In this experience we look at the world of gate assignments, and why your plane is parked at a specific location. What is happening when you arrive at the airport and you're told that your gate is not available. We review the differences between gates and jet bridges. What does an airport need to do to prevent unnecessary mixing of passengers? What's a swing gate. What is the ramp and how is it set up? What happens on the ramp and inside the terminal when there's a last-minute gate change? What happens when you're parked out at a remote location or stand? Geoff shares his remote parking experience at DPS. Vinny has another really tight connection adventure with a bus at FRA. Vinny had a really long bus trip at IST. Don't forget about the weather – thunderbolts and lightning on top of snow and ice makes for gate backlogs and people needing to be careful not to dent the plane. Speaking of denting, Vinny shares stories of jet bridge training – and systems designed to prevent accidental dents. News Items: Business Traveller article "United CEO puts getting late passengers on planes before on-time departures" ch-aviation article "Scramble for Thomas Cook UK slots as Condor seeks new owner" If you have a story of gate changes and jet bridges, a question or other experience that you would like to share, please email us at stories(at)seat1a.org or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Patreon. Show notes are available online at http://podcast.seat1a.org/

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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