Snow-Filled Uncertainty
Posted: Wednesday 22 December, 2010
Emilie Legrand
I've always been a huge fan of winter. I love the snow and crisp air, Christmas and all things festive, but following the recent weather troubles in the UK and resulting travel disruptions at Heathrow Airport this week, I have come to the conclusion that none of the above matter unless you are with the people who mean the most. I admit that sounds tremendously soppy but it’s true. My father who works and consequently lives in Cleveland, Ohio, is currently trying to fly home from the USA in time for Christmas day and the outlook at the moment is quite bleak.
As always, even amidst the snow-filled uncertainty, there's always a PR opportunity to be had! Domino’s Pizza really proved its worth this week, as passengers stranded at Gatwick were given free pizza slices to help them through the delays; not a huge consolation to them all I’m sure, but certainly a nice surprise? Also, it managed to make national news – so well done to the Domino’s PR team for a well thought out and executed PR stunt!
Not only have the UK airport troubles become a PR opportunity, but they have also become a chance for airports and airlines to take full advantage of their social media channels. The Heathrow Airport Twitter feed has been posting personal replies to worried passengers and concerned families and friends non-stop. I also have to mention the Continental Airlines Twitter profile who not only replied to my tweet but also direct messaged me showing their concern for my dad, which, I have to admit was a lovely touch. Never have I been more sure that businesses should have up-to-date and hard-working social media profiles to engage with their customers!
So as Christmas draws ever closer I just have one request – please keep everything crossed and pray that my Christmas miracle comes true and that dad makes it home for Christmas day!
