To avoid flying on a Boeing 737 MAX, you can take several proactive steps during the flight booking and preparation process. The primary methods involve checking the aircraft type before booking, being flexible with your travel plans, and utilizing specialized filtering tools on travel websites.
Key Strategies to Avoid the 737 MAX
Successfully avoiding a specific aircraft type requires attention to detail when planning your trip. Here are the most effective strategies:
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Check Aircraft Type During Booking:
Most airline and online travel agency websites display the aircraft model scheduled for each flight. When browsing flights, look for details usually listed next to the flight number, departure/arrival times, or under a "details" or "aircraft information" section.- During Search: As you search for flights, pay attention to the aircraft type listed for each option.
- On Airline Websites: Directly booking on an airline's official website often provides the most accurate and up-to-date aircraft information.
- On Travel Search Engines: Reputable travel search engines also show aircraft types, though you might need to click into the flight details to find this information.
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Adjust Travel Dates and Times:
Aircraft assignments can vary significantly based on the specific flight number, time of day, or day of the week. If a particular flight at your preferred time is scheduled to be a Boeing 737 MAX, consider looking for flights departing:- Earlier or Later in the Day: A flight on the same route, just a few hours earlier or later, might be operated by a different type of aircraft.
- On a Different Day: Shifting your travel by a day or two can often result in a different plane being used for the route.
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Utilize Travel Search Engine Filters:
Some advanced travel search engines offer specific filtering options that allow you to exclude certain aircraft models from your search results. This is a highly efficient way to narrow down options if you have a strong preference.- Look for "Advanced Filters," "Aircraft Type," or similar options when conducting your flight search.
- Select the option to exclude or deselect the Boeing 737 MAX.
Additional Tips for Confirmation
- Monitor for Changes: While airlines try to stick to their published schedules, aircraft assignments can occasionally change due to operational reasons (e.g., maintenance, unexpected delays). It's advisable to reconfirm the aircraft type closer to your departure date and time.
- Flight Tracking Websites: After booking, you can use popular flight tracking websites to monitor your specific flight and see the assigned aircraft type, especially in the days leading up to your departure. These sites often update in real-time.
- Contact the Airline: If you're uncertain about the aircraft type for a specific flight, or if it changes close to your departure, you can always contact the airline directly for confirmation.
By employing these strategies, you can significantly increase your chances of avoiding flying on a Boeing 737 MAX.
Summary of Methods
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Check Aircraft Details | Verify the aircraft model displayed on airline and travel agency websites during the booking process. |
| Be Flexible with Schedule | Explore flights departing at different times of day or on alternative dates; aircraft types can vary. |
| Use Search Filters | Utilize advanced search options on travel sites to specifically filter out flights on Boeing 737 MAX planes. |
| Monitor Flight Status | Reconfirm the aircraft type closer to departure using airline apps or flight tracking websites. |
