{
  "response": {
    "Key": "IAD-SJO",
    "orig": {
      "code": "IAD",
      "type": "airport",
      "city": "Washington D.C.",
      "fullCity": "Washington D.C., United States",
      "airport": "Washington Intl Airport"
    },
    "dest": {
      "code": "SJO",
      "type": "airport",
      "city": "San José",
      "fullCity": "San José, Costa Rica",
      "airport": "Juan Santamaría Intl Airport"
    },
    "faq": {
      "q0": {
        "question": "What is the typical flight duration from Washington D.C. to San José?",
        "answer": "A nonstop flight from Washington D.C. (IAD) to San José (SJO) typically takes about 4 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours 45 minutes. With one stop, most commonly in Miami or Atlanta, total travel time usually ranges from 6 to 8 hours. The return flight from San José to Washington D.C. often takes a similar duration, roughly 4 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours nonstop. United and Avianca offer nonstop options with comparable flight times."
      },
      "q1": {
        "question": "Are there any direct flights from Washington D.C. to San José?",
        "answer": "Yes, United Airlines flies nonstop from Washington Dulles (IAD) to San José (SJO), with flights operating on Saturdays and Sundays only — not daily. There are two departures each weekend, typically around 8:55 AM and 8:57 AM.",
        "methodology": "Airlines and weekly frequencies are compiled from our flight-schedule database, which combines published airline timetables, U.S. government schedule data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), and observed flight operations from the EUROCONTROL/OpenSky Open Performance Data Initiative (OPDI). We count each operating carrier's scheduled weekly departures and the days it flies; where there is no nonstop service, connecting carriers are identified by linking scheduled nonstop segments through common hub airports. Carrier service and weekly frequencies are summarized from our flight-schedule database, which draws on published airline timetables, U.S. government schedule data, and observed operations from the EUROCONTROL/OpenSky Open Performance Data Initiative (OPDI). Where available, on-time and cancellation rates come from the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) Airline On-Time Performance dataset, and typical fares from the U.S. DOT Airline Origin and Destination Survey (DB1B), a quarterly 10% sample of tickets sold.",
        "toolsUsed": [
          "route_airlines",
          "flight_schedule"
        ]
      },
      "q2": {
        "question": "Are there visa requirements to travel from Washington D.C. to San José?",
        "answer": "Yes, there are visa requirements to travel from Washington D.C. to San José, Costa Rica, depending on your nationality. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days but must have a valid passport and proof of onward travel. Travelers of other nationalities should check Costa Rica's visa policy, as many countries are visa-exempt while others require a visa. There are no special requirements for Costa Rican citizens returning home. Note that entry requirements can change, so verify with official sources before travel."
      },
      "q3": {
        "question": "What are the ground transportation options in San José?",
        "answer": "From Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) to downtown San José, official orange airport taxis are the most reliable and widely used option, taking about 20 minutes and costing a flat rate. Public buses are the cheapest method, stopping on the main road outside the airport, but they can be crowded and slower. Ride-share services like Uber operate legally but may face occasional friction with local taxi drivers. Car rentals are available at the airport, though driving in the city is often congested and parking is scarce. There is no direct train or metro service from the airport to the city center. Most travelers use the official taxis for their convenience and safety."
      },
      "q4": {
        "question": "When is the cheapest time to fly from Washington D.C. to San José?",
        "answer": "From Washington D.C. (IAD) to San José, Costa Rica (SJO), the cheapest months to fly are May (around $368), April ($380), and March ($402), while the most expensive are December (around $667), January ($508), and November ($496).",
        "methodology": "This 'good deal' estimate shows a representative best price for each departure date across roughly a 12-month window (about 3 months back and 9 months forward). It is built from real flight prices found by Priceline users searching this route, accumulated into a price history for each departure date. Rather than weighting all of that history equally, we apply exponential time decay so recent prices dominate — a price seen yesterday counts almost in full, one from about a month ago roughly a third, and prices from a few months back very little — giving a figure that tracks today's market instead of a stale long-run average. Clear price outliers are removed before any calculation, departure dates with no observations are filled in from nearby dates, and the resulting curve is lightly smoothed so it reads as a clean seasonal trend rather than day-to-day noise.",
        "toolsUsed": [
          "seasonal_prices"
        ]
      },
      "q5": {
        "question": "How far in advance should I book tickets from Washington D.C. to San José?",
        "answer": "For flights from Washington D.C. (IAD) to San José (SJO), the optimal booking window is roughly 9 to 12 weeks before departure, when average fares are around $463. The cheapest single price observed was $460 at about 80 days out, while booking too early (125+ days) or last-minute tends to push prices higher, sometimes above $480. During peak summer or holiday periods, demand can shift this window earlier, so aiming for 10–12 weeks ahead is a safe bet for those times.",
        "methodology": "This booking-window guidance is built from the same real flight prices found by Priceline users searching this route, re-grouped by how many days before departure each price was seen (from the departure day out to about 180 days ahead) across the route's price history. At each booking lead time we report the 25th-percentile price — the cheaper end of what travelers were quoted, rather than the rock-bottom minimum (which can be a fluke) or the average (which is pulled up by expensive last-minute fares). The buy-or-wait advice then applies a risk premium that grows as departure approaches, since seat availability shrinks and prices become less predictable; using that adjusted curve we flag windows where waiting is likely to save a meaningful amount (at least $20 or 5%) versus windows where booking now is the better call. Isolated single-day recommendations are filtered out, so the advice only reflects a window that holds for several days in a row.",
        "toolsUsed": [
          "booking_timing"
        ]
      },
      "q6": {
        "question": "Are overnight (red‑eye) flights available from Washington D.C. to San José?",
        "answer": "No overnight (red-eye) flights are available from Washington D.C. (IAD) to San José (SJO) — the schedule data shows no nonstop red-eyes on this route, and no connecting itineraries with a red-eye long leg were found either.",
        "methodology": "Red-eye flights are identified from scheduled local departure and arrival times in our flight-schedule database — built from published airline timetables and official schedule data, including U.S. Department of Transportation records for domestic routes — flagging services that depart late at night and arrive the following morning; for connecting itineraries the red-eye is based on the timing of the overnight long-haul leg.",
        "toolsUsed": [
          "redeye_flights"
        ]
      },
      "q7": {
        "question": "Which airlines usually operate this route from Washington D.C. to San José?",
        "answer": "United Airlines operates nonstop flights from Washington Dulles (IAD) to San José (SJO) four times a week on Saturdays and Sundays, with typical fares around $728. Other carriers may also serve the route with connections, but United is the only nonstop option shown in the schedule data.",
        "methodology": "Airlines and weekly frequencies are compiled from our flight-schedule database, which combines published airline timetables, U.S. government schedule data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), and observed flight operations from the EUROCONTROL/OpenSky Open Performance Data Initiative (OPDI). We count each operating carrier's scheduled weekly departures and the days it flies; where there is no nonstop service, connecting carriers are identified by linking scheduled nonstop segments through common hub airports. Where a median fare is shown for a carrier, it reflects the real fares Priceline users found on this route in the last 72 hours.",
        "relevant": true,
        "toolsUsed": [
          "route_airlines"
        ]
      },
      "q8": {
        "question": "If I need a connection, what are common layover cities between Washington D.C. and San José?",
        "answer": "Common layovers include Miami, Atlanta, Houston, and Panama City. Miami and Atlanta offer frequent flights and short connections, keeping total travel time competitive. Houston provides a southern gateway with efficient transfers. Panama City's Tocumen Airport is a major hub for Central America, allowing visa-free transit for many nationalities and seamless onward connections to San José."
      },
      "q9": {
        "question": "How reliable are on‑time departures on this route from Washington D.C. to San José?",
        "answer": "On-time performance is generally dependable, though afternoon thunderstorms at IAD can cause delays. Early morning flights, such as those operated by United Airlines, tend to have better on-time odds. Avianca also offers reliable service on this route, with morning departures being less prone to disruption."
      },
      "q10": {
        "question": "Which months have the best weather for traveling to San José?",
        "answer": "December to April is the dry season with sunny days and pleasant temperatures, ideal for exploring. The green season from May to November sees afternoon showers, fewer tourists, and lush landscapes."
      },
      "q11": {
        "question": "What documents should I bring with me to the airport when flying from Washington D.C. to San José?",
        "answer": "Bring a passport valid for at least six months, proof of onward or return travel, payment for bags, and check if a visa or health documentation is required for Costa Rica."
      },
      "q12": {
        "question": "Which airport should I use in San José?",
        "answer": "Juan Santamaría International Airport is the primary airport for San José, located about 20 km from downtown. It handles virtually all international flights and is the main hub for Avianca and Copa Airlines. There is also Tobias Bolaños International Airport, but it serves only domestic and regional flights, so it is not relevant for your arrival."
      },
      "q13": {
        "question": "How do I get to Washington Intl Airport from the city center?",
        "answer": "From downtown D.C. to Dulles, the Silver Line Metro takes about 50–60 min and is the most affordable option. Rideshares and taxis take 35–45 min but cost significantly more. Shuttle buses are available, and parking is expensive."
      },
      "q14": {
        "question": "Are there hotels or sleeping facilities at San José airport?",
        "answer": "No. San José Airport has no on-site hotel or sleeping pods. The Courtyard by Marriott is about 2 km away with a free shuttle. Other nearby hotels like the Holiday Inn Express also offer shuttle service."
      },
      "q15": {
        "question": "Are there currency exchange offices, prayer rooms and Wi‑Fi at Juan Santamaría Intl Airport?",
        "answer": "Yes, Juan Santamaría International Airport has currency exchange offices in the main terminal, a chapel near the food court, and free Wi‑Fi throughout the airport."
      },
      "q16": {
        "question": "Are there accessible services or children's facilities at the Washington D.C. and San José airports?",
        "answer": "Washington Dulles offers wheelchair assistance and accessible facilities; request through your airline at least 48 hours before travel. A children’s play area is near Gate B72. San José Juan Santamaría provides wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and a children’s play area; arrange assistance in advance via your airline."
      },
      "q17": {
        "question": "What aircraft are typically used on flights from Washington D.C. to San José?",
        "answer": "Nonstop flights from Washington-Dulles (IAD) to San José (SJO) typically use the Airbus A320-200 Neo, operated by Avianca (AV). Connecting options often involve Boeing 737 MAX 8 or Boeing 737-800 aircraft on various airlines, though the exact model can vary by day and routing. Wi-Fi and seatback entertainment are widely available on many of these flights, but specific amenities depend on the carrier and aircraft configuration.",
        "methodology": "Aircraft types are taken from the equipment each operating carrier schedules on this route, drawn from published airline timetables and airline equipment schedules in our flight-schedule database. They describe typical scheduled aircraft and can vary with seasonal or day-of-week assignments and last-minute equipment swaps.",
        "toolsUsed": [
          "route_aircraft"
        ]
      },
      "q18": {
        "question": "Which airline alliances serve flights from Washington D.C. to San José?",
        "answer": "From Washington D.C. (IAD) to San José (SJO), the schedule data shows only United Airlines operating nonstop flights, making Star Alliance the only alliance with nonstop service on this route via United. Other alliances may serve the route through connecting itineraries, but no additional carriers appear in the nonstop schedule.",
        "methodology": "Airlines and weekly frequencies are compiled from our flight-schedule database, which combines published airline timetables, U.S. government schedule data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), and observed flight operations from the EUROCONTROL/OpenSky Open Performance Data Initiative (OPDI). We count each operating carrier's scheduled weekly departures and the days it flies; where there is no nonstop service, connecting carriers are identified by linking scheduled nonstop segments through common hub airports.",
        "toolsUsed": [
          "route_airlines"
        ]
      },
      "q20": {
        "question": "What are the best airport lounge options when departing from Washington D.C.?",
        "answer": "At Washington Dulles (IAD), the United Club in Concourse C and the United Polaris Lounge in Concourse C are solid options. The United Club admits United Club members, business-class passengers on United and Star Alliance flights, and certain credit card holders, with complimentary snacks and drinks. The Polaris Lounge is reserved for United Polaris business-class passengers and offers a full-service dining room, private shower suites, and quiet daybeds. Delta Air Lines does not operate a Sky Club at IAD, and there is no American Airlines Admirals Club. Independent lounges include the Turkish Airlines Lounge in Concourse B, accessible to Priority Pass members and business-class travelers on Star Alliance carriers, featuring hot food and a self-serve bar. Another independent option is the Air France-KLM Lounge in Concourse A, open to business-class passengers on Air France, KLM, and partner airlines, with a buffet and seating areas."
      },
      "q21": {
        "question": "What is the baggage allowance on this route from Washington D.C. to San José?",
        "answer": "Baggage allowance on flights from Washington D.C. to San José depends on the airline and fare class. Basic economy fares often exclude a checked bag and may restrict carry‑ons to a personal item only. Standard economy fares typically include one checked bag and a carry‑on plus personal item. Premium cabins offer more generous allowances. Always verify with your airline before travel."
      },
      "q22": {
        "question": "What cabin and seat options are typical from Washington D.C. to San José?",
        "answer": "Flights from Washington D.C. to San José typically offer Economy and often flat‑bed Business class, with Premium Economy uncommon on this route."
      },
      "q23": {
        "question": "Are same‑day changes or standby possible on this route?",
        "answer": "Policies vary by airline and fare class, with flexible and premium cabin tickets typically allowing same-day changes or standby, while basic economy fares rarely do."
      },
      "q24": {
        "question": "What are the cheapest days and times to fly from Washington D.C. to San José?",
        "answer": "The cheapest day to fly from Washington D.C. (IAD) to San José (SJO) is Wednesday, with an average fare of $761, while Friday is the most expensive day at $889. The cheapest time of day to depart is late night, with fares starting at $343, in contrast to midday departures which start at $415.",
        "methodology": "The cheapest day of the week and time of day to depart are drawn from the same large sample of real fares Priceline users found on this route in the last 72 hours, grouped by the day of the week and by the time-of-day window of the outbound departure, with the lowest and average price reported for each.",
        "relevant": true,
        "toolsUsed": [
          "departure_timing"
        ]
      },
      "q25": {
        "question": "What is a good price for a flight from Washington D.C. to San José?",
        "answer": "A good price for a flight from Washington D.C. (IAD) to San José (SJO) is anything under $452, which qualifies as a great deal. Fares on this route typically average around $737, with most prices falling between $400 and $800.",
        "methodology": "The typical price, the lowest fare, a 'great deal' threshold, and how fares are spread across price bands are summarized from a large sample of the real fares Priceline users found on this route in the last 72 hours, with a small fraction of extreme outlier fares excluded from the range.",
        "relevant": true,
        "toolsUsed": [
          "price_context"
        ]
      }
    }
  }
}