Driving back from Key West to Fort Lauderdale we noticed a front of clouds as we approached the Coopertown Airboats for our tour. Although the clouds looked menacing we made it through without rain. Leaving there we headed for Fort Lauderdale Airport where the skies darkened, the wind kicked up, and the rain fell. It really fell. This is the type of storm that wreaks havoc on take offs and landings, and we were headed to board our flight back home.
Without incident we made it through check-in and security only to find the terminal packed to the gills with travelers.
Travelers en masse at the terminal
Many flights were delayed or diverted. Those that were diverted refueled at a distant airport then returned at some time to FLL. Whichever flight they were to be outbound was delayed. Gates were changed numerous times. Figuring that it would be awhile, I stood in line to get a beer or two. The bar was out of most of the premium beer, and out of the 5 or 6 tap beers only had Miller Lite and Bud Lite.
Not able to take it anymore Tara threatened to strangle herself with the cord from her flight pillow. No one paid attention. The attempt failed, Nick put his head in his hand and our flight was only an hour delayed (in boarding that is, we sat on the runway for about another 40 minutes).
- Tara threatens to strangle herself
- Nick can’t look
It was interesting to see the gamut of emotions as the flights were delayed. Some were visibly pissed. Others took it in stride, like the group of spring breakers who set up their portable iPod speakers and tried to entice others standing around into getting into the music. All in all most of the travelers most likely made it home, a little late, and only owe it to Mother Nature showing that she still has control.
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