Stranded passengers at YRA have options

Submitted by  Alvin Heggie
Posted 1/14/25

Dear editor:

Thank you for the article “Cody Airport, Airline working to prevent bumped passenger,” published Jan. 2.

The article outlines the well-known challenges the airport, …

This item is available in full to subscribers.

Please log in to continue

E-mail
Password
Log in

Stranded passengers at YRA have options

Posted

Dear editor:

Thank you for the article “Cody Airport, Airline working to prevent bumped passenger,” published Jan. 2.

The article outlines the well-known challenges the airport, airline and travelers face here in Cody but doesn’t explore any of the solutions and services available. After painting an unflattering picture of flying into Cody, the article ends. Now what? Are these passengers left to fend for themselves? Why would anyone fly into Cody? 

Did you know there is a robust commitment to stranded travelers that includes transportation, advice, food and water, and affordable lodging? Good news, there is! Businesses supporting the airport are dedicated to making sure Cody visitors dealing with travel interruption are well cared for and have a positive last impression of Cody.

First, let’s acknowledge travel interruption is stressful and unpleasant. Especially at the end of an active vacation. Airline employees get the brunt of this frustration and deserve a little grace. 

Next, let’s acknowledge the community of services on-call every day to support the airline and stranded travelers. You may be surprised to learn the following:

There is a van and driver on call for stranded passengers every day, 365 days a year for over three years.

• The service has delivered stranded travelers to Billings and other airports to make their new flight.

• The service picks up flight crews in other cities and brings them to Cody to keep flights on schedule.

• Stranded travelers receive snacks and drinks, at no cost.

• All flights into and out of Cody are monitored daily. The airline is notified proactively that transportation is at their disposal.

• The service also acts as dedicated transportation for vendors that do not have this capability, so vendors can qualify for the airline’s approved vendor list. This provides stranded travelers with access to additional services, such as lodging.

All too often we are quick to point out problems without offering a solution. I hope to change that. I will be partnering with the airport, airline and chamber to affect positive change and solutions for our stranded travelers. 

 Alvin Heggie

Cody

Comments

No comments on this story    Please log in to comment by clicking here
Please log in or register to add your comment