How Often Do We Fly Overseas: Perspectives and Practices
Introduction
The act of flying overseas is a common practice for many individuals, especially in the realms of business and leisure. For some, the sky is no longer the limit; it is a gateway to international opportunities and experiences. Yet, not everyone sees the world in the same way. Some prefer the comfort of their local surroundings, while others revel in the adventure of exploring new lands. This article explores various perspectives and practices regarding the frequency of flying overseas.
Frequent Flyers in Business
For many professionals, particularly those in the IT industry, flying overseas is a staple of their working life. Working for an IT company, one such individual can relate to the experience of staying in various countries for extended periods, sometimes even years. This frequent travel is not just about work but also about establishing and maintaining strong client relationships. One such person, who has been involved in the IT sector for over 35 years, mentions:
“I used to fly overseas about 6–8 times a year. Did that for 35 years or so.”
Such frequent travelers often accumulate a significant number of flight hours, as evidenced by another individual who states, ldquo;As I remember 3200 hours total flying.rdquo; However, not all frequent flyers report the same level of global mobility. For some, the frequency and distance of travel have changed significantly over time, reflecting personal preferences and circumstances.
Retraining and Changing Flyer Status
Retirement marks a significant change in onersquo;s travel habits. One retiree mentions:
“At the end of my career, which has been a while now 12/14, I was flying an overseas trip twice a month. The other two weeks were domestic rotations. Personally, I didn’t really care that much for long-haul flying. It wore me out. But I did it to stay current with the procedures.”
This individual acknowledges the demands of long-haul flying and how it impacts their personal well-being. Despite this, they recognize the value in maintaining specific skills through such travel. However, there are also those who find that the lure of international travel remains strong even after retirement. Another individual mentions:
“Before I retired, I was a frequent flier but due to the pandemic, I haven’t left Britain for 20 months.”
The pandemic has undoubtedly affected travel patterns and has forced many to reassess their travel habits. Some may have stopped flying altogether, while others may have shifted their focus to domestic travel and explored new opportunities closer to home.
Leisure Travels and International Exploration
For those who travel for leisure or to explore new places, the frequency of overseas travel can vary greatly. Some may prefer to spend more time in a single location, while others may enjoy visiting multiple countries in a short span. One personal experience is described as follows:
“I was on a flight from Atlanta to Houston, and the pilot took us over the Gulf to avoid some bad weather.”
This incident highlights the excitement of international travel for its own sake. Others may have even flown an overseas trip last week, as mentioned by another individual:
“Approximately monthly. Twice last week the Atlantic. Sometimes twice in the same day — TXL-AMS-BOS-AMS-GLA.”
These varied experiences reflect the diverse nature of international travel and the different motivations behind it. Some individuals may prefer the adventure of international exploration, while others may value the convenience and leisure of shorter domestic trips.
Conclusion
The frequency of flying overseas can vary greatly depending on personal preferences, work requirements, and life circumstances. For some, it is a critical part of their professional life, while for others, it may be more of a personal pursuit. The current landscape of travel, influenced by factors such as the pandemic, has led to a reevaluation of travel habits and practices. Regardless of onersquo;s reasons for flying overseas, each individualrsquo;s experience is unique and valuable.