than traditional check-in desks.
Convenience: Available 24/7 in most cases, allowing for flexible travel planning.
Multiple airline support: One kiosk for several airlines simplifies the process regardless of your carrier.

Things to keep in mind:

Passport/ID ready: Have your passport or other required identification readily available.
Baggage requirements: Understand your airline’s baggage allowance and fees before arriving at the kiosk; you may still need to proceed to a baggage drop-off counter.
Printing boarding passes: Ensure you have a method to print your boarding pass (most kiosks offer this option, but have a backup plan if needed).
Assistance available: While mostly self-service, airport staff are usually nearby to assist with any difficulties you may encounter.

What are the products and services of an airport?

As an avid traveler, I see airports as much more than just places to catch flights. They’re hubs of activity offering a surprising range of products and services, many crucial for the efficient movement of people and aircraft. Beyond the obvious:

Baggage Handling: This goes beyond just getting your bags on and off the plane. Consider the complex systems involved – conveyor belts, automated sorting, and the massive teams coordinating it all. Knowing this helps you manage expectations about baggage claim times, especially during peak seasons.
Baggage Security Screening: Vital for safety, but also a potential bottleneck. Understanding TSA/security procedures can significantly reduce your wait times. Packing strategically (no liquids in carry-on etc.) is a key skill for efficient travel.
Data Management: This underpins everything. Flight information, passenger records, resource allocation – all rely on seamless data flow. For travelers, this means accurate flight updates, online check-in, and efficient gate assignments.
Airport Wi-Fi: Essential for staying connected, but remember that airport Wi-Fi can be crowded and slow, particularly during busy periods. Consider a portable Wi-Fi hotspot for reliable access.
Ground Support Equipment & Services: This includes everything from fuel and catering trucks to baggage carts and cleaning crews – the unsung heroes ensuring a smooth operation. Understanding these logistical aspects makes you appreciate the complexities of air travel.
Aircraft Pushback Tractors: Seeing these powerful machines maneuvering aircraft is a fascinating part of the airport experience! They’re crucial for efficient gate turnaround times.
Maintenance: Airports require constant upkeep. Think runways, taxiways, lighting systems, and terminal facilities. The level of maintenance directly affects the safety and efficiency of operations.
Airfield Maintenance & Servicing: This includes everything from snow removal (in colder climates) to ensuring the runways are in perfect condition. Observing this aspect during takeoff or landing is surprisingly interesting, revealing the behind-the-scenes work that keeps things moving.

Pro-tip: Familiarizing yourself with these airport services allows for better trip planning and a smoother travel experience. Always factor in extra time for potential delays in security or baggage handling, particularly during peak travel times.

What services do airports provide to airlines?

Airports offer a surprisingly extensive suite of services crucial to airline operations, far beyond simply providing a runway. For passengers, this often remains invisible, yet it’s the backbone of a smooth travel experience.

Passenger Handling encompasses everything from check-in counters and gate management to immigration and customs processing. Efficiency here directly impacts airline on-time performance and passenger satisfaction. Think about the seamless flow – that’s a result of coordinated airport services.

Ground Handling is a critical area often outsourced by airlines. This includes:

Baggage and Cargo: The precise loading and unloading of luggage and freight, a highly choreographed operation demanding accuracy and speed to meet tight turnaround times.
Aircraft Marshaling: Guiding aircraft to gates, a skill honed to perfection, ensuring safe and efficient movement on the tarmac.
Aircraft Cabin Cleaning: A thorough and rapid cleaning process between flights, crucial for hygiene and passenger comfort. This involves everything from waste removal to sanitization.
In-flight Meal Loading: The timely and accurate delivery of catering supplies, often involving specialized temperature-controlled handling for perishables.

Beyond these core functions, airports provide additional revenue-generating services for airlines and passengers alike:

Passenger Information: Clear and up-to-date information displays and announcements are vital for smooth passenger flow, reducing delays and anxiety. Efficient systems here are essential.
Ancillary Services: Airports offer services like baggage wrapping, delivery options (for luggage or purchases), and WiFi rental, all adding convenience and generating revenue streams.

Air Cargo Handling is a significant revenue source for many airports, involving specialized facilities for the storage, processing, and transfer of freight. This demands secure, efficient, and temperature-controlled environments, particularly for perishable goods.

Beyond the immediate airport perimeter, services can extend to fuel supply, maintenance facilities, and even crew accommodation, all critical elements for airline operations. The complex interplay between airport and airline ensures the smooth operation of global air travel.

What are airport assistance services?

Airport assistance services cater to passengers needing extra help, including the elderly, people with physical disabilities (like wheelchair users), and those with communication or social interaction challenges (e.g., autism or dementia). This often includes wheelchair assistance from curb to gate and back, assistance with baggage, and priority boarding. Pre-booking is crucial; don’t assume assistance will be readily available upon arrival. Contact your airline and/or the airport directly well in advance – ideally at least 48 hours before your flight. Specify your needs clearly, including details about any mobility aids you use or specific assistance requirements. Consider travel insurance that covers delays or cancellations related to disability assistance needs. Many airports offer dedicated assistance desks or phone lines, making communication smoother. Additionally, familiarize yourself with your airline’s disability assistance policy; requirements and services can vary. Remember to allow extra time for the assistance process, as it can sometimes take longer than anticipated.

What services do airlines provide?

Airlines are far more than just flying machines; they’re intricate logistical operations orchestrating a seamless passenger experience. Behind every flight lies a vast network of aircraft maintenance, meticulously planned schedules accounting for weather and air traffic, and efficient ground operations encompassing everything from check-in kiosks to baggage handling. Beyond the basics, the level of service varies dramatically; budget carriers prioritize affordability, often charging extra for amenities like checked baggage or in-flight meals, while full-service airlines offer premium experiences with lie-flat beds, gourmet dining, and extensive in-flight entertainment systems. Loyalty programs, often overlooked, are another key element, rewarding frequent flyers with upgrades, priority boarding, and other perks. Safety, of course, remains paramount, with stringent regulations and rigorous maintenance schedules underpinning every flight. Consider factors like baggage allowances, seat selection policies, and cancellation/rebooking procedures when choosing your airline, as these can significantly impact your overall journey. Even seemingly minor details, like in-flight Wi-Fi availability and power outlets, can make a big difference, particularly on longer flights.

What do Airlines provide?

Airlines are the backbone of global travel, offering far more than just a seat on a plane. They provide air transport services for passengers and freight, connecting continents and cultures. This core service involves utilizing a fleet of aircraft, meticulously maintained and operated to the highest safety standards. But it’s so much more than just getting from A to B.

Beyond the Flight: The airline experience encompasses a complex web of services. Consider the intricate logistics: global route planning, optimized scheduling to maximize efficiency and minimize delays, meticulous baggage handling systems across multiple airports, and robust reservation and ticketing systems accessible worldwide. Many airlines also provide ancillary services – think in-flight entertainment, premium seating options, baggage allowance choices, and loyalty programs rewarding frequent flyers with upgrades and perks.

Global Network & Partnerships: Airlines rarely operate in isolation. Strategic alliances and codeshare agreements are crucial. These partnerships allow airlines to expand their reach, offering passengers a wider network of destinations and flight options. Think of it as a sophisticated web, connecting smaller airlines to larger hubs, enabling seamless travel even to the most remote corners of the globe. This cooperation extends to shared maintenance facilities, crew training, and even ground handling services – optimizing resources and enhancing efficiency.

The Intricacies of Air Travel: For the seasoned traveler, understanding the nuances of airline operations is fascinating. Think about the different aircraft types employed, each tailored to specific routes and passenger capacities. Consider the impact of fluctuating fuel prices, air traffic control regulations, and even weather patterns on flight schedules and operational costs. It’s a dynamic industry constantly adapting to global events and technological advancements.

Passenger Services: Ticketing, check-in (online and at the airport), baggage handling, in-flight services (meals, entertainment), customer support, frequent flyer programs.
Freight Services: Cargo transportation, specialized handling for perishable goods and oversized items, global logistics and supply chain management.
Operational Aspects: Aircraft maintenance, pilot and crew training, route planning, fuel management, safety and security protocols.

Beyond the Ticket: The airline experience is shaped by many interconnected factors. Understanding these intricate details allows for a smoother and more informed travel experience. For instance, choosing airlines based on their alliance memberships can unlock more travel options. Being aware of baggage policies saves headaches at the airport. It’s about making travel not just efficient, but enjoyable.

What is TSA assistance?

TSA Cares offers pre-travel assistance for passengers with disabilities or medical conditions, and those requiring extra help navigating airport security. This isn’t just about getting through the checkpoint; it’s about understanding the entire process beforehand to alleviate stress and anxiety. They provide detailed information on procedures, such as what to expect with screening equipment (including specifics about medical devices and medications), and what documentation might be needed. Calling TSA Cares well in advance of your flight is crucial; they aren’t an on-site service, but their pre-flight guidance is invaluable. Knowing you’ve proactively addressed potential hurdles significantly reduces the risk of delays and complications, leading to a smoother journey. Remember, while TSA Cares offers fantastic support, notifying your airline of your needs is also recommended to ensure they can provide appropriate assistance throughout your travel experience.

For example, passengers with mobility issues might find information on wheelchair assistance at airports particularly helpful. Travelers with certain medical conditions may learn how to best manage their medications during screening. Those requiring assistance with carry-on luggage due to physical limitations can find advice on packing strategies to make the process simpler. Ultimately, TSA Cares acts as a proactive resource, empowering travelers to navigate security confidently and comfortably.

What are things you can find in an airport?

Runways and terminals are the obvious, but an airport’s true character lies in the details. Control towers, the silent orchestrators of the sky’s ballet, are fascinating to watch. Hangars, those colossal sheds, house the majestic giants of aviation – a glimpse inside is a privilege. Taxiways, the airport’s arteries, are surprisingly strategic; observe the precision of ground crews. Lounges offer havens of comfort, often with surprisingly good amenities – from charging stations to showers, making layovers more bearable. Beyond the expected food service areas and restaurants, look for local specialties – a true taste of your destination before you even arrive. Don’t overlook the hidden lifeblood: emergency services, a reassuring presence, and the ever-vigilant security personnel. And finally, the often-overlooked baggage handling – a marvel of logistics, often more complex than the flights themselves. The tapestry of an airport, woven from these threads, reveals far more than meets the eye.

Pro-tip: Explore beyond the immediate terminal. Many airports have art installations, observation decks, or even museums – hidden gems that enrich the travel experience. And always factor in extra time for navigating the intricacies of the airport itself, especially security lines – it’s often a journey in itself.

What do airports provide?

Airports are way more than just runways and terminals for us adventure-seekers! Think of them as crucial hubs in our journey to the next epic experience. Beyond the obvious, like control towers guiding our flights and hangars housing those amazing aircraft, there’s a whole logistical infrastructure supporting our travels.

Taxiways are the airport roads, guiding planes to the runway – important for quick and efficient transitions. Lounges provide a respite before a flight, crucial for those long travel days. Beyond this, there’s the practical stuff: readily available food service areas and restaurants to fuel our adventures, vital emergency services for unexpected situations, robust security measures to keep us safe, and efficient baggage handling so we don’t have to worry about lost luggage.

Pro-Tip 1: Many airports offer amazing views of the planes taking off and landing. Look for observation decks or even find a restaurant with a panoramic view – perfect for pre-flight spotting!
Pro-Tip 2: Check out the airport’s website beforehand. Some airports feature unique local shops and restaurants, offering a sneak peek into the destination’s culture before you even arrive.
Pro-Tip 3: Airports are often well-connected to public transportation. Explore bus and train options – they can be significantly cheaper and more environmentally friendly than taxis.

But it doesn’t stop there! Consider these often overlooked aspects:

Airport Wi-Fi: Essential for last-minute travel planning and staying connected.
Currency exchange services: Avoid unnecessary fees by comparing rates before you go.
Left luggage facilities: If you have a layover, you can store your bags and explore the city without carrying your heavy luggage.

What are the services provided by airlines?

Airlines, at their core, transport passengers. That’s the fundamental service. But beyond simply getting you from A to B, consider the ancillary services they offer. These can significantly impact your travel experience. Think about baggage allowance – some airlines are incredibly generous, others stingy. In-flight entertainment varies wildly; some offer extensive movie libraries and in-flight Wi-Fi, while others are very basic. Meal service is another key differentiator, ranging from basic snacks to full multi-course meals. Don’t overlook loyalty programs, which can provide significant long-term value through frequent flyer miles and upgrades. And finally, customer service itself is a critical factor – efficient check-in, helpful staff, and effective handling of disruptions are crucial components of a positive travel experience. So, while the core service is air travel, the entire package offered by the airline needs careful consideration.

Premium services, often offered in business and first class, are also worth noting. These might include priority boarding, access to airport lounges, and enhanced comfort and amenities throughout the journey. Understanding these varied offerings helps you choose the airline that best suits your travel style and budget.

What services does flight following provide?

Flight following, a service offered by Air Traffic Control (ATC), isn’t just about avoiding other planes; it’s a significant safety net for pilots. ATC provides real-time traffic advisories, essentially giving you a heads-up about other aircraft in your vicinity. This is crucial, especially in busy airspace.

Beyond traffic alerts, you get valuable supplemental information. Think of it as a personalized weather report and terrain awareness system rolled into one. Weather advisories alert you to potential hazards like thunderstorms or icing conditions, allowing you to adjust your flight plan accordingly. Terrain alerts are equally important, particularly in mountainous regions, preventing potentially catastrophic collisions with the ground.

The benefits extend beyond just avoiding collisions. Enhanced safety is the primary advantage, reducing the risk of mid-air incidents and providing peace of mind. And should the unexpected occur, flight following provides access to immediate emergency assistance. ATC can coordinate rescue efforts and guide you to safety.

However, accessing this invaluable service requires your aircraft to be equipped with a functioning radio and a transponder. These are essential for communication and identification with ATC, ensuring you receive the necessary information and support.

From my extensive travel experience, I’ve seen firsthand how invaluable flight following can be. While it doesn’t replace good piloting skills, it acts as a crucial backup, significantly improving safety and offering crucial information that could mean the difference between a pleasant flight and a serious incident. It’s a service I always utilize when available, even on seemingly straightforward routes.

What is airport handling services?

Airport handling services encompass all the ground operations that ensure a smooth and efficient aircraft turnaround. Think of it as the unseen choreography that gets you from gate to gate – and all the baggage and cargo along for the ride. These services, primarily performed on the apron (that area where planes park), are crucial for on-time departures and arrivals. They include the often-overlooked but vital tasks like aircraft marshaling (guiding the plane into its parking spot), towing (moving the aircraft around the apron), and refueling.

Beyond the basics, there’s a whole lot more. De-icing is essential in colder climates, preventing ice buildup that could affect flight safety. Water and toilet servicing keeps the aircraft comfortable for passengers, while waste disposal maintains hygiene. Catering involves loading food and beverages, and cleaning is self-explanatory – keeping the plane pristine for the next flight. Baggage and cargo handling are often complex operations, involving efficient sorting and loading, and are crucial to getting your luggage to you on time.

Passenger and crew handling is also a major component. This encompasses the boarding and disembarking process, often managed in coordination with airline staff. The efficiency of these services directly affects your travel experience. Next time you’re waiting at the gate, consider the unseen army of ground crews who make that experience seamless. You’ll appreciate the intricate network of services involved in getting you safely and quickly to your destination.

Pro-tip for seasoned travelers: Delays are often attributed to ground handling issues – everything from unexpected equipment malfunctions to inclement weather affecting de-icing. Understanding these elements gives you a better understanding of potential travel disruptions.

What is the most bought item in an airport?

Forget duty-free perfume; the most sought-after airport purchase transcends cultural boundaries. In my extensive travels across dozens of countries, from bustling hubs like Heathrow to smaller regional airports, one item consistently reigns supreme: bottled water. This isn’t just anecdotal; data from major retailers like Hudson confirms it as the top-selling item. The ubiquitous thirst, exacerbated by long security lines and pre-flight anxiety, drives this universal demand. The high price rarely deters travelers; convenience trumps cost when hydration is paramount.

Interestingly, the specifics of the top-selling brand often vary regionally, reflecting local preferences and retailer agreements. In some parts of Asia, for instance, you’ll find locally produced bottled water dominating sales, while American airports might favor familiar national brands. This highlights the unique intersection of global travel and local consumer behavior. Beyond water, however, the most popular airport purchases tell a fascinating story of travel necessities – items like snacks, headphones, and power banks reveal our anxieties and priorities during the journey.

How do I request special assistance at the airport?

For airport assistance within 72 hours of your flight, call TSA Cares at (855) 787-2227. This is solely for checkpoint screening assistance; they won’t help with baggage or getting to your gate.

Crucially, TSA Cares doesn’t handle in-flight assistance or curb-to-gate wheelchair services. For these, contact your airline directly – well in advance, ideally at least 48 hours before departure. Be specific about your needs; for example, type of wheelchair (manual or motorized), whether you need help with baggage, and any other special requirements. Airlines vary in their capabilities and responsiveness; consider noting the time of your call and the representative’s name for later reference.

Consider providing your airline with a detailed medical information form if you have significant mobility or health challenges. This facilitates smoother processing and potentially reduces waiting times. Remember to confirm your assistance arrangements at least 24 hours before departure; things can change.

What are airport advisory services?

So, you’re wondering about airport advisory services? Think of them as the helpful hand you might find at smaller airports, those without the big, bustling control towers you see at major hubs. These services are crucial for safe operations, particularly at airports lacking a full-time air traffic control presence.

What they offer: Essentially, they provide vital information to pilots, often remotely. This usually includes weather updates.

How it works: There are two main scenarios:

Certified Automated Weather Reporting (AWOS): Many smaller airports use automated systems that broadcast weather conditions via voice. This is highly reliable and provides data like wind speed, visibility, and temperature – all critical for safe flight planning and execution. I’ve personally relied on AWOS at numerous smaller airfields across the country, and it’s a lifesaver, especially when weather is unpredictable.
Non-certified Automated Weather Reporting: This is often found at very remote locations. Think simple weather cameras providing visual information, transmitted via voice. While less precise than AWOS, it still gives a valuable situational awareness. Remember, it’s always advisable to check for additional weather resources before relying solely on this type of reporting.

Why it matters to you, the traveler: While you might not directly interact with these services, they impact your flight. The reliability of these systems ensures safer operations for the pilots, resulting in a smoother and safer journey. Delays caused by bad weather are minimized when pilots have access to the latest, most accurate data. If you’re flying into a small airport, remember that these unsung heroes play a vital part in getting you there safely.

Key differences compared to Towered Airports: Remember that advisory services are fundamentally different from a full-blown air traffic control tower. While AWOS provides critical weather data, it doesn’t offer the same level of separation and traffic management that a tower provides. This means pilots are responsible for more of the situational awareness, and communication might be less frequent.

Less direct communication: Instead of constant communication with a controller, pilots primarily rely on self-service information provided through AWOS.
More pilot responsibility: Pilots have a greater responsibility for collision avoidance and traffic separation at airports with advisory services.

Which services does flight service provide?

Flight Service is your unsung hero in the sky. Think of them as the ultimate travel concierge for pilots, ensuring safe and efficient flights. They’re not just providing weather reports; they’re weaving together a tapestry of crucial information to navigate the skies.

Pilot briefings are the cornerstone – a personalized pre-flight chat covering everything from current weather conditions and potential hazards to runway closures and airspace restrictions. This isn’t just a recitation of facts; it’s a crucial risk assessment, helping pilots plan the safest and most efficient route.

Flight planning is another key service, often integrated with the briefing. They provide optimal routes, considering fuel efficiency and avoiding congested airspace. Think of it as having a seasoned navigator charting your course across the vast expanse of the sky. I’ve personally benefited from this, avoiding unexpected delays and saving precious time.

In-flight advisory services provide ongoing support, alerting pilots to changing weather patterns, potential turbulence, or other unforeseen events. It’s like having a constant, watchful eye in the control tower, even when you’re hundreds of miles away.

Beyond the usual, they offer access to real-time weather cameras, giving pilots a visual understanding of conditions at their destination or along their route. This is particularly helpful in situations with rapidly changing weather. This is a game changer for visual planning.

And in the unfortunate event of an emergency, Flight Service is the first responder. They initiate search and rescue operations, coordinate emergency assistance, and provide critical support for aircraft emergencies. Knowing this safety net is in place is immensely reassuring.

Finally, they disseminate Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), critical updates on airport closures, construction, or other important information impacting flight operations. Ignoring a NOTAM could be dangerous; Flight Service ensures pilots stay informed.

What does every airport have?

Every airport has a runway or helipad – that’s the absolute must-have. Beyond that, you’ll find air traffic control, crucial for safe operations. Hangars are essential for aircraft maintenance and storage; you’ll often spot them near the runways. Terminals are where passengers check in, go through security, and board their flights; these can range from tiny, basic structures to massive, bustling hubs. Don’t forget the essential ground support equipment, like baggage handling systems and fuel trucks, keeping everything running smoothly. And, of course, there are always those smaller details that make or break your airport experience – things like comfortable seating areas, convenient restrooms, and hopefully, decent Wi-Fi. The availability and quality of these amenities vary dramatically from small regional airports to major international hubs.

What products and services are offered by airlines?

As a seasoned traveler, I’ve experienced the vast spectrum of airline offerings. It’s far more nuanced than just a ticket. Full-service carriers, for instance, offer a tiered experience – from basic economy cramming you in like sardines to luxurious first-class suites with lie-flat beds and gourmet meals. Then you have low-cost carriers (LCCs); these prioritize affordability, stripping away frills to keep prices down, but often leaving you to pay extra for baggage, seat selection, and even water.

Beyond the flight itself, there’s a whole ecosystem. Inclusive tour packages bundle flights with hotels and sometimes activities, streamlining your trip planning. Connecting services and stopovers, while often considered inconveniences, can be opportunities for exploration. Ever thought of adding a mini-adventure to a long-haul flight? I have!

Then there are clever combinations like fly/drive and fly/cruise, perfect for those wanting a multi-modal journey. Incentive packages, usually for corporate travel or groups, often include perks. Don’t overlook charter flights, especially if you’re traveling with a large group or to less-serviced destinations – they can offer surprising value. The “tangible” elements are obvious: seats, meals, baggage allowance. The “intangibles,” however, are just as important: the level of customer service, the in-flight entertainment, the overall comfort and stress-free experience – those are what really make the difference between a journey and an adventure.

Do you tip special assistance at the airport?

Tipping airport special assistance is customary, and a fair amount typically falls between $5 and $10. However, exceptional service warrants a more generous tip. Consider these factors:

Weight and size of luggage: More cumbersome items naturally increase the effort involved.
Distance traveled: Longer distances within the airport demand greater physical exertion.
Number of passengers assisted: Assisting multiple passengers simultaneously significantly increases workload.
Time of day/day of the week: Working during peak travel times is often more demanding.

Pro Tip: Discretely handing the tip directly to the assistant, rather than leaving it with baggage handlers, ensures the individual receives the gratuity. A slightly higher tip ($10-$20) is often warranted for outstanding service, especially if significant physical assistance is needed, like navigating challenging terrain or managing heavy items.

Beyond Monetary Tips: A heartfelt “thank you” and positive feedback to airport management are equally important. Remember, these individuals often work long hours under pressure, providing a crucial service to travelers.

What is an Alert 4 at an airport?

Airport emergency alerts are a serious business, especially for someone like me who’s always on the go. Think of them as a mountain climber’s emergency rating system, but for airplanes.

Alert Levels:

Alert 1: Minor Difficulty (Standby Only): Think of a minor engine hiccup – nothing catastrophic, just a minor inconvenience requiring a bit of extra attention. Similar to encountering a minor trail obstruction on a hike – a little detour, maybe some extra time, but no real danger.
Alert 2: Major Difficulty (e.g., engine failure): This is where things get serious. Imagine a major rockfall blocking your trail. An engine failure is a significant problem, requiring immediate action and potentially affecting the flight’s success. Emergency landing procedures would likely be activated.
Alert 3: ACTUAL AIRCRAFT CRASH! This is the equivalent of falling off a cliff. A total disaster – the ultimate emergency. Rescue teams are immediately deployed.
Alert 4: Bomb, Hijacking, Civil Disturbance, etc.: This isn’t a mechanical failure; it’s a threat to human life and security. Think of encountering an unexpected, dangerous wildlife encounter – requires immediate and careful action by experts. Security protocols go into full effect – this is a major disruption requiring immediate and coordinated response from law enforcement and airport personnel.

Knowing these levels can help you understand the severity of a situation if you’re ever near an airport during an emergency. Preparation and awareness are key to staying safe, whether you’re scaling a mountain or traveling by air.