OAG Travel News

Continental has resumed a comprehensive flight schedule at its Houston hub at Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike.

Today Continental (including mainline, Continental Express and Continental Connection) has more than 500 departures (and an equal number of arrivals) scheduled at the Houston hub. Continental employees from other domestic locations have flown into Houston to assist their co-workers in resuming operations at the IAH hub. Normal operations are also continuing at the carrier’s other hubs.

Travelers should check on hotel accommodations in Houston unless they already have confirmed arrangements.

Houston-based Continental succeeded in operating globally throughout the hurricane thanks to effective advance preparations. The airline’s operations center was temporarily relocated away from downtown Houston in accordance with the business continuity plan. On Saturday and Sunday, although the Houston hub was closed due to the hurricane, the remainder of Continental’s system operated extremely well. During the two-day period, 84.1 percent of Continental flights arrived on time and the airline had only three cancellations unrelated to the storm.

The Mayor’s Office of Public Safety and Homeland Security has informed Continental that the curfew currently in effect for the city does not apply to customers or employees driving or being driven to and from IAH.

Customers booked on flights to, from or through the Houston hub and in the affected region are permitted a one-time date or time change to their itinerary without penalty for rescheduled travel. If a flight has been canceled, a refund in the original form of payment may be requested. Complete details are available at continental.com.

The fastest and most convenient way to change travel plans is via continental.com. Customers should enter their confirmation number and last name in “Manage Reservations.” Customers may also call Continental Airlines reservations at 800-525-0280 or their travel agent.

 Source: Karen Loftus (www.travelmole.com)