Delayed in Detroit

We had a 2.5 hour layover in Detroit so weren't worried when our flight from Seattle was 20 minutes late. Indeed, we had plenty of time to wander the airport shops, marvel at the little red tram that zooms overhead, eat the snacks we brought from home... but we didn't quite have time for our pre-flight "to Betsy" drink.

We got to the gate 30 minutes prior to takeoff. I saw the plane and thought that there didn't seem to be much "bustle" around it. Then the gate agent said they weren't going to start boarding yet, but would have an announcement in 10 minutes.

Boo.

Sure enough, in 10 minutes, he announced that there had been a leak in the fuel system, and that they would have to bring in mechanics and testers, and it would take about 1.5 - 2 hours -- but that we should come back in 45-60 minutes for an update. We, of course, headed straight for "Slap Shotz", a hockey-themed bar, where we had tiny but absurdly strong drinks and seasoned cross-cut fries drenched in "cheddar cheese" sauce. Let's just say we didn't stick around for a 2nd round... though we did get to witness a woman reverently telling her young son "that's Gordie Howe" and making him stand next to the large autographed photo on the wall.

We found ourselves with more time on our hands, so we decided to walk around the airport. We took the tunnel to concourse B&C, which was a pleasant surprise. I was just thinking about the fantastic "Rhapsody in Blue" neon tunnel at O'Hare, and how great it is, when we descended to a low enough level to see the art installation. lights, music, rt glass -- and loooooooong moving walkways. Fantastic.

We got to concourse B/C -- nothing special -- and then decided to head back as the departure displays still read 8pm. The lights and music were even nicer on the way back. At some point Wil noticed an electrical outlet next to the moving walkway -- and imagined ourselves walking in place with our laptops plugged in.

Then up to the gate -- still empty -- and the agent was telling a would-be passenger that he would be making an announcement in 10 minutes. Ten minutes later, sure enough, he came on the loudspeaker and announced that they were still working, and would make an announcement in 20 minutes. Another 20 minutes have now passed... and he just made an announcement that they're still trying to identify the source of the problem, and that they would make another announcement in 20 minutes. We're now 90 minutes late. I wonder how long this will go on?

30 minutes later -- another announcement -- though this time they said not to leave the area...

Success! 2 hours after the flight was due to leave, there was another announcement. I couldn't quite hear him -- but I heard the whooping that went up. And then they announced they were starting boarding immediately. Excellent. I mean it's not like you want them to rush repairs on a fuel leak for a transatlantic flight... but.