USVI-On-Line

Hey all!
Starting to plan for a trip in June 2013. Last June we flew out of RIC with a stop in CLT, which we loved. However, it looks like we can fly out of RIC with a stop in PHL and then on to STT for about $100 pp cheaper. We have stopped in PHL on the way home before but never on the way down. Our experiences have never been pleasurable (circled in the air for an hour once waiting for clearance to land and flights are ALWAYS delayed). Also, the flight only has a 53 minute layover and I'm pretty sure we would have to go from one end to the other. Just looking for some input as to whether it's worth saving $100 pp, is 53 minutes enough time or if we should just pay the extra to go thru CLT. I know I should probably wait a while to see if airfare will come down before doing anything, but I'm type A and like to obsess!!! LOL!!

PHL- STT direct is only available a day or 2 a week - most PHL - STT if you are on USAir go through Charlotte - 53 min. if you really get that long is plenty of time in PHL to get anywhere in the airport - the delays there usually are later in the day and the early flights are commonly on time -- you can use www.flightstats.com to get a good idea of the on time flight info historically.

We always fly USAir to STT (and other southern destinations) - most times through PHL, sometimes through CLT.

Would you be arriving on a commuter flight? If so, that 53 minute connection would scare me a little bit. More than once, we walked up to our STT connection gate as it was boarding. Not a bad thing but there is no cushion for delays, grabbing a snack, etc. The commuter arrivals and STT departure gates are at completely oppposite ends of the terminal.

In February, we were delayed just a couple of minutes arriving into Philly. (we were on the ground but couldn't get off the plane for some reason.) We rushed off the plane (no stopping to pee!) and really pushed it to our next gate. When we hit Terminal A, we heard the final boarding call for our flight and we started to run. We made it just as they were closing the door.

I just booked for February 13 and I picked an early flight into Philly so we have more of a cushion. I don't want to risk missing my flight to STT.

We have also had less than an hour connections in CLT but without the long trek between gates.