[Butch Cassidy Slept Here]

As I’ve indicated in other posts, a fully refundable coach, or first class, ticket on Continental (domestic only) is an acceptable risk. For Phoenix – New York/Newark, a fully refundable Continental ticket would be my first choice because of the non-stop service (no potential for missed connections/stranding at a hub). Among the economical options Southwest’s reliable, but “sardine class,” is acceptable, even though Gromit will tell you otherwise. Alaska and Frontier/Midwest are equally reliable but have about as much flexibility on their non-refundable tickets as the “bad guys” (which isn’t saying very much!) And, yes, I know, Alaska, with a Seattle hub, has no direct routing PHX – EWR. If one is travelling PHX – EWR, during a time of year when snow closes the airports, Amtrak leaves from Maricopa—about 36 miles to the south. The latter is a four night trip (one overnight in New Orleans,) and only operates from Maricopa 3 days a week. But, hey, with snow, you could be stuck at the airport just as long! Shorter train travel times are available from Flagstaff---143 miles to the north of Phoenix. However, in the case of Flagstaff, winter snows may close the road (I-17) and/or the tracks.

I’m sure, PHX, you’re very familiar with Arizona. So, obviously, this posting is intended for those who are not “locals.”