sfo03.jpgSFO is set to begin construction on its runways, which means the chronically delayed airport is about to get a little more tardy. As the Ex reports, a four-year-long runway construction project means “the landing capacity at SFO is likely to be diminished, adding to even more delays, congestion and scheduling uncertainty.” But never fear — SFO’s installed a new relaxation area to help you deal with the stress. Really.

In the wake of the runway project, the FAA is downgrading the airport to a Level 2 hub under the International Air Transport Association guidelines, which basically means it’s more susceptible to congestion and delays.

Not that that’s new! In 2011, SFO had an average on-time performance of just 70.5% compared to the national average of 79.2%.

John Bergener of SFO’s Bureau of Planning and Environmental Affairs tells the Ex that he thinks the FAA is being overly cautious in its designation of SFO, as most construction will occur at night and anything done during the day will still allow for 9,000 feet of landing strips.

In a hilarious coincidence, as things get more stressful at SFO, they also might get a little more centered and calm. As ABC7 reports, Terminal 2 is getting a “Zen Room” just past the security checkpoint.

CBS5 reports that the room will be free to use for yoga, stretching, or other calming practices.

The construction is set to last until 2015 with the most detailed work being done in 2014. SFO will be downgraded to Level 2 status starting March 25, but the yoga room will be open to travelers starting this Thursday. Breathe deep!

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the author

Always in motion. April Siese writes about music, takes photos at shows, and even helps put them on behind the scenes as a stagehand. She's written everything from hard news to beauty features, as well as fiction and poetry. She most definitely likes pie.

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