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-   -   Connecting Plane ? (https://www.fodors.com/community/caribbean-islands/connecting-plane-506029/)

jt81870 Feb 22nd, 2005 05:21 AM

Connecting Plane ?
 
I want to know if anyone has taken the connecting flight from Puerto Rico to Nevis. I was told the plane is a propeller plane and 14 rows long and 4 seats wide. Im a little nervous about this. Do you feel the turbulence more since the plane is smaller? I dont want fear to dictate my life but just want to know what to expect up front.

Statia Feb 22nd, 2005 05:35 AM

You will feel a little more turblulence in a plane that size, but mainly on take off and landing. It's not bad, just a little more bumpy than a larger aircraft. Just bear in mind that the smaller planes are typically safer than the large ones and you'll be fine.

If my mother who deathly fears small planes can get on one that size to come visit me yearly then trust me....anyone can. ;) And she has even admitted that it's not that bad, so don't worry.

Sunnyboy Feb 22nd, 2005 09:51 AM

I'm assuming you are talking about the American Eagle flight from SJU to NEV.

If so, it's an ATR 72 twin engine turbo prop. That's one of the largest commuter planes in the Caribbean. It has 16 rows and seats 64 passengers.

It's an hour flight and you fly at around 10 to 15,000 feet. Because you are flying lower than big jets you'll get fantastic views (if it's not too cloudy) of the USVI's, the BVI's, Saba, St. Eustacia and St. Kitts during your flight. Turbulance is more a factor of the weather conditions than the airplane itself and although you may encounter a few "bumps" it's usually nothing to be alarmed about. Relax, it's actually more fun to fly in the smaller planes.

Statia Feb 22nd, 2005 10:51 AM

Sunnyboy, I was thinking that it might be the Eagle as well. If so, then jt you don't have anything to worry about. That aircraft is much larger than the typical island hopper prop planes. The turbulence isn't anything the same.

jt81870 Feb 22nd, 2005 02:40 PM

Yes, I was talking about San Juan. It is American Eagle we would be taking. I feel much better now. Thanks for posting!

Brian Feb 22nd, 2005 03:08 PM

To me the most annoying thing about those planes is the noise from the engines. I've taken them from San Juan to both Tobago and Grenada. The last couple times I brought along ear plugs.

Statia Feb 22nd, 2005 03:28 PM

Brian, I can SO relate. That is the only thing that bothers me with the Eagle, too...the noise and vibration. At least that's not as worrisome as the turbulence, and it's always a short flight. :)

Have a great trip jt! You will love Nevis.


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