Here's the question of the day: Would you fly to Sacramento from Fresno, instead of driving or taking the train, if direct flights became available? Fresno airport authorities are trying to persuade airlines to start round-trip service between Fresno and the state capital.
The problem is that while it may only be a 30-minute flight to Sacramento, it gets much longer when you add in the hassles of flying. That starts with at least an hour to go through check-in and security before you even get on a plane. The drive to Sacramento is three hours so how much time are you really gaining, especially considering the possibility of flight delays?
Even with current gas prices, driving is much cheaper than flying. The estimated round-trip fare between Fresno and Sacramento would be $200.
So would you fly to Sacramento from Fresno? I'm leaning toward driving -- unless someone else is buying my plane ticket.
I wouldn't fly due to the costs as well as delays, unless I had to go there on business and my employer was paying airfare. But then, I probably wouldn't fly anywhere in-state for personal business or pleasure for the same reasons.
If we had a good direct train link (no bus) for a reasonable fare, I would definitely consider that option. High speed rail would be even better still.
high speed rail!