The Porter Experience
I have flown with many airlines over the years, some have merged together, others have ceased doing business and some still remain. This past week was a whole new experience while flying non-stop from Toronto to Myrtle Beach with Porter Airlines.
Never have travelled from the Toronto Island Airport before, it was a complete new experience for me. Not knowing what to expect, I was pleasantly surprised with how smoothly every step of the process turned out. My journey began from the Royal York Hotel in which Porter offers free shuttle service to and from the Island Airport Ferry Terminal every 15 minutes on the hour. Arriving at the ferry terminal, you literally hop off the shuttle bus into the terminal where customer service staff are awaiting your arrival and are ready to answer any questions you have. You have the choice of checking in at the ferry terminal or you can wait to check-in when you arrive at the island itself. The ferry service (which isabout a 4 minute ride across) runs every 15 minutes on the hour taking passengers and their cars across the water to the island.
Upon arrival at the island terminal, you are directed to check-in and baggage check-in if you haven’t already check-in on-line. With Porter flying short-haul flights to both Canadian & US destinations, I love the fact that I check-in 1 hour prior to my flight departing with no line-ups. Going through security is a quick and easy step. Amazed at how quickly everything takes place, from arrival at the ferry terminal to my arrival in the Porter lounge, it took about 10 minutes. WOW!
The great experience doesn’t end, it’s just the beginning. The Porter lounge is amazing. Free WI-FI access and complimentary MAC & PC computers are readily available to passengers while sitting in a very up to date cozy lounge. There is also complimentary Starbuck’s coffee, pop, juice, and water that you can enjoy in the lounge or take with you on your flight.
Boarding the plane 10 minutes before you are scheduled to depart is heaven. I know I am travelling on a smaller plane with less passengers but it’s something to think about when booking your next short-haul flight. Aren’t we all limited for time these days? Take advantage of the time you can save when choosing your next airline. The seats on the plane are very roomy with lots of leg space or should I say more than what other airlines would offer.
Complimentary, complimentary, complimentary. This would be the word used when describing Porter Airlines other than great service. Once on the plane, your choice of complimentary drinks & snacks are provided to passengers which is very hard to find these days. Hot drinks include Starbucks Pike Place, Roasted Coffee and a selection of Tazo teas. Cold drinks include pop, assorted juices and water. If you feel like a little drink while flying to calm your nerves, you can enjoy red or white wine compliments of Jackson Triggs (Proprietor’s Edition) or Steam Whistle Premium Pilsner. Snacks include Terra chips cookies or almonds.
Being a travel advisor, I pride myself on service. Flying with Porter Airlines there is no shortage of service so when you’re looking for your next short-haul flight, give me a call and I can book your comfortable ride to your next travel destination and keep you up to speed on their deals.
