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New Upscale Airline Coming To Fort Myers RSW

Young woman sitting with phone on the aircraft seat near the window during the flight in the airplane

Gearing up for season in Southwest Florida, there are even more options for travelers. There is a new upscale airline coming to Fort Myers RSW with new routes in November. Porter Airlines is introducing daily service to the U.S. for the first time ever The Canadian airline will make it easier, and more comfortable for travel between America and Canada. In addition, Porter plans to fly into Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Orlando and Tampa. Canadian destinations include Toronto and Ottawa.

These aren't just any flights. Porter is using a new Embraer E195-E2 jet. It is said to be a state of the art aircraft that has no middle seats, more comfort and more hospitality. The airline claims to have an elevated onboard service with premium snacks, free beer and wine, served in real glassware. In addition, officials say the WiFi is both free and fast. Bonus.

“Canadians are used to flying to Florida, but not like this," says Kevin Jackson, executive vice president and chief commercial officer, Porter Airlines. "Porter is challenging the industry’s definition of economy air travel.”

New Airline RSW

Here is the current flight schedule and planned start dates.

RouteDepartureArrivalFlights Begin
Toronto Pearson - Tampa

Tampa - Toronto Pearson

4:30 p.m.

9:05 a.m.

7:32 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

Nov. 1, 2023

Nov. 2, 2023

Toronto Pearson - Fort Myers

Fort Myers - Toronto Pearson

4:45 p.m.

9:00 a.m.

8:00 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

Nov. 10, 2023

Nov. 11, 2023

Toronto Pearson - Orlando

Orlando - Toronto Pearson

12:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m.

2:58 p.m.

10:48 a.m.

Nov. 21, 2023

Nov. 22, 2023

Orlando - Ottawa

Ottawa - Orlando

4:00 p.m.

5:30 p.m.

7:02 p.m.

8:59 p.m.

Nov. 21, 2023
Toronto Pearson - Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale - Toronto Pearson

12:15 p.m.

8:40 a.m.

3:34 p.m.

11:55 a.m.

Nov. 30, 2023

Dec. 1, 2023

Ottawa - Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale - Ottawa

4:45 p.m.

4:30 p.m.

8:32 p.m.

7:49 p.m.

Nov. 30, 2023
Toronto Pearson - Miami

Miami - Toronto Pearson

3:40 p.m.

8:40 a.m.

7:05 p.m.

12:00 p.m.

Dec. 12, 2023

Dec. 13, 2023

Five Tricks For Catching Up On Sleep When Flying

First of all you, you have to be a passenger to take advantage of these five tricks for catching up on sleep when flying. It can be hard for many people, sleeping on an airplane. However, it is necessary in some cases. If you find yourself on a long flight to the west coast, overseas or a so-called red eye (overnight), sleep is essential to be your best when you hit the ground.

Flights are commonly oversold this summer meaning you might have less room to stretch out and get comfortable. That middle seat is almost always full and even worse, you might just get stuck in one. Apparently, it is not impossible to get sleep even in those God-awful seats. At least that's what the folks at Bed Kingdom say. They have all kinds of tips to help you grab a few winks at altitude. That includes the kids.

Catching Up On Sleep When Flying

Not all seats are this comfortable on a plane. And if they are, they can be costly. Here are tips to make the most of your flight and get some sleep.

A little advanced planning can help. For instance, put a sleep kit in your carry on. This kit should contain all the things that can help boost the chances of falling asleep. A soft eye mask blocks out light. You know there is always someone who keeps opening their window shade or turning on their reading lights.

Noise cancelling headphones or earbuds are an excellent way to block that person behind you who just can't stop talking. They also help when listening to calming music or meditation. If you don't have headphones, pick up some soft earplugs. Travel pillows can also be helpful. Don't have a pillow, find a hack here. Finally, a soft blank to keep you warm and cozy.

Here are five tricks for catching up on sleep when flying this summer.

Seat Selection

This key but you don't always have a choice. Try to avoid sitting next to the toilets. It might be convenient if you have to go, but so does everyone else on the plane. It gets busy.

Aisle seating is convenient but tricky for sleeping

Window seat is best. You have something to lean on and have control of the window shade to keep it dark.

Middle seat is a challenge. Put as much as you can overhead so at least you have room to stretch your legs. Neck pillows are good for head support since you have nowhere to lean.

Aisle seat. Use the armrest for additional support. However, be careful not to stretch too much into the aisle to avoid people bumping you and disturbing your slumber

Carefully choose beverages

Avoiding alcohol before you board and on the plane is a good idea for sleep

Many people like to celebrate the beginning of vacation with an adult beverage before boarding. However, try to avoid  alcohol as well as caffeine. They can lower the quality of sleep and leave you dehydrated on top of it.

Loosen your shoes

Tight shoes and laces can restrict blood flow to the feet, causing them to fall asleep instead of you. Consider wearing slip on shoes or using travel socks for ease and comfort.

Tight shoes and laces are not good for nerve compression of the feet, uncomfortable for flying.

Uncross your legs

It may seem more comfy and a good way to stay in your space. However, this position limits blood flow during long flights. It puts stress on your lower spine as well. Knees slightly bent is optimal for comfort, circulation and to help reduce the occurrence of swelling.

Getting kids to sleep

This can be a challenge. Getting kids to sleep helps them, you and fellow passengers.

Let the kids run where it is not crowded so they can burn off some energy before boarding.

Pack their favorite sleep aid such as a blanket, stuffed animal or toy. Something familiar. Allow them to burn some energy in the terminal so they will look forward to resting. Finally, feed them within the first hour of the flight but try to avoid sugary foods and drinks.

Gina Birch brings the sunshine to Sunny 106.3 every weekday morning from 6-10. She has worked in radio, television and print in Southwest Florida for nearly 30 years. During that time, she has become an advocate for numerous charities including those that support animals, children, women and wellness. In addition, she has written for numerous local, regional and national publications about food, wine and travel. Those are her longtime passions...along with shoes.