"It's a very expensive proposition," May said. "We hate delays. We want to do everything we can to cure them . And we think particularly in the summer months, it's going to be important."
Experts said today that airports and carriers are pulling out all the stops to make sure travel runs as smoothly as possible. Whether offering unusual amenities like fitness centers and DVD rentals or touting programs already in place to accommodate stranded passengers, airlines and airports are getting creative to make life easier for travelers.
If you're stuck on the tarmac in Atlanta, for instance, four 100-passenger buses are on hand to bring you from the plane to the concourse. A special set of air stairs awaits disabled passengers.
If you're stranded overnight in Austin, Texas, the city's Office of Emergency Management might call in the American Red Cross to bring travelers cots, blankets, food and drinks -- or even help passengers access 24-hour pharmacies.
The airport lobby said it hopes to go beyond keeping restaurants, gift shops and rental car agencies open late.
A recent survey completed by Airports Council International – North America also compiled services offered at 88 airports that represent nearly two-thirds of North American airport traffic.
Of those airports, almost half have children's play areas and more than 20 percent have game rooms or DVD rentals. Nearly three-quarters also have art displays, 45 percent have free Wi-Fi, 34 percent offer massages and four of the 88 airports had fitness centers. One quarter of those airports have rocking chairs.
To deal with crowds, the industry urged travelers today to plan ahead, arrive early and print boarding passes at home. Other tips: be prepared for new rules about extra fees, like baggage charges. Have liquids, gels and your identification ready to whip out of your carry on. Tag luggage inside and out with contact information and tear off baggage tags from previous trips to avoid confusion.
"We take our responsibility in these areas very, very seriously," said Greg Principato, president of Airports Council International – North America. "Under the best of circumstances in the best of times, summer travel can be stressful for passengers."
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