Would You Tolerate a 50+ Hour Trip for Your Passion for Aviation?
In the realm of travel aficionados, the temptation of flying with several unfamiliar airlines and discovering new airports can be hard to resist. But would you be ready to forgo adequate sleep and withstand a 50+ hour trip for such an adventure? This is the dilemma that numerous dedicated travelers encounter, particularly those immersed in the miles-and-points pursuit.
The Adventure Commences
For individuals who have adopted the miles-and-points lifestyle, the exhilaration of optimizing value and sampling new airlines is a major attraction. This was true for one traveler who, after plunging into the miles and points universe in late 2022, began strategizing an ambitious itinerary for June 2025. The objective? To fly with five new airlines, visit five new airports, and push the boundaries of their Aeroplan points.
The Flight Plan
The prepared itinerary was nothing less than a whirlwind expedition. Kicking off in Lisbon, the traveler would commence a journey featuring flights on TAP Portugal, Aegean, Lufthansa, Austrian, and Ethiopian Airlines. The route would lead them from Lisbon to Madrid, Athens, Frankfurt, Vienna, Addis Ababa, and ultimately to Mumbai. With each segment of the journey presenting a fresh airline experience, the anticipation was tangible.
Obstacles Encountered
Nonetheless, such a plan was not without its difficulties. The traveler needed to navigate the intricacies of Aeroplan’s regulations, which included a restriction of six sectors in one itinerary and a maximum travel distance. Moreover, with a single-entry Schengen visa, there was a firm deadline to leave the area by June 24th, adding further complexity to the planning phase.
In spite of these challenges, the traveler diligently fine-tuned their itinerary, ensuring that layovers were sufficiently lengthy to accommodate possible delays while also maximizing the chances to discover new lounges and airports.
The Choice
In the end, the traveler opted against undertaking this ambitious journey. Instead, they uncovered an even more appealing redemption opportunity that promised an unforgettable experience. Although the original itinerary was scrapped, the entire planning experience itself was a reflection of the inventiveness and commitment of those who revel in the thrill of travel.
Would You Make the Leap?
For many, the thought of spending more than 50 hours in transit may appear intimidating. However, for those fervent about aviation and exploring new locales, the chance to experience various new airlines and airports is a dream realized. The lingering question is: would you be prepared to endure such a trip for the love of flying?