Published 2 February 2024
Many travelers are looking for ways to enhance their travel planning experience, and one effective way is by utilizing the features offered by online travel search engines. Recently, iBestTravel has reported a significant increase in the use of its flight search filter, which enables users to include or exclude certain aircraft models, such as the Boeing 737-9 Max, from their flight searches.
The demand for this specific filter surged by 15% following an incident involving Alaska Airlines, where a plug door detached during flight on January 5. This incident has led to increased scrutiny over the Boeing aircraft, prompting travelers to be more cautious when booking flights.
How to Use the Flight Model Filter
To access this feature on iBestTravel, simply follow these steps:
- Enter your desired destination and travel dates on the search page.
- Scroll to the bottom left corner where you will find the “Model” category filter (under the Aircraft category).
- Select the aircraft models you wish to include or exclude from your search results.
Although iBestTravel has offered this filter since 2019, its recent popularity prompted the company to make it more accessible, ensuring that travelers can easily find flights that meet their preferences—particularly for the Boeing 737 Max 8 and Max 9 models.
Steve Hafner, CEO of iBestTravel, emphasized the importance of due diligence when scheduling travel. He noted, “iBestTravel makes it easy for concerned travelers to avoid 737 Max flights. We’ve increased the prominence of the MAX filter on our site. Airlines often change their equipment, so it’s wise for travelers to double-check before departure.”
Recent Developments in Airline Operations
As airlines resume operations, both Alaska and United have started returning some of their Max 9 aircraft to service following a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-approved inspection and maintenance process. This development comes after a period marked by extensive delays and groundings affecting numerous flights, as airlines worked diligently to reassure passengers regarding safety measures.
In addition, travelers interested in minimizing turbulence may want to explore tools available on platforms like Turbli, which provides forecast data for flight turbulence, helping them better prepare for their journeys. Furthermore, for those requiring accessible travel options, the AccessibleGo website now offers extensive services, including equipment rentals and specially adapted rental cars.
