Continental Airlines develops innovative use of smartphone technology

Recently I flew Continental Airlines from Phoenix to Minneapolis with a stopover in Houston.  During my 52 minute layover in Houston, I found just enough time to get a snack and get comfortable in the Presidents Club lounge.  I decided to check out a new feature through my Blackberry at pda.continental.com.  The "Flight Status and Information" link took me to a page where I entered my flight number and date and I discovered virtually all the information I wanted to know about my flight.  I found that my flight was delayed 30 minutes, I was in the best available seat and that I would be served a light meal during the flight.

On this particular day, I found that my connecting flight to Minneapolis was 30 minutes late, so I was able to sit back and relax a bit more in the lounge.  Wondering if this was going to be a "creeping delay", I next clicked on the "Where is this aircraft coming from link"?  I was relieved to see that the aircraft had departed Chicago slightly late and was scheduled to arrive within a few minutes.  From there, I could also link to the weather in Chicago...this would come in handy if you're wondering whether your aircraft is facing a substantial weather delay.

Flight disruptions are a given in the world of a frequent traveler, so the more I know about such delays the more power I have to control my situation...whether that may be changing flights, finding a comfortable waiting area or simply re-setting my expectations.