Return Flights from San Juan

[SusieV]

What is the earliest safe time to book a returning flight from San Juan on a Friday? There is a huge price disparity between the 9:15 morning flights and the 3pm afternoon flights.

[usha]

We're stuck in the same boat, SuzieV. Direct flights back to Chicago from San Juan are either 9:30am or 3:30pm. Celebrity recommends not booking return flights any earlier than noon, so we played it safe & have the 3:30pm. :o

[arabrab]

Would you consider staying overnight in San Juan? That would give you the low cost airfare and a whole lot less excitement.

 

The reason that the fares are so much higher for the afternoon flights is because that's the high demand time for everyone returning from cruises.

 

Your proposed morning flight sounds too tight to make most weeks.

[SusieV]

No, the airfare savings would be eaten up by the cost of meals/hotel if we stayed an extra night.

[98Charlie]

Through past experiences in SJ airport, I'd say a 9 - 11 a.m. flight home is cutting it way too close. The airport can often be a zoo of travelers.

 

You have to remember SJU is not only busy with cruise passengers but also with other travelers as it is a major connector for flights going and coming from other Caribbean islands in the area.

 

Last two times were in SJU the airport terminal areas were under construction which helped to add to delays in check ins, etc. Understand that the construction process is a normal thing there as more and more travelers pass through the airport on their way to cruise ports or island vacations.

 

Dianne

[phlcruiser]

We found that leaving the next morning on the first flight out costs considerably less. I would much rather spend the difference on flight costs on a resort hotel, good dinner and an extra day on vacation.

 

Even if it costs a little bit more, why give your money to the airline when you can enjoy a great day.

[Parrotgirl]

I agree with Dianne (hi, by the way). My experience of the San Juan airport is that is can be a mad house. The lines and the wait have always been very long to check in. I wouldn't take the chance of trying to make a morning flight.