Eh. Anytime I am upset about air travel I remember that I get to fly in a magical metal flying tube across continents and oceans in less than a day, an experience and a convenience that the vast majority of humans who have lived and who are alive now haven't had. Then I feel less whiney.
75
Fellow flyers, please, one request.
If you're early onto the plane PLEASE do not store your luggage in the front of the plane and then take a seat in the back of the plane.
This makes later boarding passengers have to go to the back of the plane to store their luggage and then return the front of the plane to get a seat.
This has happened to me three times on recent flights.
While everyone else is de-planing, I (along with other passengers in the same boat) have had to inch my way to the back of the plane one row at a time against the surge of dozens of people trying to get off, to retrieve my luggage.
It's not rocket science. In fact it's incredibly thoughtless. It causes a huge inconvenience to fellow travelers. And why flight attendants never try to address it I can't understand.
If you're early onto the plane PLEASE do not store your luggage in the front of the plane and then take a seat in the back of the plane.
This makes later boarding passengers have to go to the back of the plane to store their luggage and then return the front of the plane to get a seat.
This has happened to me three times on recent flights.
While everyone else is de-planing, I (along with other passengers in the same boat) have had to inch my way to the back of the plane one row at a time against the surge of dozens of people trying to get off, to retrieve my luggage.
It's not rocket science. In fact it's incredibly thoughtless. It causes a huge inconvenience to fellow travelers. And why flight attendants never try to address it I can't understand.
58
The hub system is part of the problem with airlines. In addition to limiting choices for travel, when an airplane has a mechanical problem they have to get a part from one of their hubs, and that could be very far away in another city. I travel a lot and rarely experience delays outside of the US. Why is that? I also think it is time to build high speed rail and get rid of binge flying from regional airports to major airports.
21
It seems to me the author scheduled her travel intending to experience, and provoke, discomforts. Maybe because she believes that's what the readership wants to see.
This reader would be more interested if she gave me even a little credit for intelligence, curiosity, and a desire to not be spoon-fed complaint pablum.
There is a big, interesting world out there. Dare to show a little of it.
This reader would be more interested if she gave me even a little credit for intelligence, curiosity, and a desire to not be spoon-fed complaint pablum.
There is a big, interesting world out there. Dare to show a little of it.
36
Money speaks, as usual. But to what limit must tolerance be tested...before tempers fly, and the bottom line reports to greed? Flying used to be fun. Can't we reverse course?
5
Oh my. Thanks for making me count how many years I've been flying: Starting when I was nine years old (and stewardesses had glamour jobs) to today, I've been flying for 60 years. I last had a meal on a flight when my husband and I took our not-quite-two-year-old with us to Hawaii more than 40 years ago.
But if I had to point to the best part of flying, it's flying Southwest, especially in its early years when the flight attendants' jokes during the preflight info sessions were a pleasant surprise and the tickets were amazingly low if you caught the right "deal."
I still fly Southwest when I can. But last year I took a bucket-list trip to Israel on a group tour and had to fly United. Counting the cab ride to the airport and two connecting flights with layovers, we had been traveling 12 hours before we ever boarded the 12-hour flight to Tel Aviv. I have never encountered such surly staff as that flight, except for the return flight.
I don't think you can blame price-consciousness for all of the abuse that economy passengers endure. There is no reason for flight attendants to snarl or to ignore legitimate requests. And just going past the luxurious reclining seats in first class is an insult.
I think the airlines are missing an important market: the Boomer generation is retiring. If we can stave off those who want to rob our Social Security, private pensions and 401Ks,we might have money to travel, but not if we're treated like cattle.
But if I had to point to the best part of flying, it's flying Southwest, especially in its early years when the flight attendants' jokes during the preflight info sessions were a pleasant surprise and the tickets were amazingly low if you caught the right "deal."
I still fly Southwest when I can. But last year I took a bucket-list trip to Israel on a group tour and had to fly United. Counting the cab ride to the airport and two connecting flights with layovers, we had been traveling 12 hours before we ever boarded the 12-hour flight to Tel Aviv. I have never encountered such surly staff as that flight, except for the return flight.
I don't think you can blame price-consciousness for all of the abuse that economy passengers endure. There is no reason for flight attendants to snarl or to ignore legitimate requests. And just going past the luxurious reclining seats in first class is an insult.
I think the airlines are missing an important market: the Boomer generation is retiring. If we can stave off those who want to rob our Social Security, private pensions and 401Ks,we might have money to travel, but not if we're treated like cattle.
23
Bless you for the picture of you in your onesies.
46
One area where improvement is going to be almost impossible is the speed of boarding.
Simply, put there are just too many very young, very old, or otherwise infirm passengers to move and stow their luggage quickly.
Years ago, I would routinely take the United flight from Dulles to Kuwait City as a military officer. The entire plane consisted of military age males, either active duty or contractors. An entire 777 was emptied in under 5-6 minutes. It was crazy.
Simply, put there are just too many very young, very old, or otherwise infirm passengers to move and stow their luggage quickly.
Years ago, I would routinely take the United flight from Dulles to Kuwait City as a military officer. The entire plane consisted of military age males, either active duty or contractors. An entire 777 was emptied in under 5-6 minutes. It was crazy.
16
I recently took a business flight from JFK to Vegas on an airline I normally avoid - the legroom and amenities were on par with the standard Virgin premium economy and the service was second only to the hellish purgatory of a day at the DMV and yet I paid 3x the price.
When will an airline pluck up the courage to charge a bit more and give every passenger a decent seat, a hot meal and a place to put their carry on?
What in the hell has happened to our country? Sad times indeed when the best domestic carrier is a British airline.
When will an airline pluck up the courage to charge a bit more and give every passenger a decent seat, a hot meal and a place to put their carry on?
What in the hell has happened to our country? Sad times indeed when the best domestic carrier is a British airline.
23
First, thank you for writing on this subject, as it is one of particular fascination to me.
I must ask however why did you write this in a tone to incite rather than inform? Your article's description gives the impression that the "wealthy elite" benefit at everyone else's expense in an "us vs. them" mentality while claiming ignorance on key issues surrounding the airline industry as a whole, including the various stakeholders and the roles they play.
The airlines have plenty of problems and we as customers should absolutely hold them responsible, but I am sad that the NYTimes and its writers sometimes choose to pander to political demagoguery in the spirit of less reputable organizations.
I must ask however why did you write this in a tone to incite rather than inform? Your article's description gives the impression that the "wealthy elite" benefit at everyone else's expense in an "us vs. them" mentality while claiming ignorance on key issues surrounding the airline industry as a whole, including the various stakeholders and the roles they play.
The airlines have plenty of problems and we as customers should absolutely hold them responsible, but I am sad that the NYTimes and its writers sometimes choose to pander to political demagoguery in the spirit of less reputable organizations.
29
Air travel has devolved into a scene from an Hieronymus Bosch painting over the last 20 years. For the first time in my life I see the point of private flights - pity they are so expensive.
8
Hilarious read and sad at the same time. What gets me is that I recently flew a multi-leg trip from Paris to Atlanta, AL. My most comfortable segment by far was on the tiny Canadair regional jet!
9
It is a sad state of affairs in Economy. But Interestingly on two recent flights on Delta on different routes in newer Boeing wide body planes I was upgraded to "first class". Both times the air hostess sweetly told us that we would get a cold lunch because the oven was broken. Coincidence or creative cost cutting. An insipid selection was brought out. I ate my food I had brought! I was told to write to the airline. I thought I would write to Boeing that they need to improve the quality of their planes but then I thought what a waste of time.
8
I enjoyed this story very much! I used to fly half the year as a technical trainer for a corporation. I used to say, I love flying, I just hate airports! I started to question my travel schedule, when I realized I felt more at home at the Orlando airport than my own house! Employees at the Atlanta Airport Food Court recognized me, and questioned me if I had not appeared regularly. I started to recognize some of the airline employees directing the planes into the gates with their flashlights. So, I still love flying, but I don't miss the experiences detailed in this article, though yes, it's better if you're in Business or First Class!
7
Re: "Some 24,000 commercial flights take off and land in the United States every day, most at or close to capacity"
That's quite a stretch. Planes average 83% full today. Put another way, one out of six seats goes empty. A majority of planes are not at or really that close to capacity.
https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/LOADFACTOR
That's quite a stretch. Planes average 83% full today. Put another way, one out of six seats goes empty. A majority of planes are not at or really that close to capacity.
https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/LOADFACTOR
4
"I have breezed through a dedicated security line. "
In a Democracy the burden of national security should be equally shared by the rich and the poor - or so I thought.
I was wrong
In a Democracy the burden of national security should be equally shared by the rich and the poor - or so I thought.
I was wrong
13
Airlines are the only industry that punishes its customers as part of its business plan.
23
Um.. Health care?
25
British Air bumped us a few years ago from a first-class ticket from Johannesburg to Boston. Actually they bumped me but not my husband, who stalwartly said that meant he was being bumped too. We had made the reservations the day they opened for this flight, 9 months earlier. We "paid" with frequent flyer miles for business class and paid actual money for the upgrade. The BA person who informed us I was bumped brightly told us they could get us out the next day. We said that wasn't good enough. Two hours later of our never backing down, they put on first class on Air France to Paris, then Boston. It was so wonderful, I'd pay just to do the trip again (well, almost). Good french wine, chocolates, stellar food, our own jammies for the flight. Daniel Craig in the same compartment. When we arrived in Paris, we went down to the tarmac in a special elevator, where a limo drove us to the first-class lounge. More French food. A luxury shower. A ride back to our next flight in the limo and taking the elevator directly up. You get the picture. But what really made me happy was that Air France is not a partner of BA, so probably BA had to pay for our flights. Serves them right.
28
I really enjoyed reading this article. It was humorous and it also showed the truth about air travel: it's a necessary evil. I'm one of those business travellers who have moved up to United Gold status thanks to frequent use of that airline. That status gives me a free checked bag, which I always use so that I can avoid the very Hunger Games scenario the writer described. The main reason for the do or die scramble? The insane hope that passengers will find an overhead bin that they can stuff their "carry on" luggage into. As others have commented on here, I make preparations before flying: eating a solid meal, going to the restroom right before boarding, and boarding right before the doors closed, since my carry on is just a slim laptop case that easily fits under my seat. Regarding business and first class seats, I will splurge for those seats on flights to Hawaii or Europe. Air travel, like everything else in 21st century America, is dependent on what one is willing to pay.
15
To blazes with air travel. Bring on rail...oh wait, right wing idiots can't have that- trains are 'socialist'!
24
Ms Lyall deserves a Pulitzer for undergoing working conditions even a war correspondent would never have had to endure. The New York Times should be grateful for her willingness to go so far literally for her newspaper and her readers, and should cheerfully pay the legal damages resulting from the yogurt bomb that got past security.
12
LOL. I fly from Milwaukee to Hartford and back each week via Detroit or Chicago. Or Cincinnati. Or wherever. I now spend an extra 20 bucks a seat for SKY status on Delta where instead of no cheese I get some cheese. Hilarious. What other industry do the customers pay more to lessen abuse????
18
My goodness! I wasn't one bit surprised with your Delta luggage snafu. In 1999, my family traveled on a Disney Cruise where most of the passengers had used Delta to reach Port Canaveral. Their luggage did not arrive at the port until we returned from the cruise. A comedian on board the ship joked to his audience that DELTA was an acronym for Do Not Expect Luggage to Arrive. I took him seriously and have not regretted once having chosen Delta instead of other airlines. Of course, I have since decided against other airlines as well. I will soon have to consider the cost savings in getting my own pilot's license and private plane. Things have gotten that ludicrous.
10
Oh Sarah! I loved loved loved your description of 8 days of flying. When my husband was very sick we took Emirates Business class. ( It would have been impossible for him to go coach even with the kindly folks at Emirates.) So now I am ruined for life. My children all over the US want me to visit them, but I know that I cannot possibly ever fly again in an American plane. The discomfort, the rudeness, the blatant insult of being there at all are just unbearable. From now to the end of my days I will stay quietly in New York. It is, after all, the greatest city in the world.
12
Are we supposed to take this article seriously? We all know that air travel is difficult but attempting to render informed analysis on the heels of this ridiculous journey is absurd. The author might as well have embarked on a three legged race across Montana and let us know that after day two her feet were really sore. Please. Eight days, twelve flights, twelve cities, four flights on one day (day 5). What's coming next week? The perils of walking tours in Raqqa?
4
This is one of the most fun articles I've read on the NYT website in a long time (sorry; at your expense). Thank you for making so many terrible and annoying things so funny and informative. I hate flying (for all these reasons except the onesie which is hilarious) and haven't done it since I had to in 2007. I actually drove across the country rather than fly the last time!
16
I just decided not to take that with 50% travel. Thank you!
3
My wife and I fly about 8-10 times a year. We have flown with Spirit, United, Jet Blue, and American. We just recently flew round trip Orlando-Honolulu. We have learned from the Food Babe Vanni Hari, some great tips when traveling. We carry our own snacks on board, so we don't eat all the salt infused processed foods. Vega One Protein bars, Hemp Blueberry cubes, Justins PB packets, Kind Choc. Cherry bars. We also carry packets of Vega One protein shakes, go great with juice, & dried Figs. We like United, and are United Club Members, so we fill a thermos with hot water at the club and take it aboard. We bring Oatmeal packets with some figs or rains either in the club or on board. We also bring tea bags, or Starbucks Instant coffee. Don't want to drink water or coffee from the tank. It is becoming more challenging to get through TSA Pre because so many people have joined. But its' still better than taking off shoes, belts, hats, take out laptops. We have had reasonably good luck with United these past 6 years. We have flow domestic and international. I guess we have loyalty to United because they have accommodated us when having to cancel flights, and when they canceled our assigned seats, they were very fair. I would like to try Alaska Airlines someday because I heard there the best. All in all it's terrible flying, and you have to make the best of it. Great story, You have wise children, I would have paid good money to see you board in the 1Z.
12
Thank you for making me laugh repeatedly! Everything you said is true....I don't know how you survived the week!
8
Oh, yes, airline travel was so much better 'back then.' That was when we paid 3x the inflation rate price of a basic seat. And I am winsomely nostalgic when I remember the guy next to me lighting up cigarette after cigarette. Also, airlines used to crash a heck of a lot more. A few a year at least. Yes, those were the good ol' days. When no one knew anything about wind shear or wake turbulence, and we all took our chances w/o proper de-icing techniques. I think after all is said and done- today is better.
27
The on-time rate is a joke. Flights rarely leave on time. Most of the flights have so much additional time padded in that it is ridiculous.
11
Truth is funnier than fiction.. For my purposes the worst airport in the USA for international flights-- to and from Mexico is Miami.. One not only gets lost, misses flights, almost misses flights... and if you have metal knees you have to go thru the fluoroscopy machine... but maybe you have to wait until the person who runs the machine arrives. However, stay calm, carry a cane, and cry if you must... to get what you need. (the flight to wherever you are going!!) More than once I have had amelt-down with having a gate number changed and I can't find it. OTOH -- I am now 72.. a cute little old lady... arguably -- Maybe people would be less forgiving if I were 30 or 40.. Next time costume up for the occasion and see if people treat you better w/wo cane, w/wo glasses, well versus shabbily dressed.
I always gest patted down on my back.. and some of the patters do a really nice job-- feels great.. And there was the one with arms out... I would drop them as she "tickled" me.. I'm gonna get the cops. Yikes.
I always gest patted down on my back.. and some of the patters do a really nice job-- feels great.. And there was the one with arms out... I would drop them as she "tickled" me.. I'm gonna get the cops. Yikes.
10
I overwhelmingly disagree with a recurring theme in your article that socioeconomic differences are the difference between positive and negative aspects of flying. I am a frequent flyer. I fly 45 weeks out of the year, domestically, for work. And there are thousands of us in the same boat. Outside of coast to coast flights, most of us with seat upgrades, better amenities, and status earn those privileges and are certainly entitled to the perks. A few specific points: 1. Airline delays are not unknown to anyone but the airline. Download the airline's app (or other flight apps) and you can always figure out exactly where your plane is and why it is late. 2. As for the platinum customer who was upset about his "mis-purchased" flight... That is his fault and no one else's. If he earned platinum status, he knows how to look at flight dates, or he could have called the platinum customer service line, which does a fantastic job of changing your flight correctly. 3. I do agree that status has become more difficult to obtain and is forcing more people out. It sucks. 4. If you don't eat any foods at the airport that sounds like a personal problem. If you want healthy, good tasting food anywhere in the country, you're bound to be going to better restaurants or cooking at home. Same applies to the airport. Most major airports have a couple nicer restaurants where you can get better food. Conclusion: US airline services have deteriorated, but class is not the real issue.
19
You never mentioned the screaming babies , and all those excessive fat slobs trying to squeeze into their seats. It's OK . You probably are not allowed to print those in this article.
11
Hands down, the most sniveling thing I've ever read.
26
If you'd stayed in the UK, covering that blessed realm, you wouldn't have had to go through this hell on earth.
My next several trips, I'm taking the train.
My next several trips, I'm taking the train.
5
Are we passengers not to blame as well? One airline tried to retrofit with spacious coach seats, a decent snack and more flight attendants. We said we wanted that, but would choose another airline if the seat offered was $1.50 less. That airline cancelled the spacious seat program under the time worn business theory, if you can't beat'em, join 'em.
15
Not sure what the writer was trying to accomplish with back to back flights. I would think one flight a week over a period of eight weeks would provide the same amount of experiences from which a good story could be told.
Most people who fly regularly KNOW to buy first class tickets. The crowded three across seats are not comfortable or even humane.
Also, when you are sitting in a comfortable seat in first class you can tune out what is going on in the back and enjoy your flight.
The only time I have EVER had any kind of problem flying in first class was when the guy across the aisle got drunk and turned around to talk in a very loud voice to his boss who was sitting behind me in the next row. Suffice it to say that I endured all of his SHOUTING that I could before I asked him to stop talking so loud. It infuriated him and he replied by telling me to pull down the window shade because the sun was in his eyes. He was a nasty drunk. Frankly, nasty drunks shouldn't be allowed to fly: you know who you are.
Most people who fly regularly KNOW to buy first class tickets. The crowded three across seats are not comfortable or even humane.
Also, when you are sitting in a comfortable seat in first class you can tune out what is going on in the back and enjoy your flight.
The only time I have EVER had any kind of problem flying in first class was when the guy across the aisle got drunk and turned around to talk in a very loud voice to his boss who was sitting behind me in the next row. Suffice it to say that I endured all of his SHOUTING that I could before I asked him to stop talking so loud. It infuriated him and he replied by telling me to pull down the window shade because the sun was in his eyes. He was a nasty drunk. Frankly, nasty drunks shouldn't be allowed to fly: you know who you are.
13
Priceless.
10
I keep wondering what kind of profits the companies themselves are raking in. If you must travel to a certain place, your choice of carrires is drastically limited, so the industry is in effect monopolistic. Don't see how a little regulation, on overselling for example, would keep the owners from buying their second yacht, but clue me in if I am wrong.
12
The problem is that there is no middle ground on flights. You either take first or business and take a financial bath, or take steerage class with the rest of the chattel.
There is really no in between.
Also, let us not forget that terrorism has played a HUGE role in how unpleasant air travel is now.
There is really no in between.
Also, let us not forget that terrorism has played a HUGE role in how unpleasant air travel is now.
10
My thoughts exactly! My last overseas trip, there was no option for their elusive "economy plus" section on 2 of the legs, but there was an option to upgrade my wife and I to business class for $700 each. I'd rather just drink an extra mini-wine bottle and deal with economy at that price.
4
700 is not that bad for an international upgrade and a small price to pay to avoid the sadistic skies and arrive with your dignity.
3
Way to make the experience you complain about worse for your fellow passengers by wearing slept-in sweatpants and carelessly spraying yogurt in the cabin. Good for you telling the story on yourself, though.
2
I rarely side with the kid's point of view, but that outfit shouldn't be retired, it should be burned.
10
I don't work for an airline, I don't own shares in an airliine; I just use them to get where I want to go. This article in disingenuous in that the the writer is the kind of traveler that makes life hell for everyone else. All I hear is her attitude and expectation that everything can and will go wrong.
What people fail to realize is that 99% of the people flying today (other than business or first class) probably picked their flight based on cost and I am included. I totally expect an airline (they are a for-profit venture) to figure out ways to increase their revenue beyond the base ticket price. I have to be a good shopper to do a little math and figure out what the best deal is for me and that applies to everyone else. I just believe it is a dumb expectation to have the cheapest fare, no baggage fees, big seats, sumptuous meals and wi-fi just because you want to fly. Get in touch with your inner reality!!!
What people fail to realize is that 99% of the people flying today (other than business or first class) probably picked their flight based on cost and I am included. I totally expect an airline (they are a for-profit venture) to figure out ways to increase their revenue beyond the base ticket price. I have to be a good shopper to do a little math and figure out what the best deal is for me and that applies to everyone else. I just believe it is a dumb expectation to have the cheapest fare, no baggage fees, big seats, sumptuous meals and wi-fi just because you want to fly. Get in touch with your inner reality!!!
15
You get what you pay for.
4
Allow foreign carriers to compete on every single domestic route. When the Japanese began selling cars here, it sure forced the US carmakers to dramatically up their game. And why should airlines be permitted to resell seats that have already been paid for--and refuse to refund the fare to the no-show customer? If someone wants to buy a couple of extra seats to stretch out or for whatever reason, that is their business.
18
I have reached a point in my life at which I will pay the price to be treated like a member of a civilized society. I rationalize this quite easily: my heirs can deal with the back of the plane.
8
Flying still beats long trips on Amtrak in coach! And it's less expensive.
2
But nothing beats a leisurely drive across the country or around the state, stopping when and where you wish to, taking in the scenery, talking to friendly folks. You won't get me crammed into one of those beastly planes ever again.
But a cross-country Amtrak trip is an experience. The dining alone is worth the cost; you meet such interesting people. And going cross-country, don't go coach. Spring for the additional cost for a sleeper. Enjoy the journey!
12
We could have a whole separate article about the Amtrak experience. Yes, there is more room and no security. But beyond that there are endless ways in which the trip is unpleasant that Ms. Lyall could write about.
3
I quit flying shortly after 9/11 because it became such an ordeal. Then I started driving distances I would not have even considered previously. But recently I had to fly to New Orleans, a two-day drive to my home, and I was reminded why I hate flying so much. Congress had hearings about the ordeals involved with flying, and that's all they'll do: hear it. Otherwise airlines are city-states unto themselves. If you're not willing to plunk down an absurd amount for business or first class, you get peasant class and you're treated accordingly.
When I started reading this article I was thinking about flying across country to Sacramento to visit an old friend. By the time I finished reading it, I had decided that I won't be taking that trip after all.
When I started reading this article I was thinking about flying across country to Sacramento to visit an old friend. By the time I finished reading it, I had decided that I won't be taking that trip after all.
9
Harley from Portland: thanks for good advice. But do you really do downward dog in the aisle?? I can never seem to even stand a few seconds before someone has to pass!
4
John from Upstate NY: you are so correct about the nuns! ! Thank you!
1
I am amazed at how complacent so many of these comments are about the current state of flying. US airlines are appalling compared with international airlines and only because consumers take it. There are too many people packed into to an ever increasingly small seat space with not only potential health impacts but also stress impacts. We humans are not meant to be treated like eggs in a crate.
10
Patently untrue. British Airways has done away with almost all previously offered service in European economy. Most European airlines ask for the same surcharges as their American counterparts. Many of the "revered" Middle Eastern or Asian airlines pack you 10 seats across in intercontinental economy on their aircraft. The largest and most popular airline in Europe? RyanAir, which is similar to Frontier or Spirit.
2
That's what I was thinking; people allow this airline treatment to happen to them. Why allow this? Airline travel used to be an adventure and even pleasant. Sure it cost more but it isn't as if I take that adventure every week. I don't remember ever not traveling because of the cost. I rather pay to be treated like it used to be than travel on airlines today. Business people use business class for a reason. Cheap is not the only option. Respect and humane treatment needs to be in the equation before I venture in. This article did a great job of telling it like it is with a sense of humor; I appreciate the reality check with a good laugh added.
3
Next article, I suggest you spend a week seeing doctors using a variety of health insurance plans. I'm sure it'll be every bit as demoralizing as, and very similar to your airline odyssey.
As you quote, "if you pay enough, you can get whatever you want." And if you pay a reasonable amount, you'll unfortunately get what our government, in its infinite wisdom, believes you deserve.
As you quote, "if you pay enough, you can get whatever you want." And if you pay a reasonable amount, you'll unfortunately get what our government, in its infinite wisdom, believes you deserve.
7
What is the governments's role in private insurance? If there is a variety, I assume you mean private.
1
I believe it likely that we are all “paying a price” for this kind of air transportation. I postulate that we have moved beyond making air transport widely accessible to making it harmful by imposing unreasonable stress on passengers and crew. The FAA, in its responsibility as regulator of air travel health and safety, should study the effects of treating economy-class passengers as little more than cattle.
6
The FAA knows but does not care. Another revolving door between big business and gov't., like banking and health care and the NRC.
8
And your evidence would be? Half of my 50 years of work experience has been in the federal government, including three years as an Air Force Officer Officer dealing with the technology development part of FAA. Without evidence, your argument has no merit.
All of this is music to the ears of the greedy hedge fund managers and wealthy investors, like Warren Buffett, who have piled into airline stocks, comforted by the lack of competition, the sardine seating, and the endless fees for “extras.” I'm only surprised that pay toilets haven't been introduced—surely, they are under development. None of these investors or their families have flown commercial in decades, understandably preferring their luxurious, tax-advantaged private jets. And none of them have probably taken a basic physiological psychology course, where study after study attests to the predictable misery and unhealthy effects that results from overcrowding the rats we are treated like.
11
When Jimmy Carter deregulated the airlines it was to expedite their acquisition of new routes, not to lower fares and NOT to eliminate products and services. Deregulation has done nothing for the country except to, as we've all seen, create a permanent class system where the corporations rule we "gate lice." And by the way, I agree with Louis CK to the degree that it IS a miracle that hundreds OF us lice make it off the tarmac up to 35K feet and manage to land "safely to Earth" considering the planes parts are contracted to the lowest bidder.
8
I flew for business from 1992 to 2012 (healthcare consulting) and I found this article extremely accurate and very delightful. I flew for years in coach on United and Northwest; earning my "upgrade chops" on Northwest to garner good seats on many flights (only on aircraft big enough to accommodate a first class section). All my flights were domestic and, after two decades of travel, I ended my career with 1.5 million miles. (I'm called a "million miler") My last few years were spent with Delta (after they purchased and absorbed Northwest) and with Delta I achieved Diamond Elite status. Believe me, with all the travel I did (1 to 2 trips a week) any status-related comfort was appreciated. It was go go go. I told everyone I knew that I loved the life of a "road warrior" and that it was a great way to make a living. But, upon retiring, I stopped flying and, to my surprise, I didn't miss the "road warrior" life. In fact, I became unwilling to fly anywhere. I now drive everywhere and enjoy the American "road" of leisure travel, cheap hotels and motels, and local food. Gone are the days of stomach churning schedule changes, delayed flights, TSA, rotten food, and cramped seating. Gone are the days of packing and unpacking, early morning trips to crumby airports, and driving to endless rental car return centers. Now my days are quiet ... although I do look skyward when commuter jets drift over my little quiet backyard.
26
If you want the quality of coach service to improve, then stop automatically paying for the cheapest flight. You get what you incentivize.
16
What's wrong with minimum standards--including reasonable seating room, rational and reasonable airline policies and personnel, and lots more competition, preferably from higher customer satisfaction-ranked foreign carriers.
8
The great division in wealth in this country (2% of the people own 70% of the wealth) is reflected in how people fly since Reagan de-regulated air travel in the 1980's. The very rich travel on their own planes or, occasionally in first class.
The upper 5% travel business class which is similar to how all people flew in the 1950's and 1960's (before Reagan).
the other 94% are treated like cows or pigs being sent to slaughter - crowded as much as humanly possible in stale air. It is commonplace to catch viruses and bacterial infections on air flights, and it often takes several days to feel clear headed again. It is impossible to sleep upright because of the light, noise, and cramped seats.
Our plane ride experiences are just a reflection of the increasingly steep divisions between the wealthy and the rest of us.
The upper 5% travel business class which is similar to how all people flew in the 1950's and 1960's (before Reagan).
the other 94% are treated like cows or pigs being sent to slaughter - crowded as much as humanly possible in stale air. It is commonplace to catch viruses and bacterial infections on air flights, and it often takes several days to feel clear headed again. It is impossible to sleep upright because of the light, noise, and cramped seats.
Our plane ride experiences are just a reflection of the increasingly steep divisions between the wealthy and the rest of us.
13
You clearly want things to be the way you want as opposed to the way they were and are.
Start with the fact that Carter deregulated the airlines in 1978.
Start with the fact that Carter deregulated the airlines in 1978.
An are you ready to regulate them again? I am.
6
San Francisco: Are you ready to pay the inflation-adjusted price equal to the typical $650 cost of a coach ticket in the 1950's? Probably would be $2,500 today. The upper 5% do pay that to fly business or first. The rest of us get a huge bargain price compaired to "the good old days'", and we, the unwashed masses, get what we pay for - the ability to travel by air that was beyond the reach of the middle class in the golden 1950's and 60's.
3
Very insightful for the once-a-decade flier, me. Economics won out after being quoted $4000 for a cross country round trip for two on AMTRAK. The sleepers put the fare over the top. I love Trains. I am really starting to regret changing plans for reasons of money. I have always felt the destination comes in second to the journey, but I balked. Next year the journey will come in first while having no regrets. Money and the airlines be damned.
8
You should know that your preferences are a decided minority. Americans view transportation as a means to the end and have, by their preferences, bid down the quality of service in favor of very low prices.
5
Bingo readily! Well put
2
Only one strategic error-next time go for the food at Shake Shack. It's not Per Se, but it's not disgusting either. How many airline terminal food vendors can make that claim?
6
I don't know. I still find it miraculous that I can go from Atlanta to Portland in four and three quarter hours. Try that in a Conestoga wagon.
16
So true JLATL. Btw, I'd love read an article about the author traveling by Conestoga.
2
Two years ago, my significant other and I went to France for a barge trip through Burgundy and then a week in Paris. We flew from San Francisco to Charles de Gaulle - a ten-hour flight. I was dreading it after traveling for years on domestic flights in "coach" class.
We decided to upgrade to Air France's Premium Economy - or oxymoron class, as I like to call it. At $600 each, round trip, it wasn't cheap, but it was worth every penny. Preferential boarding, comfortable seats, good food, and free wine whenever you wanted it. It reminded me of what flying domestically was like 50 years ago. Now it's a horror show. I will do anything possible to avoid air travel in the US, including taking the horridly slow train system. I'm sure a public bus in Mumbai is more agreeable. It's a measure of what a third-world country we have become.
We decided to upgrade to Air France's Premium Economy - or oxymoron class, as I like to call it. At $600 each, round trip, it wasn't cheap, but it was worth every penny. Preferential boarding, comfortable seats, good food, and free wine whenever you wanted it. It reminded me of what flying domestically was like 50 years ago. Now it's a horror show. I will do anything possible to avoid air travel in the US, including taking the horridly slow train system. I'm sure a public bus in Mumbai is more agreeable. It's a measure of what a third-world country we have become.
15
To Bill McGrath:
Your $600 roundtrip airfare from San Franciso to Paris is actually dirt cheap. A quick google search of Air France airfares shows current quotes of $893 to $899 (basically $900 roundtrip). Many airlines are showing rates of $2,000 to $3,000 roundtrip coach from San Francisco to Paris. A $600 roundtrip to europe is one of those miracle fares you jump on before it disappears.
Your $600 roundtrip airfare from San Franciso to Paris is actually dirt cheap. A quick google search of Air France airfares shows current quotes of $893 to $899 (basically $900 roundtrip). Many airlines are showing rates of $2,000 to $3,000 roundtrip coach from San Francisco to Paris. A $600 roundtrip to europe is one of those miracle fares you jump on before it disappears.
6
As someone who grew up in Kolkata, I promise you flying in the US is nothing like public transportation in India. Comparing American airline travel problems to the problems of a developing nation is wrong. I hope we can all approach this conversation with some more clearheadedness, it's upsetting to see these unproductive dramatics.
9
Thank you your article was accurate. Yesterday we flew from D.C. to Atlanta to Seattle and the up to Victoria, British Columbia Canada on Delta and it was awful - 15 hours in transit. Aggressive Delta flight attendants and, fatigued TSA screeners were the standard. At the end of our Delta trip arriving at our final destination my wife was ready to cry. This morning reading your article brought some laughter to us at the outrageous treatment to the vast majority of people flying in the USA.
Your experience on our nation’s airlines mimics what many of us experience every week. I have flown hundreds of thousands of miles and I have seen flight attendants treat passengers like the enemy, or show awful prejudices that are not worthy of description here. And while TSA Precheck has provided some sanity to my security clearance, when it is not available, I am reminded how horrible that process is.
Of course, I wish I had the money to pay for upgrades, to lift myself out of the tight seats, cookie and soda tossing flight attendants in the airplane. Airline staff are treating the majority of the passengers on the planes if they are either a security risk, an inconvenience, or worse as you described “gate lice” only to be courteous to a small percentage of passengers.
Thank you for your article, you had the skill to write what many of us painfully experience far too often. But let us hope we will return to having the majority respect the majority and treat them with dignity
Your experience on our nation’s airlines mimics what many of us experience every week. I have flown hundreds of thousands of miles and I have seen flight attendants treat passengers like the enemy, or show awful prejudices that are not worthy of description here. And while TSA Precheck has provided some sanity to my security clearance, when it is not available, I am reminded how horrible that process is.
Of course, I wish I had the money to pay for upgrades, to lift myself out of the tight seats, cookie and soda tossing flight attendants in the airplane. Airline staff are treating the majority of the passengers on the planes if they are either a security risk, an inconvenience, or worse as you described “gate lice” only to be courteous to a small percentage of passengers.
Thank you for your article, you had the skill to write what many of us painfully experience far too often. But let us hope we will return to having the majority respect the majority and treat them with dignity
13
There are much more direct routings you could have taken and cut the travel time in half. I bet you displayed your utility preferences by purchasing the cheapest fare. Then you didn't care for the quality.
10
There needs to be a law in place that makes it illegal for airlines to charge extra for leg room. This is discrimination on the basis of height.
14
Or crippling arthritis.
4
Solution: fly less, calm down when you do.
9
I dearly hope the Times, after laying off the Public Editor and offering buyouts, did not fund a week of airline flights, all to produce an anecdotal account utterly familiar to anyone who's ever flown before.
18
I haven't flown for at least 6 years. That trip was bad but not as bad as this one. I had decided never to fly again and this story verifies that I've made a good decision.
One of the more aggravating incidents was being "super searched" at Midway twice, coming and going. I asked the TSA guy why and he said that the airline nominated me. They picked me because I rarely fly and this way TSA gets its quota and the frequent flyers don't get hassled.
One of the more aggravating incidents was being "super searched" at Midway twice, coming and going. I asked the TSA guy why and he said that the airline nominated me. They picked me because I rarely fly and this way TSA gets its quota and the frequent flyers don't get hassled.
4
I thought that it was an entertaining article and I"m glad that the New York Times paid for her flights. IT was well written and she has a delightful sense of humor. I loved her selfi in the one piece sweat-suit, although I have to agree with the person who in the comment section agreed with the author's children and wrote"burn it.!) I don't know about you but I'm getting a little tired of every article in the NYT and Washington Post having to do with Trump or Comey or Brexit. Can't we just enjoy an entertaining article for a change? Thanks NYT for buying her tickets.
6
The selfie alone is worth a Pulitzer.
23
In addition to the problems one experiences because of the airlines and the security lines are the other passengers. I dread having to sit next to someone who snacks (smacks) on smelly, greasy pizza. Loud, non stop conversations from others increase the fatigue I am already experiencing. Passengers who sprawl, poking my ribs and, one time, a man who allowed his legs to rest against mine as I was confined to the middle seat. Then there are the adults who complain about exhausted children but make more noise and cause more trouble than tired infants.
10
Thank you Barbara!!
2
Colognes and perfumes should either be kept to a minimum or not used at all.
I've gagged my way across country seated beside someone who thinks they smell wonderful.
I've gagged my way across country seated beside someone who thinks they smell wonderful.
5
This article is so evocative of the horrors of modern day flying that by the end of it I decided to drive to a conference in Tucson, rather than brave two flights each way to get there. Truly.
The reporter should be sent immediately to a spa, at NYT expense.
The reporter should be sent immediately to a spa, at NYT expense.
17
I fly Southwest almost exclusively and LUV it!
13
Thank you. Reading this was so much fun. Airlines in America demonstrates the textbook case of laisseze faire capitalism, with what's missing is the proportional balance of regulation to make it a humane experience. The only thing more miserable than flying across all these airports in eight days is jail time. When the revolution comes and we line them up at the guillotine, the airline execs will be first. Then the agents at the counters, then the ones working the aisles. None of them will be spared, not even the nice ones, except for those checking our bags. They seem to be the only ones ever contributing any pleasantries to the gawd awful experience of flying.
6
There are some things you can do to make your "economy class" trip more comfortable:
1) Use seat guru.com to assess both flight options and the desireability of paying extra for some sort of "economy plus" seat. If two are traveling you may be able to get window/aisle seats in 2+4+2 two aisle jet. That doesn't get you more seat pitch but it makes the narrow seats better.
2) See if you are willing to pay more something like "economy plus." Seatguru.comwill let you know how much extra space you get.
3) Keep in mind that 10% more seat pitch means 10% fewer seats so the cost should be 10% more roughly. While most fliers won't pay a premium for more room Hawaiian Airlines and many others often sell out their "extra-comfort" or "economy plus" seats.
4) The boarding scrum is all about overhead bin space. Consider paying for checked luggage or consider boarding late and taking a chance that your carryon on will be checked, probably for free. If you can do that you are liberated from the boarding rush.
5) Finally, keep in mind that in constant dollars a first class seat today may cost no more than a "coach" seat decades ago. This means many people in coach either wouldn't be able to afford flying decades ago, or would have paid out in equivalent dollars for what now is a first class seat.
1) Use seat guru.com to assess both flight options and the desireability of paying extra for some sort of "economy plus" seat. If two are traveling you may be able to get window/aisle seats in 2+4+2 two aisle jet. That doesn't get you more seat pitch but it makes the narrow seats better.
2) See if you are willing to pay more something like "economy plus." Seatguru.comwill let you know how much extra space you get.
3) Keep in mind that 10% more seat pitch means 10% fewer seats so the cost should be 10% more roughly. While most fliers won't pay a premium for more room Hawaiian Airlines and many others often sell out their "extra-comfort" or "economy plus" seats.
4) The boarding scrum is all about overhead bin space. Consider paying for checked luggage or consider boarding late and taking a chance that your carryon on will be checked, probably for free. If you can do that you are liberated from the boarding rush.
5) Finally, keep in mind that in constant dollars a first class seat today may cost no more than a "coach" seat decades ago. This means many people in coach either wouldn't be able to afford flying decades ago, or would have paid out in equivalent dollars for what now is a first class seat.
14
Next time: note how many seconds between inviting people who need extra time to board and calling the group. More often than not, "extra time" is less than 10 seconds.
3
They just need to be in front of other people, not all the way to their seats.
1
For the record, airline clubs in the US airports can't hold a candle to some in Europe, Lufthansa clubs in German airports standing out in particular. Sandwiches, salads, nice cheese, patisserie-quality pastries, ice cream, beer and wine, etc are on the buffet. I get a couple of free club passes from my United Visa card each year, so I get to sample some of the clubs around the world. The ones here in the US are very basic, but it is nice to have a quiet place with complimentary wifi when I have a long layover.
6
As always, Sarah Lyall hits the nail on the head, with grace and humour! Sorry she had to suffer for the story though. All too true. It is no wonder people lose it on a regular basis these days. I love her last day, dressed appropriately like "a giant toddler" !
10
The herd mentality, gladiator-level competitiveness and stink of gluttony began when airlines started dropping their prices. Suddenly, people who previously had to ride Greyhound were able to afford to fly. I know this won't sit well with a lot of folks but the class of passengers is not classy any longer and that has degraded the flying experience as much as airlines squeezing profits.
10
Snobby aren't we
9
Yep, really sad that millions of Americans who could not go to weddings/funerals and long haul vacations can now do so. On their behalf, I apologize for your inconvenience.
7
Written and executed brilliantly.
4
"Snobby aren't we"? sic
For five years I commuted from Mt. Laurel New Jersey to New York City mostly on the 6AM Trailways Bus. Occasionally I'd get on the bus that had originated in Atlanta. It was really the 5:45 running late. The 6AM started in Philadelphia.
I'd know instantly. There would be people who were awake but taking two seats. Night Train and Mad Dog wine bottles rolling on the floor. Boxes full of chicken bones set on the floor in the aisle. I was sure they'd all grown up in houses with females because no one seemed to know to lift the seat in the rest room.
Some of those people are now flying.
For five years I commuted from Mt. Laurel New Jersey to New York City mostly on the 6AM Trailways Bus. Occasionally I'd get on the bus that had originated in Atlanta. It was really the 5:45 running late. The 6AM started in Philadelphia.
I'd know instantly. There would be people who were awake but taking two seats. Night Train and Mad Dog wine bottles rolling on the floor. Boxes full of chicken bones set on the floor in the aisle. I was sure they'd all grown up in houses with females because no one seemed to know to lift the seat in the rest room.
Some of those people are now flying.
4
It seems to me that it was only a matter of time. Scheduled airline travel, a means of travel that was initially primarily intended for the wealthy, now seems to be returning to its roots in some sense. The last 50 years has seen the affordability of airline travel first come to within reach of middle-class folks, then in the midst of an economy that seems to pit the top 5% against the bottom 95%, so too the airline industry now seems to merely be following suit. Of course they would desig accomodations and fare structures that would merely take that somewhat divisive ground mentality, and reflect it up into our skies. Of course the 95% would grow a bit queasy and perhaps choke a little!
3
The evil 5% are paying the same, in inflation adjusted dollars, as air travel cost in "the good old days". The rest of us are getting a huge discount. As you say, airline travel is now within the reach of the middle class. No class war in that. The accommodations and fare structures you bemoan are a huge benefit to the 95%, not oppression.
3
If you had time to fly unnecessarily across the USA and you consider yourself a journalist, you should also have time to do some research and analysis on things like airline business profitability and the history of the industry. Your article read like a series of Tripadvisor reviews. Not good enough for what I expect and pay for from the New York Times. I want my peanuts back.
21
The passenger doesn't care about airline profits, only about getting where they're going, on time, in some semblance of comfort. That is what this article is about, and it stuck to its focus. If you want to write an article about how hard it is for the poor airlines to turn a profit, go ahead.
12
Apply for her job.
5
Next time don't read articles that don't interest you. I pay for my subscription too and I enjoyed this spot-on article!
10
I've said this many times: we need an airline managed and operated by the Catholic school nuns of my youth. There would be no misbehavior! Boarding would be orderly and quiet, as would the entire flight. Nobody would be given any kind of preferential treatment, and any "problem" person would be promptly expelled.
16
And you would be sexually molested by disappearing church employees and you would be punished for complaining - at the most expensive airfare or you may be beaten for complaining FOR FREE! No misbehaving except by the "church."
2
Enjoyed this article and the comments are even better!
7
It's a free country so don't fly then. Spend a couple of days on Greyhound from Des Moines to Phoenix. Try that once and you will be back in the air, peanuts or no peanuts.
12
Oh it's not that bad. Get a good set of noise-cancelling headphones (Bose w/bluetooth are nice), buy a sandwich and a bottle of water in the terminal, read a book and take a nap. Airline travel is cheap and usually hassle free. Every TSA agent I have dealt with has been perfectly polite. I wear business attire and loafers and breeze right through everything. My credit card gets me into the AA lounge and, when the stars align, I get an upgrade.
17
This article is a series of whiny complaints and doesn't address the biggest problem in airline travel - it is incredibly inexpensive today. A seat in coach from NYC to LAX costs $392 on Delta, or approximately 12 cents per mile. For that, people expect decent food, plenty of space, and overhead space to accommodate 2 large "carry on" bags? Airlines could do a significantly better job of service, no doubt. But passenger expectations must be adjusted too. That's cheaper than driving a car to California, or taking the bus, and the 6 hour flight is half the time required in 1960. For that price I am happy to sit in a middle seat. Or for an additional 1,200 one can buy a business class seat and give up what is really awful food anyway. If you want to be treated like passengers in the 50's, you would have to pay the equivalent of about $1,600 in today's dollars, which, surprise, is the cost of a first class seat to LA. Finally words to the wise: regardless of where you sit, the laws of physics do apply - air pressure changes throughout the cabin, so it is always best to turn your yogurt away from you when opening the cover. Thanks
27
I always say my trip begins when I deplane and ends when I get back on. It's like any other form of travel. It has it's pluses and minuses. If it really were pure hell no one would endure it. But they do it. Comfort is relative. Try driving from SFO to JFK in 6 hours...cannot be done.
The key is using common sense. Travel smart. Expect delay. Carry snacks. Hydrate. Get a good neck pillow...a good one. One that supports your chin when your head flops forward. Wear loose fitting clothes to avoid pulmonary embolisms. Get in shape before you go...a little yoga goes a long way on a long flight. Pee immediately before boarding. Use Smooth Move tea the night before to produce a series of emptying bowel movements. You'll be more comfy.
Help people with their carry on if you're taller and in better physical shape. Yes they were dumb enough to bring it without being able to lift it...but you can help. Be nice to flight attendants. That way they will ignore you and not wince every time they lay eyes on you.
Once the flight reaches cruising altitude and you've been seated for an hour...get up every 30 minutes and stretch..maybe a little downward facing dog.
The key is using common sense. Travel smart. Expect delay. Carry snacks. Hydrate. Get a good neck pillow...a good one. One that supports your chin when your head flops forward. Wear loose fitting clothes to avoid pulmonary embolisms. Get in shape before you go...a little yoga goes a long way on a long flight. Pee immediately before boarding. Use Smooth Move tea the night before to produce a series of emptying bowel movements. You'll be more comfy.
Help people with their carry on if you're taller and in better physical shape. Yes they were dumb enough to bring it without being able to lift it...but you can help. Be nice to flight attendants. That way they will ignore you and not wince every time they lay eyes on you.
Once the flight reaches cruising altitude and you've been seated for an hour...get up every 30 minutes and stretch..maybe a little downward facing dog.
11
Providing every passenger with something like nuts can cost an airline between $10 million to $20 million a year. Of course this is peanuts
compared with $26 BILLION in airline profits last year. I wonder how much profit airlines sacrifice by providing toilet paper in the lavatory? Recently I was on a United flight DC to Honolulu nonstop about 11 hours, about twice the distance from DC to Europe. There was no meal offered because it was considered a "domestic" flight. Gimme a break!
compared with $26 BILLION in airline profits last year. I wonder how much profit airlines sacrifice by providing toilet paper in the lavatory? Recently I was on a United flight DC to Honolulu nonstop about 11 hours, about twice the distance from DC to Europe. There was no meal offered because it was considered a "domestic" flight. Gimme a break!
12
Re: TP. Price per square, oh, you want two ply, I will need to see you credit card.
Amusing but pointless article.
8
Some pointers for a relaxed experience in Coach.
1) Generally speaking, completely ignore the frequent flier mileage programs. Give them your number and cash the miles when you feel like it.
2) Make sure you are the last one to board, then calmly walk to your seat with zero pushing & shoving.
3) Neatly fold the provided blanket on top of your seat, the extra padding counts.
4) Take an expensive goose-down pillow with you, to plug the crack between the seat and the wall.
4) When walking through the 1%ers cabin, quip to your friend that this is a rare opportunity when you can look down upon the well-to-do. Pick out the ones who look as if they are upgrading, rather than paying full fare, for additional points.
5) Rather than pay the extra $1,000 for three hours of sitting in an ersatz Lazy-Boy seat eating posh peanuts, take a Grand out of a hole-in-the-wall when you get to your destination, and splurge on something worthwhile.
5) Always leave your roll-aboard on the jetway, it's a nice service, and the counter clerks always look relieved.
6) When flying international, write on the landing card that you went on a farm: then the TSA folks will clean your shoes for you for free.
Enjoy!
1) Generally speaking, completely ignore the frequent flier mileage programs. Give them your number and cash the miles when you feel like it.
2) Make sure you are the last one to board, then calmly walk to your seat with zero pushing & shoving.
3) Neatly fold the provided blanket on top of your seat, the extra padding counts.
4) Take an expensive goose-down pillow with you, to plug the crack between the seat and the wall.
4) When walking through the 1%ers cabin, quip to your friend that this is a rare opportunity when you can look down upon the well-to-do. Pick out the ones who look as if they are upgrading, rather than paying full fare, for additional points.
5) Rather than pay the extra $1,000 for three hours of sitting in an ersatz Lazy-Boy seat eating posh peanuts, take a Grand out of a hole-in-the-wall when you get to your destination, and splurge on something worthwhile.
5) Always leave your roll-aboard on the jetway, it's a nice service, and the counter clerks always look relieved.
6) When flying international, write on the landing card that you went on a farm: then the TSA folks will clean your shoes for you for free.
Enjoy!
20
The quip in #4 could get you ejected for daring to even glance in the direction of the hoy-paloy. Thanks for flying with us today, now sit down, hands folded, eyes forward and above all shut-up. No soup for you!
2
I have one complaint about this article.
Why didn't the reporter take any flights on Virgin America or JetBlue? Having flown about 130 times across the country in the last 6 years I can tell you that those airlines offer a decent flying experience, mainly because of greater legroom and employees who do not treat passengers as the enemy. I am not saying they are perfect or match service on many international airlines, but they give you decent services at reasonable prices. Contrast that with the contempt passengers are often treated with by United, and to a lesser extent American and Delta.
Why didn't the reporter take any flights on Virgin America or JetBlue? Having flown about 130 times across the country in the last 6 years I can tell you that those airlines offer a decent flying experience, mainly because of greater legroom and employees who do not treat passengers as the enemy. I am not saying they are perfect or match service on many international airlines, but they give you decent services at reasonable prices. Contrast that with the contempt passengers are often treated with by United, and to a lesser extent American and Delta.
15
This is true. I generally only fly JetBlue or southwest, and I lack horror stories, other than some crappy interactions with TSA.
5
This article is ridiculous - it purports to uncover the "forces shaping air travel today" and then tells us the horrors of sitting next to a large person eating a cheeseburger with a sense of surprise and shock.
The forces shaping air travel relate to deregulation, consolidation of carriers, lack of investment in infrastructure, consumers' unwillingness to pay more, unrealistic expectations, and a stressed airline workforce.
If the NY Times is to maintain its place - and avoid being perceived as inhabiting a bubble - it needs to do better than fly to a handful of cities, express shock at what millions of us suffer through every day, and conclude that "if you pay enough, you can get whatever you want."
As one of those frequent, suffering travelers, I started this article hoping to learn something - and felt like I had wasted my time by the end.
The forces shaping air travel relate to deregulation, consolidation of carriers, lack of investment in infrastructure, consumers' unwillingness to pay more, unrealistic expectations, and a stressed airline workforce.
If the NY Times is to maintain its place - and avoid being perceived as inhabiting a bubble - it needs to do better than fly to a handful of cities, express shock at what millions of us suffer through every day, and conclude that "if you pay enough, you can get whatever you want."
As one of those frequent, suffering travelers, I started this article hoping to learn something - and felt like I had wasted my time by the end.
14
I feel exactly the same as W. Murray about this article.
5
It makes no sense to me. Has it not occurred to any honcho in the airline industry if they treated passengers like ladies and gentlemen, the passengers - or at least a large majority - would behave well? That if the airlines made an effort to communicate with "inside" voices and less billigernce, the customers would response reasonably. Also, the airlines are making a killing from those "user" and "service" fees, such as checked luggage. Unless there is a dire emergency where time is essential, I take the train or drive. Paying chunks of money to be abused and herded like a cow in a feed lot is not my idea of travel. Trains over planes any day.
7
After averaging 100 flights a year, I don't miss the stink of fast food next to me on a packed flight.
5
Or kimchi!!
6
A few suggestions:
Get TSA Precheck and dress for the security screening, ie no belts, big metal jewelery, put change etc in your carry-on ahead of time.
Dress attractively; you'll be treated better. Don't fly in sweatpants, dirty clothes and unwashed hair. Appearance makes a difference.
Bring your own food from home instead of buying at the airport, and bring small snacks like peeled orange sections, grapes, nuts, chips, etc.for when you are tired and bored.
Do not use a black suitcase that looks like everyone elses. I have a silver, a magenta and a purple one. I also write my name in big letters all over it. No one is going to mistake it for their suitcase. It also is more easily found when lost.
Get Boses noise-cancelling headphones and a Bucky eyemask that is super comfortable and blocks all light. Listen to a boring book and you'll be asleep in no time.
I consider flying to be a challenge and I am determined to rise above the occasion by being smart and prepared.
Get TSA Precheck and dress for the security screening, ie no belts, big metal jewelery, put change etc in your carry-on ahead of time.
Dress attractively; you'll be treated better. Don't fly in sweatpants, dirty clothes and unwashed hair. Appearance makes a difference.
Bring your own food from home instead of buying at the airport, and bring small snacks like peeled orange sections, grapes, nuts, chips, etc.for when you are tired and bored.
Do not use a black suitcase that looks like everyone elses. I have a silver, a magenta and a purple one. I also write my name in big letters all over it. No one is going to mistake it for their suitcase. It also is more easily found when lost.
Get Boses noise-cancelling headphones and a Bucky eyemask that is super comfortable and blocks all light. Listen to a boring book and you'll be asleep in no time.
I consider flying to be a challenge and I am determined to rise above the occasion by being smart and prepared.
18
As a decades'-long flight attendant, I completely agree with these recommendations. You can be prepared, and blunt the worst aspects of the experience, or you can arrive, like a Martian from another planet, with expectations of a magic carpet ride, and be colossally disappointed.
3
Not a lot of focus on how the industry handles passengers when there are delays. Delays are the largest problem for passengers, mothers not being able to collect children, meetings the purpose of the travel missed, etc. So, let's at least have the industry readily and easily re-book at their cost when there are significant delays. JetBlue was the airline without any "interline" agreement w Delta so it's over 6 hour delayed passengers had to "wait" for JetBlue, and BA and American did a stupefyingly poor job of rebooking during the recent BA crisis. MANY airlines fly to Hesthrow from JFK, BA should have rebooked on them all. Fix this, regulators !!
3
airlines cant simply rebook passengers on another airline if those other flights are also full.
1
Of course not... but there were LOTS of empty seats... !!
1
And the NUMBER ONE reason to avoid flying:
The biggest carbon sin-air travel.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/27/sunday-review/the-biggest-carbon-sin-a...
The biggest carbon sin-air travel.
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/27/sunday-review/the-biggest-carbon-sin-a...
3
Although airlines compete on the "quality" of a business class experience between financial centers (LAX-NYC), my occasional upgraded first class experience on less traveled routes - say between, Des Moines and Albany -- isn't much different than the back of the plane except that you get a free drink and 3" more legroom. All this for...uh... $1000 more if you paid for it. No wonder airlines have been giving it away to people like me. Oh, and I must be flying on the wrong airlines -- I've never seen a meal like that on a domestic flight. You didn't, perchance, get on a foreign carrier's flight to Singapore by mistake?
3
It doesn't have to be like this.
Our national carrier, Cayman Airways, allows 2 free checked bags per person up to 55lbs. each.
Leg room is reasonable too.
While meals have been eliminated on short flights one is served on their flights from New York to Grand Cayman, about 4 hours.
All the staff are friendly and helpful. Gate and on the plane.
Sadly they don't fly across the USA or internationally except of course to the Cayman Islands and from here to Cuba and Panama.
Our national carrier, Cayman Airways, allows 2 free checked bags per person up to 55lbs. each.
Leg room is reasonable too.
While meals have been eliminated on short flights one is served on their flights from New York to Grand Cayman, about 4 hours.
All the staff are friendly and helpful. Gate and on the plane.
Sadly they don't fly across the USA or internationally except of course to the Cayman Islands and from here to Cuba and Panama.
6
Sometimes it is the destination. A flight to Bermuda is always more civilized and pleasant than say one at spring break to Ft. Lauderdale or Orlando.
My gripe is the airline's "You're supposed to know" attitude. If you're an infrequent flier, you need to spend days studying the process. You're supposed to know that the hubs in Philadelphia and Atlanta are as big as an upstate NY village. This misguided attitude is not unique to airlines. However, the minute you dump this responsibility on customers, you become the cause of your own chaos.
64
It's easy to get flustered at TSA check points too. So stressful and chaotic, especially when you have unkind people barking orders at you. No eye rolling is going to help from other impatient frequent flyers. Help somebody out if they don't seem to know what to do or make a helpful suggestion. We've got to get through this together.
6
Other than the author's need for attention and constant whining there is no point to this article. I refuse to raise the armrest and will request passengers that ooze into my seat to reimburse me accordingly. I would like to see all carry-on baggage banned. Flying is a privilege, not a right.
6
Thanks for doing this trip and telling us about it. I laughed so hard I had tears running from my eyes.
At first, I thought I would not travel by plane anymore, however, that will not work. So, I guest I will have to spring for first class travel.
At first, I thought I would not travel by plane anymore, however, that will not work. So, I guest I will have to spring for first class travel.
6
The decline of flying I have experienced. It is now awful, especially with the new "basic economy," which seems to be the old student-standby of the 1960s, except the benefit is all the airline's. (Then half price and a seat was probable most times)
There are not many places where it's an option, but Amtrak in the NE has improved. For fifteen years every week I have commuted to distant locations.
One year, to Kansas City with Midwest Express, which as a recent comment mentions, was comfortable and sane. GONE
One half year, to Tampa, in the last days of Continental, which had an excellent and understandable Frequent Flyer Program, which meant usual upgrades. GONE. Replaced by the unfriendly skies, if you're lucky, dragged off a plane running late if you're not.
13 1/2 years to Baltimore with AMTRAK. Hooray. BETTER. Much improved. New engines mean fewer delays. A Guest Rewards program you can use. Ticketing that permits changes without losing your shirt.
There are not many places where it's an option, but Amtrak in the NE has improved. For fifteen years every week I have commuted to distant locations.
One year, to Kansas City with Midwest Express, which as a recent comment mentions, was comfortable and sane. GONE
One half year, to Tampa, in the last days of Continental, which had an excellent and understandable Frequent Flyer Program, which meant usual upgrades. GONE. Replaced by the unfriendly skies, if you're lucky, dragged off a plane running late if you're not.
13 1/2 years to Baltimore with AMTRAK. Hooray. BETTER. Much improved. New engines mean fewer delays. A Guest Rewards program you can use. Ticketing that permits changes without losing your shirt.
1
Why do you imagine Midwest express is no more?
Once you fly international airlines and experience their excellent service and smiling attendants at lower if not parity costs, you're shocked at how the American airlines are able to get away with treating their economy customers like a herd of cattle. And those international airlines do make a healthy profit despite being humane.
My own shocking experience with United just a month ago rests my case. My husband and my 9 month old were flying on an international United flight, to visit the grandparents. I managed to get some time off from work at the last moment and booked myself on the same flight. Unfortunately, the economy plus seat next to my daughters bassinet was too expensive by then, so I booked the nearest available economy seat. When we boarded, I realized that the seat next to my infant and husband was empty and asked the air hostess if I could seat there to be with my family. The flight had taken off. Shocking, she refused. She said that I hadn't paid for economy plus so unless I was willing to pay for it, that seat can't be taken. If I want to sit with my daughter, she said, I am allowed to take her from her economy plus bassinet and place her on my lap in my economy seats. My co-passenger overheard this and was livid that they would rather keep the seat empty than let a mother sit with her baby. This would have never happened in a non-American flight! I'm not flying United again if I can help it.
My own shocking experience with United just a month ago rests my case. My husband and my 9 month old were flying on an international United flight, to visit the grandparents. I managed to get some time off from work at the last moment and booked myself on the same flight. Unfortunately, the economy plus seat next to my daughters bassinet was too expensive by then, so I booked the nearest available economy seat. When we boarded, I realized that the seat next to my infant and husband was empty and asked the air hostess if I could seat there to be with my family. The flight had taken off. Shocking, she refused. She said that I hadn't paid for economy plus so unless I was willing to pay for it, that seat can't be taken. If I want to sit with my daughter, she said, I am allowed to take her from her economy plus bassinet and place her on my lap in my economy seats. My co-passenger overheard this and was livid that they would rather keep the seat empty than let a mother sit with her baby. This would have never happened in a non-American flight! I'm not flying United again if I can help it.
17
Airlines have long since caught onto this scam of buying cheap and hoping to move with the family plea. If sitting with your family was that important you would have paid for the seat and not gambled on a free upgrade.
11
You are the passenger who makes us not want to fly.
6
Most Americans have never flown on or experienced a foreign carrier. Therefore they can not compare the excellent service, comfort and treatment one receives with the other airlines.
2
The quantity and quality of comments say it all: A broken system that only suffered the concept of "public transport" when it was regulated, and then the public suffered with artificially high fares. Innovation and technology are limited to safe fast flying machines. Their insides, our homes aboard, are torture chambers created by managements tied to their quarterly profit reports. The back of the bus pays for the front of the bus where luxury reigns by subsidizing their comfort via sardine-like conditions and the price we pay for goods and services impacted by the high percentage of corporate-paid seating. Two solutions: The return of sensible regulation (Safety: Do you really believe that that your flight could be evacuated in the required 90 seconds in an emergency). A passenger organization/lobby with the clout to balance the airline's DC lobby and call for selective boycotts.
4
The back of the plane does not subsidize the front.
It's the opposite.
As the article says airlines earn 5 times as much on business class passengers than economy.
They pay 3 times the price for extra legroom, a couple of free drinks and a $3 meal.
It's the opposite.
As the article says airlines earn 5 times as much on business class passengers than economy.
They pay 3 times the price for extra legroom, a couple of free drinks and a $3 meal.
5
Not true - collectively, a 3-seat economy row on an international flight pays far more and takes up far less space than a cocoon up front!
1
Next time, take two international flights to the same destination: One with a US carrier, and one with a foreign carrier, and report the differences. If other people in the world can treat travelers decently, why can't US airlines do the same? It happens not only with airlines, but with education, with medicine... The US is neither the best, not the land of the free. It has lots and lots to learn from how things are done in the rest of the world.
28
I couldn't agree more! The things Americans put up with in the name of being true to profit-seeking capitalist principles would make even Milton Friedman turn in his grave.
5
Our airports are a nightmare too.
We used to be able to do stuff well.
Not so much anymore.
We used to be able to do stuff well.
Not so much anymore.
3
Transportation-wise we indeed have become a third world developing country and we're sinking lower and lower and lower
In addition to the airlines just try taking an AMTRAK train outside the Boston-DC corridor (which isn't so good either). You would be embarrassed that it is our national rail network which by the way owns very little of the track it rides on and is given low priority for the track owner who needs to make money moving freight.
EJB
In addition to the airlines just try taking an AMTRAK train outside the Boston-DC corridor (which isn't so good either). You would be embarrassed that it is our national rail network which by the way owns very little of the track it rides on and is given low priority for the track owner who needs to make money moving freight.
EJB
Since then travel a lot I really enjoyed this essay. You encapsulated the sense of being an air traveler in 2017. Thanks!
3
The degradation of flying conditions as part of our growing inequality, class-based system: increasing poverty, deteriorating roads and services, etc.
I remember an international flight on British Airways where we were all jammed into a cramped cabin at the rear of the plane without a single empty seat, while the adjacent section toward the front was entirely empty. An emblem of the British class system, I thought, and promised myself never to fly the airline again.
MIdwest Express, a relatively short-lived airline offered amazing comfort at average prices 25-30 years ago. But their management also was on occasion tone deaf. When one of their planes crashed on take-off, killing everyone on board, a spokesman used the occasion to boast of their exceptional amenities.
Corporations now count as people, very wealthy ones, and we have the best government money can buy. What else needs to be said?
I remember an international flight on British Airways where we were all jammed into a cramped cabin at the rear of the plane without a single empty seat, while the adjacent section toward the front was entirely empty. An emblem of the British class system, I thought, and promised myself never to fly the airline again.
MIdwest Express, a relatively short-lived airline offered amazing comfort at average prices 25-30 years ago. But their management also was on occasion tone deaf. When one of their planes crashed on take-off, killing everyone on board, a spokesman used the occasion to boast of their exceptional amenities.
Corporations now count as people, very wealthy ones, and we have the best government money can buy. What else needs to be said?
8
Most everyone can recount horrific experiences such as these especially with U.S. airlines. Profit, make-it-up-as-they-go security, discourteous employees, rude fellow passengers, unruly kids, etc., all contribute to the nightmare that is air travel today. It need not be this way. But since they choose to make it so, I will choose to drive if the destination is within 8 hours or foreign carriers if traveling abroad.
6
Funny, I am buying a new car so that I can drive myself in some sort of comfort....
and know when I am going to get there. Sure I'll buy my own snacks..
and know when I am going to get there. Sure I'll buy my own snacks..
Sounds like the typical book tour.
2
Great article. We were extensive world travelers in the past, but the negatives today of air travel are so many, we have regretfully stopped flying.
5
The airlines industry shares a lot with our health care system. Clinging to a set of increasingly wrong profit-driven motives that serves no one but a few investors.
11
At least in the domestic air travel business, Usama Bin Ladin won the war against America.
After 9/11, airborne crews and airport security personnel started to treat passengers as potential terrorist suspects. After a few months, the Stanford prison experiment (SPE) sunk in the relationship of empowered air travel personnel and defenseless passengers.
To remember, the SPE was an attempt to investigate the psychological effects of perceived power and abuse, focusing on the struggle between prisoners and prison guards.
I've noticed passengers are still treated with some respect by American crews during international flights. The reason, perhaps, is foreigners do not take abuse as passively as Americans do after 9/11.
Besides, there is the bottom line question. Foreigners have the option to fly non-American airlines. Money is the only language American CEOs understand.
Foreign carriers treat passengers cordially and with respect. Besides, onboard services are much better, like they used to be in American carriers in bygone years.
After 9/11, airborne crews and airport security personnel started to treat passengers as potential terrorist suspects. After a few months, the Stanford prison experiment (SPE) sunk in the relationship of empowered air travel personnel and defenseless passengers.
To remember, the SPE was an attempt to investigate the psychological effects of perceived power and abuse, focusing on the struggle between prisoners and prison guards.
I've noticed passengers are still treated with some respect by American crews during international flights. The reason, perhaps, is foreigners do not take abuse as passively as Americans do after 9/11.
Besides, there is the bottom line question. Foreigners have the option to fly non-American airlines. Money is the only language American CEOs understand.
Foreign carriers treat passengers cordially and with respect. Besides, onboard services are much better, like they used to be in American carriers in bygone years.
12
This is an excellent article, well-written and factually true. We who have been relegated to steerage for years can relate to all of her "economy" seat experiences. I have never flown business class nor do not see it in the future, so her experience with a duvet will remain an unobtainable Panemic dream.
7
In my opinion one of the things that has made flying such an ordeal is carry on bags. With the airlines losing 6 bags person 1000 checked, how about we all go back to checking our bags.
Why are there gate lice ? They want to be sure they have a place to put their giant carry on that can barely be lifted into the overhead.
Why does it take so long to board and deplane? Carry ons!
That's my rant. But actually the worst thing for me about flying is that we are almost chained to our seats. Even after the minuscule snacks have been served we are still discouraged from getting out of our seats buy the latest stupid rule that no one can wait in line for the restroom.
But still it is the best way to get where you want to go quickly so I will keep doing it.
Why are there gate lice ? They want to be sure they have a place to put their giant carry on that can barely be lifted into the overhead.
Why does it take so long to board and deplane? Carry ons!
That's my rant. But actually the worst thing for me about flying is that we are almost chained to our seats. Even after the minuscule snacks have been served we are still discouraged from getting out of our seats buy the latest stupid rule that no one can wait in line for the restroom.
But still it is the best way to get where you want to go quickly so I will keep doing it.
17
Hilarious. Yes, flying makes me feel like trash going to the landfill. Long flights in economy are plain covfefe. It's so awful that I suspect comments I've read to the contrary to be "fake news." Sad.
19
So, that's what covfefe means. Who knew?
The rich get better service, big deal, what else is new. The fact is I can get on a plane in Boston and 5 hours later be in Europe or LA, if that isnt cool I dont know what is. Oh yeh, the whole flying at 20000 feet at 600 miles an hour is pretty cool as well. 80% of the world lives on $5 a day and this lady gets paid to complain about air travel and use words like schadenfreude, know wonder why they hate us.
13
Sarah Lyall set out on an unrealistic itinerary (eight straight days of flying, four flights in one day) and, in other shocking news, did not enjoy it. Couple that with people complaining about "power-mad" TSA agents, comparing a patdown to molestation. Really?
I fly economy about once a month, often in the middle seat because I travel alone. I check my big bag, put my day bag under my seat, bring snacks and water and something to read, and I'm good. I find that if you're friendly and chill to airport workers, they will be friendly and chill in return. Say hello, please and thank you, ask them how their day is going. I asked a restaurant worker at O'Hare what was in my roasted vegetable salad (it was nutritious and good, by the way) and wound up with four guys who told me about watermelon radishes and golden beets, clearly happy to be asked about their work. They get treated like subhumans all day long by the traveling public.
A little kindness goes a long way in improving your own experience and that of the people around you.
I fly economy about once a month, often in the middle seat because I travel alone. I check my big bag, put my day bag under my seat, bring snacks and water and something to read, and I'm good. I find that if you're friendly and chill to airport workers, they will be friendly and chill in return. Say hello, please and thank you, ask them how their day is going. I asked a restaurant worker at O'Hare what was in my roasted vegetable salad (it was nutritious and good, by the way) and wound up with four guys who told me about watermelon radishes and golden beets, clearly happy to be asked about their work. They get treated like subhumans all day long by the traveling public.
A little kindness goes a long way in improving your own experience and that of the people around you.
49
This article seems overly critical of an amazing and very complex system of technologies and people in the interest of creating a story. The cost of flying today, on an inflation adjusted basis, is considerably cheaper - and much much much safer - than the time when air travel was purported to be glamorous. If you want a better experience, there is no secret how to achieve it, you need to pay for it. Or you can drive (which is much less safe). The airlines have just reacted to consumer behavior, the company's that didn't are gone.
14
I do like the article - but seems like a colossal waste of money and leaving a huge carbon footprint for a great story? Seems there could have been a more useful expenditure.
I realize i should lighten up - but if all do a little a lot can happen.
I realize i should lighten up - but if all do a little a lot can happen.
4
This is the reason I don't fly unless overseas - even then I'm seriously thinking of sailing. I actually bought an RV so I would have to fly for my job that much. I'm retired now so do not have to fly but I find the couple extra days it takes me to drive to be full of relative wonder seeing the country up close. It's not the destination anymore. It's the journey. Good luck!!
Thank you, thank you, thank you! Now if only Congress (fat chance with Republicans in charge!) will start examining the US airline industry for what it is--a money-driven class system in which those with wealth can get whatever they want, while those without are treated as less than dirt! I have flown well over a million miles in my lifetime (much of it, thanks to my daughter who worked for the once great Continental Airlines, now the dreary and awful United, for 10 years allowing me lots of low cost travel) and I have never experienced anything like the awfulness of US airlines anywhere in the world except third world countries! Even now, although I do join the scramble for status (it does end up easing the angst just a bit to board first, and get free checked bags), I am sorely challenged by the whole mess. United, my preferred airline, is trying to sugarcoat things for its customers these days--talking nice to passengers while clawing back ever more privileges from frequent fliers, but their efforts are distinctly too little. We need solid, accurate investigative reporting like this to continue the pressure from the folks who actually support the bulk of the airlines' operations--those of us relegated to the back of bus!
12
I've flown on many third world country's planes that were great.
We are a third world country masquerading as a first.
We are a third world country masquerading as a first.
2
Great article. As a veteran business traveler I could not agree more with the sad assessment of flying these days. You can only laugh at how bad it is. The airlines, the crowds, cramped seats, etc... so miserable
6
I am not sure what your goal was for this story. Anyone who has flown should know they can experience everything you did. The smart traveler finds ways to reduce the hassle at the most affordable price. All I got from your story was a bunch of whining when a story of how to avoid your experiences would have been way more interesting.
6
When I want to travel far far away, I can handle the economy flight. It's a hard journey, and that's how I look at it. Too many First World people are crybabies.
9
This the most ridiculous article I have ever read and reaffirms the liberal nature of this newspaper. You cannot put yourself through a self-imposed ordeal like this and expect to have a positive attitude about flying. Most people think a 2-4 hour ordeal is just a means to an end. If you don't like it, take the train. And as far as privilege goes, when you travel every week, need to be productive and spending 10's of thousands per year you want to be treated special regardless of you is providing service.
4
First world problems.
9
Let me relate a story to bring home the point. In '66 and '67 I had the opportunity to work on the Circle Line boats that go around Manhattan. i was assigned to the XII, the biggest and fastest. It held 600 people.
This past October I had visitors from Europe who want to take that trip. My wife and I decided to join them since we hadn't done it in quite a while.
As luck would have it we boarded the XII (they retired it at the end of the season). Since it was 50 years since working there I had little hope of seeing my old colleagues but struck up a conversation with one crew member who worked there since '75 so we knew members who crossed our paths, I said when I worked there the #XII was the biggest and fastest holding 600 passengers. He said it only held 450. I said I'm sorry but that number sticks in my head. The first mate was walking by and he explained that several years back the Coast Guard limited the number to 450. Why? because people in America are getting heavier and heavier.
So there you have it, while the rest of America is growing in size the airlines are squeezing passengers in smaller and smaller seats.
This past October I had visitors from Europe who want to take that trip. My wife and I decided to join them since we hadn't done it in quite a while.
As luck would have it we boarded the XII (they retired it at the end of the season). Since it was 50 years since working there I had little hope of seeing my old colleagues but struck up a conversation with one crew member who worked there since '75 so we knew members who crossed our paths, I said when I worked there the #XII was the biggest and fastest holding 600 passengers. He said it only held 450. I said I'm sorry but that number sticks in my head. The first mate was walking by and he explained that several years back the Coast Guard limited the number to 450. Why? because people in America are getting heavier and heavier.
So there you have it, while the rest of America is growing in size the airlines are squeezing passengers in smaller and smaller seats.
10
In general, foreign carriers indeed are better--- with a major exception being Norwegian: smallest seats and legroom imaginable (I'm 5'11, 170). I recently completed an 8-hour trip during which I was not allowed to stir from my seat and periodically the pilot would put on the seatbelt sign (no turbulence was noted). I contrast this with all my foreign flight (and carrier) experience wherein folks stretched their legs and the warnings to buckle-up were few-and-far-between.
Forcing older people to sit without allowing them to occasionally stretch their legs is unhealthy and possibly dangerous.
I don't know why American airlines are so much more controlling than others. Is it because Americans are more sheep-like?
Forcing older people to sit without allowing them to occasionally stretch their legs is unhealthy and possibly dangerous.
I don't know why American airlines are so much more controlling than others. Is it because Americans are more sheep-like?
12
I will NEVER again fly with Norwegian Nightmare airlines.
1
I have found myself increasingly paying a bit extra for priority boarding or extra room. But by and large I no longer expect much except a seat. Planes are now the same as a greyhound bus or a train. Horrible but they get you there, once in awhile on time.
5
And there's the joy of reclining airplane seats when there's really no room. Airlines should get rid of these anachronisms; the fact of the matter is that seat rows are now so close together, that reclining seats are now a hazard. After all, human biology requires the ability to breath.
14
Don’t forget the growth of class status at the airport TSA screening lines. The stakes are high, if there are long lines at security and you miss your flight – well, best not to think about such things.
Especially aggravating is the growth of priority lines and legal line-cutting, and the opaque rules that govern them. All travelers have experienced this; you wait on line for 45 minutes, and when you finally get near the TSA agent, a group of 10 people cuts ahead of you, further delaying your passage. Who are these privileged souls? You never know.
TSA Precheck is one example; but, at least it’s transparent – usually. (I feel for those who try to sign up but then are rejected for mysterious reasons, like an ancient relative who fought for the British.) Anyone can learn about PreCheck on the TSA website, and it’s reasonably affordable, $85 for 5 years.
But now, all sorts of new schemes are cropping up, such as Clear, which costs far more: $15/month, which is profit for the private company that runs Clear. Clear members get to jump to the ahead of the line, and for every Clear member who does so, the rest of us have to wait longer.
Especially aggravating is the growth of priority lines and legal line-cutting, and the opaque rules that govern them. All travelers have experienced this; you wait on line for 45 minutes, and when you finally get near the TSA agent, a group of 10 people cuts ahead of you, further delaying your passage. Who are these privileged souls? You never know.
TSA Precheck is one example; but, at least it’s transparent – usually. (I feel for those who try to sign up but then are rejected for mysterious reasons, like an ancient relative who fought for the British.) Anyone can learn about PreCheck on the TSA website, and it’s reasonably affordable, $85 for 5 years.
But now, all sorts of new schemes are cropping up, such as Clear, which costs far more: $15/month, which is profit for the private company that runs Clear. Clear members get to jump to the ahead of the line, and for every Clear member who does so, the rest of us have to wait longer.
3
When I graduated from college and got my first job in 1980, the cheapest round trip from west to east coast was $300. Now 37 years later it is about $400. A business class today is about $1200. I make about 9 times more now then I did back then, so business class seems to me to be a real bargain since in salary terms, an equivalent coach seat compared to 1980 should cost me 9 x $300 or $2700.
5
In this case, as in so many others, success is getting what you want; happiness is wanting what you get. Also in this case, as in so many others, the two are not necessarily compatible.
5
The biggest problem with flying is the passengers. The infrequent travelers pack too much stuff, take too long to board and expect some fabulous experience. Flying today is much like bus travel in the 50's and 60's. Yes, first and business class are nice, but these are the most profitable flyers. No one wants to read the airline websites to prepare for their flight, check their enormous bag or listen to the gate agent explain the boarding process. Children are not supervised and far too many demands are placed on the flight attendants. No, I do not work for the industry, I just observe this while waiting to see if my upgrade is going to clear!
15
Great article, and the experiences ring true. From an economic perspective, air travel reflects America's inequality. The top ten percent can afford, and receive, plush service. The next 70% travel like sardines. And the unfortunate bottom twenty percent cannot afford to travel at all. As long as we have such great wealth inequality, airlines will adapt their practices to the market.
8
Hopefully airlines will reverse the pendulum and make flying more comfortable again. However: whenever I'm flying coach on an uncomfortable flight, I remember the regular one-hour mini-bus trip between my village and the capitol city while I was in Eastern Europe for the Peace Corps a couple of years ago. Usually my age and teacher status got me a seat (crowded, hot, sweaty, thigh-to-thigh, maybe holding someone’s heavy purse or even a child, but a seat.) Even when I had to stand I used some effective zoning out techniques connected with mindfulness meditation. In short: think of it as a bus rather than a plane, and remind yourself how long it would take to get to your destination overland.
5
When I was in my all male high school, there were times in which the entire school would be herded simultaneously into the gymnasium for an assembly. Out of the classroom, into the overcrowded halls, down the perilous steel-fronted concrete stairs, through the narrow doorway into the large room.
We would all, to a man, moo loudly during the trek. We were being treated like cattle, felt like cattle, harassed along by a harassed staff.
Why not let it all out? We at least felt better.
We would all, to a man, moo loudly during the trek. We were being treated like cattle, felt like cattle, harassed along by a harassed staff.
Why not let it all out? We at least felt better.
5
I used to fly the old Midwest Express ("The Best Care in the Air") out of Milwaukee. Pre-September 2001 they served hot meals with linen and silverware. All seating was two to a side and they had their famous baked on board chocolate chip cookies. Naturally, they could not sustain such a business model, and were sold and resold. Anyone who remembers them knows what I mean when I say how much I miss them. At the risk of sounding like an advertisement, now we fly Southwest for multiple reasons: more direct flights from Milwaukee, reasonable checked baggage policies and stress-free boarding procedures among them. I think this airline has made the best of circumstances beyond their control, and tried to keep the passenger at the center of why they do business in the first place.
108
Sigh. I sure do miss that warm chocolate chip cookie.
2
I remember flying Midwest Express through chicago to boston and back in 1990's. Warm damp towel provided before and after dinner along with a mint stick dipped in chocolate. Oh, gosh! They were wonderful. Amazing. I was a wide-eyed 23 year old, enthralled with it. Clearly it made an impression as I haven't forgotten those details as soon as I read your comment. :)
2
And on some of those Midwest flights from Florida they'd serve (free) red wine.
1
Yeah, yeah. I've been flying for over 50 years and remember going cross country on a 707 dressed in a little boy suit. I remember running to gates when there were no security check points. Everyone who flies has horror stories and some airlines are truly horrible. But I still find it amazing and if I manage to get a window seat almost always enjoy it.
Last week, already 3 hours delayed, my flight from LaGuardia to Boston had to land at Kennedy because of mechanical problems. I was trying to get home for a family emergency, but there was nothing more I could do to expedite that. So I looked out the window and appreciated the view down the Hudson toward the city. Later I saw the hook of Cape Cod from Provincetown to Orleans, a view I'd always wanted but never had seen before. At home things turned out fine.
One of the best things about flying are the conversations I've had with seatmates. Not everyone is a gem and there have been some real duds, but I regularly meet amazing people with interesting stories and points of view (mind you, if you want to sleep, read or watch, I won't bug you and on night flights I prefer to sleep too).
So, after 50 years of mostly flying coach, after all of the delays and rudeness and nasty smells and discomfort, I still like to fly. There is nothing like the views from the Rockies to the Pacific and getting across the country in 6 hours rather than 6 months is simply amazing.
Last week, already 3 hours delayed, my flight from LaGuardia to Boston had to land at Kennedy because of mechanical problems. I was trying to get home for a family emergency, but there was nothing more I could do to expedite that. So I looked out the window and appreciated the view down the Hudson toward the city. Later I saw the hook of Cape Cod from Provincetown to Orleans, a view I'd always wanted but never had seen before. At home things turned out fine.
One of the best things about flying are the conversations I've had with seatmates. Not everyone is a gem and there have been some real duds, but I regularly meet amazing people with interesting stories and points of view (mind you, if you want to sleep, read or watch, I won't bug you and on night flights I prefer to sleep too).
So, after 50 years of mostly flying coach, after all of the delays and rudeness and nasty smells and discomfort, I still like to fly. There is nothing like the views from the Rockies to the Pacific and getting across the country in 6 hours rather than 6 months is simply amazing.
134
You nailed it. That's why I always get a window. See this wonderful earth in a new way.
8
Not only that, but photos taken out the window can actually be pretty good, and you can learn a lot about urban development, industry, etc. from some of the things you see (e.g., the fracking and drilling pads in central and west Texas). And being up in cloud formations--my goodness!
What puzzles me is why so few people seem to look out the windows much. It's an unbelievable opportunity. Are most of us so far beyond awe or even curiosity?
What puzzles me is why so few people seem to look out the windows much. It's an unbelievable opportunity. Are most of us so far beyond awe or even curiosity?
11
Whatever happened to dressing nicely on the plane?
Wearing sweatpants signals to the flight crew your service level ought to match your attire, which in turn matches your attitude about the flight. Stop dressing like you just got out of bed, people.
Wearing sweatpants signals to the flight crew your service level ought to match your attire, which in turn matches your attitude about the flight. Stop dressing like you just got out of bed, people.
30
Because maybe sweatpants are more comfortable?
2
Oligopoly , no surprises what is going on. Oligopoly is a close relative of Monopoly . The DOJ is behind this consortium 100%.
7
The other day I was crammed in a window seat on an old, hot, smelly, city bus, full of tourists, and the thought that spontaneously came to mind was 'ugh, this feels like flying economy.'
Because, sincerely, our last transatlantic flights have been extremely uncomfortable and as unpleasant as they can be. In a bus I tend to blame the discomfort on bad planning and insufficient funding for vehicles and infrastructure. And sometimes, it isn't that bad.
On a plane, in economy, it is always bad, and I feel like a victim of intentional mistreatment.
Because, sincerely, our last transatlantic flights have been extremely uncomfortable and as unpleasant as they can be. In a bus I tend to blame the discomfort on bad planning and insufficient funding for vehicles and infrastructure. And sometimes, it isn't that bad.
On a plane, in economy, it is always bad, and I feel like a victim of intentional mistreatment.
13
I have often thought that the airlines should:
- inject 'em
- strip 'em
- inspect 'em
- wrap 'em
and....
- ship 'em!
We are treated almost like cattle or cargo anyway. Except for the occasional medical problem (Inject 'em with what? Is it safe enough?) it would be a lot easier for the airlines too.
No meal or beverage service, no fights over seat reclining--no seats--I am SURE they could fit many more of us on using advanced baggage techniques. No WiFi, no magazines, no movies...
Still thinking there might be a downside, but have not thought of one, yet!
(Groping... but how would you know?)
- inject 'em
- strip 'em
- inspect 'em
- wrap 'em
and....
- ship 'em!
We are treated almost like cattle or cargo anyway. Except for the occasional medical problem (Inject 'em with what? Is it safe enough?) it would be a lot easier for the airlines too.
No meal or beverage service, no fights over seat reclining--no seats--I am SURE they could fit many more of us on using advanced baggage techniques. No WiFi, no magazines, no movies...
Still thinking there might be a downside, but have not thought of one, yet!
(Groping... but how would you know?)
If it's a day that ends in Y, either the Times or the WSJ is publishing an article about either how miserable coach is on planes or how some element of an airline elite program has changed. Nevermind that any of the so-called hardships about which the author droned on incessantly are truly first world problems... as my train passes through some of the not-so-affluent areas of Philly, I'm guessing some of those folks might prefer the occasional discomfort on a 2 hour flight a few times a year to the daily norm of their lives - which might include working multiple jobs, riding a crowded bus for 45 minutes EVERY DAY, waiting in the rain at a bus stop, having work hours reduced, figuring out child care, figuring out how to pay bills, etc. etc.
At some point, the NYT needs to offer some real perspective. Most people who fly only fly a few times a year. Most flights are domestic. Most domestic flights are on 737s, MD88s, A320/319s, 757s etc. the seats are the same width as in 1989 on each and every one of those planes. The legroom is less, & airlines figured out they didn't want to lose money every year like they used to. It's crowded. So what? You probably don't travel often. Ride Greyhound and check your privilege.
Also, she picked premium transcon 1st. That's not the normal experience up front. It's super pricy. And finally, as a Delta Diamond who doesn't get upgraded often, economy is fine. I just don't whine. And never have I or fellow elites used the term lice.
At some point, the NYT needs to offer some real perspective. Most people who fly only fly a few times a year. Most flights are domestic. Most domestic flights are on 737s, MD88s, A320/319s, 757s etc. the seats are the same width as in 1989 on each and every one of those planes. The legroom is less, & airlines figured out they didn't want to lose money every year like they used to. It's crowded. So what? You probably don't travel often. Ride Greyhound and check your privilege.
Also, she picked premium transcon 1st. That's not the normal experience up front. It's super pricy. And finally, as a Delta Diamond who doesn't get upgraded often, economy is fine. I just don't whine. And never have I or fellow elites used the term lice.
24
I made the decision years ago to only fly JetBlue -- if possible -- as I was fed up with American, United, and Delta. As a result, I have few complaints. (And, no, I don't work for JetBlue. They have earned my loyalty.) I think the reporter's trips would have been quite different had she made the same choice.
14
"Feet splayed to match the floor diagram, hands in the air as if you’ve been pulled over by the cops, you feel like both criminal and victim. I position my arms in the manner of Macaulay Culkin on the “Home Alone” poster, which is not correct. “Hands away from your head!” the official barks."
Relax. You're raising your hands. It takes all of 15 seconds. If you are honestly complaining about this security process (and imagine the article you would write if there was no random screenings and as a result a terrorist used PreCheck to bring a weapon on a plane), life is going pretty good.
Relax. You're raising your hands. It takes all of 15 seconds. If you are honestly complaining about this security process (and imagine the article you would write if there was no random screenings and as a result a terrorist used PreCheck to bring a weapon on a plane), life is going pretty good.
8
A great sardonic look at flying today. I laughed outloud, which is rare when I read the Times these days. Soon I think the airlines will have to drag people ON to the plane.
18
No English people I've ever met talk about what class they grew up (unless asked by some American media pundit). That's as lazy and outdated an assertion as London being constantly foggy! Yet all Americans rank people by what "school" they went to and/or which fraternity or sorority they rushed for. You guys kid yourselves that America is a classless society. You're the most segregated society in the developed world. To wit, in this case, your crazy stratified methods for boarding an airplane.
13
Interesting how airlines use psychology to make frequent flyer and business class riders feel like they're better.
Airlines will board them via a red carpet and then board everyone else, just inches away, on a regular carpet.
Airlines will board them via a red carpet and then board everyone else, just inches away, on a regular carpet.
4
It's funny. I have almost completely given up on traveling inside the USA. Mostly because of the airlines, I never fly a domestic airline, to the fact that the USA has been so sterilized by every city being more and more like every other city. It's good to see that is not just that I have gotten old. But that things really are almost completely broken because of horrible management.
7
ALL of my family's vacations are abroad so that we can travel only with the foreign carriers. I refuse to give any US airlines my time or dime. It's not worth the humiliation.
1
She didn't wash her hair for an entire week. Why not? So revealing. Packing and posing in her onesie. This article wasn't for us; it was for her kids. What in the world was the point of booking 12 flights in 8 days without a carry on with toiletries and a change of clothes? So her kids could shake their heads at her audacity. Yawn. I'm not a fan of flying these days either, but Just Asking For It, was she.
24
Pity the poor participatory travel journalist.
Who's the editor willing to impose such work?
But it is accurate and informative, and with over 700 million passengers there's many who will experience your pain. But will they want to read about it too?
I'll be a more and more unlikely airline customer, if I can help it.
Good crisp descriptive piece.
And truthfully, having been in Russia and worn a thicker insulated winter one, the story was worth it for the part about your cold weather sleepable "onesy" alone! ;-)
Who's the editor willing to impose such work?
But it is accurate and informative, and with over 700 million passengers there's many who will experience your pain. But will they want to read about it too?
I'll be a more and more unlikely airline customer, if I can help it.
Good crisp descriptive piece.
And truthfully, having been in Russia and worn a thicker insulated winter one, the story was worth it for the part about your cold weather sleepable "onesy" alone! ;-)
1
I did not fly for vacation last year and choose not to fly this year either. We will do another "stay-cation". I have an adult son with autism and the thought of submitting him to an abusive TSA system and especially its untrained and power mad personnel is unimaginable. He is an adult and is a large, capable, independent friendly man who just wants to do the right thing. He loves to fly but is not quick to respond to verbal cues.. He doesn't take long but he's not a soldier who just snaps to He is not non-verbal but is not quick in responding to questions and pauses to find the words before answering. I have had to tell him to look for someone in a uniform if he needs help when he is out on his own. The TSA personnel and airport police (well any police officer) scare me to death. My son also has a familial tremor so an idiot might think he is nervous. It gets worse when he is excited which traveling make him. He is perfectly capable of doing all that is required of him to clear security but I don't trust the training of the personnel. Even when I attempt to alert the employees in the airport, they refuse to listen and tell me to get back in line. When we do fly, I always shorten the vacation by a few days so my budget will cover first class. As a former flight attendant, today's service and personnel are not passenger friendly. It's not people oriented in the slightest. Beware if you are human.
16
You are a caring parent!
1
Great piece Sarah, loved it.
3
I compare air travel to a bus ride. Mexican buses are more comfortable than American buses, but its still a time to suck it up, hold your temper and your pride and wait patiently till your vehicle disgoges you on the other side....your destination. Then life resumes. I could have flown, but this was more affordable. I could have walked, or drove, but this was faster.
I am irritated with the search for privilege and status in ths great country of ours. I believe most of the business travel is paid by businesses, and they write off the full cost of the trip as a business expense. Could there not be a limit, so that the cost of the basic ticket (economy) is deductible, but the privilege part (the difference in cost between economy and business) is not deductible from the taxes and falls on the company or individual who now wishes to declare their love of luxury and privilege a necessary business expense?
I am irritated with the search for privilege and status in ths great country of ours. I believe most of the business travel is paid by businesses, and they write off the full cost of the trip as a business expense. Could there not be a limit, so that the cost of the basic ticket (economy) is deductible, but the privilege part (the difference in cost between economy and business) is not deductible from the taxes and falls on the company or individual who now wishes to declare their love of luxury and privilege a necessary business expense?
12
Hilarious! Loved this article. All so true...
2
I wish Ms. Lyall had commented specifically on her Southwest experience. No ad here for that airline, but I do choose preferentially to fly it for these reasons: the boarding system (especially if you buy Early Bird) takes much of the stress out of boarding; there is no first class and all the seats are (relatively) spacious; personnel are friendly and competent. On the plane, everyone is treated equally. And I have never lost a piece of luggage on Southwest.
22
Amen. See my comment above...
1
This reporter asks,
"How did air travel, which once seemed so glamorous and exciting, turn into a sadomasochistic pas de deux between the industry and the passenger?"
With a question like that, you know this reporter will not write---nor is even looking for a fair and accurate accounting of air travel and the airline industry.
Further in the article she writes,
. "Some 24,000 commercial flights take off and land in the United States every day, most at or close to capacity. Last year, a record 719 million people flew on domestic flights, as compared with 696 million the year before."
Cannot people imagine the difficulties encountered when dealing with such volume--and to do it safely at what are often ridiculously cheap prices. (During the past 3 weeks, I flew Vancouver-London return for $650. I flew 2 one-way flights between Vancouver and Orlando ($165 each.)
The reporter writes,
"To help their profits, airlines fit more passengers into smaller spaces, charge more for once-basic services like legroom, inveigle customers into joining frequent-flier programs, and lavish ever more perks on higher-revenue passengers at the front of the plane." PRICE that passengers pay accounts for
mass market procedures.
Please NYT reporters, if you want to understand and report fairly, do not begin your research with your predetermined conclusion. For NYT readers, please see the NYT column of several days back written by pilot, Captain Patrick Smith.
Perspective and proportion, please.
"How did air travel, which once seemed so glamorous and exciting, turn into a sadomasochistic pas de deux between the industry and the passenger?"
With a question like that, you know this reporter will not write---nor is even looking for a fair and accurate accounting of air travel and the airline industry.
Further in the article she writes,
. "Some 24,000 commercial flights take off and land in the United States every day, most at or close to capacity. Last year, a record 719 million people flew on domestic flights, as compared with 696 million the year before."
Cannot people imagine the difficulties encountered when dealing with such volume--and to do it safely at what are often ridiculously cheap prices. (During the past 3 weeks, I flew Vancouver-London return for $650. I flew 2 one-way flights between Vancouver and Orlando ($165 each.)
The reporter writes,
"To help their profits, airlines fit more passengers into smaller spaces, charge more for once-basic services like legroom, inveigle customers into joining frequent-flier programs, and lavish ever more perks on higher-revenue passengers at the front of the plane." PRICE that passengers pay accounts for
mass market procedures.
Please NYT reporters, if you want to understand and report fairly, do not begin your research with your predetermined conclusion. For NYT readers, please see the NYT column of several days back written by pilot, Captain Patrick Smith.
Perspective and proportion, please.
9
Oligopoly simple answer. As a several million miler, it became clear the airline business model doesn't function. Just think about it. Stews in one Union, Pilots in another, Mechanics in another, cleaning crew in another. Then there is unstable jet fuel prices up and down. Then of course because of W we have global warming, and horrible snow storms. So in all their wisdom, the DOJ sanctioned a Oligopoly. Having a few no name carriers going hear and there avoids a Monopoly.
2
If airlines operated in a monopoly, you would not see the much lower prices we enjoy today relative to 40 years ago when regulated monopoly-set higher pricing permitted better service for economy passengers.
2
Would be nice if the Times would explain why the media has chosen to wage a propaganda war against the airlines. My experience is that airline travel is cheaper and more comfortable than ever before.
5
Are you a paid company employee or rep by any chance? Or shareholder? CEO?
1
Well done, Sarah.
This is a long tedious whine of a read offering little to no information that has not been true for years, nor any data to back up broad generalizations about award seat availability and the like. Why the NYT felt the need to publish such a one-sided piece is beyond me. I travel regularly but not enough to have significant status with any airline. Pack lightly, always have food to snack on and something to read, do no take flights whose data shows they consistently are not on-time, and try to be generally courteous to everyone around you and the experience generally goes fine.
16
I flew on 124 flights last year, all with American Airlines. 95% were on time, or
minimally delayed. Attendants were professionally pleasant. Airports were crowded but clean. Lines were long and sometimes disorganized but when the number of people on any given day waiting to board a flight resemble the number of people in Rockefeller Plaza from Thanksgiving to Christmas isn't disorganization to be expected? On one flight I left my mouse behind. Figuring it was lost forever, I ordered a new one from Amazon as soon as I reached my next gate. That's when my phone rang and I learned that the gate agent at the previous gate had taken the time to see who was sitting in the seat where my mouse was found, looked up my name and phone number in the system, saw that I was still in the airport awaiting a connecting flight and invited me to come back and pick up my mouse, she would wait. She could just as easily have thrown my mouse into some "Lost And Found" bin. No positive experiences like that were part of the reporter's story but I believe they happen more often than one might expect. Flying isn't for the fainthearted, I agree. But, neither is the drive from N.C. to N.Y. in Interstate 95 with its crowded lanes, lengthy traffic delays and jacked up gas prices. The reporter's portray of the airline industry isn't exactly "fake news" but she sure did paint a distorted picture.
minimally delayed. Attendants were professionally pleasant. Airports were crowded but clean. Lines were long and sometimes disorganized but when the number of people on any given day waiting to board a flight resemble the number of people in Rockefeller Plaza from Thanksgiving to Christmas isn't disorganization to be expected? On one flight I left my mouse behind. Figuring it was lost forever, I ordered a new one from Amazon as soon as I reached my next gate. That's when my phone rang and I learned that the gate agent at the previous gate had taken the time to see who was sitting in the seat where my mouse was found, looked up my name and phone number in the system, saw that I was still in the airport awaiting a connecting flight and invited me to come back and pick up my mouse, she would wait. She could just as easily have thrown my mouse into some "Lost And Found" bin. No positive experiences like that were part of the reporter's story but I believe they happen more often than one might expect. Flying isn't for the fainthearted, I agree. But, neither is the drive from N.C. to N.Y. in Interstate 95 with its crowded lanes, lengthy traffic delays and jacked up gas prices. The reporter's portray of the airline industry isn't exactly "fake news" but she sure did paint a distorted picture.
14
We need government support for speedy railroad travel.
4
My spell check turned Noone into "No-one." Not the first time that's happened.
You're lucky. My 30 years of travel on airlines went from bad to worse. Although over the years change is inevitable but unless you have historical perspective this article may seem far fetched
1
This piece could not be more superficial an examination of the flying caste system. The author fails to penetrate the ingenuity and system gaming that undermines the boarding pecking order she derides. First, those willing to pay an exorbitant sum for privileged seating do so more often than not as to minimize the chaos and stress that has come to define the flying experience. I could care less about food "enhancements" ( e.g., that redolent microwaved pasta) and extra leg room. I care most about claiming my seat and securing reasonably contiguous overhead space before it is utilized by the truly early boarders seated 15 rows behind me who refused to check their oversized bags and stuffed animal souvenirs. So I arrive at the boarding area extra-early with my costly business class ticket in hand.
So what comes next? I wait interminably. First to board are the wheel chair bound, most of whom command by sympathy and respect despite the few who have proven to be quit ambulatory once on board. Then the call for service men and women. No problem. Then families with young children. Again, no problem. Then the ambiguous call for people requiring "special assistance", and the mad rush that ensues as this newly anointed class of seemingly hearty passengers brazenly push forward ahead of the so-called entitled class. Special assistance is not defined and gate agents are not permitted to challenge electing passengers. This is how incentive pricing economics works in practice.
So what comes next? I wait interminably. First to board are the wheel chair bound, most of whom command by sympathy and respect despite the few who have proven to be quit ambulatory once on board. Then the call for service men and women. No problem. Then families with young children. Again, no problem. Then the ambiguous call for people requiring "special assistance", and the mad rush that ensues as this newly anointed class of seemingly hearty passengers brazenly push forward ahead of the so-called entitled class. Special assistance is not defined and gate agents are not permitted to challenge electing passengers. This is how incentive pricing economics works in practice.
1
I fly jet blue. It does not always end up being the cheapest ticket but they are great. Free snacks- yes as many as you want- soda coffee water.everyone has a free tv and they also offer free wifi
No nonsense with 5 sub groups. No business class. Yes you can purchase an extra legroom seat and travelers that really do fly a lot are now mosaic members. As for the rest they keep it simple.
No nonsense with 5 sub groups. No business class. Yes you can purchase an extra legroom seat and travelers that really do fly a lot are now mosaic members. As for the rest they keep it simple.
6
Didn't realize wifi was free, thanks.
2
As I am reading this article and planning my trips this summer, Atlanta, Austria, Cincinnati - ALL in economy - my heart rate is up - and self preservation is high. My thoughts: I can do this. I meditate. I can keep calm. You're good at turning lemons into lemonade! Doesn't being in category 3 make me smart? I save the most money! And I begin to list my blessings.
1
I have read at least 50 of these comments that blame "capitalism" and "deregulation." Yet, no one seems to understand how unions, work to rules, and 30-year careers as flight attendants have changed the experience from 40 years ago.
Compare Emirates service...no unions, no careerist flight attendants, higher prices (in most instances.), better service.
Compare Emirates service...no unions, no careerist flight attendants, higher prices (in most instances.), better service.
1
Airlines-not unions-establish policies. The concepts of basic economy, paying for every tiny amenity, byzantine upgrade and reward programs come from the executives of the oligarchy of remaining airlines to squeeze every dollar out of passengers. This is a reward for the tax dollars all airlines enjoyed after 9/11 to keep them from disappearing. Please keep your anti-labor rant to facts and off the pages of the NY Times.
10
What Sarah describes here is the logical extension of the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978, which eliminated economic, but not, safety regulation from the airlines. What followed was a many decade period of transition to a very competitive industry, where customers demand low fares and the airlines must reduce costs to the minimum to survive. If she had included a comparison of the cost of flying in the coach/economy section in the 70s to today's prices, at an inflation adjusted level, as well as the substantially higher number of people flying today vs. then, it would have provided an even more complete picture.
4
This article was FANTASTIC. I have never read a more true and funny take on experiences with airlines. Thank you for this breath of fresh air.
11
It is very informative to learn of the poor onetime record of the airlines and the horrendous waiting conditions in the airports in light of Trump's current efforts to eliminate Amtrak's long distance trains based,in part, on their "record of lateness". I now travel everywhere by Amtrak or Via Rail,taking only short flights to bridge gaps in train service. A coach seat on the train is superior to a first class seat on a plane and you can walk to the cafe/dinner/observation car. The only thing the airlines have going for them is time but that is a wasting asset as this article shows--even short flights can take all day now. In 1950 the United states had the finest passenger rail system in the world with famous trains: The 20th Century limited, The Super Chief, The El Capitan (all coach), and so on and on. After the war the government decided to subsidize the interstates and the airports while leaving the railroads to fend for themselves. Now we have choked highways the nightmare of air travel. Our competitors in Europe and Asia are doing the right thing in restoring passenger rail. We need to follow suit by not only saving our long distance trains but massively increasing their number.
24
So, basically airlines are no more than a reflection of the entire world. You need to buy your way up: better education, better healthcare, better neighborhood, even better support from the legal system... What's uniquely whine-worthy about airlines??
11
No, the airlines are a business that needs to turn a profit or they wind up like the rail roads on the Subcontinent.
2
Not a thing. Indeed, service to the little guy has descended at a dizzyingly precipitous rate since I was a young adult (admittedly 50 years ago). I came from an era when gas was pumped for you and your windshields were cleaned, where real people answered the phone ALL the time, and when airlines actually had a lounge (for all passengers) at the back of the plane with comfy couches. There was no such thing as cramped legs. I have asked myself for years (having give-up on asking businesses) why we put up with this ridiculous state of affairs. Any ideas?
2
Ths article focuses on the pain in the neck of air travel today, but ignores one of the biggest problems that airlines have created to protect their profits while travelers suffer. A recent flight I was booked on was delayed over six hours, a competing carrier had numerous other flights, our carrier would not rebook us on them. Some years ago this would have never happened. No "interline" agreement. So "our" airline kept our business, destroyed our day and inevitably increased our costs, while empty seats on other carriers were unfilled to our destination. Oh, they offered "compensation" of a discount on a future ticket. Where is the Congress in regulating this "abuse"? We should have been rebooked on other flights, any difference in cost absorbed by "our" carrier, agreements among airlines required to cooperate. A continuing nightmare in the air travel business, where we are not protected by our regulators and the capitalist "market" !
20
If Congress steps in, your problem only intensifies. Want to show that airline a lesson? Fly with those other carriers you mentioned. This is how capitalism works, like it or not.
Increased government involvement would do what, exactly?
Increased government involvement would do what, exactly?
5
Congress got us into this problem in the first place by "deregulation", by allowing mergers which cut competition and served the needs of the airlines in consuming their rivals...
7
Well, the business class sounds lovely. That said, I personally don't mind economy. I think it is silly to pay hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars more to be "pampered" on a flight. We all get to the destination at the same airport at the same time (or we do down together). I'd much rather spend my money on seeing wonderful things and staying longer where I travel than on extra special airline food or a flight attendant's fawning.
I flew to New Zealand recently. The flight from California was around 13 hours going and somewhere under 12 coming back. No matter 1st class or coach, the flight still means that many hours sitting on a plane. No uppity ticket can change that.
Personally I think all the competition to be in a certain group is silly. I wouldn't mind if my Zone 3 ticket said "loser." I'm the winner in my own mind anyway because I'm not so foolish as to buy into that really false sense that importance or self-worth can be based upon what one is willing or able to pay for a plane ticket.
I flew to New Zealand recently. The flight from California was around 13 hours going and somewhere under 12 coming back. No matter 1st class or coach, the flight still means that many hours sitting on a plane. No uppity ticket can change that.
Personally I think all the competition to be in a certain group is silly. I wouldn't mind if my Zone 3 ticket said "loser." I'm the winner in my own mind anyway because I'm not so foolish as to buy into that really false sense that importance or self-worth can be based upon what one is willing or able to pay for a plane ticket.
34
I agree. While insightful and funny this is not a valid reflection of airline travel. I travel frequently and his chaos he writer placed herself in was self inflicted. No one travels like this, no even the flight crew. If you can't suck it up for a few hours then pay to move up, simple enough. I often get offers to upgrade (at a cost) when checking in online. I decide if it is worth it and then move on. Some times it is but many times it isn't. As for Pre-check, it is the best $100 bucks you can ever spend but it is easier to do Global entry for he same price and get pare-check for free.
4
This is all well and good - but doesn't apply to us seniors who just simply can't endure what your take in your stride. Happy travels. I have, recently and after a grueling international flight, decided to stay home.
3
You are most likely under 6 feet tall.
1
If you are prepared with a book and some music on your headset the time can be used to zone out and relax. If you're texting all your friends and posting on Facebook and worried about your boarding group then you will be frazzled. There are some good alternatives for food at the airport but it's not on the plane. That's nothing new. Even when I do get moved up or pay for it, I don't eat the food.
4
What a gratuitous use of fossil fuels. Hope she purchased carbon offsets as CO2 indulgences.
9
These fossil fuels would have been used whether the reporter was on the plane or not. At least we got a good article out of them!
3
Haha - chill out, Keith.
2
In lots of flying in the last year I have found that those I would judge (purely by dress, body language, tone of voice, behavior, reading material) as probable Hillary voters are more accepting of economy class conditions and can cope. Those that re more Trumpian in these visual attributes have a much harder time in economy. In business class, both subgroups act about the same, including the swell feeling of entitlement that this is where they belong.
6
If you don't mind, I'm going to use your post in my college course on critical thinking is a perfect example of confirmation bias.
10
We have too much fun driving to go back to flying, but back when I did fly I dressed up. Maybe it was my imagination but it felt like putting on a tie and wearing a proper pair of slacks and dress shoes brought respect.
No idea whether that works these days.
No idea whether that works these days.
9
Who cares about respect on an airplane?
Thank you. Someone else who gets dressed when they fly. Over my years of flying domestic and internationally it does make a difference when you are dressed. One is treated better by the airlines when you look like that your clothes have been ironed and you have showered. We all have seen those passengers who are wearing the old sleeveless basketball shirts accompanied with ripped shorts and the flip flops my dog wouldn't even want to chew on. And that is topped off with a blanket and pillow they appear to have taken directly off their bed and dragged through the airport. And that goes for all classes on the plane. The days of the glamour of travel are gone. And that goes for all classes on the plane. Forget the TSA, there should be a hygiene and fashion police in the airports.
5
You have to dress as comfortably as possible to survive Economy these days.
1
I enjoyed the article - thank you.
A simple solution to many of the described discomforts: fly business class. As the article pointed out, business class is now much cheaper than the past, and on many domestic US routes, it is only $200-$300 more than economy...YES, I know that might be a lot of money, but if you care about comfort and lowering your stress level, it might be worth it!
A simple solution to many of the described discomforts: fly business class. As the article pointed out, business class is now much cheaper than the past, and on many domestic US routes, it is only $200-$300 more than economy...YES, I know that might be a lot of money, but if you care about comfort and lowering your stress level, it might be worth it!
3
What a simple solution! How has no one ever though of this before?
2
$200-$300 more ? Where do we get that deal ?
Providence to LAX costs around $1500-$1900 more each way with United. The $300 more deal is only available if you pay weeks in advance and take the 5.45am flight. Fly overseas and you will typically pay $2000-$4000 more in business class.
Providence to LAX costs around $1500-$1900 more each way with United. The $300 more deal is only available if you pay weeks in advance and take the 5.45am flight. Fly overseas and you will typically pay $2000-$4000 more in business class.
5
It’s interesting how our expectations have changed. There are plenty of people still alive who remember when a New York to Los Angeles trip meant several full days on a train that was jarring, noisy with wheels constantly clackety-clacking and screeching, without air conditioning and with an accident rate that would appall us today. And then there was the smoke and soot from the coal-fired locomotives.
Today, we can make the trip door-to-door in less than half a day in cleanliness, reasonable comfort and virtually perfect safety. Yet we curse the businesses and CEOs who provide us with what just a few decades ago would have been an unimaginable luxury. John D. Rockefeller at the height of his wealth and power could not purchase the luxury available to working class people today.
Today, we can make the trip door-to-door in less than half a day in cleanliness, reasonable comfort and virtually perfect safety. Yet we curse the businesses and CEOs who provide us with what just a few decades ago would have been an unimaginable luxury. John D. Rockefeller at the height of his wealth and power could not purchase the luxury available to working class people today.
20
Thank you for your service, CEOs!
3
those who forget the past are doomed to repeat it, or fly economy
1
How old are you!? In 1950 we had the finest passenger rail system in the world. Ever heard of the Super Chief,the 20th Century Limited, the Coast Starlight and even Amtraks Southwest Chief?
That onesie looks ridiculous, and it's even more ridiculous that "onesie" gets autocorrected. Maybe for a baby, but the onesie for adults will die hard just like Google glasses. #fashiondisaster
4
I have offered our son all of the FF miles we have accumulated. He is young and fit, and we are older and have come to hate flying, after several abusive incidents with the TSA. SLC employs retired cops who act as though they are Storm Troopers!
SLC Airport = NEVER AGAIN!
We are fortunate to be able to avoid flying.
SLC Airport = NEVER AGAIN!
We are fortunate to be able to avoid flying.
13
You've distilled and exposed yourself to nearly every possible miserable experience in a short amount of time in order to write an article that, to seasoned travelers who know better, doesn't ring true. Rather than rise above, you opted to revel in misery so that you could feed your readers a prepackaged bag of cliche's.
There is no comparison between you and he delightful journalist I sat next to in coach on a flight between Dallas and Hong Kong--Thad M.G. We spent nearly a dozen hours talking about the joys of flying. Your article is a downer--that offers readers no information on how to avoid, or at the very least, prepare for many of the issues you complain about.
Passengers aren't lice or garbage. They are human beings, who often feel helpless when flying because they have to relinquish varying degrees of control.
Flying is one of the greatest achievements of the modern world. Think about what a complex endeavor it is to fly--think about how safe it is for hundreds of people on an airplane to take off in one city and land in another.
There is no comparison between you and he delightful journalist I sat next to in coach on a flight between Dallas and Hong Kong--Thad M.G. We spent nearly a dozen hours talking about the joys of flying. Your article is a downer--that offers readers no information on how to avoid, or at the very least, prepare for many of the issues you complain about.
Passengers aren't lice or garbage. They are human beings, who often feel helpless when flying because they have to relinquish varying degrees of control.
Flying is one of the greatest achievements of the modern world. Think about what a complex endeavor it is to fly--think about how safe it is for hundreds of people on an airplane to take off in one city and land in another.
34
I have to agree. I live in Europe, make 3 or 4 trips a year back to NY to visit family - always economy class. the longest flight I took was Bologna - Hong Kong, again economy. No issues. I often don't bother even with extra leg room seats unless my husband is traveling with me. Make my little "nest", have my water and my book and try to sleep. Everybody on the plane is quiet and orderly, and the 7 or so hours pass. I will say, however, I always check my bag, so I carry on only a small computer case, an over-sized hand-bag that I use as a carry-on, and my purse; so even if there is no room in the overhead I can easily place them under my seat and still have foot and leg room.
Some of the horrible incidents reported recently were inexcusable, and thankfully nothing like that has ever happened to me, or have I witnessed it. But the experience itself I have long considered like "being in a big bus that flies", and if that is the trade-off for fares that allow me to travel more I'm good with it. I do have my limits though. I refuse to fly on Ryan Air.
Some of the horrible incidents reported recently were inexcusable, and thankfully nothing like that has ever happened to me, or have I witnessed it. But the experience itself I have long considered like "being in a big bus that flies", and if that is the trade-off for fares that allow me to travel more I'm good with it. I do have my limits though. I refuse to fly on Ryan Air.
4
We recently flew two flights on American. I was in the middle seat for both flights.
What works for me: politeness and cheerfulness toward flight crew, little carryon luggage, Bose headphones for the noise, and TSA precheck ($85, good for five years).
What works for me: politeness and cheerfulness toward flight crew, little carryon luggage, Bose headphones for the noise, and TSA precheck ($85, good for five years).
13
"But if you pay enough, you can get whatever you want."
At a certain point, Netjets becomes a better deal than flying commercial.
Of course, the really rich have fully owned private jets...
At a certain point, Netjets becomes a better deal than flying commercial.
Of course, the really rich have fully owned private jets...
4
All tax write-offs too!
2
Air travel does feel like being on a bus. Everyone cramming to get on quickly, no food, and swollen feet and cramped legs by landing. The shortest flights still can take an entire day of travel when you count getting to the airport and time at the airport. However, I have been quite fortunate using Alaska Airlines. My flights are generally on time, and the ground and air staff are polite. I am a MVP on Alaska because I fly them unless they don't go to my destination and I am absolutely forced to fly with another airline. I also get to the airport at least two hours early so I don't feel rushed through Security and I recently bought CLEAR. Yes, the airport and flying experience is an anxiety inducing process, and sometimes physically uncomfortable, but there are things you can do to make it somewhat better. As others have noted, it helps to just relax and understand that flying is not a fun experience, just a travel experience. I bide my time watching movies, playing on the internet or reading a book. And there is a destination at the end of it all. We just need to stay calm and carry on.
15
Today, airline travel will cost less than a Greyhound trip. When people compare to bus travel, they often think of days long past when bus cost far less than air. Those days are long gone.
4
I am with you on Alaska Airlines! The worst part of the trip is usually driving up I5 to SEA. I am nearing my million miles with them and will get there in August this year.
The vast majority of my miles are not employer paid miles either, I paid for them so they have been the cheapest fares I can find for dates that work. They have a great mileage plan and, at least so far, haven't monkeyed with it much although their passenger focus is shifting more and more to the premium traveler. The main cabin seats are certainly not as good as they once were and the food is a far cry from what it was but I still look forward to every flight with them. My theory is, if Alaska goes there then I will go.
In the past ten years I have had to take flights on two legacy carriers because Alaska didn't go there and both experiences were pretty bad. It made me appreciate Alaska's way of doing business more.
TSA just does what TSA does. In my opinion, it is largely theater on domestic flights. PreCheck is a great deal if you fly often.
As others have noted, people try to bring way too much stuff on board to avoid luggage fees. It makes it a hassle for everybody and slows the boarding and deboarding process. I wish air carriers would rethink that.
Neither myself or any member of my family is an AS employee; I just like them.
The vast majority of my miles are not employer paid miles either, I paid for them so they have been the cheapest fares I can find for dates that work. They have a great mileage plan and, at least so far, haven't monkeyed with it much although their passenger focus is shifting more and more to the premium traveler. The main cabin seats are certainly not as good as they once were and the food is a far cry from what it was but I still look forward to every flight with them. My theory is, if Alaska goes there then I will go.
In the past ten years I have had to take flights on two legacy carriers because Alaska didn't go there and both experiences were pretty bad. It made me appreciate Alaska's way of doing business more.
TSA just does what TSA does. In my opinion, it is largely theater on domestic flights. PreCheck is a great deal if you fly often.
As others have noted, people try to bring way too much stuff on board to avoid luggage fees. It makes it a hassle for everybody and slows the boarding and deboarding process. I wish air carriers would rethink that.
Neither myself or any member of my family is an AS employee; I just like them.
3
It is the result of airline monopolies created by the many mergers of past years. Compare with Europe where there are many airline options. Again, Europeans smarted than us.
7
Really? Ask the folks who were scheduled to fly BA/Iberia over the Memorial Day weekend? All flights cancelled world wide for 2 days, the airline says to bad and the government does nothing. Same thing happens in the US the airline would be roasted alive, paying big bucks and disembowled by congress.
I agree with this article
But I see the irony
Everyone can see the lack of customer service and adversarial moments with flying.
People ask why is that white woman being asked off the flight that way with her stroller
But with minorities it's different.
A child is dragged by the police out of a class and half the country is angry hat we aren't "respecting police officers"
People actually die by the hands of tax payer funded government workers and yet half of white America, republicans, don't see something wrong with this
They say law and order
Well I guess the dragging of that united passenger was law and order
The reality is that it's a racist double standard
But I see the irony
Everyone can see the lack of customer service and adversarial moments with flying.
People ask why is that white woman being asked off the flight that way with her stroller
But with minorities it's different.
A child is dragged by the police out of a class and half the country is angry hat we aren't "respecting police officers"
People actually die by the hands of tax payer funded government workers and yet half of white America, republicans, don't see something wrong with this
They say law and order
Well I guess the dragging of that united passenger was law and order
The reality is that it's a racist double standard
7
Because all people who die at the hands of police are peaceful, nonviolent victims, right?
I never fly unless I have to. I always carry my own food which I usually make the night before. I get in, stare until electronics can be used, tune in to music a game or audiobook. If someone takes the armrest down I politely ask them to put it up. Had I real money I would buy a NetJets time share or card. The whole nature of the modern economic system is adversarial. Treat is as such.
3
Hilarious. Truly. Of course, it only is so because it carries the hallmark of great humor/comedy: truth.
10
My wife and are retired. We'd planned to spend our few remaining years seeing places we've never seen. But as the years went by, the difficulties of flying culminated in a New York - Greenville flight on a nameless airline (initals AA) that took a day and a half. It had all the features of this all-too-true tale, including a brief stay at a no-tell motel (my wife was sick: I am disabled). That was the last straw. From this day to whenever the Trumpet Blows, our policy is: if we can't get there by car or train, we're not going. And I know the airlines couldn't care less. At least in America: Europe is better, but we'd have to fly to get there. Alas.
19
You can go to Europe on the Queen Mary, I believe.
8
Or fly an airline of the country you are flying to rather than a US airline.
12
I'm a frequent flier, but not an ultra-frequent super-elite status flier. So, I've been on a plane before. I have experienced my fair share of travel delays, mishaps, frustrations, and moments of anger. I've also read a fair number of critiques of air travel.
I think this article and the, more importantly, the writers attitude speak to the real problem here...unrealistic expectations. There was no mention of the prices paid for each ticket. There was no mention of the alternative means of travel...what they cost or how long they would take.
I'm not going to pretend that air travel couldn't be better, but the egalitarian tone this article took is such an epidemic that seems to infect a vocal few that make the system worse for all. The reporter lied to worker to get better/preferred treatment. She went through of list of completely unacceptable foods and dismissed a Chic-fil-A sandwich as if it was swill. She was rude to a fellow passenger for using an armrest. And she didn't wash her hair for a week. An alternative course of action would be to be respectful and patient, bring her own meal if it is that important, mind her own business, and treat personal hygiene as if it is important.
I strongly encourage anybody enraged by the airline system to have an honest look at their own role in the system. Are your expectations too unrealistic? Honestly?
I think this article and the, more importantly, the writers attitude speak to the real problem here...unrealistic expectations. There was no mention of the prices paid for each ticket. There was no mention of the alternative means of travel...what they cost or how long they would take.
I'm not going to pretend that air travel couldn't be better, but the egalitarian tone this article took is such an epidemic that seems to infect a vocal few that make the system worse for all. The reporter lied to worker to get better/preferred treatment. She went through of list of completely unacceptable foods and dismissed a Chic-fil-A sandwich as if it was swill. She was rude to a fellow passenger for using an armrest. And she didn't wash her hair for a week. An alternative course of action would be to be respectful and patient, bring her own meal if it is that important, mind her own business, and treat personal hygiene as if it is important.
I strongly encourage anybody enraged by the airline system to have an honest look at their own role in the system. Are your expectations too unrealistic? Honestly?
46
honestly and fairly stated; since i moved back to asia in summer 88, i have done about 80 transpacific flights in total of which nearly all in economy. prices are possibly 35-40% higher on average i guesstimate from '89 to '17 due to a lot more choice i believe. we consumers have benefitted.
2
Absolutely true. This article again shows that the reporter does not want--nor is even seeking--"fair and balanced."
2
Most of us, myself included, are in favor of thorough airport security, even random, full-body searches. But the TSA needs to find a way to give people some privacy if they're going to force them to expose flesh they'd intended to keep under clothes. Why not perform the search behind a privacy shield, but videotaped to prevent the likelihood of the agent abusing the traveler, and to provide evidence in case a complaint is lodged? Why does this have to be done in full view of the public?
13
No, the patdowns and searches absolutely should be done in full view of the public, so every traveler may watch and consider whether we Americans should be subjected to such abuse in the name of "security". Unfortunately, the consensus seems to be that being groped or naked body scanned is perfectly fine if it keeps us "safe". That and allowing ourselves to be herded onto airplanes, as described in this article, show what a submissive society we've become.
1
With narrower seats and leg room, along with shoddy service the airlines are creating more angry customers who cause or may cause mayhem on the flights. But what is more egergious is the absolute lack of the companies caring about the product offered. This is what occurs when the government blesses more mergers. This has resulted in less competition and hence, a lot less caring of airline (out other businesses) management.
The very rich individuals who can afford the high priced seats and the companies who already overpay their executives show their total distain for the average person. Do none of these see what is occurring in the upheaval throughout the world? In the USA it really did not matter if Bernie Sanders or Donald Trump won. It was the sheer anger of how divide of wealth and the rest of the populace are being treated. Take away Trump and the anger will still be there. Airlines are just more open in how they treat the great majority; the backlash they are getting will accelerate.
The very rich individuals who can afford the high priced seats and the companies who already overpay their executives show their total distain for the average person. Do none of these see what is occurring in the upheaval throughout the world? In the USA it really did not matter if Bernie Sanders or Donald Trump won. It was the sheer anger of how divide of wealth and the rest of the populace are being treated. Take away Trump and the anger will still be there. Airlines are just more open in how they treat the great majority; the backlash they are getting will accelerate.
6
"Care about the product offered..." Safety at all time high, prices at all time low. That's what customers want most, and that's what they are receiving.
4
I've been traveling economy quite regularly for the last twenty years, so a lot of the comments about "you get what you pay for" finally have prompted me to write (I didn't respond to that inane column the airplane pilot wrote a few weeks back, basically telling us to just deal).
Economy, some years ago, was a decent seat, with legroom, snacks, meals, available bathrooms (front OR back). Lufthansa used to put out baskets of chocolate for us. It was not a bed, or first-class, but it was a good experience and I looked forward to flying. We used frequent-flier points occasionally and I could get a great seat, so it built my loyalty to one airline.
Unfortunately, the author's experience is a good reflection of what goes on now: the degree of hostility shown to economy passengers by the the flight crew (I still remember the scowling flight attendant who blocked my way to the lavatory in economy-plus; but to fair, occasionally I'll get some nice ones), the ground personnel, and mostly the airline management is staggering. I can only assume that they mean to emphasize that not just any old seat on the bus-in-the-air will do. If we aren't willing to shell out for the Panem experience, the airlines seem to say, then we don't deserve to fly.
I miss my old days of flying economy. I still travel, but now I pack (snacks, food, comforts) like I won't see civilization for many hours...because, unfortunately, that is the case.
Economy, some years ago, was a decent seat, with legroom, snacks, meals, available bathrooms (front OR back). Lufthansa used to put out baskets of chocolate for us. It was not a bed, or first-class, but it was a good experience and I looked forward to flying. We used frequent-flier points occasionally and I could get a great seat, so it built my loyalty to one airline.
Unfortunately, the author's experience is a good reflection of what goes on now: the degree of hostility shown to economy passengers by the the flight crew (I still remember the scowling flight attendant who blocked my way to the lavatory in economy-plus; but to fair, occasionally I'll get some nice ones), the ground personnel, and mostly the airline management is staggering. I can only assume that they mean to emphasize that not just any old seat on the bus-in-the-air will do. If we aren't willing to shell out for the Panem experience, the airlines seem to say, then we don't deserve to fly.
I miss my old days of flying economy. I still travel, but now I pack (snacks, food, comforts) like I won't see civilization for many hours...because, unfortunately, that is the case.
20
How does the government fix uppity flight crews?
It frankly saddens me that more people are flying than ever. The reason I boycott air travel is because of the TSA's "right" to pat me down, essentially sexually molest me, for the crime of purchasing an airline ticket. Why do we tolerate this? This erosion of our human rights has got to stop.
18
What bothers me the most about flying is being treated like a scrub when paying several hundred dollars. I know that most flights aren't expensive for transporting you safely somewhere, but there's a disconnect between spending hundreds of dollars on a chair or a really fancy meal and the difference in the way you're treated.
I fly economy, but once in a while I'll upgrade if it's not too much, and I hold on to my airport lounge access very tightly - that's worth it. At least I get a couple of free martinis and some hummus and stuff.
I fly economy, but once in a while I'll upgrade if it's not too much, and I hold on to my airport lounge access very tightly - that's worth it. At least I get a couple of free martinis and some hummus and stuff.
6
I'm more into my right not to be bombed out of the sky.
Each and every ticket has a TSA tax. So you get the privilege of paying for that harassing, physical pat-down.
3
Why bothers to find it out? Unless you are rich, economy seat will never be satisfactory for ordinary folks. Seat is small, seat spacing is narrow, and your companions in adjacent seats are sweating and noisy. You sulk it up. It is a waste of time and effort to write about it. Better to find it out how to get rich so that you can fly business class or first class instead.
1
I think the airlines should raise the ticket price by 100% so that fewer people can afford to fly. They can drive or take the train. I remember the old days when the ticket price was high relatively speaking but flying seems more enjoyable and much easier. Of course, I would fly much less and fewer times.
Of course if we don't like that, we complain enough to the government so that she will be forced to developed fast train system around the country. It will cost much less than airline ticket and much more cost effective.
Of course if we don't like that, we complain enough to the government so that she will be forced to developed fast train system around the country. It will cost much less than airline ticket and much more cost effective.
5
The comment by Christopher said part of what I wanted to say and I am not defending the airlines industry. I've always said airlines are the only business in America (maybe the world) that makes money by abusing their customers who seem to volunteer for that type of abuse.
Having said that, I'd like to point out that forty years ago a one way coast to coast flight costs about $150 (with an additional $15 or so you could even fly first class, there was no three classes service then) and now, at least until a couple of years ago you could still fly coast to coast at maybe a bit more than $150. Just go figure the equivalent buying power is now for $150 forty years ago.
The way I see it, now that the airlines industry has found out they can make money by abusing their customers, the only way to improve airline services is for customers to refuse buying the cheapest ticket, willing to pay a bit more for a better service. When they find out the public refuses to accept their abuse the abuse will stop.
Having said that, I'd like to point out that forty years ago a one way coast to coast flight costs about $150 (with an additional $15 or so you could even fly first class, there was no three classes service then) and now, at least until a couple of years ago you could still fly coast to coast at maybe a bit more than $150. Just go figure the equivalent buying power is now for $150 forty years ago.
The way I see it, now that the airlines industry has found out they can make money by abusing their customers, the only way to improve airline services is for customers to refuse buying the cheapest ticket, willing to pay a bit more for a better service. When they find out the public refuses to accept their abuse the abuse will stop.
7
It's easy to complain, but remember that air travel is more affordable than ever. Would you rather travel poorly or not travel at all?
2
Not at all.
8
I spent 9 years traveling for business, and mostly enjoyed it.
This year, I am not elite, having failed to qualify and refusing to pay $799 for the privilege. It's really not so bad. If the flight is full, the airline will check your carry-on (only containing clothing, and cheap at that), and then early boarding is irrelevant.
Last time I flew, I skipped the $+ seats, the only ones then available to LAX, and chose nearby airports. What's a little more money, when you can avoid LAX in favor of ONT or BUR?
Last Thanksgiving, my son waited over 2 hours off the 405 just to get to the LAX terminals. Never again: a cheaper fare isn't worth the gigantic hassle.
If traveling overseas, "business class" is easily worth the 10-12% surcharge.
This year, I am not elite, having failed to qualify and refusing to pay $799 for the privilege. It's really not so bad. If the flight is full, the airline will check your carry-on (only containing clothing, and cheap at that), and then early boarding is irrelevant.
Last time I flew, I skipped the $+ seats, the only ones then available to LAX, and chose nearby airports. What's a little more money, when you can avoid LAX in favor of ONT or BUR?
Last Thanksgiving, my son waited over 2 hours off the 405 just to get to the LAX terminals. Never again: a cheaper fare isn't worth the gigantic hassle.
If traveling overseas, "business class" is easily worth the 10-12% surcharge.
5
Have you actually bought any business ticket lately, domestic or international? It is a heck of a lot more than the 01-15% surcharge even after you pay for early seat assignment (so you won't get squeezed into the middle seat, baggage fee, and some extra legroom charge.
10
That's because of affordability, or cheap airfares, everybody is flying , now if only some knew how to behave and be considerate of your fellow travelers , it still wouldn't be heaven but somewhat bearable ; talking about those who take off their shoes and put their feel up on your armrest or seat back , change their baby's diaper on the tray table, and then leave it on the floor, have their fake emotional support dog from hell , cough or sneeze and let fly without covering up , who don't get a flu shot and travel while sick and infect everyone , on and on .
3
I have only flown AA, and to Peru in 2011 and 2013, to Costa Rica in 2012. So things may have changed, but seats were 2 across, food and drink was served, first boarding, etc. FWIW, AA gates in Lima only open 3 hours before boarding, and you have to be in line WAY before that. But I found the extra $$ for business class to be well worth the extra ticket cost.
I can live with economy on domestic flights.
I can live with economy on domestic flights.
Good article. Ms. Lyall deserves an award for tackling a week's worth of air travel. The eye infection would have been my end point.
I wish I had that onesie, it seems great for travel. Children don't know anything and should be ignored.
The moral of the story is avoid economy class at all costs and pony up for a business class or first class seat. I fly infrequently and have always flown economy and sometimes "premium economy." I see that approach is no longer the way to go.
I wish I had that onesie, it seems great for travel. Children don't know anything and should be ignored.
The moral of the story is avoid economy class at all costs and pony up for a business class or first class seat. I fly infrequently and have always flown economy and sometimes "premium economy." I see that approach is no longer the way to go.
2
Think at this stage , best on a private jet.
1
What did Ms. Lyall do to earn such a terrible assignment?
Apparently of average height and below average BMI, she mostly missed out on the discomfort factor of being too large for the seat. Being taller than 98% of the adult population, I get to spend an extra $200 or so for premium seating, plus another $50 to check a bag because I can't chance having something under the seat where my legs need to go.
I am far from alone, there are many more people with hips or shoulders wider than the seat.
Cramming more seats into planes is only half of the problem. Moving to a hub and spoke model means a lot more time in the air in a lot more crowded planes.
Those of us on the West Coast get to "enjoy" more overnight flights in order to make meetings and vacation plans in the East because hub and spoke doubles flying time. Forget about airport food options after 10pm and before 6am.
The complexity of hub and spoke also results in some truly spectacular flight delays, like the 8 hour delay I recently experienced because the crew was out of position.
Under the circumstance, it is remarkable how tolerant and considerate the vast majority of passengers and crew members are.
Apparently of average height and below average BMI, she mostly missed out on the discomfort factor of being too large for the seat. Being taller than 98% of the adult population, I get to spend an extra $200 or so for premium seating, plus another $50 to check a bag because I can't chance having something under the seat where my legs need to go.
I am far from alone, there are many more people with hips or shoulders wider than the seat.
Cramming more seats into planes is only half of the problem. Moving to a hub and spoke model means a lot more time in the air in a lot more crowded planes.
Those of us on the West Coast get to "enjoy" more overnight flights in order to make meetings and vacation plans in the East because hub and spoke doubles flying time. Forget about airport food options after 10pm and before 6am.
The complexity of hub and spoke also results in some truly spectacular flight delays, like the 8 hour delay I recently experienced because the crew was out of position.
Under the circumstance, it is remarkable how tolerant and considerate the vast majority of passengers and crew members are.
14
I once flew Singapore Air first class to Asia (on someone else's dime.) It was glorious. Sadly though I spent most of the flight mildly depressed that I would likely never again experience this Nirvana. I was right.
I don't completely resent first class passengers. Their overpriced tickets are what allow those of us in cattle class to fly cheaply. This does not stop me, however, from giving as many of them as possible a not so subtle smack with my carry-on as I pass through their smug and privileged cabin. What can I say? I'm a bit clumsy. I arrive at my own seat feeling just a little bit happier.
I never check bags. On non business trips all my clothes are quick dry and can be washed in the sink for use the next day. I may not be a sartorial masterpiece but I have, so far, retained my travel sanity.
I also practice civil disobedience if I have been treated poorly by the airline. Just before landing, when the flight attendant asks that passengers remove the trash from the seat pocket on front of them, I DON'T. That'll teach 'em.
I don't completely resent first class passengers. Their overpriced tickets are what allow those of us in cattle class to fly cheaply. This does not stop me, however, from giving as many of them as possible a not so subtle smack with my carry-on as I pass through their smug and privileged cabin. What can I say? I'm a bit clumsy. I arrive at my own seat feeling just a little bit happier.
I never check bags. On non business trips all my clothes are quick dry and can be washed in the sink for use the next day. I may not be a sartorial masterpiece but I have, so far, retained my travel sanity.
I also practice civil disobedience if I have been treated poorly by the airline. Just before landing, when the flight attendant asks that passengers remove the trash from the seat pocket on front of them, I DON'T. That'll teach 'em.
12
I've been flying Southwest since the late 70's when the flight attendants wore "hot pants" and tossed "love bites" aka peanuts.
Southwest is still #1 with me and if they don't fly "there", I'm not going "there".
The exception is Europe and I'm saving up to take take a freighter there.
Southwest is still #1 with me and if they don't fly "there", I'm not going "there".
The exception is Europe and I'm saving up to take take a freighter there.
3
I'm with you. Not sure how they do it, but Southwest continues to offer, at least in my personal experience, a civil way to travel by air.
9
am always perplexed by the love for SW. here in the Midwest (Mpls) their prices are rarely cheaper than the big carriers (Delta) and sometimes more.
Biggest advantage: ease of changing tickets. On the other airlines, you practically forfeit the ticket if you changes.
Other advantage: straight forward procedures for boarding and baggage.
Other advantage: straight forward procedures for boarding and baggage.
1
This made me laugh out loud. Exhibit 14Z for where our country is. Cash is king.
12
The adult onesie looks just like my mother's 1980s edition of her "all-night-flight suit". I'm assuming she had a private dressing room to wiggle out of it on her first class jaunts to Europe. I can't imagine trying to tackle an airplane bathroom with anything that might actually touch... well anything in there. I've considered going freestyle just to avoid undergarments rubbing against the bowl. *shudder
2
Our entire society is now a microcosm of “The Hunger Games", at least for the 99%. Socialism for the rich, capitalism for everyone else.
12
Socialism for the rich? What? Haha
Loved your writing, and yes, that onesie looks hideous! I, too (in my mid-50's), remember the glorious regulated days of flying. Getting dressed up and being courteous is long forgotten, but so are the cigarettes on the plane. Autonomous cars? Wait for autonomous planes with automated service!
5
Anyone who has the privilege of traveling for pleasure, who can afford to travel in a world of crushing poverty, should do a bit of soul-searching before they complain. And if you have to travel for business and let it transform you, as it seems to transform the author of this travelogue, into a snarling shrew, perhaps you ought to rethink your profession.
10
You forgot to remind us that these are "first-world problems."
This article is more ridiculous fluff from the New York Times. It's the Times' continuing series of Air Travel Whining. I would like to see some real reporting about the airlines- how consumers' demands for ever lower ticket prices, and shareholders' demands for ever increasing quarterly returns, are driving these changes. It's not happening in a vacuum because airlines are greedy or out to get us. How about airline safety and air traffic control? Speaking for myself, I'm interested in seeing reporting on how we got to this high point in air safety and can we stay here?
7
The best part of this article are the funny comments, what a hoot , still laughing! I definitely would choose to be on a flight with you .
2
Actually it is happening because airlines are greedy, near-monopolies, and setting prices in collusion whenever it's a duopoly. I don't need the Times to tell me that. Sure if you fly out of OAK or SFO you might have more than one carrier to some destinations, but look at prices when you're flying between destinations in "fly-over country." When United and Continental merged they adopted the worst parts of each airline's culture. Same with American and US Air. Mergers have proven destructive in every way but the merged airlines' bottom line. Blaming the passengers s for the abuse by the airlines? Seriously?
10
This is what happens when an industry is deregulated and passengers want to fly to Florida for $69.
That said, air travel is at an all-time high and passengers want the cheapest flights possible. There are ways to fight the indignities but but get what you pay for and "there ain't no free lunch."
That said, air travel is at an all-time high and passengers want the cheapest flights possible. There are ways to fight the indignities but but get what you pay for and "there ain't no free lunch."
7
Commercial aviation has been brutally competitive. Each of the major legacy carriers has gone bankrupt within the past 15 years or so, some more than once. It appears the airlines are doing what they have to do to survive. They are profitable now, but could again fall into a pattern of ruinous competition.
I am impressed with how a vast number of people are able to fly to their destinations at affordable prices. This is a great benefit, especially to people who only fly once or twice a year for vacations or family gatherings.
Would it be better for airlines to raise prices and give more amenities? It does not look like that is what the public wants -- or at least a very substantial segment of the public. And there often are alternatives between the worst of economy class and business class. Pay extra for more leg room, if you can. Fly Jet Blue if it goes to your destination. It charges more and gives you a better flight with more comfort.
I am impressed with how a vast number of people are able to fly to their destinations at affordable prices. This is a great benefit, especially to people who only fly once or twice a year for vacations or family gatherings.
Would it be better for airlines to raise prices and give more amenities? It does not look like that is what the public wants -- or at least a very substantial segment of the public. And there often are alternatives between the worst of economy class and business class. Pay extra for more leg room, if you can. Fly Jet Blue if it goes to your destination. It charges more and gives you a better flight with more comfort.
9
Eddie Rickenbacker, an aviation legend, started Eastern Airlines.
If you love what you're doing, care about people, and are deeply dedicated the company will succeed and develop assets. Eastern was highly regarded with a proud tradition.
In keeping with tradition, it later selected a former Astronaut, Frank Borman, as CEO in 1975. Three years later, the airlines were deregulated. Deregulation didn't change mechanical safety (engine, airframe, procedures) but it changed everything else. Competition became intense. After eight years, Borman chose to retire and sold out to Frank Lorenzo who was starting Southwest Air. Lorenzo was of a different tradition. Employees opposed the merger, agreed to cuts, then felt betrayed when their sacrifices and resources went to SW as they lost their livelihoods. Borman was well provided for.
The focus was on the stock market as companies took off, then folded.
The FAA maintains control over mechanical and safety. But what of the relationship between personal space and social conflict control.
When the Titanic sank, those in steerage were left to drown. The Solas treaty followed with new standards. It's not just about the engine and hull -- there are also mechanically related social issues that are more fundamental than status. Minimum personal space standards ought to be reexamined.
If you love what you're doing, care about people, and are deeply dedicated the company will succeed and develop assets. Eastern was highly regarded with a proud tradition.
In keeping with tradition, it later selected a former Astronaut, Frank Borman, as CEO in 1975. Three years later, the airlines were deregulated. Deregulation didn't change mechanical safety (engine, airframe, procedures) but it changed everything else. Competition became intense. After eight years, Borman chose to retire and sold out to Frank Lorenzo who was starting Southwest Air. Lorenzo was of a different tradition. Employees opposed the merger, agreed to cuts, then felt betrayed when their sacrifices and resources went to SW as they lost their livelihoods. Borman was well provided for.
The focus was on the stock market as companies took off, then folded.
The FAA maintains control over mechanical and safety. But what of the relationship between personal space and social conflict control.
When the Titanic sank, those in steerage were left to drown. The Solas treaty followed with new standards. It's not just about the engine and hull -- there are also mechanically related social issues that are more fundamental than status. Minimum personal space standards ought to be reexamined.
15
Though she took a Southwest flight she didn't comment on it. Doubtless because it didn't fit her narrative of how bad airlines can be. Southwest has a reasonable, easy boarding system, its staff is pleasant and helpful. And it's luggage policy of no charge for checked baggage is the best.
14
I'm actually more surprised that she didn't find SOMETHING to whine about with Southwest. She made mountains out of molehills on most of the other flights and airports. For example, after listing many types of food offerings available at Houston, she doesn't want any of it. What exactly was she pining for there and how would such a restaurant turn a profit in that space?
3
After my last several experiences with the airlines. this 25 year Air Force veteran can honestly say that I'd rather fly cross country strapped into a web seat in the back of a C-130 than take another commercial flight.
34
LOTS of legroom on a C-130.
4
The writer seems to have missed an important problem that is common on flights longer than 2-3 hours - the dirty, smelly latrines in economy class.
Surely others have noticed the smell of urine and the sticky floors? I am sure I am not the only woman who "hovers" rather than sit on these toilet seats. Let me be sexist for a moment and suggest that airlines install urinals to reduce overspray by male passengers.
Long flights preclude latrine use by hundreds of passengers though they seem to be cleaned only between flights. If sanitizing occurs more often, even fast food restaurants post a checklist for cleaning times in restrooms to assure the customer that there is a plan.
Surely others have noticed the smell of urine and the sticky floors? I am sure I am not the only woman who "hovers" rather than sit on these toilet seats. Let me be sexist for a moment and suggest that airlines install urinals to reduce overspray by male passengers.
Long flights preclude latrine use by hundreds of passengers though they seem to be cleaned only between flights. If sanitizing occurs more often, even fast food restaurants post a checklist for cleaning times in restrooms to assure the customer that there is a plan.
13
The entire economy class cabin is a festering petri dish of germs and disease.
On my last flight some water was accidentally spilled upon a pleather seat, as I wiped it up with white paper napkins they turned instantly black upon one swipe.
Do not use the seat back tables unless you sanitize them first with disinfectant wipes. Ditto seat arms. I drape a shirt of sweater over the headrests. It is all ick.
On my last flight some water was accidentally spilled upon a pleather seat, as I wiped it up with white paper napkins they turned instantly black upon one swipe.
Do not use the seat back tables unless you sanitize them first with disinfectant wipes. Ditto seat arms. I drape a shirt of sweater over the headrests. It is all ick.
4
Doesn't everybody hover? And open mouth is probably guilty of deliberate overspray , still laughing.
Try clorox wipes , they come in travel size , and ps , hotels are the same petri dishes .
2
1. I'm glad I'm too poor to go anywhere.
2. I wish I'd gone to Washington DC in 1974 & seen the Smithsonian: all of it. Ditto Italy. (oh well)
3. LA to NY isn't a 'long haul flight' you wussy reporter!! Sydney or Melbourne to LA or London is 'long haul': the better part of 24 hours.
2. I wish I'd gone to Washington DC in 1974 & seen the Smithsonian: all of it. Ditto Italy. (oh well)
3. LA to NY isn't a 'long haul flight' you wussy reporter!! Sydney or Melbourne to LA or London is 'long haul': the better part of 24 hours.
11
1. Your government hatred of trains, and things generally that are considered "government" means that while Europeans, can travel from one major metropolitan area to another in relative speed and comfort on a train, you are stuck with Amtrac (slow, infrequent and expensive service), or basically Greyhound buses in the sky.
2. Your airline industry was de-regulated, meaning they can do whatever the hell they want, almost. The "Airline Passenger Bill of Rights", a big joke.
3. Americans want everything cheap! Don't be mad at the folks who spend big bucks to avoid the lines, have the comfy seats, and the sometimes even good food.
2. Your airline industry was de-regulated, meaning they can do whatever the hell they want, almost. The "Airline Passenger Bill of Rights", a big joke.
3. Americans want everything cheap! Don't be mad at the folks who spend big bucks to avoid the lines, have the comfy seats, and the sometimes even good food.
35
Is that not the beauty of America? Work hard, advance yourself and maybe one day you'll be traveling in a private jet.
Is that the same in Europe? Is that doable?
I think I'll take my chances in America.
Is that the same in Europe? Is that doable?
I think I'll take my chances in America.
I'm one of those crazy people who fly over a couple hundred thousand miles a year so I always have the highest elite level. I whiz through security via Precheck or even faster if the airport supports "Clear" membership. I wait for my flight at the lounge where I can relax or get some work done. I board first and greeted by a flight attendant by name who takes my coat and offers me a pre-flight drink. Sometimes, an agent meets me in the jetway when I deplane and takes me to the tarmac where an awaiting Porsche SUV whisks me to my connecting flight.
4
would you adopt me, please!
3
The pricing of American flights remains higher than that of other nations. Flights on partners such as Virgin Atlantic, KLM, Air France are often lower than flights on the American partner airline. At least hundreds of dollars for economy, ore for economy comfort, and sometimes a couple thousand dollars less on business class. It is mystifying.
Air Canada seems to be one of the great travel bargains for people in. Or there USA hubs. The shuttle to a Canadian city may be an hour, but not add any actual total flight time (because of the higher polar route). Economy flights to Europe are at least a third less costly. Business class to Asia can be $3,000 or more less expensive!
Air Canada seems to be one of the great travel bargains for people in. Or there USA hubs. The shuttle to a Canadian city may be an hour, but not add any actual total flight time (because of the higher polar route). Economy flights to Europe are at least a third less costly. Business class to Asia can be $3,000 or more less expensive!
6
Air travel goes right along with Americans' view of society in general.
Instead of insisting on a reasonable level of taxation, especially for the rich, that would ensure a vibrant and secure public life for all, we all suffer together to serve anti-tax extremism.
So it is with air travel, where to save a few bucks and serve the god of profit for large corporations, we make the experience worse and worse for all but the very rich.
Instead of insisting on a reasonable level of taxation, especially for the rich, that would ensure a vibrant and secure public life for all, we all suffer together to serve anti-tax extremism.
So it is with air travel, where to save a few bucks and serve the god of profit for large corporations, we make the experience worse and worse for all but the very rich.
46
Then the very rich and business travellers manage to write-off ALL of their flight costs and other related expenses, always, trust me.
12
"To help their profits, airlines fit more passengers into smaller spaces". The reason seat pitch is tight is because that is what the customers want (a cheap seat). If they were willing to pay more, the airlines would gladly increase the legroom. People are cheap and they get what they pay for.
The author makes nearly every rookie mistake on her flights, but this was likely the point of the article - to show how bad airline travel can be. What the airlines offer is a safe flight, a very patient staff and the ability to cross the country or oceans in a matter of hours which is exactly what is expected by their key customer base, the business traveler. One last tip, if you want a good airline experience, fly the same airline every time, pay for the Economy Comfort seat and get yourself a great travel agent for help with the unexpected.
The author makes nearly every rookie mistake on her flights, but this was likely the point of the article - to show how bad airline travel can be. What the airlines offer is a safe flight, a very patient staff and the ability to cross the country or oceans in a matter of hours which is exactly what is expected by their key customer base, the business traveler. One last tip, if you want a good airline experience, fly the same airline every time, pay for the Economy Comfort seat and get yourself a great travel agent for help with the unexpected.
9
I didn't know that travel agents still existed. I thought they became moot once travelers could book their own flights, hotels and cruises online after reading Trip Advisor , Yelp and other review sites.
Note that "extra legroom" seats are increasingly hard to book unless you buy your ticket well in advance. Will airlines actually pick up on the fact that we will pay more for better seats and extend these rows?
1
Everyone keeps focusing on in-flight comfort - legroom, free food and drinks - and many point out that if you're willing to pay 3-4 times as much for your ticket, you can get those. Those are, however, actually minor inconveniences on any <6hr flight.
What I really want is to have enough competent security personnel and enough security checkpoints that I don't risk spending an hour in line just to get insulted.
Enough planes and enough turn-around time scheduled that delays and cancellations only happen due to catastrophic weather on my route.
Enough space (including seats and plugs) in the waiting area that I don't end up squatting next to the coffee machine while waiting for your delayed flight.
Enough staff to inform passengers and handle the boarding in an orderly fashion, respectful to all, including the elderly, the sick and the children.
Dealing with overbooking in a way that acknowledges that it's wholly the airline's inexcusable fault.
A consistent bag policy that allows the passenger to know in advance how luggage will be handled (as with overbooking, that's on the airline - if they tell people they may travel with one hand luggage, it's on the airline to make sure it can actually offer that service or compensate the customers who are denied it).
With all that, I wouldn't mind spending a couple of hours in dreaded coach. Without it, the business class perks are not worth the money.
Flying in the US is pure misery. And it's not cheaper then elsewhere.
What I really want is to have enough competent security personnel and enough security checkpoints that I don't risk spending an hour in line just to get insulted.
Enough planes and enough turn-around time scheduled that delays and cancellations only happen due to catastrophic weather on my route.
Enough space (including seats and plugs) in the waiting area that I don't end up squatting next to the coffee machine while waiting for your delayed flight.
Enough staff to inform passengers and handle the boarding in an orderly fashion, respectful to all, including the elderly, the sick and the children.
Dealing with overbooking in a way that acknowledges that it's wholly the airline's inexcusable fault.
A consistent bag policy that allows the passenger to know in advance how luggage will be handled (as with overbooking, that's on the airline - if they tell people they may travel with one hand luggage, it's on the airline to make sure it can actually offer that service or compensate the customers who are denied it).
With all that, I wouldn't mind spending a couple of hours in dreaded coach. Without it, the business class perks are not worth the money.
Flying in the US is pure misery. And it's not cheaper then elsewhere.
28
You can thank Freddie Laker for that .
This is a great summary of the actual problems. It is not the comfort or perks of biz class, so much as delays or cancellations. I had always had a good experience with JetBlue, flying from West Palm Beach to JFK. On my last flight, my 3:00 pm flight kept being delayed by two hours, until it was cancelled altogether. I was re-booked on a midnight flight that would deposit me at 3 AM without transportation home. I booked myself on an 8:30 pm flight (left at 10:00 pm) to Ft Lauderdale, rented a car, and drive home a bit bleary eyed, yet grateful to have made it. What bothered me was the dishonesty in blaming delay/cancellation on the weather. I know this because a flight left for WOB at 6:00 pm. I was sent a $50 credit towards my next flight. The car rental was $109 for one way drop off. No longer is there transparency or customer orientation. It does make one less reluctant to travel if it is not absolutely necessary.
1
Last year we had a great holiday in the USA, except for one thing, your airlines. After my 7th out of 7 AA flight was delayed (by almost 6 hours, causing me to miss an international flight), I came across an airline ranking website. AA was 2nd best in the US, and about 78th in the world, one behind Ethiopian. I've never travelled Ethiopian, but I was not surprised, airline travel in the US certainly feels like a third world experience. And can it really be the price. Flying across Australia is a much more civilised experience at a lower price.
60
You KNOW that the service on Ethiopian Air is much, much better than that of American's.
6
OMG, now rolling on the floor holding my sides!
2
Thank you so much Sarah for this wonderful article. You had me chuckling, nodding in agreement, but also laughing aloud at the gym. Great descriptions of what happens nowadays with air travel, great observations on what people do and why. Personally I feel less and less inclined to fly. It's becoming so unpleasant and troublesome that I would rather stay around my place, go hike in the mountains, or visit people around me.
16
Why? Why do this? To learn? We have accepted that we pay the least to get somewhere. This is the price. I am actually happy and accepting that I can get to a far away place. I really don't want to be coddled by food (at best - mediocre) or service (you're on a plane and it's all relative). It's like expecting the Orient Express on the subway- move on and enjoy life
21
Johnny, how old are you? If you are healthy and young air travel is fine but for the rest of us it is extremely challenging. We oldsters also remember a different era of commercial flight. You must also be under 5'6'' tall.
6
Have you noticed how small the lavs are too ,especially on A319 it's made for dwarfs! Always use bathrooms at terminal before I board so I won't have to hover too often.
1
The lavatories have been made smaller to enable the airlines to add more seats in economy. Also, entire lavs have been eliminated so there are less toilets on board in economy today.
1
The public has spoken in the only way businesses understand - with their purchases. They wanted less expensive flights and got them. In 1970 I flew from Buffalo to LA for about $450. Today, despite 37 years of inflation, I can do so for $495. That is a $45 dollar price increase matched by well over 25% inflation, so a great net decrease.
In order to do this, the airlines had to cut either safety or service. I, for one, am glad they picked service.
In order to do this, the airlines had to cut either safety or service. I, for one, am glad they picked service.
15
Wouldn't be too sure about this.
United was recently fined a half million dollars for putting aircraft back into flying service before inspection due to previous serious technical problems.
United was recently fined a half million dollars for putting aircraft back into flying service before inspection due to previous serious technical problems.
4
This is a perfect counterpart for Louis CK's take on air travel and other modern conveniences: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8LaT5Iiwo4
5
Exactly my thoughts. Coast to Coast in 5 to 6 hours. A trip that used to kill of about half of the participants. This article really annoyed me. I fly all the time, it's really not bad and in my opinion your experience reflects your headspace. And flights are pretty cheap, used to be price regulated so the fares were much higher and airlines had to offer additional services to compensate.
Maybe next time this lady should take a bus from each one of these cities and see how that experience compares. Yeesh.
Maybe next time this lady should take a bus from each one of these cities and see how that experience compares. Yeesh.
18
Oh the indignities of life when you have everything you could possibly need plus enough more to make you feel entitled. I'll take an economy ticket any day over a 5 hour journey of walking and hitchhiking just to take my child to the doctor. That's truly the Hunger Games reality of the majority of the world.
3
Amen brother.
2
I think the problem is that too many people are flying now, even though only the rich could do so in the past. The tourism industry now depends on the mass consumption by large population. The rich cannot sustain the whole world's tourist spots since they don't have much interest in exotic places unless it's, you know, first class rated. The elites buy vacation homes, not whole towns that support the tourist industry. If you want to financially support the tourist industry you should only go when you can afford business or first class (or after you earned enough miles). The frequent fliers have supported the airlines so they get special treatment. They do offer to upgrade your seats if they overbooked or something. But what you should remember is that the airline industry is part of the transportation system. Not a luxurious vacation gateway. Its purpose is to get you from point A to B the fastest way. But because there is limited space in an aircraft and more and more people want to use it, the spaces got smaller. If we didn't expect lowered tickets price, maybe we would still have decent seats. At the same time, average Americans got fatter and brings more luggages and ruder. Should we demand aircraft manufacturers to consider the obesity and bad attitudes of average travellers? I think we have more options for air travel in terms of flight times and prices. We have to learn to share things in kind ways.
13
Densely packed immigrants in steerage covered the costs of luxury liners.
In terms of value; the rich rode cheaply during the golden age.
Is that what's happening today with airlines?
Immigration dropped dramatically around 1924.
But liners had a long construction lead time. They continued to the 1930s.
They survived as troop transports.
I recall flying cross country on DC3, DC6s, Super Constellations, and then suddenly on 707 jet planes.
Things were very different then. Airlines were subsidized (from RR revenue). A major post-war expense was airport construction.
The 747 offered economies of scale like cruise liners and also introduced social differentiation that seems to have led to a new steerage status in the sky.
In terms of value; the rich rode cheaply during the golden age.
Is that what's happening today with airlines?
Immigration dropped dramatically around 1924.
But liners had a long construction lead time. They continued to the 1930s.
They survived as troop transports.
I recall flying cross country on DC3, DC6s, Super Constellations, and then suddenly on 707 jet planes.
Things were very different then. Airlines were subsidized (from RR revenue). A major post-war expense was airport construction.
The 747 offered economies of scale like cruise liners and also introduced social differentiation that seems to have led to a new steerage status in the sky.
10
After traveling extensively domestically and occasionally internationally, I knew what a difference there was. But then I traveled with kids. The experiences couldn't be more different. It starts with security where they always have family only lines that make everyone - kids or not -much happier. Then they always allow for early boarding with small kids first (I mean, I don't think most people mind not having to follow behind a 3 yr old during the cattle call general boarding who just HAS to carry his own bag but I've never heard this offered domestically). There is always in dear entertainment and you all get fed including children's menu options. And as an added bonus, we've always been given fun children's activity kits. And this is all free...in economy.
So when I think about vacations and the overall budget, I do factor in the nightmare of a domestic flight vs an international one. Do we want 6 hrs of absolute hell to the west coast (or even a hellish 4 down the coast) or 6-8 hrs of a pleasant experience over to Europe?
So when I think about vacations and the overall budget, I do factor in the nightmare of a domestic flight vs an international one. Do we want 6 hrs of absolute hell to the west coast (or even a hellish 4 down the coast) or 6-8 hrs of a pleasant experience over to Europe?
11
I don't have time to go through all 486 comments ahead of mine to find out if someone positively described the Southwest experience. I am disappointed the author didn't point out that Southwest is a different experience than the other US carriers she flew on. Southwest has no first or business class where some get the premium treatment. Southwest does have "Business Select" which, for a higher price, allows you to board first and get a free alcoholic beverage but that's it. Everyone gets the same bag of peanuts or pretzels. The crew on their planes are consistently pleasant and, those so inclined, try to lighten the mood with clever commentary and remarks. I go out of my to fly Southwest even though the cost of my business travel is fully reimbursed.
53
I whole heartedly agree. Southwest treats people equally and well. I always fly Southwest when I can.
8
The airline for the proletariat , like that , everybody equal including the flight attendants yay! How comfy are their seats?
7
Quite comfortable. And no bag check charges. No change flight charges. Really nice staff. My first choice airline every time if they fly my route.
16
Travel can be stressful, but I am in agreement with several other people who commented. Southwest Airlines will always my go to airline. The prices are great if you plan in advance, the delays are minimal unless weather is a factor and the SWA staff on the planes are friendly, helpful and often funny. I have a friend who has worked for twenty years plus for SWA. She loves the company and the job and once told me that she met the President who was a very nice guy and listened to her suggestions. Even the curb check in staff is very friendly and helpful. I always tip them. Delta and American, not so much.
20
I would love to know how you got your yoghurt past security. Anytime I've tried, I've had to leave it behind.
11
She bought it at a store in the concourse after going through security.
2
The increasingly class-based inequality of air travel in the United States - not to mention the police-state atmosphere imposed since 9/11 - is a microcosm of the much broader but similar changes that have been occurring in our society as a whole. This includes the erosion of the middle class and the increasing dominance of the corporate and class elites.
One development that has long outraged me is that the TSA and FAA have allowed the airlines to profit off the indignity, invasiveness and inconvenience imposed on most air travelers by the airport security process. The TSA allows airlines to offer their premium passengers the luxury of special inspection lines not available to regular passengers.
How is it possible and acceptable for the government in a democracy to allow this kind of open and formal discrimination for the profit of private corporations and their already privileged customers? If the war on terror is a war into which we've all been drafted, why do corporations get to sell government sanctioned draft exemptions to some of their passengers?
One development that has long outraged me is that the TSA and FAA have allowed the airlines to profit off the indignity, invasiveness and inconvenience imposed on most air travelers by the airport security process. The TSA allows airlines to offer their premium passengers the luxury of special inspection lines not available to regular passengers.
How is it possible and acceptable for the government in a democracy to allow this kind of open and formal discrimination for the profit of private corporations and their already privileged customers? If the war on terror is a war into which we've all been drafted, why do corporations get to sell government sanctioned draft exemptions to some of their passengers?
49
See new LAX ultra luxury gate with privately staged TSA area more like a hotel check in desk.
6
Oh honey , it's about the bottom line , corporate profits , heck the economy , we're getting stiffed by everyone, big pharma, banks , insurance companies, it's all about greed and how much they can squeeze out you no one is in it for your comfort, your welfare , your health , your kids education , every aspect of so called service industry has been hijacked by plain ole greed .
17
The "greed" sm is about you, an unwillingness to pay for anything and expect everything. Open your wallet and your experience will improve.
3
All those increased number of air passengers are welcome to it. I am so thankful that I no longer have to fly for work. I don't fly for vacations either unless coerced by family (rarely). Instead of rushing to the airport to be groped and then sit around for hours waiting to get stuffed in like sardine, I load up the car and drive. I can stop whenever I need to or want to, and typically arrive not much later than I would have by flying, at least if the trip is less than 1000 miles.
6
I'm sitting at SFO for 5 1/2 hours because one leg of my trip today was cancelled. So I booked on another airline, only to miss a connection due to a delay leaving LAX. In two days I've had 2 flights cancelled, rebooked on other airlines to get where I needed to be, by the time I needed to be there, been delayed 3 times, and still managed a smile. thanks for the great article. I feel better.
16
My dad lived near LAX and traveled often. In the winter, fog could cover the airport for weeks. Before ILS that meant rerouting to Ontario, further inland. And an overnight stay. -- Or a long bus ride.
When the airline offered an apology, my dad offered a reminder: the airline ticket contained a contract that promised to deliver the holder to the specified destination. They didn't do that. Intermediate expenses were their obligation. He spent the night in a hotel. They asked him to not to share that legal detail. I'm sure the wording has been adjusted since then. [That 60 years ago.]
When the airline offered an apology, my dad offered a reminder: the airline ticket contained a contract that promised to deliver the holder to the specified destination. They didn't do that. Intermediate expenses were their obligation. He spent the night in a hotel. They asked him to not to share that legal detail. I'm sure the wording has been adjusted since then. [That 60 years ago.]
2
The magic phrase for accommodation and meals when delayed overnight at an intermediate location is "distressed passenger." There are procedures at every airline to handle the situation, but someone needs to invoke them. Just say "This isn't my destination. Please follow the distressed passenger procedures," to the staff at the service desk as soon as it is clear that you are stuck at that location overnight.
2
There are alternatives to planes. For trips under 12 hours, I take the bus. It is cheaper. You arrive in downtown. No expensive cabs. They leave on time and arrive on time, and a blizzard is the only reason for a cancellation. The seats are comfortable. You do not have to go through TSA, which can save you at least an hour. You can also pack food and bring it with you for a long trip.
18
Hear hear for the Greyhound on the ground , not the flying one , and hey they have wifi and on some movies , especailly the mega buses , best kept secret; oops.
6
What this country needs is a modern nationwide high speed passenger rail system. Short of business class air travel it is without a doubt the most civilized way to go somewhere. Affordable, spacious, has a dining car, none of the airport security hassles... One of the underappreciated joys of train travel is arriving at your destination right downtown - no 60 minute car ride in from a remote airport. The US is a sadly impoverished country when it comes to train travel.
137
As I discovered last month, the secret to surviving international airline travel (for back of the bus/economy travelers) is to avoid US airlines: The contrast between flying United from SFO-LHR, vs. Lufhansa from Nice (via Munich) to SFO was the difference between being treated as cargo and a human being/passenger - a truly enlightening experience in all respects.
43
This was a fun read and thanks for writing it. Good customer service is something you choose to do or not. Period. The apologies for poor service offered up by some of your readers under the ridiculous guise of getting what you pay for make no sense to any of us who have flown coach for years and seen the simultaneous rise in price and fall in basic service and value. Companies can turn their service around on a dime--when it's in their best interests to do so. Rock on, Sarah Lyall.
19
I'm mid-range elite status; I sometimes fly in Economy, occasionally in Business, and in the newish "Premium Economy" - so I witness different levels of, shall we say, behavior.
That said, most annoying - by far - are those aptly-deemed gate lice! I don't care if this is the first flight of your life; if your boarding pass says "GROUP 4", who do you think will likely be boarding before you? But the
unconscious GL boneheads largely crowd around the entry lines - often before the flight has even been announced.
And then the more frequent flyers - not just First Class elites; the mid-range folks like me, too - have to push our way past your clueless throng to board. Next time you're in pre-boarding mode, gate lice, take a gander at what Group you'll be boarding with - and get the heck away from the front. Common sense is not so common!
That said, most annoying - by far - are those aptly-deemed gate lice! I don't care if this is the first flight of your life; if your boarding pass says "GROUP 4", who do you think will likely be boarding before you? But the
unconscious GL boneheads largely crowd around the entry lines - often before the flight has even been announced.
And then the more frequent flyers - not just First Class elites; the mid-range folks like me, too - have to push our way past your clueless throng to board. Next time you're in pre-boarding mode, gate lice, take a gander at what Group you'll be boarding with - and get the heck away from the front. Common sense is not so common!
9
Flying really has become a metaphor for what has happened to a country which has been putting the greedy in the front of the line starting in 1980.
Another thought: avoid those full body scans because of the large radiation dose. They are cumulative over time and add up to increased cancer risk. I just suck it up and deal with the humiliation of being felt up. Better than adding to the radiation exposure tally.
Another thought: avoid those full body scans because of the large radiation dose. They are cumulative over time and add up to increased cancer risk. I just suck it up and deal with the humiliation of being felt up. Better than adding to the radiation exposure tally.
14
Yes. We now have 2 generations who do not know good governance and life before Reagan.
16
This is spot on. The boarding process is now a Greek comedy
8
Wonderful writing. Having flown both in "cargo" and business class, I think your observations are spot on.
4
Air travelers want cheap, safe air travel with good service, but that is obviously impossible. I think we'd all prefer they not compromise on safety, so the real question is whether or not you're willing to pay for service (business or first.) If you're not, stop complaining, you're just getting what you paid for.
11
I suppose when it's all said and done you can always catch a bus or drive. Who would really fly that much in a week. Sounds like hell even in First or business. It's the transitions that make it a misery.
2
I think the author should get upset at the NYT editor for giving her this horrible assignment! you poor thing. no one should have to have so many middle seats.
16
Wasn't it like that on the Titanic, where the swells danced and dined like kings and the wretched crouched in steerage? Yet there was no greater equalizer than going down together to the bottom of the sea.
12
Amazing. The choice to fly to Jacksonville, Florida, instead of Orlando is stupefying. Purely stupefying. I've been assigned to a contract job in Orlando for the last two-plus years and, yes, I may weep the next time I hear, "Well, folks, we have a completely full flight today...." However, after having grown up going to O'Hare and having lived within the Bermuda triangle of Newark-Laguardia-JFK for four years, Orlando actually does volume well. They have to, given the amount of Mouse anticipation and Mouse withdrawl their travellers suffer each day.
1
Too many children on flights to and from Orlando.
What a pointless article. I wish the reporter had actually done *something* useful at all of these stops. People who fly already know what the experience is like. I felt like the article was itself structured like the many stops it described, and I was stuck in a middle seat. Fortunately, I had a digital parachute. Too bad it landed me in Trumpland.
13
The NYT had an opinion piece by a veteran pilot basically refuting everything covered in this article. Why are so many more people flying today? Because 40 years ago only wealthy people could afford to buy plane tickets. In constant dollars, a transcontinental flight cost exponentially more back then. Middle class folks might not have the money to fly for a momentous occasion- weddings, funerals, graduations. Immigrants were lucky if they could fly home once before their parents or siblings died.
If you weren't flying between two major cities, your flight could necessitate 4 separate legs, requiring 3 transfers. If you missed one connection there wasn't another one an hour or two later, many routes had only one flight per day. International travel was that much worse.
You get what you pay for. If you shell out the equivalent what a coach ticket 4 decades ago would cost in today's dollars, you're flying 1st class. And as the pilot also pointed out, 1st class today is far nicer than it was then, despite the fantasies of orgies taking place in the bar section of the old 747s.
Moreover, everything else is tiered. The house you live in, the car you drive, the restaurants, the wine you buy, the vacations. Why would flying be any different?
Inequality is a huge and growing problem not discussed enough by our politicians and media. But this column is really much ado about nothin' at all.
If you weren't flying between two major cities, your flight could necessitate 4 separate legs, requiring 3 transfers. If you missed one connection there wasn't another one an hour or two later, many routes had only one flight per day. International travel was that much worse.
You get what you pay for. If you shell out the equivalent what a coach ticket 4 decades ago would cost in today's dollars, you're flying 1st class. And as the pilot also pointed out, 1st class today is far nicer than it was then, despite the fantasies of orgies taking place in the bar section of the old 747s.
Moreover, everything else is tiered. The house you live in, the car you drive, the restaurants, the wine you buy, the vacations. Why would flying be any different?
Inequality is a huge and growing problem not discussed enough by our politicians and media. But this column is really much ado about nothin' at all.
13
Only in that it's changed recently - the last few years. You get less for paying more. This is heightened by the medieval security
5
No it's not , not sure where you got your info? perhaps a 28 yr old pilot maybe flying commuter planes? And first class was grand then , try soup to nuts , caviar, turtle soup with sherry, a choice of cateaubriand , lobster, cherries jubiliee , salad, choice of cheeses, sorbet between courses to clean your palate,etc, the topper in first a choice of liquers served as everything else off a cart by your seat and in economy class you had a choice of a chicken, beef, or seafood entree, all drinks served in glassware and the only orgy was gastronomic even in the steerage !
4
Flying is tiered, but Americans can get angry at suffering greater indignities while watching wealthy airlines blame the customers for their own discomfort and posters like yourself lecture them about whining. In the end, these Americans will force Congress to take Draconian actions, such as re-regulation. Airliners are too greedy to see it now. They had better wise up and and voluntarily reform their service. They won't like it when Congress steps in.
Wah, wah, wah.
Remember driving to Grandma's house? 10 hours in a station wagon with siblings crying and fighting? I'll take my cheap seats on BargainAir, thanks. Make that cross country trip again, this time re-framed by decades past, when only the very wealthy could travel by air.
Remember driving to Grandma's house? 10 hours in a station wagon with siblings crying and fighting? I'll take my cheap seats on BargainAir, thanks. Make that cross country trip again, this time re-framed by decades past, when only the very wealthy could travel by air.
2
Ms. Lyall's having been groped reminds me of my own recent chapter in the bizarre, capricious, and arbitrary world of security screening. Last month I was in a line in Kansas City where it was announced that we had to remove all books and magazines from our carry-ons and place them in a separate tray. Say what?
Even Pre-check passengers were required to bare their tomes.
Now, I know better than to argue with someone who can put their hands down my pants with impunity, but how could this NOT be something in the crew cooked up on the spot just to hassle people?
What was this about? To satisfy some screener who wants expose those men who bought a Playboy at the newsstand before going through security? (No I did not!) Spot checks for the Koran?
We will never know.
Even Pre-check passengers were required to bare their tomes.
Now, I know better than to argue with someone who can put their hands down my pants with impunity, but how could this NOT be something in the crew cooked up on the spot just to hassle people?
What was this about? To satisfy some screener who wants expose those men who bought a Playboy at the newsstand before going through security? (No I did not!) Spot checks for the Koran?
We will never know.
16
Give someone a little power over you and ultimately they will abuse it , it's the little guy's way of getting revenge on the muckety mucks, that's TSA , but they are perverse , no one is exempt unless you have a private jet and get driven right up to your airplane , no security needed. so it may have been wonderful to fly home in business to make up for all the discomfort you put up with but you were still vulnerable. I question why you ended up in middle seats while flying steerage , did you deliberately choose middle seats ? If so , bully for you , and therefore your article does not pass muster and agreed flying is most unpleasant when the weather is bad , it's a holiday , or the summer , not to mention that is when the once in a lifetime or once in a while flyer, books cheap airfare along with what they think they can bring on board such as double strollers(they don't fit in the overhead) that are as big as pedicabs , several carryons that just barely pass the size limitations, the fake emotional support animal that has been certified as such by either a friendly doc or a generic letter from the internet, could go on and on , and agreed, the airlines are money hungry , but us as passengers share some of the blame for hellish flights.
2
Nothing new here. We have all seen it before. Seattle is fortune that United withdrew and Alaska filled the need. That is not to say that the number 2 airline gives adequate service even after you print your own boarding pass and luggage tag. Will we soon be asked to assist the pilots?
5
"You have to pay a lot more. But if you pay enough, you can get whatever you want." Welcome to Trumpocracy.
14
This did not happen under Trump. It happened under democratic control of the legislature!
It's about flying stupid, not the economy, just kidding!
3
What happened under Democratic legislature?
This is one of the funniest and no doubt smartest commentaries on airline travel I've ever read! I can't express how much resonance and vindication I felt as I sped through this aviary epic.
To be honest, though, I'm not sure I would have airline travel any other way. It's the thought of traveling first class just one more time that encourages me to bear the trials of economy. That's the beauty of capitalism: there's always a place where the grass is greener, and drinks are complimentary!
To be honest, though, I'm not sure I would have airline travel any other way. It's the thought of traveling first class just one more time that encourages me to bear the trials of economy. That's the beauty of capitalism: there's always a place where the grass is greener, and drinks are complimentary!
10
Kind of thought the Times had better ways to spend its money than splurging for a biz ticket so this reporter can tell us how nice it is. Yeah, we figured.
The state of airline travel is both a symptom and the disease. Americans have gotten bigger and bigger, and are dragging larger and larger carry-ons into the plane. Not helpful.
But everything in our capitalist society is driven by market returns, and the airlines are no different than any other business, greedily seeking maximum profits to satisfy their investors - and get fat bonuses for upper management. The divide between the haves and have-nots is on full display onboard - and we just elected a president who wants to widen that gap even further. Congrats, America. Enjoy your cramped seat and pretzels.
The state of airline travel is both a symptom and the disease. Americans have gotten bigger and bigger, and are dragging larger and larger carry-ons into the plane. Not helpful.
But everything in our capitalist society is driven by market returns, and the airlines are no different than any other business, greedily seeking maximum profits to satisfy their investors - and get fat bonuses for upper management. The divide between the haves and have-nots is on full display onboard - and we just elected a president who wants to widen that gap even further. Congrats, America. Enjoy your cramped seat and pretzels.
4
Without that comparison, the piece would have missed a very large point. It's only awful to live in Trump's America if you are not a Trump. Some people have it very good.
3
This is spot on. The 2 bag carry on should be banned. Check it!
3
Larger carry on baggage is caused by the loss of free check up baggage. How about this. Provide free check for everybody. Fewer carry on baggage items, faster loading of planes. Crank the base ticket price by $10. Problem solved.
10
The TSA machine you describe outs every transwoman on earth btw.
Everytime Ive flown Ive stood in that machine and gotten scanned like a criminal. And everytime, they have pressed the female button, because I look like a cis-woman. The scanner scans, and automatically everytime I get taken aside for extra screening because my groin area showed a large bulge where women dont usually have bulges.
Ive had women TSA guards refuse to pat me down, so it sucks when some man is grabbing you all over in front of 1000 people.
Instead of flying to see my sister graduate 1500 miles away, I rented a car and drove. It took just about as long as flying, but it cost me less money and some man didnt get to fondle me. Felt good. Im only using airplanes again if I have to go farther than 1500 miles.
Everytime Ive flown Ive stood in that machine and gotten scanned like a criminal. And everytime, they have pressed the female button, because I look like a cis-woman. The scanner scans, and automatically everytime I get taken aside for extra screening because my groin area showed a large bulge where women dont usually have bulges.
Ive had women TSA guards refuse to pat me down, so it sucks when some man is grabbing you all over in front of 1000 people.
Instead of flying to see my sister graduate 1500 miles away, I rented a car and drove. It took just about as long as flying, but it cost me less money and some man didnt get to fondle me. Felt good. Im only using airplanes again if I have to go farther than 1500 miles.
16
Or you could tell them you are pre-op or whatever term you like, instead of pretending a machine is talking about societal terms when it wants to know your gender.
3
make up your mind--you want to be different, so don't complain when the world does not automatically adapt to your difference---you guys are such cry babies
1
Somewhere west of Laramie there is an airline CEO laughing at this article and all your chattel...and of course, the cliche,...laughing all the way to the bank, suckers.
7
Blame the Justice Department for permitting the airline mergers. With little or no competition the consumer has no choices so crappy service is inevitable. Any politican who advocated the rollback of these mergers would receive almost universal applause...not from the airlines, of course, but like they've been doing to us, screw 'em.
15
With the likelihood of banning laptops and cameras from the cabin, this summer is the last time I am going to be flying. Next spring I am going to get a Honda CR-V and just do road trips on the East Coast instead of flying out west. Flying has gotten increasingly aggravating over the last ten years and it's gotten to the point where I don't even want to do it anymore. This cow is getting the heck out of cattle class.
15
I'm going to try Virgin America for my next USA flight. Other name carriers are unreliable for providing unquestionably good experiences. I had thought D would be good, but no; as for U, no way; as for S borderline, barely; people like J but not from my pov. As for A, the plane was shaking on my last departure. I don't fly on F, Sp, or other lower-cost carriers, perhaps because of safety issues. For international travel, I haven't yet decided about my preferred carrier.
Laptops on planes should be banned. I don't care for your screen glare.
1
I don't use a laptop on the plane. I keep it in my camera bag under the seat. But I will NOT check my expensive electronic devices. I'll drive across the country before I do that.
2
I'd like to see laws about legroom and seatwidth, from a crash safety perspective. Aside from that - this is capitialism and they are a business. If customers demand comfort and snacks, they will be provided. If most people take the lowest fare, even if it doesn't come with any snacks nor comforts - that is what will be provided.
2
It's time to use cabin space more efficiently. Economy fliers willing to stand in the aisles during flights and pass snacks back hand to hand could be offered a modest discount. This should make it possible to eliminate a few flight attendants, thus compensating for the discounts. As a perk, Standing Flyers could be issued a lapel pin (to be turned in for reuse after the flight) depicting a cheerful strap hanger. To avoid congestion in the aisles, restroom access would have to go; however, the unused lavatories, fitted with seat belts, could then be sold as premium spaces.
5
I agree - and put a few on the wings, outside
4
I believe something very similar is about to happen with our health care system!
16
Already has.
4
Great article and humorous piece of writing!I'm surprised that the relatively recent issue of animals on planes wasn't brought up. I always pay for extra leg room plus perks. My recent, expensive, turn in "Elevate "on Virgin America from JFK to Los Angeles had two large dogs around me. "service "animals have become the joke de jour. An unleashed 70 lb bulldog roamed the elevate section whilst I experienced kicking against my seat back by a restrained golden retriever for 6 hours.
Now it turns out that Virgin America has been purchased by Alaska airlines so unless I "roll over "my miles to an Alaska account, I lose.
Now it turns out that Virgin America has been purchased by Alaska airlines so unless I "roll over "my miles to an Alaska account, I lose.
3
I'm amazed at how the author drew near flawless paths from one point to the next without missing them in one stroke each. Good use of the elbow.
3
This is first quality journalism, thank you very much for this article. I think that it accurately expresses the feeling of people when traveling inside the U.S. I have had myself several incidents when air traveling in the U.S.: I almost was kicked out of a United Airlines flight when arguing with an airline employee for making me check my carry-on even though there was enough space to stow them in the carry-on bin.
3
America based airlines are really terrible imo, if I had the time, I did rather fly from say new york to Los Angeles via Dubai, much nicer airline. Avoid non southwest travel at all costs
8
I agree with AMG. I suggest the reporter do equivalent trips within Europe. Then do an article on why Americans are willing to put up with such horrendous airport facilities and airline services in the US. It's not perfect elsewhere but it is a far sight better!
7
Sarah: The beginning of your story hinted you might tell why commercial airline travel has become so bad, but you did not!
Sorry, but in fact you just ran a narrative of how air travel is so bad, which is, actually, redundant, as travelers know this. If you want to do a real news story, trace back to the 1970s and the beginning of deregulation of public services, privatization of government services, and the latest four decades of constant assault against any sort of regulation of private enterprise and global corporations.
Do you see that roads, air travel, public utilities, our national defense everything is being privatized or dismantled. Besides the EPA, and dropping out of the Paris accord, the latest target is the Air Traffic Control system, and of course Social Security, Medicare, etc.
Your narrative is more like what I did during the summer. Please try to keep the NYT standards of real reporting.
Sorry, but in fact you just ran a narrative of how air travel is so bad, which is, actually, redundant, as travelers know this. If you want to do a real news story, trace back to the 1970s and the beginning of deregulation of public services, privatization of government services, and the latest four decades of constant assault against any sort of regulation of private enterprise and global corporations.
Do you see that roads, air travel, public utilities, our national defense everything is being privatized or dismantled. Besides the EPA, and dropping out of the Paris accord, the latest target is the Air Traffic Control system, and of course Social Security, Medicare, etc.
Your narrative is more like what I did during the summer. Please try to keep the NYT standards of real reporting.
17
I thought it was hilarious that the author skipped over Southwest. I imagine she did this because Southwest is a reasonable and pleasant airline. I am not loyal to anything in my life, but I am loyal to Southwest (above family loyal). No first class or any seat assignments for that matter, free checked bags, snacks and hilarity from the crew. Plus the cheapest prices. How they manage to do this I have no idea. But if you want an all for one experience, you've got it. I think the classism of other airlines is sick and the fact that people further this agenda even more deplorable. An airplane is basically the bus of the sky — just sit down, shut up and you'll get there eventually.
20
Having just flown from the US to London on an American flight with my six year old son, rammed into middle seats at the back of the plane I really appreciated this article, it gave me a good laugh. The whole experience is to be endured. From the broken entertainment system that the flight attendants kept pledging to re-set to the attendant call button in the row ahead of ours that was malfunctioning and chiming loudly throughout the cabin every five minutes (every 2 to 10 seconds during the regular bouts of turbulence) it did not inspire confidence in the level of electrical maintenance. On the plus side, the flight attendants were good humoured - though if I had been sitting in the seat with the malfunctioning call button I am not sure I would have appreciated the flight attendant telling me how lucky I was for all the attention I would be getting as a result (in fact she was ignored for the rest of the flight) - and the other passengers considerate and low-key. Flying in economy class is its own special hell, but with family spread around the world and a limited budget there isn't much choice. That said, my experience with the airlines out of the US are generally the worst...
12
in most Asian airlines you are treated well and In the US Southwest is good. Had a few experiences on long distance with AA from Asia to the US and it was OK. Anyway, fly less and things will change. And if you fly back there, just try to have a good time with your own entertainment system and snacks.
Generally? how about ALWAYS the worst.
Nowadays its just a way to get from point A to point B , with all the inconveniences involved , don't you just wish you could blink and be there? I do and avoid air travel as much as possible and go only when necessary , basically , wild horses couldn't drag me on an airplane .
Very nice piece Sarah!!
Alastair
Alastair
I no longer fly domestic unless in an emergency and then only in a private jet (and I am not rich but ido save money for just such a chance) and when I go abroad I always choose an international carrier or a ship (another story altogether). I'm a retired Infantry Officer on a generous pension whose wife has a very good job; I'm surprised that I find my family of six kinda frozen out of the domestic air transportation network. IDK: is the confluence of the free market and the security state making air travel unbearable?
3
On the last eight round trip flights (Europe, Hawaii, domestic) I have had acceptable experiences. None were excessively delayed. While the seats are narrow and tight, the price I have paid have been bargains. The new entertainment systems that allow choice of movies on your own device have helped pass the time. No lost bags. It helps to book flights with sufficient connection time and to try and avoid the most crowded days and times at the airport. Obviously, not everyone can do that.
1
Superb! As a permanent member of the Economy Class I thank you NYT for supporting great journalism. Loved it.
4
Don't worry. It will all be over soon. Self driving cars will provide a better experience for the masses. And don't think your self driving car will travel at a mere 70 mikes an hour.
4
In 1977 I flew round trip from Phoenix to Japan. Cost me $1770 economy. Last month I flew from Phoenix to Hong Kong, cost me $1810 Premium Economy (which seat wise is about the same as economy back then). Adjusted for accumulated inflation, the $1770 comes out to around $6800.
10
the story about the man who claimed to have paid for his son's seat and was told that his son could not sit there, etc neglects to state that all of us have known for years to wit: that tickets for one passenger can not be exchanged for a different passenger. thus, i conclude that this entire story is slanted against the airlines.
11
I don't know where to start. But first, no matter what you pay, you don't deserve to be treated like an animal going to the slaughter house. And who says flights are cheap? I just paid $850.00 for an economy seat on United Airlines from Newark to Las Vegas. It was purchased 3 weeks in advance. The seats are so crammed together that mildly obese people spill into MY seat. I buy extra legroom because I don't want the seat if front of me to be 2 inches from my face. The misinformation about delays are unacceptable. We want the truth. Where is our passenger bill of rights that has teeth? Protect US not the airlines. I could go on, but in conclusion, I do not know of any other business in America that despises it's customers as much as the airline industry does.
28
How in the hell could you pay $850 for an economy flight to Las Vegas? Just a quick search on SkyScanner shows several flights under $350 round trip.
1
It's not that I paid $850.00 for a ticket, it's that the ticket should never have cost so much. Prices are controlled by computer algorithms designed to suck as much money as they can from us. Flying planes that are full to capacity and then having no back up planes when they break or are the planes are so late that people miss their connections, is not acceptable. There are more flying worthy planes mothballed in the desert than are available. The airlines should be made to fly these mothballed planes to accommodate their overcrowded customers. More planes=more seat room=less stress.
1
There are rules for humane treatment of animals going to slaughter
1
This isn't all the airlines fault. Most people book flights primarily based on price. The airline with lowest fares gets the bulk of the bookings, no matter how bad its reputation for service or even safety. Your experience on your return flight illustrates the fact that the airlines would happily provide better service, more legroom, the whole nine yards, if we were willing (and able) to pay for it. They don't actually enjoy hassling us.
By the way, I enjoyed and remember your garbage transit story.
By the way, I enjoyed and remember your garbage transit story.
4
Thank goodness for Qantas! And that I amass enough points to upgrade to business, pretty much every time, when I fly back to the US.
Within the US, its Southwest all the way -- I don't mind the cramming on what to me, after 14 hours across the Pacific, are short hops, and SW at least has a sense of humour.
Within the US, its Southwest all the way -- I don't mind the cramming on what to me, after 14 hours across the Pacific, are short hops, and SW at least has a sense of humour.
7
Back in the day when I was a young lieutenant, I used r drive from Ft. Benning to see my mom at Christmas; the only time I flew was when it was on the Army's dime.
Until passengers are willing to pay more for more legroom and better service and amenities, they are getting what they pay for. But for the vast majority, price is all that matters.
9
You speak as though many have a choice. There are lots of college kids flying to see grandma, and lots of retirees trying to get somewhere. We all can't just be "willing" to pay more; some must also be "able".
5
PRE - true, but passengers USED to get legroom and amenities 15 yeara go for less than what they pay now.
5
I am willing to pay for more legroom, but I can't afford first class. And as for seat room, outside of first class you can't get more seat room at any price.
So I fly Southwest, where everyone is at least treated the same, and the flight attendants are nice, and have a sense of humor. Flying today, we all need that.
So I fly Southwest, where everyone is at least treated the same, and the flight attendants are nice, and have a sense of humor. Flying today, we all need that.
I have also been baffled by all the different classes of Delta passengers for boarding purposes. Once, when flying United, I was told that because I was in the lowest class of passenger, I would be required to gate check my carryon luggage as it was a full flight. And like many other reviewers here, I prefer Southwest - aside from the more egalitarian boarding procedure, their flight attendants are terrific. Thank you for the great article.
5
North American (yes, Canada you're included here too) and European Airlines are the absolute worst when it comes to respect for people "sitting in the back."
A few years ago I couldn't get a ticket on short notice on American Airlines flying from Miami to Bogota and after some looking around was able to find a trip on Avianca and, wow, what a difference, sure, I was in the back, but the smiles and attitude of the Avianca flight attendants were night and day compared to the surly and rude demeanor of American Airlines employees in general. I have since had similar positive experiences on LATAM, Cathay Pacific and Air New Zealand. Terrible experiences I have had include American, Delta, United, Air Canada, British Airways and Lufthansa.
I think if you're used to "sitting in the back," the best (or least bad) experience in North America and Europe, will be found on low cost/budget airlines the likes of Southwest, Westjet, Jetblue, Norwegian or Air Berlin etc..
A few years ago I couldn't get a ticket on short notice on American Airlines flying from Miami to Bogota and after some looking around was able to find a trip on Avianca and, wow, what a difference, sure, I was in the back, but the smiles and attitude of the Avianca flight attendants were night and day compared to the surly and rude demeanor of American Airlines employees in general. I have since had similar positive experiences on LATAM, Cathay Pacific and Air New Zealand. Terrible experiences I have had include American, Delta, United, Air Canada, British Airways and Lufthansa.
I think if you're used to "sitting in the back," the best (or least bad) experience in North America and Europe, will be found on low cost/budget airlines the likes of Southwest, Westjet, Jetblue, Norwegian or Air Berlin etc..
4
Sorry but air Berlin is absolute bottom for leg room. American Airlines is rude, it's been getting worse over last decade
Flying for more than 40 years, I find that flying has gotten better. Smokers used to keep the cabin blue and you had to wash your hair after a flight. Mechanical delays were much more common and in a typical year 4 jetliners crashed in America. Who remembers when they sold life insurance at the airport? Air fares were so expensive under government regulation that many people flying to Europe would have to take cheap charters because they couldn't afford scheduled airliners. Fares have been cut in half and the number of travelers grown exponentially. But flying still makes people anxious even if it is much safer and cheaper. Also people who say air travel is different in Europe need to get out more.
17
I've been flying for 35, and although a couple of things have gotten better (I agree it's great not to have smokers, and I agree there are fewer delays,) flying is worse, IMHO. Security theater, and it gets way more uncomfortable to fly every year because they keep squeezing the seats, and charging extra for the amenities that used to just come with the ticket. And flights used to not be so full, which in some ways was bad (wasted fuel), but it was nice when more often than not there were empty seats next to you.
4
I remember life insurance being sold at the airports. This came to a stop after a man purchased a large policy on his mother, into whose bag he had hidden a bomb. Which exploded mid-flight.
1
Rick, I have been flying for 25 years, and fares have not been cut in half. But the seats have.
6
Since retiring some 8 years ago after years of frequent air travel, I have traveled by air two times and those two times just about convinced me that if I can drive or take Amtrak, that will be my preferred method.
The sardine-like packaging us into that aluminum tube is horrendous, the onerous add-on fees is budget breaking and the not so nice airline employees are also a negative factor.
Our last flight, two years ago, from Hawaii to the west coast, overnight, resulted in us paying for first class upgrades solely to have comfortable seats for the overnight portion. Yeah, I contributed to the problem of add-on fees, but, the upgrade fees were less than the cost of a first class ticket at the time of booking.
But, I am no longer a frequent flier.
The sardine-like packaging us into that aluminum tube is horrendous, the onerous add-on fees is budget breaking and the not so nice airline employees are also a negative factor.
Our last flight, two years ago, from Hawaii to the west coast, overnight, resulted in us paying for first class upgrades solely to have comfortable seats for the overnight portion. Yeah, I contributed to the problem of add-on fees, but, the upgrade fees were less than the cost of a first class ticket at the time of booking.
But, I am no longer a frequent flier.
1
And just wait until air traffic control is privatized so that there can be surcharges for varying levels of competence.
9
You are assuming there is a level of competence. Well, they are good at treating passengers like dirt.
There is no known "safe" level of radiation. I was at an airport recently where there was a radiologist convention in town - none of the radiologists would go through the body scanner. All six on the line ahead of me at TSA asked for a pat down - I followed their lead. If radiologists, who work daily with radiation, will not allow their bodies to go thru the scanners, then neither will I.
17
Perhaps they knew that by skipping the scanner you can sometimes get through security quicker. Millimeter wave is non-ionizing, all it can do is heat up your skin, and the power of those scanners isn't nearly enough to actually do that. Just flying exposes you to additional cosmic and solar radiation, which are ionizing. Maybe the smart radiologists took the train?
7
Remember this is the same government that told members of the armed forces that experiencing radiation from watching a above ground nuclear test was not harmful. The government did provide sunglasses. It's same government who said Agent Orange (thank you, Monsanto) was not harmful and that permitted lead into virtually every product category including toothpaste.
8
Same government that now will not make it mandatory to label GMO foods. It will take a while but the truth will come out about GMO's (and Roundup's) destructive effect on the ecology and on human health.
This is SO reminiscent of my work life before I retired last year. I don't miss it AT ALL. However, I'm having a hard time talking myself into the leisure travel I have looked forward to for years. I guess I'll just have to adjust my attitude and suck it up.
2
Consider a slow road trip where the drive not the destination is the objective. And as for long trips, I try to go somewhere that I can live for a month or more at a time and experience the abroad as a native not a tourist.
Which is what I did on active duty as an American soldier abroad in the world.
Which is what I did on active duty as an American soldier abroad in the world.
1
You'd think that by now idiots such as this reporter here would finally understand that the shorter line is not a paid privilege, rather, a simple visit to get a background check and a "known traveler" ID. I'm amazed to discover that someone who travels as much as this character does not know this.
Too much of the article seems to blame her plight on her fellow travelers. Of course, the first class cabin is reserved for the people who paid through the nose for those seats. Duh?
Too much of the article seems to blame her plight on her fellow travelers. Of course, the first class cabin is reserved for the people who paid through the nose for those seats. Duh?
6
You lost me at "A man is dragged off an oversold United flight in Chicago." WRONG! It was a Republic Airlines and the flight was not "oversold." The passenger signed a "Contract of Carriage," a legally binding agreement permitting his involuntary removal under prescribed situations, such as the transport of employees necessary to the operation. Moreover, the man became abusive and belligerent when he reused the commands of a flight crew, which is a Federal Offense. The Chicago Airport Police were called in, as per regulations. No United Airlines employee touched this miscreant. Why don't you write an article about how airline employees are abused, threatened and physically assaulted? Until then, your misguided, misinformed and biased comments are just more media sensationalism for profit. Shameful!
13
Completely wrong. In fact, this customer originally had volunteered to take another flight when the airline admitted they were overbooked after everyone was already seated. However, when the customer found out it wasn't leaving until the next day in the afternoon, he was not able to help them out because of his job. He was not "removed." He was physically assaulted, and then violently hit his head because of the assault, and then was dragged down the aisle and suffered major injuries, including physical damage to his eye, that required SURGERY. The customer did not commit any crimes. However, American Airlines DID, which is why their CEO had to testify, and then apologize, in front of the United States Congress. He also easily WON the lawsuit that he rightfully filed. And, because of his case, American Airlines has now changed their policies. For someone who is so concerned, about RULES, you forget a simple one- TREAT OTHERS THE WAY YOU WANT TO BE TREATED.
7
Chris is correct, the flight was not overbooked. Four deadheading crew members had to be boarded to prevent another flight getting cancelled.
That knucklehead decided he was more important than everyone else. He was completely to blame for his injuries.
That knucklehead decided he was more important than everyone else. He was completely to blame for his injuries.
3
It was United, not American (Republic was the operating carrier).
1
Flying for 7 days to write a story in way different than trying to flying on a shoestring budget to land a job or meet sick family.
We, Americans, are also to blame for our entitled attitudes. Yes, the TSA staff are unmotivated and rude at times, but have you seen passengers being completely daft in astounding numbers? Its like they have never flown before.
Its the entitled frequent flyers who hassle gate agents for 'upgrades' while people who have missed connecting flight are waiting patiently.
Its morbidly obese flyers spilling into your seats and stuffing their entire house into the overhead bins.
The list goes on....
We, Americans, are also to blame for our entitled attitudes. Yes, the TSA staff are unmotivated and rude at times, but have you seen passengers being completely daft in astounding numbers? Its like they have never flown before.
Its the entitled frequent flyers who hassle gate agents for 'upgrades' while people who have missed connecting flight are waiting patiently.
Its morbidly obese flyers spilling into your seats and stuffing their entire house into the overhead bins.
The list goes on....
9
Just give the whole plane to the "fortunates." then, the airlines don't need such big planes.......Oh, right! The airlines are making a ton of money on the belly of the plane's cargo.
2
I had to stop reading it mid-way. Too real and sad.
2
My apologies to the wit whom I cannot remember but wrote this: "Its better to travel first class than to get there."
6
Flying is a miserable experience, and we in aggregate are as complicit as the airlines in making it that way. We have amply demonstrated to the carriers that we want the lowest price, and that we are willing to endure almost anything to get it. For decades, we enjoyed amenities (including frequent-flyer miles) intended for, and paid for, by more lucrative business passengers. At long last the carriers have learned to restrict those benefits to those who pay for them. The end result is that we have made air travel for ordinary passengers a living hell. I simply never go anywhere anymore that requires air travel, other than weddings I feel obligated to attend.
6
At Sacramento International Airport we have 30 therapy dogs who roam the terminals seeking out the happy, the sad, the anxious and anyone else who wants a minor distraction. It has been a very well recieved program.. 30 some ariports nationwide are also providing this service. My black lab Ringo is all about a friendly wag, a kiss or just some down time. BARC (boarding area relaxation corp.)
232
That's a nice program, Pat, but wouldn't it be better if the airlines and obnoxious passengers just didn't create the stress that is somewhat alleviated by the dogs?
3
What about those of us who don't want to be poked by damp dog noses? Or pestered by their overly friendly attendants? Do you restrain the dogs until they're invited to touch someone?
Were the customers treated with respect, the dogs would not be necessary. Nice they are there, but they compensate for horrid conditions.
1
Unfortunately, one has to treat flying in economy class like a backpacking trip, but without the redeeming natural beauty. You have to pack your own food, plan your water stops, and carry nothing that isn't absolutely necessary for your survival. Do you really need that funny, horseshoe-shaped bean bag pillow?
Along the way, you will encounter beautiful, strange, and sometimes hostile life forms. How should you safely respond when you encounter these creatures? Do you avoid eye contact, make yourself look larger, or play dead? As in the wilderness, offering the wrong defensive response to certain creatures can derail your journey.
Along the way, you will encounter beautiful, strange, and sometimes hostile life forms. How should you safely respond when you encounter these creatures? Do you avoid eye contact, make yourself look larger, or play dead? As in the wilderness, offering the wrong defensive response to certain creatures can derail your journey.
336
Not everyone is up for backpacking. And as someone who suffers from a degenerative spinal disease, a neck pillow is essential. Ever try one? They're useful on long haul or overnight flights. There's a reason people like them.
2
To complete the analogy your sleeping back is 3 feet long and your stove just quit. Welcome to the 'coach' trailhead.
Some of these points identify the ways in which terrorism has already won. We let it change our lifestyle and air industry rules.
11
Greyhound bus travel is more pleasant than coach class on the legacy airlines.
5
You must have had some first class bus trips because I would take coach class air travel over Greyhound anywhere, anytime. My experience with bus stations is they made me question that this is a First World country. In my travels to various national parks I have encountered pit toilets more pleasant that a bus station bathroom.
4
1st Class on Domestic flights is not that great. On United the planes are so small there is usually no microwave in the galley so for breakfast you get an unripe banana and a plastic bowl with a box of cereal. Once from Austin, AUSTIN!, there was no water in the lavatories so no one gbot to use the bathroom? Who wants coffee and breakfast if you might need the facilities with no recourse to wash your hands? Seriously! Flew Business Class on United ( the new Polaris Class) very soft blankets and pillows, but the food and service was subpar. The entertainment on my 9 hour flight from Paris did not work. At All. The attendant, DeAnna, dropped the entire tray for the cheese course on the galley floor. Oh Well..... I was looking forward to that too. I flew on miles on the foreign flights. Turkish Air Business Class, all class. Switching from United to Delta from now on. On Delta, the comfort class economy is not bad. Flights are cheaper than 20 years ago when the planes were larger. Pay $50 more each way and you can sit right behind 1st class and get free drinks and snacks. Works for me.
8
IMO, unless you are flying coast to coast or similar long haul flight in the US, business/first class is a waste. On the other hand for long haul flights, such as to Asia, I always go with the Premium economy, even though it costs 50-75%more. I can take a lot of crap for 2-5 hours, but when it stretches out to 10-15 hours.. not so much.
4
I fly only First or Business, but my home is Philly where there's almost no competition. So my seat on domestic flights is jammed up against the seat in front, it hardly declines and there's no more legroom than Coach. The food is disgusting if there is any. The only difference from Coach is that there are two instead of three seats in each row. This is the result of successive federal governments allowing the airline industry to merge and eliminate competition at most airports. Trump wants to get rid of any remaining regulations.
6
To get the best seats, become an airline pilot.
4
The electorate has far more "real power" than the Airlines, but we are far too stupid to take the time to improve our experience; letters to Congress do work, juast not very rapidly, again our fault, we elected these "feckless bureaucrats"!
I have read all comments. People are angry, frustrated but more and more people are traveling despite "travel ban", the main reason is the fare coming cheaper and cheaper, 10 day ago,I saw a cheapest fare from San Francisco to New York via Cincinnati was $38 from Frontier( $19 plus $19 using save20 code).
Do you still remember 15 years ago, SFO to NYC airfare $350 now the same, motel was $40/night now over $100, McDonald combo was less than $5 now near $10, Disneyland was $35 a day now $99.
There are two kind of travelers, most choose cheapest fare to get from point A to point B, a few want experience be enjoyable. Airlines are very labor intensive, very low margin profit industry, the biggest airlines AA is less than market value of ebay, so airlines cater for the demands, cheap fare for economy class( which accounts 85% passengers , 50% revenues and 15% profits), high end supply for 1st and business ( which accounts 15% pax, 50% rev and 85% profits), a sample of one international route, economy class $1000 round trip, $ 4000 for business, $10000 for first class.
There are many suggestions to fix airline problems, the only practical way is significantly increase airfare, at least catch up with inflation as grocery store . So the fare from SFO to NYC should not be less than $700 round trip and restore free in-flight food, drink and more legroom ,free checked bags.
Do you still remember 15 years ago, SFO to NYC airfare $350 now the same, motel was $40/night now over $100, McDonald combo was less than $5 now near $10, Disneyland was $35 a day now $99.
There are two kind of travelers, most choose cheapest fare to get from point A to point B, a few want experience be enjoyable. Airlines are very labor intensive, very low margin profit industry, the biggest airlines AA is less than market value of ebay, so airlines cater for the demands, cheap fare for economy class( which accounts 85% passengers , 50% revenues and 15% profits), high end supply for 1st and business ( which accounts 15% pax, 50% rev and 85% profits), a sample of one international route, economy class $1000 round trip, $ 4000 for business, $10000 for first class.
There are many suggestions to fix airline problems, the only practical way is significantly increase airfare, at least catch up with inflation as grocery store . So the fare from SFO to NYC should not be less than $700 round trip and restore free in-flight food, drink and more legroom ,free checked bags.
12
I've just returned from Japan, where I spent two weeks traveling the country by train (Shinkansen, limited express and local lines) and ferry. It was not only pleasant but effortless, as my rail pass allowed me to board any train without a ticket or a reservation. Not only were there always comfortable seats--and this was in second class--but good food and service. While the United States is far larger than Japan, a lot of the stress on travelers would be relieved by high-speed rail between cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco. The fact that we still don't have it--more than 50 years after Japan's first bullet train--is a failure of political will.
43
Without irony I posit that everything that is wrong with our day to day existence here in the good ole USA can be attributed to right wing ideology.
Whatever your issue just drill down...the profit motive and selfishness drives all.
Not true in Japan and other advanced societies.
Whatever your issue just drill down...the profit motive and selfishness drives all.
Not true in Japan and other advanced societies.
3
It's too bad that the price of flying,monentary and stress-wise has gone up.When I was a kid and a young adult,flying was a totally different experience.Passengers and crew were more friendly and accommendating,
snacks and drinks were abundant as well as seats and leg room.It seems that ever since 9/11 that the whole airline industry has taken a 360 degree turn towards the mentality of smashing herds of cattle as fast as possible from Point A to Point B,then repeat the process 365/7/24,without regards to customer service or creature comforts.This is exactly why I don't fly anymore,because at least in my car,I have choices,and options.
snacks and drinks were abundant as well as seats and leg room.It seems that ever since 9/11 that the whole airline industry has taken a 360 degree turn towards the mentality of smashing herds of cattle as fast as possible from Point A to Point B,then repeat the process 365/7/24,without regards to customer service or creature comforts.This is exactly why I don't fly anymore,because at least in my car,I have choices,and options.
6
A major reason for the low-quality of air travel is the unique protection from competition that airlines enjoy. Antitrust regulators have been remarkably lax, allowing airlines to consolidate and divide up the market among themselves. The U.S. also keeps out foreign competition, meaning that no external force can intervene. Monopolies tend to stop caring about quality and focus exclusively on quantity because they know consumers have no where else to go. In the rare instance that competition does emerge (Virgin) it gets bought out.
7
The Airline Deregulation Act of 1978 changed USA airlines beyond recognition. Deregulation and lack of government controls lowers standards and quality of service.
Iceland gets 5 times its population annually, in tourists, and has 8 airlines and seems to get reviews similar to the USA travel reviews etc. (Do a web search: Iceland airline reviews; then do a web search for USA airline reviews.
Maybe it's just a case of unregulated tourism growth and unregulated airways not keeping up with the demand; whether it's a small place like Iceland or the continental USA.
Iceland gets 5 times its population annually, in tourists, and has 8 airlines and seems to get reviews similar to the USA travel reviews etc. (Do a web search: Iceland airline reviews; then do a web search for USA airline reviews.
Maybe it's just a case of unregulated tourism growth and unregulated airways not keeping up with the demand; whether it's a small place like Iceland or the continental USA.
I only have three rules when it comes to flying:
1. Never book a flight that departs before 7 AM. It's worth an extra $50 to feel like a human being the rest of the day.
2. Never book a flight with a discount carrier like Frontier or Spirit. By the time they nickle-and-dime you for this-and-that, you're paying the same price as anywhere else.
3. GET THE AIRLINE CREDIT CARD! I got a United credit card a few years ago, and it's been absolute bliss. My husband and I board the plane earlier (right after first class!), we can check bags for free, and we even get a few free vouchers for the first class lounge. Spending $80/year seems like a fair price to pay for a little luxury and the ability to earn reward miles from my weekly grocery store shop.
1. Never book a flight that departs before 7 AM. It's worth an extra $50 to feel like a human being the rest of the day.
2. Never book a flight with a discount carrier like Frontier or Spirit. By the time they nickle-and-dime you for this-and-that, you're paying the same price as anywhere else.
3. GET THE AIRLINE CREDIT CARD! I got a United credit card a few years ago, and it's been absolute bliss. My husband and I board the plane earlier (right after first class!), we can check bags for free, and we even get a few free vouchers for the first class lounge. Spending $80/year seems like a fair price to pay for a little luxury and the ability to earn reward miles from my weekly grocery store shop.
8
The seats have gotten smaller and there is less room between rows. I am relative short man and 15-20 years ago I had no discomfort flying coach. I fit in the seats fine and had ample leg room. I have been in coach on nine flights over the last couple of weeks sitting primarily on the aisle. On every flight the drink cart hit my shoulder because my shoulder sticks out into the aisle. I have only recently pondered the possibility of upgrading to a bigger seats.
4
The reasons flying is uncomfortable (if you are not in first class)? Easy. Far more people are flying. The airline tries to fill every seat. Way more security these days. As more than one person has suggested, pay more for first class if you want a better experience.
1
If you are a regular Southwest Air flyer you never have to expose yourself to the class differences between the first class and economy accommodations. On Southwest, with the exception of the first row, all the seats are uncomfortable. On the other hand, the staff is fantastic.
13
I do not work for Southwest, but I generally don't experience all the boarding difficulty that the writer experienced on other airlines. It's simple - you get your boarding pass as close to the 24-hour mark as possible, and then you line up according to your number. No "gate lice," and limited special flyers. You know ahead of time there's not going to be any food offered, so buy something in the airport - it's going to taste better than any airline food anyway. Alaska Airlines has reasonably priced food boxes and I haven't experienced terrible trouble with boarding on their planes either. Haven't flown United, American or Delta in years, and the last time I flew Frontier I decided would be my last. TSA Precheck is a pretty good deal if you fly more than a couple of times a year, and there's another paid service, CLEAR, that not too many people use, so it gets you through security quickly. So there are things one can do to make flying less arduous and stressful. And those who have pointed this out are right, air travel is way less expensive and more accessible than it used to be.
5
Here's an idea. The government should create a public option (just like healthcare). Start a government subsidized airline that treats people like humans and watch how quickly the commercial carriers fall in line.
4
I worked for a large Media/Entertainment company and as a senior executive was entitled to First coast to coast and Business everywhere else, including international. I was "Executive Platinum" on AA 8 years. If we were close to EP but a few thousand miles short, a pal and I would do what we called "mileage runs" - usually round trip to Heathrow or South America on a budget coach ticket with the strong possibility of being upgraded. Sometimes we'd do a "quick turnaround" i.e. LAX to LHR and right back again. Insanity but, if I could afford it, totally worth the couple of grand. Keeping EP became my life's mission. When I lost EP I actually wept. (Yeah, I know.) But "mileage run" exercises taught me a lot about how to cleverly book tickets. I am familiar with the seating patterns of most wide-body planes and know which coach seats to avoid: ones too close to the loo, right by the service area, poor leg room,etc. (SeatGuru is excellent for this.) I learned that looking as chic as possible and a genuine smile can get you much further than a onesie, giant pillow and a crap attitude. No one in a Juicy sweat suit is getting upgraded on the fly. A lot has changed since then but you can still be clever: book as far in advance as possible to get not only a decent seat but also higher placement on the upgrade list. Fork out for the Club. Check in as soon as your "status" allows - I set an alarm for the 24hour check in my tragic Gold for Life status affords. And don't forget the Xanax.
17
You are exactly right in most everything you sat. When I first began flying international, a flight attendant told me that if I dressed well my chances of being upgraded increased 100%. End up flying 2 million miles most always either business or first class.
2
Break up the airlines and set loose some good ol' free-market competition. Then we'll see how many more articles like this get written...
1
I never understood why people want to be among the first groups to board. Why, when I'm going to be crammed into that seat for the next god-only-knows-how-many hours, would I want to spend even one additional minute in it, breathing that stale airplane air?
12
It's because they want overhead space for their carryon bags. Those boarding last will often find them full.
3
It seems like if you don't get on first, you have little hope of putting anything in an overhead bin. Too many people manage to carry on way more items than are "allowed" and they're often larger than they should be. I flew from YYC to YVR last year and the woman next to me had a bag that did not fit in the overhead bin, nor under the seat - because I was boarding later on, I had to climb over her bag to get to my window seat and the overhead bin was full of her other belongings. The air crew had no interest in enforcing their own employer's rules and the other passenger was quite rude to anyone who mentioned it.
2
Listen to all the people, whining about the misery of air travel.
Here's a thought: if airlines want to be licensed in the US, they must provide legroom, air, the chance to pick your seat beforehand, two checked in bags, seat belt lights that aren't on the whole flight, and as many pretzels as you want.
Care to race to the bottom on other things? Have at it.
But capitalism need not mean misery, and government regulation of basic components of human comfort and decency isn't communism.
Here's a thought: if airlines want to be licensed in the US, they must provide legroom, air, the chance to pick your seat beforehand, two checked in bags, seat belt lights that aren't on the whole flight, and as many pretzels as you want.
Care to race to the bottom on other things? Have at it.
But capitalism need not mean misery, and government regulation of basic components of human comfort and decency isn't communism.
11
And when people yell and scream about the price increase?
Oddly enough, those airlines that reduce legroom, don't provide food nor checked bags - people still buy tickets. No one twists their arm or forces them even! It's amazing!
Capitalism means choice. You can choose to pick an airline iwth more or less legroom, but when most customers pick by price alone, then that's what the airlines have to work on.
Oddly enough, those airlines that reduce legroom, don't provide food nor checked bags - people still buy tickets. No one twists their arm or forces them even! It's amazing!
Capitalism means choice. You can choose to pick an airline iwth more or less legroom, but when most customers pick by price alone, then that's what the airlines have to work on.
Senator Blumenthal, from Connecticut, has sought to regulate seat size and sat pitch and other passenger-friendly items for many years. Always blocked by Senate Republicans.
5
I seriously question the sanity of anybody eager to fly using a US airline.
Because my line of work I have the opportunity to regularly fly US and non US airlines, and I do my best to avoid US airlines like they are the black plague.
There is a huuuuuuuge gap in quality and passenger service. Foreign arilines are not nirvana, but they still treat passengers like human beings with essential rights. Acceptable space, kind flight attendants, a decent meal .. nothing out of ordinary.
On the other side .... US airlines treat people like cattle.
Because my line of work I have the opportunity to regularly fly US and non US airlines, and I do my best to avoid US airlines like they are the black plague.
There is a huuuuuuuge gap in quality and passenger service. Foreign arilines are not nirvana, but they still treat passengers like human beings with essential rights. Acceptable space, kind flight attendants, a decent meal .. nothing out of ordinary.
On the other side .... US airlines treat people like cattle.
32
I hate TSA. I really, really do. almost as much as I hate airlines. returning from Paris, through Atlanta, there was no Pre-TSA security line. off with the shoes, but wearing only cotton leggings and a cotton tunic, I enter the full-body scanner. upon exiting, I'm told the scanner picked up "something in the breast, groin, and buttocks areas." not wearing any underwear at all, I can only assume what was "picked up" were mammary cysts, pubic hair, and a 35-yr-old tattoo. full body search ensued. this, plus the late-arrival flight, meant I missed my connection. the helpful suggestion was to take a flight at midnight to Salt Lake City, from there to Phoenix, and arriving home in New Mexico in literally 24 hours. I cried (I have lupus; every joint in my body was screaming). they would not pay for a hotel. I got one anyway and got home by noon the next day. I hate TSA.
17
Oh for the High Speed Rail we elected Obama to deliver.
All those JOBS, All that technology. The freedom of an alternative modern transportation system,, One that we could have also sold to the world.
All those advancements, especially good for the shorter hops,... Killed,
Dumped, thrown in the trash by the party of thieves, the party of NO !
All those JOBS, All that technology. The freedom of an alternative modern transportation system,, One that we could have also sold to the world.
All those advancements, especially good for the shorter hops,... Killed,
Dumped, thrown in the trash by the party of thieves, the party of NO !
20
The rail road could be finished by now. Thanks Governor Walker.
2
The selfie in onesie is delightfully perfect. The journalist's regal pose and demeanor (that head angle) while dressed in the utterly infantalizing onesie. It's a single image that shows our inherent value as persons contrasted with our economic value as airline chattel.
4
"How did air travel, which once seemed so glamorous and exciting, turn into a sadomasochistic pas de deux between the industry and the passenger?"
Perhaps you are asking the wrong question. Perhaps the question should be:
"Why are airline personnel so poorly trained in customer service?"
Perhaps you are asking the wrong question. Perhaps the question should be:
"Why are airline personnel so poorly trained in customer service?"
7
Legroom should be set by law. That the airlines can squeeze us in like cattle and then make massive profits sometimes at the expense of the passengers health is simply outrageous.
17
What a nightmare and thank goodness I live in NZ where we can drive everywhere and take the caravan too! Distance from Auckland city NZ to Invercargill city NZ is 1175km.
USA is a Continent so it is impossible to drive long distances in the USA, in some instances. Just like the government polices the roads maybe they need to put more money into policing air travel and ensure standards and regulations are meet by airlines and airports.
USA is a Continent so it is impossible to drive long distances in the USA, in some instances. Just like the government polices the roads maybe they need to put more money into policing air travel and ensure standards and regulations are meet by airlines and airports.
3
Thanks for takin' the heat for all of us, lady.
4
When we fly, most of us pick the lowest airfare - down to a few dollars difference. We tell the airlines to cut every corner to cost less, or else we will pick their competitor.
Before all this, flying was luxurious - because you paid for the luxury, the cost was so high few could fly. I remember my first few flights - huge events in my life, not something you could afford to do routinely.
Before all this, flying was luxurious - because you paid for the luxury, the cost was so high few could fly. I remember my first few flights - huge events in my life, not something you could afford to do routinely.
170
Details, not been my experience. Coach air travel is more expensive than it was 15 years ago, especially trans-Atlantic.
4
No, we do not tell the airlines to cut every corner to cost less.
2
High cost? I flew rt from SFO to LAX for $24 in 1966. A lounge in the back of the aircraft and plenty of leg room.
2
Deregulation made flying cheap for the masses. That's what passengers wanted. You get what you pay for.
5
I'm reminded of John Lennon's remark in "A Hard Day's Night" -
"Knock it off, Paul, you can't win with his sort, after all, it's his train, isn't it, mister?"
I figure it's their plane.
"Knock it off, Paul, you can't win with his sort, after all, it's his train, isn't it, mister?"
I figure it's their plane.
1
So you got paid to write about what many people have to do each week?
Stop feeling sorry for yourself. Fly prepared. Bring food of your own choice. Pack an extra outfit to take onboard in case your luggage is lost. And don't make it a onesie unless, of course, you wanted to wear it and wanted to write about wearing it. Know that perks are available to the few because they fly far more frequently than others on the plane.
Stop feeling sorry for yourself. Fly prepared. Bring food of your own choice. Pack an extra outfit to take onboard in case your luggage is lost. And don't make it a onesie unless, of course, you wanted to wear it and wanted to write about wearing it. Know that perks are available to the few because they fly far more frequently than others on the plane.
14
I don't travel at all, anymore. I'm retired, so don't have to subject myself to airlines for work and I'm not interested in vacationing beyond where my electric car can take me. Seems to me, if it's gotten this bad, Americans should just say, "No."
1
Take away the scare terms from the article, and nothing bad happened. One pat down, a redirect to a machine that is normal in more and more airports, and is nice and uninvasive, and waiting in lines and 'gasp' having to check a bag. Not a big deal.
1
The key here is that despite this mal-treatment by the airlines of its economy passengers, more and more people fly and put up with it. The airlines have no incentive to make things more comfortable, or 'the way they used to be'. I gave up. They won. I pay the extra to travel First/Business.
1
We're United Airlines... you will fly the 'Friendly Skies' when we TELL YOU!
About the statement "you cannot escape the possibility of the full-body scanner." As a person with metal hip joints, I jump for joy when I see that a full body scanner is available. It means that I will likely not need to undergo an invasive body search. The scanner is quick and easy. I can't understand why the author views this machine as something to be 'escaped'. I'm a very frequent flier and really appreciate the availability of this machine.
2
Airlines have contrived to make passengers pay for a lot of little things that they used to include. The legroom is shorter, but you can pay for more. The snacks are gone, but you can buy an (overpriced, barely edible) meal. The luggage space is tighter, but you can check your bag (not free, not anymore). I have evolved my own personal solution - I no longer fly nearly as often... instead I drive myself. Airlines will, I hope, enjoy this interlude of high profits, because when self-driving cars reach the masses, my alternative will become even more common.
4
Yes, flying can be trying. But to me, it still is a magical experience, even in that middle seat in economy. How many people in the whole history of civilization have had the experience of looking down at clouds, and flying through them! My advice is to take plenty of snacks and a bottle of water, something to read and an i-pod. Most importantly, remember that airline and security staff are people, too, and be "kinder than you have to be" to everyone you encounter while flying. A positive attitude goes far.
13
Now I want you to contrast this experience with the new, very upscale, recently added gate at LAX for those boarding private luxury jets. It is unbelievable! So beyond anything we the average person could imagine. From the fresh cut flowers, concierge, gourmet food/drink, expensive furniture/art, concierge, massage, private rooms with beds, a wall of candy dispensers, on and on.
Flying has most certainly turned into a Tale of Two Cities.
Flying has most certainly turned into a Tale of Two Cities.
5
Welcome to Oligarch land, where all the money has gone to the 1%.
Enjoy steerage class, because you can't work enough lifetimes to make anywhere near what the Oligarchs make in a week.
It used to be a fairly even playing field, but then money chose our representatives. It's been downhill for us ever since.
Surprise !
Trump is giving himself and other Oligarch's another Tax cut
Enjoy steerage class, because you can't work enough lifetimes to make anywhere near what the Oligarchs make in a week.
It used to be a fairly even playing field, but then money chose our representatives. It's been downhill for us ever since.
Surprise !
Trump is giving himself and other Oligarch's another Tax cut
7
Great article. I went searching for more of the author's writing.
5
I've flown over 2 million miles in First Class Suites to Economy middle seats and in the end, it all comes down to you get what you pay for.
Yes, airline travel has become the haves and the have nots. But that's driven by the consumer only wanting to pay the lowest possible fare. No one is stopping you from getting First Class treatment with meals, lie flat seats, 32" video monitors, access to lounges, etc., etc. All you have to do is pay for it. Just like anything else in life.
And if you think the airlines are taking advantage of you but charging more but giving less, think again. In today's dollars, airfare is significantly less than it was 20-30 years ago which is why so many more people are flying today.
Yes, airline travel has become the haves and the have nots. But that's driven by the consumer only wanting to pay the lowest possible fare. No one is stopping you from getting First Class treatment with meals, lie flat seats, 32" video monitors, access to lounges, etc., etc. All you have to do is pay for it. Just like anything else in life.
And if you think the airlines are taking advantage of you but charging more but giving less, think again. In today's dollars, airfare is significantly less than it was 20-30 years ago which is why so many more people are flying today.
16
All very true, but customer service shouldn't be as poor as it is today.
1
Wow. You live in a bubble. Not all of us have all this disposable income you seem to have. Bully for you to be able to pay so much more.
Your nasty, snarky tone is really lovely.
Your nasty, snarky tone is really lovely.
7
So all of the rest of the 90% of humanity should be shoehorned into a sardine can is what you're saying.
Just like anyone else we need room to stretch, air to breathe, water to drink and bathrooms to use. Or is that asking way too much?
Just like anyone else we need room to stretch, air to breathe, water to drink and bathrooms to use. Or is that asking way too much?
2
In 1976, I was not even yet a teenager and enjoyed my first flight on a jet. I want to say it was a Boeing 727, but that is only a guess. My brother, two years my junior, were flying alone with no chaperone. The flight crew knew this and took us under their wing. After the jet door was closed, a flight attendant approached my brother and I and escorted us to the cockpit. I remember the pilot explaining 3 analog dials with hands spinning and how they were associated with three very big levers below the dials. Pointing to a number on the first dial, the pilot said, "...when the hand of dials reaching this point, push the big lever immediately under it, forward.." I pushed the first lever forward at the right time. My brother did the same for the dial/lever in the middle and I did the same for the third dial lever. Although I only realized it later, my brother and I had started each of the 3 jet engines of the aircraft. At that point a flight attendant escorted my brother and I back to our seats; the cockpit door remained open for the entirety of the flight from Tampa to Chicago. Later on in the flight, dinner was served. The meal was hot; I remember it being a casserole of some sort. The dinnerware was metal. And the fork, spoon, and knife each had "Northwest Orient" etched deeply into each utensil.
Yes, those were the good old days. Times have changed.
Yes, those were the good old days. Times have changed.
12
And you paid - in today's dollars?
No doubt far more than a first class ticket costs today.
It's wonderful - but to hire enough staff to give everyone that experience costs money, and people don't want to pay it.
Make no mistake, I don't want to pay it either. But to pay a bargain price and complain you don't get luxury treatment is just a way for the reporter to get some attention.
No doubt far more than a first class ticket costs today.
It's wonderful - but to hire enough staff to give everyone that experience costs money, and people don't want to pay it.
Make no mistake, I don't want to pay it either. But to pay a bargain price and complain you don't get luxury treatment is just a way for the reporter to get some attention.
Thank you for this entertaining parable of modern capitalism.
16
This is like the Stanford "prisoner experiment". Students were divided into prisoners and guards, and within days, the "guards" were abusing authority and being capricious with the "prisoners". The "prisoners" were becoming increasingly passive aggressive, and uniting against the "guards". The experiment had to ended early due to how extreme the students' behavior had become, even though they knew it was just an experiment. Sounds like the airlines have figured out how to take advantage of this set up, and don't have the insight to end the experiment.
20
Problem is this is not an experiment at Stanford. This is our flying reality.
9
Domestic air travel is all about profit margin for the airlines. With the exception of Southwest and Jet Blue, economy travel on domestic carriers is just awful. There is no excuse for the blatant disregard for passenger comfort and safety by US carriers.
7
I'm going to throw my hat in the ring with everyone who suggests flying with a better attitude. I fly all the time, and I've never lost touch with the excitement and wonder of being able to move around the country and the world so efficiently (all things considered). My advice, in addition to adjusting your attitude, is to become a smarter travel consumer: Do your research, get to know the airlines that serve your community, and learn the hacks and shortcuts you can use to make flying with them better. Don't just fly the cheapest option--be discriminating; have standards; plan ahead. There are lots of websites with helpful information--which flights are better or worse, which aircraft are best, which seats to avoid, etc. Pick a favorite airline or two and stick with them until you have a reason not to. Familiarity and predictability are useful. Get TSA Pre-Check! You will thank yourself every time you fly. Yes, there are many things you have to do yourself now or pay for that used to be free or done for you, but you can't let that bother you. Plan ahead, and budget for some creature comforts. That cheap ticket is cheap because it's been un-bundled. If you can afford an extra $25 or $50, look at the extras the airline has to offer and add some to your ticket. It all makes a difference. And remember, airline employees love a passenger with a sympathetic smile and a good attitude--they will reward you for it in ways that will sometimes surprise you.
37
Don't just fly the cheapest option--be discriminating; have standards; plan ahead.
IF ONE CAN AFFORD IT. Otherwise you are just another wealthy person in a bubble.
IF ONE CAN AFFORD IT. Otherwise you are just another wealthy person in a bubble.
Yeah, just don't look at the flight crew sideways or cross-eyed because this gives them a reason to call security and kick you off of a plane.
Even with my nicest smile and proper etiquette/dress and kindest attitude you are still told to stay seated, shut up and like it. It's a different era of flying.
Even with my nicest smile and proper etiquette/dress and kindest attitude you are still told to stay seated, shut up and like it. It's a different era of flying.
3
Yep. I fly for work - economy always, no upgrades, no miles, no status at all. And behaving with common courtesy to all the staff at the airport and on the airplane has always gotten me the same treatment in return.
Airlines could solve many of their boarding problems by charging for Cary-on, attaching a bright sicker that corresponds to a specific place in the overhead compartment. No rush to get on. And with added revenue can give everyone a small snack.
17
Yeah, they should also charge for people to wear clothes, because they take up space, too, eh? Apparently you have cash to burn, AJ - I sure don't.
So then everyone puts everything under the seat, meaning the footroom is overfull, slowing evacuation in the event of an emergency. Everything has a balance.
People are always looking for someone else to blame. Having short tempers and bad attitudes is not the fault of greed or profit. It's so easy to point fingers at something else, but all the fault really lies within people's attitudes, both towards one another and towards companies. Nobody wants to accept responsibility when they do something bad and this is a convenient target. Just like the criminal that blames police when they get caught.
1
TexasJC wrote "Nobody wants to accept responsibility when they do something bad..." to which I must respond: are you referring to economy passengers hassled and harried to the point of breaking (and, if so, what exactly "bad" did they do except not be able to pay the high price of luxury) or are you noting that the airlines have destroyed the joy of traveling by their corporate greed? Deregulation has been the bane of much of American life, from air travel to once-public utilities.
4
Commercial airlines make their profit on freight. Every passenger flight devotes a significant part of its payload to freight, which is why plebeians must pay for extra bags while business and first class do not. I was told years ago that commercial airlines actually lose money carrying passengers, much the way railroads did which is why Amtrak exists, being a govt owned public utility. Im not sure if airlines fall under the public utility clause, but it would explain why some carriers deign to offer economy seats at all.
2
"Commercial airlines make their profit on freight." Well, sonuvagun. I guess that explains why they've taken to treating their passengers like irascible cattle. What's next, electric prods?
1
American tried to differentiate itself with its (admirable) "more room throughout coach" initiative years ago and reaped no financial benefit from it, because most travelers pick their carrier based on price. Period. Airlines are simply giving consumers what they want.
6
Prices have gone up with decreasing service. There is no competition because our government has not enforced any anti trust rules. What industry can you treat your customers like dirt and still be profitable? I go to Target or Nordstroms and receive good service from both. There is competition in this industry. Also, when did it become ok to treat people with lesser means like crap. The US provides billions of indirect subsidies to the airline industry.
Prices are down, and there is tons of competition.
And you get what you pay for applies everywhere. There is no "ok to treat people like crap" - there are customers choosing which airline they wish to use.
And you get what you pay for applies everywhere. There is no "ok to treat people like crap" - there are customers choosing which airline they wish to use.
Thank you! Yes, in the 1990s, United introduced Economy Plus as a small extra legroom coach section. American tried to one up them with more legroom in all of coach. THE PUBLIC didn't flock to American, and American lost money. Making money is their job as a company. Let me reiterate that... the griping passengers who want more legroom did not pay for it. They chose other airlines that were cheaper. On top of that, airfares are definitely lower on most routes today. This is a fact. Remember, there's a little something called inflation. All that "lice" (which seems to either be made up by the author or some term she heard from one passenger) never used to fly because flying was too expensive and inaccessible to large swaths of the public.
Enough is enough with the tired media narrative about flying as something practically akin to poverty or war.
Enough is enough with the tired media narrative about flying as something practically akin to poverty or war.
When I was a Sales Exec. I would regulary put in weeks like this. Sometimes, I would fly into a city, do a morning presentation and fly back out with the same flight crew (they were generally suprized to see me).
So, a couple of tips:
Remember, you are working, you'll be wearing a Suit during your flights, not comfortable sweats.
Sleep is optional.
You will be working on expenses and reports on the plane, so, learn how to type on your device of choice during the flight. You won't have any other time for it. I liked to use my phone with a detachable bluetooth keyboard.
Be nice to everybody, a missed flight is not just in inconvenience, it could mean a missed sale and perhaps your job.
Food is optional.
As you noticed, pay whatever it takes to board early. You will be using carry on's only as a missing bag is more than an inconvenience.
Cloony's "Up in the Air" is a somewhat accurate portrayal of those of us who list "United Airlines, Denver" as a home address.
So, a couple of tips:
Remember, you are working, you'll be wearing a Suit during your flights, not comfortable sweats.
Sleep is optional.
You will be working on expenses and reports on the plane, so, learn how to type on your device of choice during the flight. You won't have any other time for it. I liked to use my phone with a detachable bluetooth keyboard.
Be nice to everybody, a missed flight is not just in inconvenience, it could mean a missed sale and perhaps your job.
Food is optional.
As you noticed, pay whatever it takes to board early. You will be using carry on's only as a missing bag is more than an inconvenience.
Cloony's "Up in the Air" is a somewhat accurate portrayal of those of us who list "United Airlines, Denver" as a home address.
1
Consider yourself fortunate that you did not encounter one more aggravating factor: subtle racist treatment for non-whites. I flew often enough to realize that even Asians get it.
Next, you should really really try an Asian or Middle-eastern airline (the big 3). The contrast is so wide that it is almost beyond words. Start with the fact that when they are "full service" airlines, they *are* full service airline. Just take a small regional airline Silkair of Singapore Airline, as an example. The checked luggage allowance is 30 kg (66 pounds) in multiple bags, meaning you can more than one luggage up to 66 pounds in total weight. Full meals are included. Entertainment streamed to your own device. Smiles and greetings are also free.
Airlines within the US is practically third world.
Next, you should really really try an Asian or Middle-eastern airline (the big 3). The contrast is so wide that it is almost beyond words. Start with the fact that when they are "full service" airlines, they *are* full service airline. Just take a small regional airline Silkair of Singapore Airline, as an example. The checked luggage allowance is 30 kg (66 pounds) in multiple bags, meaning you can more than one luggage up to 66 pounds in total weight. Full meals are included. Entertainment streamed to your own device. Smiles and greetings are also free.
Airlines within the US is practically third world.
34
There are plenty of non-white flight attendants these days. Are you suggesting they treat non-whites differently?
The US is Third World.
1
fun is possible. except maybe in the center seat coast to coast. Fun is earned gaming the system, discovery what to by at the supermarket, right shoes for feet that swell, a window lover, for the view, and as well as nothing on ny right or left but two inches mine, all mine, and couresty, and a prayer, that 300 lib does not sit next, a woman with baby, this will be interesting.
This writer's toddler onesie went perfectly with her infantile attitude. She was clearly looking for a miserable experience to complain about. What a brat!
16
Get a grip. She's a writer making a point. After 40 years working for a major airline, preaching about what once was very acceptable service, I'm saddened by how airlines treat customers. Glad I retired when flying was still almost fun.
3
Oh, puh-leeze. A Jacob Riis expose on the horrible (shock!) class system in the air, courtesy of the perfectly predictable New York Times. As someone who flies "first class" (I use that term very loosely) on a fairly regular basis, I can assure the author that the lasagna is basically a lump of microwaved glop. Yes, coach is worse, but you pay for what you (sometimes) get. What a concept. Next week, how about an investigative piece on rock concerts? I'm told, but can't confirm, that people who pay more get better seats closer to the stage.
26
Typically we "citizens" are unable to buy seats even close to the concert. Those seats are reserved and free to radio disc jockeys.
1
I have a global pass and I have two knee replacements. I always have to go through the scanner which is much better than a total patdown. I arrive at the TSA line with no jewelry, no belt, a bra with no underwire, and an empty water bottle. I feel half dressed, which I am. I finish dressing after security. I once watched a TSA agent go through the dollar bills in my wallet.
I pack my own lunch and snack. I try to be nice to people, but don't cram your suitcase in the overhead bin, on top of and squishing mine. Ask me nicely and I'll try to accommodate room for yours.
I pack my own lunch and snack. I try to be nice to people, but don't cram your suitcase in the overhead bin, on top of and squishing mine. Ask me nicely and I'll try to accommodate room for yours.
5
I understand that flying has gotten cheaper and we should all welcome how quickly and cheaply we can fly across the country. But compared to budget travel in Europe, the cost is still mind-boggling. The cheapest flight I've taken in the US was about $160 RT. The cheapest flight I've taken in Europe was $40 RT. It's not like that flight on EasyJet was any more pleasant than the one on United--both were pretty crap--but at least for $40, your expectations are low as long as you arrive in one piece.
I know there's a complex series of regulations that make the difference, so I'm not saying it's an easy fix. But I'll cut the airlines some slack when cutting back services to Basic Economy at least gets me more affordable tickets.
This is coming from someone who flies enough to have elite status, by the way. I'll second the many, many comments that Southwest is the way to go if you have to fly without hating yourself--even though, thanks to my company, I'm beholden to United.
I know there's a complex series of regulations that make the difference, so I'm not saying it's an easy fix. But I'll cut the airlines some slack when cutting back services to Basic Economy at least gets me more affordable tickets.
This is coming from someone who flies enough to have elite status, by the way. I'll second the many, many comments that Southwest is the way to go if you have to fly without hating yourself--even though, thanks to my company, I'm beholden to United.
6
Opening up our skies to competition from foreign would be beneficial for American travellers.
Most have never heard of EasyJet and the incredible cheap airfares within Europe. They are amazingly inexpensive.
Most have never heard of EasyJet and the incredible cheap airfares within Europe. They are amazingly inexpensive.
2
I've flown over a million miles with Delta who now treat me like a piece of garbage because I'm retired and have become an infrequent flyer.
I downgraded from First to Confortable Economy when I discovered plastic forks in First were not hard enough to penetrate their chicken breasts. Seriously, I could not stick the fork into the First Class meal.
For my last Transatlantic flight I flew Norwegian Air in the front cabin, seat 1A, for 1/2 the price of Delta's confort whatever. I love Norwegian Air!
I downgraded from First to Confortable Economy when I discovered plastic forks in First were not hard enough to penetrate their chicken breasts. Seriously, I could not stick the fork into the First Class meal.
For my last Transatlantic flight I flew Norwegian Air in the front cabin, seat 1A, for 1/2 the price of Delta's confort whatever. I love Norwegian Air!
6
Norwegian Air is either a perfect or dreadful experience, nothing in between.
2
I cannot believe you did this, Ms. Lyall....No amount of money or journalistic accolade would get me to fly within the United States for a week straight. A true feat.
12
I just returned from NOLA on Dta flights. The trip was taken because of $$$ credits from the Dta debacle last summer and we needed to use them . Zone 3 flights all the way and I did not feel stupid but rather smart. I was going to the same place with the same delays as people who paid way more than their perks cost. ( I am 5'4 so tight space is not as troublesome to me as to taller folk.
4 flights. 1 delayed by landing delays in Boston. 3 with no WiFi or screens, 1 with a behind the seat system. Bishoff cookie, pretzels. The smell of something not great from the upper class seats.
Some grumpy people, two older ladies (like me) who sat in the incorrect seat and took quite a while to relocate.
No screaming babies, no "service" animals.
Random security check and the non metal buttons on my sweater caused concern, ? We have PSA status without having sought or paid for it. It showed in the days of the plan being started.
I think it's a cramped unpleasant system but lets so many folk get to so many places. Most people do not fly as you did and the discomfort of a plane ride is not life usually life altering.
I add my major complaint these days is with the NYT. My weekend delivery has been screwed 4 of the last 5 weeks. I cannot connect to the delivery service directly to find out what is going on,I am at the mercy of lovely well meaning customer service people who bounce me around up the food chain and it still doesn't work. Care to take that on, Sarah
4 flights. 1 delayed by landing delays in Boston. 3 with no WiFi or screens, 1 with a behind the seat system. Bishoff cookie, pretzels. The smell of something not great from the upper class seats.
Some grumpy people, two older ladies (like me) who sat in the incorrect seat and took quite a while to relocate.
No screaming babies, no "service" animals.
Random security check and the non metal buttons on my sweater caused concern, ? We have PSA status without having sought or paid for it. It showed in the days of the plan being started.
I think it's a cramped unpleasant system but lets so many folk get to so many places. Most people do not fly as you did and the discomfort of a plane ride is not life usually life altering.
I add my major complaint these days is with the NYT. My weekend delivery has been screwed 4 of the last 5 weeks. I cannot connect to the delivery service directly to find out what is going on,I am at the mercy of lovely well meaning customer service people who bounce me around up the food chain and it still doesn't work. Care to take that on, Sarah
4
And this is why my wife and I are going to buy a 1944 Boeing-Stearman. Sure, we will have to fly it ourselves, we will get a little cold and hot at times.
But, we will not have to endure the crap that is commercial flying today.
Besides, a lot of small airfields have something the big airlines do not---good free coffee!
But, we will not have to endure the crap that is commercial flying today.
Besides, a lot of small airfields have something the big airlines do not---good free coffee!
2
Hey people don't hog all the glory!
I'm here to tell you Air Canada is just as loathsome as the American Airlines.
Every try Air Canada Rouge ? Should be called Air Canada Scrooge!
Unbelievably your buttocks will get sore from the lack of seat padding.
I'm 5ft 3 and my knees hit the seat in front me.
Hip hip hooray at least I can take an international airline occasionally.
I'm here to tell you Air Canada is just as loathsome as the American Airlines.
Every try Air Canada Rouge ? Should be called Air Canada Scrooge!
Unbelievably your buttocks will get sore from the lack of seat padding.
I'm 5ft 3 and my knees hit the seat in front me.
Hip hip hooray at least I can take an international airline occasionally.
2
If the airlines were half smart, they would give a random free upgrade to first class if any seats were available in that section. A couple of years ago, I was shoehorned into the middle seat in the back of a plane before takeoff when the person next to me asked if i would switch with her boyfriend, who was in first class. After that flight, I swore I would never fly economy again unless I had a companion with whom I could commiserate.
7
This was certainly entertaining…however. The initial, delayed transcontinental flight would leave most of us ready for a solid night’s sleep, followed by a day filled with purpose — whether in business meetings or on vacation. Instead, Ms. Lyall boarded another plane on a different airline the following morning. Mercifully, this is not how most of us travel. It is, however, a recipe for misery. Airports can be stressful, and flying is hard on the body, as evidenced by the author’s eye infection near the end of her experiment.
Anyone who had to regularly fly that much in a month, much less a week, would do things differently. First, they would gain status by flying one airline exclusively. They would also pay for access to airport lounges, either by membership or a through a credit card affiliation. These days, lounges have pretty decent food, and so the author would adopt a different strategy/attitude about food — no more exploding cups of yoghurt. Even if she didn't pay for a business seat, she might snag a free upgrade. In any case, it's all but guaranteed her status means she would never have to take a middle seat. Higher status also equates to earlier boarding, so there would still overhead space for her carryon when she boards.
In this article, the author became a frequent flyer, a distinct category from the person who flies but once or twice a year. Flying that much won’t always be “Panem,” but neither should it be the repeated misery Ms. Lyall describes.
Anyone who had to regularly fly that much in a month, much less a week, would do things differently. First, they would gain status by flying one airline exclusively. They would also pay for access to airport lounges, either by membership or a through a credit card affiliation. These days, lounges have pretty decent food, and so the author would adopt a different strategy/attitude about food — no more exploding cups of yoghurt. Even if she didn't pay for a business seat, she might snag a free upgrade. In any case, it's all but guaranteed her status means she would never have to take a middle seat. Higher status also equates to earlier boarding, so there would still overhead space for her carryon when she boards.
In this article, the author became a frequent flyer, a distinct category from the person who flies but once or twice a year. Flying that much won’t always be “Panem,” but neither should it be the repeated misery Ms. Lyall describes.
1
I have flown all three versions of domestic flight.
The idea that "first class" is so much better is laughable. For the ridiculous added price, you are getting a wider seat, more legroom and a choice of mediocre entertainment, and mediocre food. Warm nuts and free cocktails abound!
Business class on international flights are far superior to domestic first class. I have been flying for more than 50 years. Economy many years ago was equivalent to first class today, except for the smoking!
Economy today is probably equivalent to baggage many years ago.
Personally, i prefer the additional legroom economy as it really is not that much worse than first class, especially if you have your own entertainment.
The idea that "first class" is so much better is laughable. For the ridiculous added price, you are getting a wider seat, more legroom and a choice of mediocre entertainment, and mediocre food. Warm nuts and free cocktails abound!
Business class on international flights are far superior to domestic first class. I have been flying for more than 50 years. Economy many years ago was equivalent to first class today, except for the smoking!
Economy today is probably equivalent to baggage many years ago.
Personally, i prefer the additional legroom economy as it really is not that much worse than first class, especially if you have your own entertainment.
It's funny to read about airline travel but not fun to live it. Why do we subject ourselves to such degrading abuse? Because we often have no choice unless we happen to be rich. I heard the comedian Chris Rock say once that if ordinary people knew how the rich live, there would be riots in the streets. We could use a good riot now and then.
13
This article is so true! I wear a mask over my nose and mouth to avoid inhaling putrid fumes of men's cologne! Gag.
5
Re: the picture in the onesie - you must have arrive immediately after they cleaned the bathroom - I can't recall when I last saw an airport restroom anywhere near that clean. Won't even talk about the airplane bathrooms halfway through a cross country flight. Makes one think some (many?) folks where never potty-trained...
2
“How did air travel, which once seemed so glamorous and exciting, turn into a sadomasochistic pas de deux between the industry and the passenger?”
For one, by people who “wear … the sweatpants [they] had slept in”, and who carelessly open a container of yogurt at altitude (that was pressurized at sea level) and thus “spraying blobs onto … the seat, the floor, and a nearby man…”
For one, by people who “wear … the sweatpants [they] had slept in”, and who carelessly open a container of yogurt at altitude (that was pressurized at sea level) and thus “spraying blobs onto … the seat, the floor, and a nearby man…”
6
Hilarious article. "Gate lice" is the most accurate description I've ever heard.
Reading this, as a frequent business flyer, I'm reminded why we get so annoyed flying with people that rarely travel. No, it's not your private jet. Yes, you were aware of the restrictions when you booked the absolute cheapest ticket possible with the most layovers imaginable. Sometimes flights are delayed. TSA and flight attendants don't make the rules, they get paid a modest salary to enforce them. There is no greater display of special snowflake syndrome than the one-a-year flyer with a $79 ticket demanding to board with a suitcase the size of a small SUV.
Also, reading this, as a former elite status holder who lost my status when I had two kids, I am slowly nodding my head at the first class curtain, and the wafting smell of lasagna. I went from being called ahead of time about delays and automatically rebooked to an aisle seat, to being told, no, you cannot sit with your child. No, you cannot get on an earlier flight. Yes, you can sit in the middle. I am 6 months from regaining status and it is like Christmas in July. Ahh the miracle of flight...
Reading this, as a frequent business flyer, I'm reminded why we get so annoyed flying with people that rarely travel. No, it's not your private jet. Yes, you were aware of the restrictions when you booked the absolute cheapest ticket possible with the most layovers imaginable. Sometimes flights are delayed. TSA and flight attendants don't make the rules, they get paid a modest salary to enforce them. There is no greater display of special snowflake syndrome than the one-a-year flyer with a $79 ticket demanding to board with a suitcase the size of a small SUV.
Also, reading this, as a former elite status holder who lost my status when I had two kids, I am slowly nodding my head at the first class curtain, and the wafting smell of lasagna. I went from being called ahead of time about delays and automatically rebooked to an aisle seat, to being told, no, you cannot sit with your child. No, you cannot get on an earlier flight. Yes, you can sit in the middle. I am 6 months from regaining status and it is like Christmas in July. Ahh the miracle of flight...
1
Brilliant. I too had status years ago when I flew much more often, and enjoyed the automatic perks that came with it. Now I fly in cattle-class like the rest of the livestock. But I generally still have a good experience, because I manage my affairs and choices carefully to make sure whatever advantages, perks, or requirements I need are taken care of. I've learned what parts of which planes are more comfortable than others, I make careful flight and airport choices to avoid situations that are likely to cause trouble, and have a full array of airline phone numbers, twitter accounts, and other information at-the-ready if fate intercedes. Most of all, I keep my mouth shut and pay attention, both in the airport, and on the plane. Details matter.
I can't say the same for vast majority of people I observe in airports, who seem completely overwhelmed by breathing and standing upright, much less managing their affairs and the details of what has (admittedly, and at best) become a complex way to move about the country.
I can't say the same for vast majority of people I observe in airports, who seem completely overwhelmed by breathing and standing upright, much less managing their affairs and the details of what has (admittedly, and at best) become a complex way to move about the country.
2
Darkly funny and all too true.
4
While it is essential to understand the necessity of crew member control and the nature of business models...the emotional stability and psychology of the people in charge of flights frequently... goes unchecked and unquestioned. Albeit passengers can be rude stupid and sometimes abusive but it can be a two way street.
It is absoulutly essential, that airlines do more in depth psycological profiles of the people they put in charge of your lives !!!!
It is absoulutly essential, that airlines do more in depth psycological profiles of the people they put in charge of your lives !!!!
4
Oligarchy is alive and well in America. An illness in need of a cure.
4
Sure money maker for airlines: Charge extra for babies on flights or extra to customers who are guaranteed a baby-free flight.
1
I believe there is already an extra charge to hold a baby on your lap.
But to expand on your suggestion, how about charging extra for flights for whites only - or any other unwanted group? Just capitalism at work, after all.
But to expand on your suggestion, how about charging extra for flights for whites only - or any other unwanted group? Just capitalism at work, after all.
1
If you fly as a regular government traveler, you are destined to always be class 3 to board, jammed into a middle seat in the back of the aircraft, and REQUIRED to take your gov't computer as your carry-on.
1
Nice article, but the biggest issue that wasn't addressed when I travel on an economy airline like Southwest or coach in general is the regular occurrence of sitting next to one of the ever-increasing number of either obese or huge, beef-eating guys whose barrel torsos and thick legs extend WAY beyond their seat dimensions. It's unacceptable. In fact, it's ridiculous. And it's by far the worst part of coach airline travel. There are size limits for luggage. If you're too big, you need to pay up, and fly in a bigger seat (aka first class).
10
Another way to look at it is this: in 6 hours, for a few hundred dollars, you can go from one side of the country to the other, a journey that used to take days, weeks, or even months, and be considerably more dangerous. Yes, flying can be stressful. Bring something to eat and drink, something to read and/or watch, pack a change of clothes in a bag that can fit under your seat in case your bag is lost, and practice gratitude.
7
What a thorough chronicle of First World Problems.
Air travel is an engineering triumph. It is one of our species' greatest achievements.
Give me a break. Why don't you go to an airport, fly to Syria, and tell the people there about your exploding yogurt.
Air travel is an engineering triumph. It is one of our species' greatest achievements.
Give me a break. Why don't you go to an airport, fly to Syria, and tell the people there about your exploding yogurt.
2
Congratulations! You just experienced what many sales reps and executives do for their real lives. Now just imagine doing that and having to work at many of those stops. Those are the "elites" that received much of your disdain and the few perks they receive in exchange are in no way commensurate to the challenge of their working lives.
3
Well, all of this is true. I know, because I fly about 100,000 miles a year, mostly in the back (but the FRONT of the back -- more legroom). But I have to tell you, this is the first article in a long time that I found laugh-out-funny (at least three times)--and I'm reading this on an airplane. The yogurt and selfie stories are priceless.
Yo certainly earned that business class flight Ms Lyall! Thanks for the laughs!
Yo certainly earned that business class flight Ms Lyall! Thanks for the laughs!
5
The only thing I like less than flying is this reporter.
3
And soon to come to Trump World...privately owned airports! What could go wrong???????
2
Who said it was supposed to be a classless society?
The author is wrong about one thing in this delightful essay: boarding in Group 3 is a sign of being a winner, not a loser. Boarding dead last means you got the best price for your seat. Everyone else on the plane will arrive at the same time--but they overpaid. I aim for C55 or worse on Southwest. Also, dressing like a homeless person zips me through security and usually scores me some extra space on the aircraft.
1
Thanks for a good chuckle. We don't laugh enough in this country.
1
First world problems. Imagine hanging off the outside of a train car in India.
2
Yawn. These kinds of pieces are lazy and the author admits to a lot of thoughtless behavior which probably made the experience worse. Most of the familiar annoyances and the class divide were evident 30 years ago. A few interesting--Delta (and probably others) want more paying First Class passengers. Delta once had a great service reputation that was based on having large first class cabins and basically ignoring everyone else, so this is really just an old theme. I have close to a million miles on United and plenty on others--I used to fly a lot but have done less in recent years--the experience really hasn't changed much in a long time. Not getting an upgrade--people have been complaining about this for at least the last 20-25 years. Yes, flying is not a great experience, but consolidation in the industry and weak regulation make it possible as do prices that make flying available to a broad swath of the population. Next time--do a new angle on this and doesn't have the writer create their own drama.
4
One of the main reasons boarding is so stressful is that people bring too many large carry-on bags and the process is basically a race to the overhead compartments.
When one is not concerned about securing overhead space, the best time to board is actually LAST, that way you can just walk on the aircraft, get in your seat, and go.
When one is not concerned about securing overhead space, the best time to board is actually LAST, that way you can just walk on the aircraft, get in your seat, and go.
10
Great piece. But the author should follow up on it with an article on ways of improving air travel. Most of all, these include opening up the current oligarchy of airlines to greater competition by foreign airlines, especially by letting them fly domestic routes.
In addition, require higher compensation for passengers who are bumped from overbooked flights, and make that compensation in real money rather than hard-to-utilize credits toward future flights on the same airline you might never want to fly again.
Finally, shine some light on growing domestic competitors such as Alaska, Virgin America (which has been bought by and is merging with Alaska) and JetBlue. Though far from perfect, in some respects they offer better experiences - a better frequent flyer program by Alaska and in-seat video monitors and more legroom in even basic economy seats by JetBlue, for example.
In addition, require higher compensation for passengers who are bumped from overbooked flights, and make that compensation in real money rather than hard-to-utilize credits toward future flights on the same airline you might never want to fly again.
Finally, shine some light on growing domestic competitors such as Alaska, Virgin America (which has been bought by and is merging with Alaska) and JetBlue. Though far from perfect, in some respects they offer better experiences - a better frequent flyer program by Alaska and in-seat video monitors and more legroom in even basic economy seats by JetBlue, for example.
3
As KC from Rust Belt expresses, real anger has already, and is already expressing itself. The street battles a week or so ago in Portland between the Trumpists and the Non-Trumpists are the current and coming reality of our daily lives. We are already past the tipping point of a new, 21st Century, modern-day American Civil War.
This is expressed in all of the non-civility being exhibited in society at any given venue -- public or private.
One of the differences between Americans and Europeans and other foreign nationals used to be that "foreigners" were used to living in tight, cramped, small spaces. Americans were used to endless frontiers and limitless elbow room. Everything in America was BIG and there was always room for expansion.
Today's airline/airplane/airport venue and vignettes are all about smallness in all of its meaning. When one flies out of Monterey, one is literally in "Sardine Class." Passengers are only packaged goods in small, cramped, slim aluminum tubes. Even prisoners in various penal institutions have more room. Flying has become cruel and unusual punishment.
Instead of cramping American style, it should be the responsibility of the airlines to enhance it. The ethos of the airlines is now dedicated to make each and every passenger as uncomfortable as possible. At some point simple human avoidance will take over and airports will be as empty as retail shopping malls. In the meantime, airports are the new guerilla battle grounds in life.
This is expressed in all of the non-civility being exhibited in society at any given venue -- public or private.
One of the differences between Americans and Europeans and other foreign nationals used to be that "foreigners" were used to living in tight, cramped, small spaces. Americans were used to endless frontiers and limitless elbow room. Everything in America was BIG and there was always room for expansion.
Today's airline/airplane/airport venue and vignettes are all about smallness in all of its meaning. When one flies out of Monterey, one is literally in "Sardine Class." Passengers are only packaged goods in small, cramped, slim aluminum tubes. Even prisoners in various penal institutions have more room. Flying has become cruel and unusual punishment.
Instead of cramping American style, it should be the responsibility of the airlines to enhance it. The ethos of the airlines is now dedicated to make each and every passenger as uncomfortable as possible. At some point simple human avoidance will take over and airports will be as empty as retail shopping malls. In the meantime, airports are the new guerilla battle grounds in life.
2
If you fly with an airline that has a passenger level 'literally' called Sardine Class, you deserve what you get.
One easy solution is for the FAA to issue minimum seat regulations that allow for comfortable seating for all passengers. The cheap airlines could not undersell the legacy carriers because EVERYONE would have to provide reasonable seating. This is a safety issue for two reasons: 1) Passengers should be able to evacuate an airplane in 90 seconds; and 2) Overcrowding cause distress and anger--the rats in a cage syndrome.
6
Interesting story. I sympathize with frequent business flyers and those flying with children.
Traveling for pleasure demands that you be in good shape to traverse the airports (move quickly when there is a gate change), be smart to avoid the high calorie (not to mention high price) airport food, and be patient as you tolerate the long lines at the women's restroom. But it's a price we pay for the enjoyment of visiting the countries of the world.
Traveling for pleasure demands that you be in good shape to traverse the airports (move quickly when there is a gate change), be smart to avoid the high calorie (not to mention high price) airport food, and be patient as you tolerate the long lines at the women's restroom. But it's a price we pay for the enjoyment of visiting the countries of the world.
2
Current state = what US travelers are willing to pay for. It has always been the cheaper airfare wins... or pay up for them to play nice.
Estone: being a Airbus has nothing to do with the seat configuration. All airlines configure all their aircraft according to their wishes. I know I have spent many a hour working a airline installing interiors.
4
Great onesie! And would also be interested in hearing about the differences flying coach in the U.S. versus other countries.
7
The article is an entertaining summary of the current state of air travel in the United States, of which we are painfully aware. It is time for us to enact federal regulations to insure a reasonable level of comfort for those of us in "the back of the bus". Minimum seat room requirements and the elimination of checked bag fees would be a start. Loosely fettered competition drives airlines to compete for the marginal consumer who is almost solely focused on price. Certainly cheap airfare has been a boon, but a better balance between price and service would be a welcome improvement in air travel.
8
Scott, you used the dreaded word "regulation", with our current herd of Republicans in control, I don't see that happening anytime in the future. I agree with you entirely.
8
Nobody forces you to buy basic coach. Good luck at the car dealership when you offer to pay a compact's price for a sports car.
I agree that airline point programs are increasingly bizarre, but in terms of the inconveniences experienced, this piece is overly dramatic. We all have day to day problems that we'd experience if we didn't even leave our hometown, or if we set out via personal car for this length of time. Everything gets heightened in an airport or on an airplane because we seem to give up control and that is the thing that frustrates us most. For me, the key to measuring a good experience: did my plane arrive safely? If it did congratulations, you are experiencing the totally and completely awesome sensation of modern air travel. Everything else is self-righteous noise.
5
It's not just control, and it's not like the other frustrations of life. It's being crammed up way too close to other people. That gets the stress hormones flowing immediately.
2
You sound like a joy to be crammed in with.
It's all about mindset.
7 billion people in this world - and only growing.
Get on board.
It's all about mindset.
7 billion people in this world - and only growing.
Get on board.
1
I have been travelling as a consultant for 20 years every week. I enjoyed the privileges of status.
Now being retired I am relegated during my occasional travels to the commoners. I accept the lack of privilege for the lower price I pay.
My observation is that no matter what privileges people enjoy (or not) the constant I see is an obsession with complaining. We appear to claim a right of being victimized by others, the airlines, the TSA, the ...
Let me be clear, flying is not my favorite activity. But by en large it gets me from/to in a reasonable time. It is not that hard to be hungry for 8 hours, to listen to babies crying, to be delayed by a few hours.
I really loathe our victimization culture.
Now being retired I am relegated during my occasional travels to the commoners. I accept the lack of privilege for the lower price I pay.
My observation is that no matter what privileges people enjoy (or not) the constant I see is an obsession with complaining. We appear to claim a right of being victimized by others, the airlines, the TSA, the ...
Let me be clear, flying is not my favorite activity. But by en large it gets me from/to in a reasonable time. It is not that hard to be hungry for 8 hours, to listen to babies crying, to be delayed by a few hours.
I really loathe our victimization culture.
14
You must be a helluva lot younger than me. I don't consider myself to be a complainer for complaining's sake. But this old body just won't do it anymore.
2
As someone that only flies four to six times a year and always in the "cheap" seats, I can identify with this article completely. I have, in fact, experienced most of the events described in this article and would not fly if at all if there was any other way to get across the country expeditiously. Yes, I do drive whenever possible.
I'm old enough to have experienced the "glamor" of the earlier days of flying and I'm certain they're gone forever for average citizens. If you've got the dough, you go. But let's face it, doesn't flying parallel what's going on throughout society today? How much longer will this go on before real anger expresses itself? Oh, I'm sorry, did that sound too political?
I'm old enough to have experienced the "glamor" of the earlier days of flying and I'm certain they're gone forever for average citizens. If you've got the dough, you go. But let's face it, doesn't flying parallel what's going on throughout society today? How much longer will this go on before real anger expresses itself? Oh, I'm sorry, did that sound too political?
13
It does make you wonder if they don't allow guns now because passengers might just decide to shoot all the other passengers just to get sufficient leg room. I too experienced the "glamour" of earlier days, when we had to walk up/down stairs to board and the stewardesses were all Barbara Bain look-alikes. I also experienced my ears bleeding during a flight on a propeller plane.
This article clinches it for me - we're taking the train or driving to Minnesota this summer (or saving to afford first-class tickets out of steerage).
This article clinches it for me - we're taking the train or driving to Minnesota this summer (or saving to afford first-class tickets out of steerage).
2
it is not the fault of the airlines. Customers don't want to pay more in Economy; they gravitate to the lowest prices. Airlines have to make money!
5
Sarah, Please learn to manage your expectations and be grateful for your expense account.
15
I think the Romans had a word for those of us who aren't rich enough: plebian. So do the military academies when it comes to freshman year and the word in some is plebe. They are hazed, face restrictions in how they relate to the rest of the students, and are often harassed and feel harassed. Thanks to the airline industry and others, we can now experience this same treatment wherever we go, whatever we need. America is a society with two classes: them that have and them that don't.
11
Try this trick: Spend $400+ on literally anything else alleged to be a hospitality- or service-minded experience (what the airline industry originated as, and still, laughably, portends to be, esp in First Class) - a meal out, a hotel stay, a new jacket,etc.- and see how you are treated by that industry's employees. Then spend that same amount (or probable more!) on airfare and assess your experiences.
P.S. Airline profits have consistently climbed as fuel costs have lowered and demand increases. The status quo is, simply, pure greed on the part of these carriers.
P.S. Airline profits have consistently climbed as fuel costs have lowered and demand increases. The status quo is, simply, pure greed on the part of these carriers.
23
Just back from Hong Kong, Vietnam, Thailand. Like healthcare, like education, Europe and Asia seem to have found ways to make coach travel rather nice. Compare an average US flight and airports with Germany, Amsterdam, Asia.
38
Jimmy Carter deregulated the airlines and Obama allowed them to merge down into just a few. Most routes are now unregulated monopolies or duopolies.
7
Fascinating and compassionate look into the world of air travel by Sarah Lyall. In reading this, I imagined people fifty years from now reading it, the way we read articles from the 1960's to get a picture of what life was like then.
Speaking of the '60's, there is a Bob Newhart routine called "The Grace L. Ferguson Airline and Storm Door Company" which is highly relevant today and well worth listening to. His comment about economy passengers' not getting the hanger straps is well taken.
This isn't a pretty picture, and, fifty years from now, it appears that people would note that there is traveler discomfort in this time just as there was for the lower class travelers on the Orient Express. At least on the Orient Express you could reach through the train window at a station and buy something decent to eat.
It's the joy of the deregulation of the airlines which is from our idealistic view of capitalism. The market forces will make it all work out, or, as my mother said, ya gets what ya pays for.
I find air travel absolutely loathsome. I am not having fun anymore. Even if one flies first class, he or she still confronts some of the mayhem. And as old as I am, I remember the pre-deregulation days of non-terrorist flying. It was a different world.
Getting there is no fun and we become automatons to cope with the discomfort. Trains for short hops, if one can manage it, say NYC to DC, are better, but also have reduced amenities. One needs his or her private jet.
Speaking of the '60's, there is a Bob Newhart routine called "The Grace L. Ferguson Airline and Storm Door Company" which is highly relevant today and well worth listening to. His comment about economy passengers' not getting the hanger straps is well taken.
This isn't a pretty picture, and, fifty years from now, it appears that people would note that there is traveler discomfort in this time just as there was for the lower class travelers on the Orient Express. At least on the Orient Express you could reach through the train window at a station and buy something decent to eat.
It's the joy of the deregulation of the airlines which is from our idealistic view of capitalism. The market forces will make it all work out, or, as my mother said, ya gets what ya pays for.
I find air travel absolutely loathsome. I am not having fun anymore. Even if one flies first class, he or she still confronts some of the mayhem. And as old as I am, I remember the pre-deregulation days of non-terrorist flying. It was a different world.
Getting there is no fun and we become automatons to cope with the discomfort. Trains for short hops, if one can manage it, say NYC to DC, are better, but also have reduced amenities. One needs his or her private jet.
4
Try Asian airlines. They treat you like royalty, even in economy class, whereas US carriers consider you almost an annoyance. Pursuit of the almighty buck – including evading the available security precautions which permitted 9/11 – has turned the experience of flying US airlines into “Let them eat cake.” My experiences going abroad on foreign carriers, however, were completely different. There seems to be an intrinsic value attached to passengers – as if, believe it or not, operating an airline was actually a service for people rather than simply a business plan.
17
Fantastic article by this author. I chuckled my way through it. She captured the soul destroying experience of flying so well. I express gratitude every day but the one thing I am very grateful for is the ability to fly in front of the curtain on revenue tickets. Like some of the other commentators, this is a luxury I allow myself because travelling coach is unbearable. And if I ever win the lottery, I am heading to the last dimension, travelling exclusively on private planes.
PS - if you wear a onesie and are chosen to get "groped" by security, how does that work???
PS - if you wear a onesie and are chosen to get "groped" by security, how does that work???
11
Anyone who still thinks that America is a classless society has never waited to board a plane while listening to the incessant serial announcements of boarding of the various classes of passengers with various perks and boarding times that characterize a US air carrier.
19
I fly often. I refer to it as entering "Air World" and imagine a sign over the terminal entrance that says "Abandon All Hope Ye Who Enter Here". I release all thoughts of control over my destiny and surrender myself to the experience releasing all, and I mean all, expectations. It is about remaining sane and you must find your inner Zen if you hope to survive.
30
One of the most difficult parts of flying these days, particularly on United, is they they announce overhead to stay in your seats even if the seatbelt sign is off. I feel so bad for those with infants or anyone where sitting for 6 hrs is a hardship. I have stood in the bathroom line and pretended to need it just to be out of my seat without being told to return.
8
For the first time I am about to fly WOW airlines to Europe where everything is extra including a glass of water. I will be the one with a calzone with five pounds of meat and cheese stinking up the cabin! Sorry about that but one of those is cheaper than a puny overpriced sandwich from them. It should feed three of us for at least two meals!
1
I forgot, my sandwich has to go in my small personal item along with my water, my purse and my kindle. No free pillow on overnight flight. I wonder, if I carry a pen in my hand in addition to my personal item, will I be charged yet another fee (four times for each leg). Fly the friendly skies of WOW.
3
If RFK were alive today, he would say...
People say I am crazy for taking Amtrak over an airline. I am not crazy. And if I find the man who is calling me crazy, I shall tell him that he is a masochist.
People say I am crazy for taking Amtrak over an airline. I am not crazy. And if I find the man who is calling me crazy, I shall tell him that he is a masochist.
6
I had to take an early retirement for health reasons, but whenever possible I go via Amtrak using my "frequent train miles" from an Amtrak credit card. I would rather spend two days on the leisure luxury of an Amtrak sleeper than five hours in the public transportation system that is air travel!
Yes, but Amtrak has only a few routes. You can't depend on Amtrak to get around the U.S.
2
And getting to or from Hawaii to the Mainland is a problem on Amtrak.
1
No mention of the boarding strategy used by Southwest, which I have always found to be less hectic and more effective.
Also, I can't tell you how many airports I've visited that neglect to have chairs or a bench immediately after the TSA checkpoint, so you end up dancing on one foot while putting your shoes back on. Unless you've wisely chosen loafers!
Also, I can't tell you how many airports I've visited that neglect to have chairs or a bench immediately after the TSA checkpoint, so you end up dancing on one foot while putting your shoes back on. Unless you've wisely chosen loafers!
11
I just flew an 6 hour flight on Delta yesterday. I wasn't allowed to choose my seat (super economy), but was assigned one at the last minute in the bulkhead. After taking my seat, I was informed that I had to move as there was a man with a guide dog who was going to sit there. No problem, I thought, though I wondered why they hadn't figured that out before assigning my seat literally 20 min before we boarded.
Then I realized that the woman next to me looked petrified. She wasn't being asked to move, but the plan was to have the dog lie down at the front of the bulkhead. It was a 90 lb lab. There was no way for the dog to lie down without literally lying on her feet (and the feet of the guy next to her). I asked her if she was ok with dogs and she said she was scared of them. I relayed this to the flight attendant who said, very huffily, that she would have to get the gate agent.
The woman next to me was saying "I think I'm a reasonable person" and "I know it's hard with a disability". And I'm looking at the space in front of us with barely room for a man's knees and trying to picture a 90lb lab also there. If you didn't curl your feet up in your chair, the only option would be to put your feet on the dog. In the back of our minds, we were both thinking whether we would be kicked off the flight for protesting spending 6 hours in direct physical contact with a stranger's dog.
Then I realized that the woman next to me looked petrified. She wasn't being asked to move, but the plan was to have the dog lie down at the front of the bulkhead. It was a 90 lb lab. There was no way for the dog to lie down without literally lying on her feet (and the feet of the guy next to her). I asked her if she was ok with dogs and she said she was scared of them. I relayed this to the flight attendant who said, very huffily, that she would have to get the gate agent.
The woman next to me was saying "I think I'm a reasonable person" and "I know it's hard with a disability". And I'm looking at the space in front of us with barely room for a man's knees and trying to picture a 90lb lab also there. If you didn't curl your feet up in your chair, the only option would be to put your feet on the dog. In the back of our minds, we were both thinking whether we would be kicked off the flight for protesting spending 6 hours in direct physical contact with a stranger's dog.
62
So what happened? Please don't leave us in suspense.
4
That seems like a rather extreme request for the airline to make and I would have said something. It's a lot to ask of fellow passengers; whether you like dogs or not.
oops! I can kind of appreciate the airline staff being annoyed at a 90lb dog coming on board. This is something new and quite selfish, unless it is truly needed. People bring their dogs on board!
This should be titled "Super Fly Me."
I may be middle-aged and reasonably monied, but in my heart and sensibilities, I'm still the spirited, renegade traveler I was in my penniless youth. If I wanted to fly to fly, I'd get a pilot's license: I fly to get to my destination. Every shekel I don't gift to Corporate Air is more I can spend on a truly meaningful experience at my destination. This doesn't mean I'm flying middle-seat in Row 79, but it does require some finagling.
Unless you are "Triple Diamond Plutonium Oligarch," don't expect your airline membership status to matter; inevitably, you will be out-VIP'd. Control what you can. Get TSA pre-checked. Plan ahead - purchase the least expensive ticket two or more weeks out, then buy the $30 seat upgrade. Consider a credit card that confers access to airport lounges; these are pricey but maybe worth it and one of the perks is a bump up in the boarding queue. Travel light and if at all possible, ditch the suitcase. Dress for comfort and movement - you're riding a flying bus, not going to a black-tie event. Expect nothing more from the airline than a seat on which to set your bum - carry your own water bottle, food, snacks, entertainment and anything you need for comfort. Do everything you can to make the inflight portion of travel as banal as your daily commute and it's hard to get agita over it...it's just a ride.
I may be middle-aged and reasonably monied, but in my heart and sensibilities, I'm still the spirited, renegade traveler I was in my penniless youth. If I wanted to fly to fly, I'd get a pilot's license: I fly to get to my destination. Every shekel I don't gift to Corporate Air is more I can spend on a truly meaningful experience at my destination. This doesn't mean I'm flying middle-seat in Row 79, but it does require some finagling.
Unless you are "Triple Diamond Plutonium Oligarch," don't expect your airline membership status to matter; inevitably, you will be out-VIP'd. Control what you can. Get TSA pre-checked. Plan ahead - purchase the least expensive ticket two or more weeks out, then buy the $30 seat upgrade. Consider a credit card that confers access to airport lounges; these are pricey but maybe worth it and one of the perks is a bump up in the boarding queue. Travel light and if at all possible, ditch the suitcase. Dress for comfort and movement - you're riding a flying bus, not going to a black-tie event. Expect nothing more from the airline than a seat on which to set your bum - carry your own water bottle, food, snacks, entertainment and anything you need for comfort. Do everything you can to make the inflight portion of travel as banal as your daily commute and it's hard to get agita over it...it's just a ride.
32
Great advice, except that our daily commutes are only an hour at most. You can't compare that to a six-hour flight without food, water or a comfortable place to sleep.
2
I honestly wonder if it wouldn't be better if the airlines anesthesized and stacked us into planes like cordwood, and woke us up after we were unloaded on the other end.
12
I am sorry you mentioned that. Don't give them ideas.
3
Or tie us down on the roof rack!
1
Several comments have noted that you get what you pay for, and that we should accept the special treatment of the elite passengers as the way of the world. I think most of us would agree with that to an extent. But what is triggering the hostility to the airline industry is the ever widening, now huge, disparity between the classes of travel which seems excessive and not entirely necessary. (also the way of the world...or at least, the US)
12
Flying is one of the real perks of being disabled. I have MS and, after checking my walker, take a wheelchair to the gate. I get to go through the speedy security line, though sometimes I'm wanded. Someone always swabs the airport's wheelchair for chemical residue, is case it might have been used to mix bomb juice between excursions from check-in to gate. After pre-boarding, I get an aisle seat, and if I'm close to the front of the economy section, I'm not rebuffed if I ask to use the first-class head. Even so, flying is an unpleasant chore. If not for the kindness and camaraderie of my fellow passengers, it would be unbearable.
10
Actually, I have had the opposite experience. When my elderly mother and I were allowed to pre-board on Delta or Southwest, we would be pushed by the families with kids also being allowed to pre-board. Even with assigned seats, we would be shoved going down the aisle. I always booked my mother the aisle seat for her comfort, and at least once the flight attendant would ask my mother to switch seats so someone else could sit there. The last 3 years of her life we only traveled by car or train.
5
Sorry, I think this whiny travail is a lot of bunk. Most of us never have to travel by air days in a row. Doing so here makes the writer's experience sound dire, when most of us fly from A to B, then back a few days later. We're not imposing a draconian schedule on ourselves for dramatic effect, as she has done here.
I've flown well over a million miles in the last 50 years. Loads of business and pleasure travel. From Air Cal to Air Florida to Emirates and Go (domestic India) and I still look forward to it every time. I'll fly to Europe from DC for the weekend just to spend a day in Paris or Geneva. I fly everything from cheap coach tickets to full fare business. I know what I'm getting myself into on every flight, and I accept the deal I've made.
We get what we pay for. If I want a $200 ticket to LA, I'll bring my own food and never whine about the conditions. If I want to be treated with care I'll pay for it. It's choice we all make. We've pushed the airlines for low fares so we can all fly more often. And the airlines have made it possible, with a lot of conditions. Either fly cheap or pay more to get the service you think you deserve. Either is possible. But for Pete's sake, stop complaining about it.
I've flown well over a million miles in the last 50 years. Loads of business and pleasure travel. From Air Cal to Air Florida to Emirates and Go (domestic India) and I still look forward to it every time. I'll fly to Europe from DC for the weekend just to spend a day in Paris or Geneva. I fly everything from cheap coach tickets to full fare business. I know what I'm getting myself into on every flight, and I accept the deal I've made.
We get what we pay for. If I want a $200 ticket to LA, I'll bring my own food and never whine about the conditions. If I want to be treated with care I'll pay for it. It's choice we all make. We've pushed the airlines for low fares so we can all fly more often. And the airlines have made it possible, with a lot of conditions. Either fly cheap or pay more to get the service you think you deserve. Either is possible. But for Pete's sake, stop complaining about it.
70
Well said and right on target.
3
For Pete's sake, stop complaining about the complaining.
5
In a previous employment, managing retail construction projects across the US, I did indeed have to travel for days on end. A direct flight was hardly ever possble. Airline travel could be as soul-sucking as this article explains, but also intermixed with really lovely moments of comraderie. You could encounter almost evil airline workers, ( merger created mostly). But then, also, a desk agent who when I shakily explained that I had missed by flight due to an auto accident on the way to the airport, rebooked it at no charge, gave me voucher for food and beverage and somehow alerted the gate and flight staff who treated my shaky self with care and kindness. But I also think that some of that care and kindness was due to the premium level of my employer's large expenditures and bookings with that particular airline even though we utilized coach travel 90% of the time.
2
In going to run for office on a single platform
All planes must board back to front
That's it
It'll be a landslide
All planes must board back to front
That's it
It'll be a landslide
13
Nice piece. That onesie really is awful, though.
I fly weekly, mostly on Southwest. I noticed that in this well written article the Southwest flights were not discussed. Probably because those flights went well. Southwest is well organized, a greyhound of the skies and the personnel are pleasant. The policies are fair, free bags, free changes on flights and a great rewards program. Yes there are hassles but I just wanted to recognize that there are ways to avoid the hassles described: fly Southwest, pack light and check in early. Let's give credit where credit is due and maybe, just maybe, the other US carriers will listen up. Well, I know that's a pipe dream......but one can always hope. Not that it matters SW flys almost everywhere direct nonstop from Denver, so who cares? Thanks for a fun article, reminds me why I fly SW :)
24
Me, too! Feel the LUV!
I wish that you'd included a flight on Alaska Airlines. It's the only airline I'll fly on unless they don't go where I need to go. We already know that United, Delta and Southwest aren't fun.
2
So funny. You just gotta laugh, or never fly. I am firmly in the economy class world, though have twice flown business class to Europe. Those flights were like a mini-vacation, thoroughly enjoyed. I think one solution for we weary, down-trodden economy travelers is to commiserate and be kind to one another--especially the flight crew. Though I confess that on a stop-over in Minneapolis after a transatlantic flight, at security-checkpoint after customs I growled at an employee who, because Delta had mistakenly left my TSA precheck status off my ticket, insisted I remove my belt, tie-on shoes, and pat me down. In my best Lucille Bluth voice I shrieked: "I have not been forced to succumb to this indignity in years!" Such behavior only made me feel worse afterwards. Better to have made a joke. Because the times when I smile at the flight attendants and offer humane interactions with fellow travelers, I have a much better trip. Perhaps, until the preposterous, dystopian environment in economy class changes, it's the only sensible approach?
3
It was probably not Delta "mistakenly leaving your Pre-Check status off your ticket." As I hope someone explained to you, TSA randomly checks even Pre-Check folks. They do this by "removing" the Pre-Check from your boarding pass, thus subjecting you to the "full treatment."
I.e., Pre-Check doesn't work 100% of the time, by design.
I.e., Pre-Check doesn't work 100% of the time, by design.
1
Even with a KTN, I m subjected to a full body scan every flight. Why? Because I have a knee replacement. What a waste of everyone's time. Plus, as someone currently in remission for metastatic cancer, the exposure to additional X-rays is problematic. Poor TSA agent always assures me it is not a risk when I know that radiation damage is cumulative and scanning doubles the radiation load on a flight day. And I always tell them that, not that anyone cares. It is all kabuki theater. Why doesn't the KTN cover something like that?
7
No mention in the article of how much the writer's tickets cost. The vast majority of the flying public appears to want to pay as little as possible to go somewhere by air. One can complain about the expense of first class, and how class warfare is involved....but years and years ago, only the well to do traveled by air because it was so expensive. It's like going to McDonalds for a hamburger and complaining because the burger wasn't prepared to your liking. If you want cheap, don't expect luxury.
10
The airline profit margin is way too big to be treating economy passengers the way they do. Airline can do much better and stall make more money that Croesus. The huge profits gets siphoned off for the shareholders and do not dribble down to the people that actually buy the product and support the company,.
Good article and likely very accurate. I used to fly for business and pleasure, but avoid it at all costs now. Too bad that airplane travel is exposed to the vagaries of the free enterprise system. Another step backwards in a backwards moving country.
8
Flying within the United States or on American carriers for international flights is a bit like Plato's cave. Americans see the shadows on the walls and accept those shadows as reality - until they fly with European or Asian carriers (the latter are a real treat). After a period of disorientation, your eyes begin to adjust to the light, you soon realize what you've been missing, and you'll vow never to fly another American carrier again (whenever possible).
Unfortunately, with more people travelling under increasingly poorer conditions (and seemingly accepting those conditions) the airlines have absolutely no incentive to change. And it doesn't help that they lack competition. After all, who would fly between Boston and DC (or elsewhere) if you could take high-speed rail as one can between Beijing and Shanghai or Paris and Bordeaux and be there quickly and comfortably?
It far more profitable to keep everyone in the dark. Profits over people, shareholders over stakeholders.
Unfortunately, with more people travelling under increasingly poorer conditions (and seemingly accepting those conditions) the airlines have absolutely no incentive to change. And it doesn't help that they lack competition. After all, who would fly between Boston and DC (or elsewhere) if you could take high-speed rail as one can between Beijing and Shanghai or Paris and Bordeaux and be there quickly and comfortably?
It far more profitable to keep everyone in the dark. Profits over people, shareholders over stakeholders.
14
This is precisely the air travel system demanded by passengers.
There have been dozens of surveys and polls conducted by a variety of organizations asking consumers what they look for when deciding on buying airline tickets. These surveys and polls consistently turn up the same response:
The most important factor for passengers is...low fares.
Consumers have voted with their wallets. What they most want is cheap fares.
You get what you pay for.
There have been dozens of surveys and polls conducted by a variety of organizations asking consumers what they look for when deciding on buying airline tickets. These surveys and polls consistently turn up the same response:
The most important factor for passengers is...low fares.
Consumers have voted with their wallets. What they most want is cheap fares.
You get what you pay for.
45
I simply won't fly anymore unless Southwest flies there. I used to be on a plane to Europe or LA twice a month for 6 years in the late 1980s. Not so long ago. Flying was fun then, the food was edible and the service was actually service. We weren't crammed in like sardines and economy was equivalent to business class now. The planes were full. Even then I wouldn't fly United and my company would not book it. I am so sorry for the road warriors of today.
18
Air travel is stressful, but Jet Blue, an aisle seat, being able to fly at my convenience due to retirement help. I only fly coach and only Jet Blue.
6
Bad science here. Container did NOT "build up" pressure. Pressure in the surrounding environment simply dropped as it normally would on a high-altitude flight, something nearly everyone knows.
12
THIS is where you got hung up in the article? Yowsa, man.
8
so what. warm runny yogurt is warm runny yogurt. and it doesnt care which law of physics made it that way '
Actually, it was because she carped about something entirely her own fault (any junior high kid should have known not to do this) which made her the seat neighbor from Hell; then trying to get a laugh at the expense of the injured party, and finally whining that she missed lunch because of her own carelessness. Term that comes instantly to mind is "mean spoiled brat".
1
I last flew in 2009. Baltimore to San Francisco. I was in Economy class on Northwest Air Lines. The seats going and coming were painfully uncomfortable and I decided then that there would be no more flying for me.
I propose a federal law that removes three rows of seats from every economy class section and gives even the most lowlife bums half a break.
Sarah Lyall is a brave woman who should head up an airline for a couple of years and be allowed to bring it up to standards that make air travel comfortable.
Until then, I refuse to fly.
I propose a federal law that removes three rows of seats from every economy class section and gives even the most lowlife bums half a break.
Sarah Lyall is a brave woman who should head up an airline for a couple of years and be allowed to bring it up to standards that make air travel comfortable.
Until then, I refuse to fly.
15
Why does the author drink so much tomato juice?
I have always wanted to know this. I fly a lot and am always struck by how many people ask for tomato juice. You never see tomato juice selling that well in restaurants, cafes or grocery stores. What is it about air travel that makes people want tomato juice?
I have always wanted to know this. I fly a lot and am always struck by how many people ask for tomato juice. You never see tomato juice selling that well in restaurants, cafes or grocery stores. What is it about air travel that makes people want tomato juice?
7
it feels like a vegetable, pretty unobtainable in airports or on planes
7
Given the other complimentary beverage choices tomato juice suddenly feels like the healthier option.
9
Tomato juice is the closest to food you can get.
3
Hilarious article! As a travel agent, it's very informative to be reminded of many of the indignities suffered by my clients. The onsie is the best!
11
Wow, what a load of whining, in both Lyall's article and the comments. And mostly revealing unrealistic expectations and unfulfilled entitlements.
First, we should all remember that not that long ago cross country travel for average people took days to weeks (or even months). And that many families buried a member or two enroute. Second, the level of service most people seem to expect in coach/economy defies logic. Perhaps it was more comfortable before deregulation, but the average fare, even with fees, is about half of what we paid in the late 1970's. Imagine what air travel would be like if we doubled fare prices.
Finally, those who know more and/or pay more will get more. (And sometimes those who pay more are the only reason those who pay less get to fly--I have seen accounting that suggests all the net revenue on some flights comes from the first/business cabins.)
A last aside to those advocating or demanding magical cross-country train travel: good luck with that. We live in a huge country with a few pockets of dense population and hundreds of other cities. Look at a given airline route map, and then imagine building high speed rails in the same pattern. And then imagine the cost.
First, we should all remember that not that long ago cross country travel for average people took days to weeks (or even months). And that many families buried a member or two enroute. Second, the level of service most people seem to expect in coach/economy defies logic. Perhaps it was more comfortable before deregulation, but the average fare, even with fees, is about half of what we paid in the late 1970's. Imagine what air travel would be like if we doubled fare prices.
Finally, those who know more and/or pay more will get more. (And sometimes those who pay more are the only reason those who pay less get to fly--I have seen accounting that suggests all the net revenue on some flights comes from the first/business cabins.)
A last aside to those advocating or demanding magical cross-country train travel: good luck with that. We live in a huge country with a few pockets of dense population and hundreds of other cities. Look at a given airline route map, and then imagine building high speed rails in the same pattern. And then imagine the cost.
14
So, you're saying we should be grateful because we don't end up like the Donner Party?
30
Bob,
"Magical" cross-country high speed rail is already available in another "huge" country: China. It's already available in Europe (all together pretty large and high population) and Japan. The cost would be a fraction of what we spend on defense (or for that matter what was spent on the Interstate Highway System, conceived with a Republican president and constructed through administrations of both parties).
No, the only magic is how sad the state of infrastructure investment thinking has become in the US since Reagan demonized government.
"Magical" cross-country high speed rail is already available in another "huge" country: China. It's already available in Europe (all together pretty large and high population) and Japan. The cost would be a fraction of what we spend on defense (or for that matter what was spent on the Interstate Highway System, conceived with a Republican president and constructed through administrations of both parties).
No, the only magic is how sad the state of infrastructure investment thinking has become in the US since Reagan demonized government.
65
This reply by Lisads cracked me up as much as the photo of the author in the onesie. Thank you!
I have flown nearly 4 million miles in 45 years of working internationally and domestically much in economy except when upgraded which become more infrequent in recent years despite my 'elite" leve. Flying out of Syracuse a few years ago, the TSA agent stopped a women carrying a very young child, less that a year old, was told that she must take the little booties off of the baby. ALL footwear must be removed he said. A minor incident you say but it speaks volumes about TSA mentality.
I seldom blamed a flight attendant for unpleasant experience but the ground crew was a different story. I am retired now but will fly again only to a funeral.
I seldom blamed a flight attendant for unpleasant experience but the ground crew was a different story. I am retired now but will fly again only to a funeral.
21
Some years ago, the managing director of IATA (airlines intl trade association), a former Aer Lingus CFO, heard his p.r. director mention the 'customer's viewpoint.' The IATA m.d. pounded his desk, shouting: "Don't tell me about the bloody customer. The bloody customer is the bloody enemy." The p.r. director resigned. And so it goes.
16
At the very least, we could insist on regulations for minimum seat sizes and leg space. At some point, we're going to be relegated to half-a-buttock seats unless we do.
16
Good God. I can't imagine a crueler assignment. I hope the Times gave her a bonus or something. Just reading about it made me claustrophobic.
My advice: Ask your doctor for some Ativan.
My advice: Ask your doctor for some Ativan.
8
Hey, at least you fit in the seats.
I'm a big guy - 6'1" and legitimately wide framed - and flying has always been its own special uncomfortable hell for me. I generally try to get an aisle seat so I can kind of spill out into the aisle.
Then there are the people who are sitting next to me who are annoyed at my size and how unlucky they were to be paired with me. It's just so much fun.
I don't care about anything else, just give me a relatively economical way to get a wider seat.
I'm a big guy - 6'1" and legitimately wide framed - and flying has always been its own special uncomfortable hell for me. I generally try to get an aisle seat so I can kind of spill out into the aisle.
Then there are the people who are sitting next to me who are annoyed at my size and how unlucky they were to be paired with me. It's just so much fun.
I don't care about anything else, just give me a relatively economical way to get a wider seat.
15
I am dismayed by the inherent assumption that different classes of passengers based on fares paid is wrong. I have never flown biz class, though I did fly first class one time.
As May West noted, "I've been rich, I've been poor. Rich is better".
Why should this or any writer assume some right to equality in the purchase of any commodity based on price. This is how the system is meant to work. At the risk of sounding a bit looney, we do not need socialism in the air any more than we need it on the ground.
As for the general quality of air travel, your writer is correct that the good old days of flight service are gone. You get what you pay for, if you are lucky. I have also found that if you treat a flight attendant with courtesy, you as a passenger/customer will receive better attention and care.
As May West noted, "I've been rich, I've been poor. Rich is better".
Why should this or any writer assume some right to equality in the purchase of any commodity based on price. This is how the system is meant to work. At the risk of sounding a bit looney, we do not need socialism in the air any more than we need it on the ground.
As for the general quality of air travel, your writer is correct that the good old days of flight service are gone. You get what you pay for, if you are lucky. I have also found that if you treat a flight attendant with courtesy, you as a passenger/customer will receive better attention and care.
2
Nowhere in the article did I find the author making any such assumption.
1
The author wasn't indicating a problem with the distinction between first class and economy. The other forms of class distinction -- Platinum blah, blah, blah.. sapphire credit card status, etc. It's insane. I choose to fly economy, but the distinctions being made between different, mostly indecipherable, categories of people within economy are crazy. The slow erosion of seat space and bathroom size is also ridiculous. Yes, courtesy and good humor are important too.
1
Scheduled on a Delta flight from Des Moines to Spokane, I watched the sun come up and the sun go down in the Des Moines airport. They even had us loaded onto the 7:30 AM flight when they discovered something wasn't quite right with the plane although it had come in the night before. Apparently, Delta does no post flight inspections, or in this case, maybe no pre-flight inspections.
Adding insult to injury, I paid $300 more for this flight to meet my timely obligations in Spokane. Needless to say, it was a waste of money. I now hope to never be forced to fly on either Delta or United, where I had a similar experience.
High speed rail would be a wonderful alternative if only it were available.
Adding insult to injury, I paid $300 more for this flight to meet my timely obligations in Spokane. Needless to say, it was a waste of money. I now hope to never be forced to fly on either Delta or United, where I had a similar experience.
High speed rail would be a wonderful alternative if only it were available.
13
A high speed rail system will never be seen here. Way too expensive. We have more important obligations, such as building aircraft carriers, fighting endless wars, etc. We can't even afford to repair our roads and bridges.
14
My strategy for flying these days is to have as little carry-on as possible that will fit under the seat and still allow me some place to put my feet), to refrain from joining the throng at the gate (my reasoning - I have an assigned seat, no need to rush), & to try to balance fluid intake so that I don't become totally dessicated yet do not have to use the toilet much. I might have a recognizable food product with me (nuts, usually). On cross-country fights I spring for the extra few inches of leg room. Last time, I managed to avoid an involuntary, weather-related re-booking that would have included an overnight stay at the LAX terminal by using my phone to find a flight sequence that would work and being polite enough to an airline agent that I was able to accomplish it. If I had to fly frequently for my job, however, I would find another line of work; air travel is exhausting.
14
The authors observations on the airlines selling status as well as transportation were interesting, but the true status divide and one of the main reasons flying is so unpleasant is that the the real top tier who make the business decisions that produce these problems aren't even flying on the commercial airplanes. They are in their private jets bypassing all of the hassles so well described.
19
Start with a better attitude. You're not flying to be fed and entertained. You can fly from New York to LA for less than the price of a ticket to Hamilton and I guarantee the middle airplane seat is more comfortable than the theater seat. Drinks and snacks are also cheaper.
The travel experience is only viewed as a series of indignities if you let it be so. Security lines? Do you really have some place you need to be between now and your flight an hour from now? Gate lice? Find an empty seat at the next gate down and read your book. How often do you get an undisturbed hour to read? Body scanner? I proudly show my pasty belly to hundreds of strangers at the community pool. Here's an opportunity to gain dozens more adoring fans while waiting their turn at TSA-Pre. Meals? Try to be a little less picky. If you're flexible, there's always something decent to eat at airports, even if it's a piece of fresh fruit. Delays? They're part of the package. Allow some extra time in your plans.
In short, go with the flow. I've met some delightful people sitting jammed next to me while waiting on the tarmac for 3 hours. Take a deep breath and make the most of the moment. These are hours you'll never get back. Only you choose what to make of them.
The travel experience is only viewed as a series of indignities if you let it be so. Security lines? Do you really have some place you need to be between now and your flight an hour from now? Gate lice? Find an empty seat at the next gate down and read your book. How often do you get an undisturbed hour to read? Body scanner? I proudly show my pasty belly to hundreds of strangers at the community pool. Here's an opportunity to gain dozens more adoring fans while waiting their turn at TSA-Pre. Meals? Try to be a little less picky. If you're flexible, there's always something decent to eat at airports, even if it's a piece of fresh fruit. Delays? They're part of the package. Allow some extra time in your plans.
In short, go with the flow. I've met some delightful people sitting jammed next to me while waiting on the tarmac for 3 hours. Take a deep breath and make the most of the moment. These are hours you'll never get back. Only you choose what to make of them.
957
Bravo, Orson!
Well said. Yeah, the airlines are a pain, but you knew that going in, right? People waste hours in front of the tube, but let them have to wait in a line for twenty minutes, and it's the end of the world. Besides, I've flown coach and I've flown first class, and though the latter feeds you, it ain't nuthin' to write home about.
3
Perspective is everything....thank you!
1
Ridiculous. Go to any airport, observe and interview passengers for 8 hours and, even if you had zero airline experience, you would make the same observations. Novelty of flying for eight days isn't news, particularly when the first-person narrative is as tiring as the story.
4
I thoroughly enjoyed this piece. I've not read Ms. Lyall before this but I certainly will again. Fantastic sense of humor about the whole thing, even turning into a "fractious" child in an adult-sized onesie.
4
First rule of yogurt at 30,000 feet - always, always, always peel the lid pointing away from your face.
11
Ditto those little "cream" cartons.
Note the parallels of this article with the current debate on US healthcare. The GOP Congress would have you believe that everyone can have that 'first class' experience - if you just have the money to pay for it. The reality is that 99% of us are already in the 'economy section' of life, and even one of the 'elite status' folks could end up back here with us if they experience job loss, one serious illness, or an accident. The insurance companies are behaving just like the airlines in their efforts to squeeze more out of every person - you want coverage for existing illness? Then pay the 'elite premiere rate' for insurance. You want maternity coverage? Then "upgrade" to a plan that will pay part of that cost. People, this is just not right - healthcare is not an option, and people die because they don't have the money to pay for care -- despite what the GOP idiots want you to believe.
55
Comparing health care with flight is a bit of a stretch, dontcha think?
1
Great article, 'exposing' the agony of US domestic travel with the uninitiated masses. Lessons reinforced by your 'study': never travel domestic airlines, if you can help it. And eat your yoghurt(s) before passing through security!
Might I make a few suggestions for your next project: if you do this again in the US ("why???"), you should do a comparison flying only the 'smaller' airlines, eg JetBlue, VirginAmerica, Alaska. You'll find that many of your injustices are less magnified there. Perhaps we should all boycott the large US carriers; maybe then something will improve?
Also: you should try the same experiment flying internationally. But use a smattering of foreign airlines (and leave a day between flights!). You'll find that for the same price, one is actually treated much better -- like a human being, no less! You'll have real meals on short flights, with real utensils, glasses etc. Even the smaller airlines, eg Garuda Air, Malaysia Air, and puddle jumpers in S/SE Asia, provide services AND legroom. No extra cost for emergency exit seats ("You're doing us a favor"), and plenty of room (for 6'2", at least) in a normal seat. I recently flew a mere 2.5 hours on Garuda and had drink service, snacks AND a hot meal.
The real injustice: many US carriers code share w international carriers: you can fly a United booking on Lufthansa, or American on Japan Air Lines, and have a completely different, much more humanizing experience...
Might I make a few suggestions for your next project: if you do this again in the US ("why???"), you should do a comparison flying only the 'smaller' airlines, eg JetBlue, VirginAmerica, Alaska. You'll find that many of your injustices are less magnified there. Perhaps we should all boycott the large US carriers; maybe then something will improve?
Also: you should try the same experiment flying internationally. But use a smattering of foreign airlines (and leave a day between flights!). You'll find that for the same price, one is actually treated much better -- like a human being, no less! You'll have real meals on short flights, with real utensils, glasses etc. Even the smaller airlines, eg Garuda Air, Malaysia Air, and puddle jumpers in S/SE Asia, provide services AND legroom. No extra cost for emergency exit seats ("You're doing us a favor"), and plenty of room (for 6'2", at least) in a normal seat. I recently flew a mere 2.5 hours on Garuda and had drink service, snacks AND a hot meal.
The real injustice: many US carriers code share w international carriers: you can fly a United booking on Lufthansa, or American on Japan Air Lines, and have a completely different, much more humanizing experience...
19
It's true, if you're looking for misery on the airplane (or anywhere else), you're going to find it. On the other hand, to sort of quote Louis CK, you're in a chair in the sky. Put on your headphones, read a book, take a nap ... cross the country or an ocean in a koupla hours.
But yes, it's a shame US airlines are as cheap and stingy as they now are. On carriers in many other countries (some of them thought of as third world) there are warm meals and kind, polite flight attendants.
But yes, it's a shame US airlines are as cheap and stingy as they now are. On carriers in many other countries (some of them thought of as third world) there are warm meals and kind, polite flight attendants.
393
I agree with your point, but I'll cut the flight attendants some slack. That job pays terribly for how demanding it is, and as life has gotten crappier for passengers, they take it out more on the flight crew. If the woman who gets paid $25k/year to tend to unpleasant people at 33,000 feet doesn't smile when she hands me my Savory Snack Mix, I'll forgive her. And if she is in good spirits, I'm outright impressed, because I know I'd be a monster.
If you're not interested in the cheapest available flights, the foreign airlines service many of the same routes as the U.S. airlines, and often for not much higher prices.
Their focus on service just might make the difference worthwhile. It does to me.
Their focus on service just might make the difference worthwhile. It does to me.
Yes - there are warm meals on some of those airlines but they also crash more often. Give me US Airlines any time for their safety record!
American based airline travel, with the exception of perhaps Southwest and Jet Blue get worse and worse by the day. Having traveled on British airways, Alitalia, and Virgin atlantic when visiting Europe and the UK, in economy, premium economy, and business/first class, we Americans are getting ripped off. Also, the high speed rail in Europe is cheap and excellent, and thus provides a great alternative to flying that helps to keep ticket prices low with decent amenities that are still free, even in economy. In Italy, we got free snacks in second class on a train from Rome to Naples and got to see the amazing views on trains that were newer, faster, and more comfy than business class on Amtrak, for a fraction of the price. Without high speed rail, airlines know customers have no choice by to fly.
We are all paying the price for a corrupted "free market" system and conflicting political positions between the states and the federal government. It doesn't have to be this way.
We are all paying the price for a corrupted "free market" system and conflicting political positions between the states and the federal government. It doesn't have to be this way.
56
A stunt that does little to further the conversation about how air travel might be improved.
1
I travel a lot between Phx and msp on mostly delta. It's roughly a three hour flight. I have to go into my zen like posture from the moment I enter the terminal. Yes I have had my share of uncomfortable moments. Me big complaint, Large people in seats too small. I have had to spend three hours with my shoulder pressed against another mans shoulder. Not exactly my idea of air travel. There are two airports one should try to avoid. Jfk and atl. Unfortunately almost all overseas flights to Europe go out of those two international hubs. My other complaint, people with their mutts. Mutts seem to be everywhere now. Most of them are not service dogs. Flying is cheap for the most part. that is what the public wants and what the airlines give to us. If you want more room pay the money and fly up front.
7
Consider the alternatives: my ancestors arrived in America after a three-week boat trip from Ireland.
6
I disagree. As a frequent business traveler, it's not the airlines fault. Rather, it's the uninformed, entitled, occasional traveler, that's mostly at fault.
Some of my favorites: the heavy-metal flyer who delays the line at the magnetometer by wearing/carrying things that set off the alarm, the late-arriver- flyer who shows up after the boarding door has been closed; the aisle-clogger who carries on conversations instead of stowing luggage - delaying everyone; the high-perfumer who wears far too much perfume/aftershave; the loud-talker who shares his/her life stories such that everyone has to listen; the whiner who just complains about everything (seat, temp, cost of ticket, delay in snacks/drinks); the infrequent-bather ... .
In short, those who see air travel as if it were a Greyhound Bus.
Some of my favorites: the heavy-metal flyer who delays the line at the magnetometer by wearing/carrying things that set off the alarm, the late-arriver- flyer who shows up after the boarding door has been closed; the aisle-clogger who carries on conversations instead of stowing luggage - delaying everyone; the high-perfumer who wears far too much perfume/aftershave; the loud-talker who shares his/her life stories such that everyone has to listen; the whiner who just complains about everything (seat, temp, cost of ticket, delay in snacks/drinks); the infrequent-bather ... .
In short, those who see air travel as if it were a Greyhound Bus.
"But if you pay enough, you can get whatever you want." --- Isn't that the way that most of life works? Runs parallel to the thoughts that you must study to become educated and work diligently to keep your job. That being said, this was an exceptionally well-written story. Kudos to the journalist.
2
Laughed and cried over your article. Your photo in a onesie is priceless! Try JetBlue. You might have a very different experience.
Ms. Lyall: This is the best thing I've read in a long time. Thoroughly enjoyable. Laughed out loud several times. In the last month I've been in Alitalia 1st Class from NY to Rome and then on the prison ship of Spirit from Boston to Florida. You write the truth vividly and amusingly. Thank you!
This article is so funny and true and good.
Way back as a 12 year old kid I told my parents that I prefer sitting in an airplane over a honey moon. That feeling has changed.
3
Sometimes I have to wonder about people's expectations. A machine takes you thousands of miles at 500mph, though all kinds of often hellish weather, your security from lunatic terrorists it all but guaranteed - but you whimper about being 15 minutes late on arrival.
10
Why does everyone blame the airlines? I'm not in any way promoting or connected to any airline, but it seems we've asked for the current situation. We jump to fares that are $10 lower without regard to what that savings is really costing us. We want rock bottom fares and then complain when they charge for carry ons. This is deregulation and capitalism at its best. Is what we asked for and what we got.
8
Something about my metal hips sets off the alarms at the tiny Hancock County [ME] Airport. This has happened twice. My protestations that I've had no problems in any other airport IN THE WORLD carry no weight. If it ain't in or from Maine, it ain't any good. So I, a grandmother whose ancestors arrived on the Mayflower, have to go through a very thorough Maine-type patdown conducted in full view of all the other passengers on the plane, and of course this patdown reveals absolutely nothing whatsoever illegal or even slightly wrong because there ISN'T anything illegal or wrong. The only problem is that I have had hip replacements, and I suspect their machine doesn't accept titanium. I believe their machines are wrong. Of course. Lots of luck with that idea.
1
You flew in sweats, that's awesome.
2
I long to win a very large lottery prize for just one reason: so I can afford to buy a Netjets card to fly domestically. I never want to see the inside of a regular airport again (except for international travel, where I'll select an airline with true first class, a dedicated lounge, a shower either when I arrive or on board).
Never mind the Bentley (a Rolls would be so pretentious), the multi-million dollar condo in Manhattan, the getaway condo in Aspen. the posh hotel suites in London, Paris, Rome, Berlin, Vienna. Just let me be the sole passenger on a jet from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport to Teterboro (with limos to deliver me on both sides).
Wish me luck—I have the same chances of winning that large jackpot as being mauled by a polar bear and a lion at the same time while being struck by lightning.
Never mind the Bentley (a Rolls would be so pretentious), the multi-million dollar condo in Manhattan, the getaway condo in Aspen. the posh hotel suites in London, Paris, Rome, Berlin, Vienna. Just let me be the sole passenger on a jet from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport to Teterboro (with limos to deliver me on both sides).
Wish me luck—I have the same chances of winning that large jackpot as being mauled by a polar bear and a lion at the same time while being struck by lightning.
237
One of the biggest fears of rich people is losing their money and having to fly commercial airlines.
1
You're Exaggerating
I think you meant to say, "Wish me luck—I have the same chances of winning that large jackpot as being mauled by a polar bear and a lion at the same time while being struck by lightning, and while flying economy on a United flight."
I think you meant to say, "Wish me luck—I have the same chances of winning that large jackpot as being mauled by a polar bear and a lion at the same time while being struck by lightning, and while flying economy on a United flight."
Not sure how airlines make far more money from premium passengers, an average first class ticket only costs about 3-4 times an economy ticket, and there a lot more than 3-4 times the economy passengers than first class. That means the economy passengers are footing the bill for the premium passengers, not the other way around. Once you take into account the amenities received in first class opposed to economy class, you realize the first class riders are basically leaching their experience from all the rest on the plane.
10
Thank you for this. It is just further justification for our decision several years ago not to fly unless we absolutely had to, e.g., overseas. Admittedly, as retirees we have a bit more control over our time. But by taking the time to drive rather than fly, all of our trips are enjoyable from the planning -- Google maps lets you pick the interesting routes -- through the actual travel -- driving across the Mojave Desert in an air-conditioned car really is a pleasure -- to arriving at the destination in full control and with a car for further mobility. It will be a long time before the airlines can convince us that domestic flights are worth the hassle.
6
If you like long drives to see the world try a ship to Europe. Adds a week of luxurious vacation to you travel and is the most relaxing method of travel ever! Lots of options every week from the East Coast.
As the earth warms faster and faster, the Keeling Curve reaching higher and higher, people seem to fly with impunity. Reducing flying is the easiest and fastest way to lower your carbon footprint. It takes about 50 days of "single occupancy" driving to produce a ton of emissions and it takes about 2 hours of flying to produce the same amount. REDUCING one's carbon footprint is an action one needs to take if concerned about climate change. Most Americans have increased flying in the last year (and are the biggest emitters in the world). If actions speak louder than words, I think it shows Americans don't really care about climate - they just say they do.
5
I never want to fly in a US airplane again. Though I hear that travel via various Asian airlines is relatively painless. And cheaper.
7
All of this is pretty horrible but it is even worse when you add the additional stress of business travel. Unlike our intrepid author, business travelers often face a gruelling day of presentations, meetings, and productivity upon arrival. And we rarely get to fly business class.
2
This article describes what can be a week of work for me as a frequent traveler can be like, but it misses the worst part of travelling like this; the ability to do more work and travel in a week than people used to do in a year. Jumping time zones, holding meetings all over the country, sleeping in a different bed each night and not getting home to family is the worst part of this level of travel. Economy travelers might envy those in business class but I envy the economy travels who are on vacation with their families.
1
Bravo on the onesie! Very funny and smart article.
11
During my working years, I flew four million miles, much of it pampered on non-US carriers. These days, I don't like to go anywhere that requires air travel: anywhere requiring one overnight stay or less, I'll drive. And absolutely, positively no holiday travel. I recently returned from California: a trip I could not avoid. Both ways were train wrecks. The outgoing flight was held at the gate because of construction at LAX and then the weather turned bad in Charlotte. The return flight was six hours late because American didn't have a crew to fly the plane. The weather was cloudless in both places and the plane was at the gate.
The only silver lining was the conversations I had with my fellow travelers.
The only silver lining was the conversations I had with my fellow travelers.
31
Love the article.. had me in stitches.
It is true though.. airline travel is much cheaper today than it was 30-40 years ago..
I find paying for small upgrades, like exit row seating, or premier economy on long haul flights, still cheaper than what I paid for tickets, say in the '80's. Like anything else, airlines are using the power of computers to segment seats until the last minute.. and adjust prices accordingly
It is true though.. airline travel is much cheaper today than it was 30-40 years ago..
I find paying for small upgrades, like exit row seating, or premier economy on long haul flights, still cheaper than what I paid for tickets, say in the '80's. Like anything else, airlines are using the power of computers to segment seats until the last minute.. and adjust prices accordingly
2
Your Penem analogy may feel accurate to you after your odyssey, but I will offer a balancing point of view. I had United 1K/Global Services status for 14 years, flying over 150K miles per year average for work, on everything from 14 hour Europe and Asia flights to puddle jumpers (even to the point of having a pilot come to me in the cabin and say I flew more than he had in his career). I experience the same cancellations, gate chaos and security embarrassments, but appreciate that the airline recognizes I paid full fare and flew so often. But, injecting another us-versus-them fight into American culture is really unnecessary drama to make the point about the avarice and declining levels of service of the airlines.
9
I do believe Ms. Lyall mentioned in the article that one of the cohesive elements of American society at this point is our universal distaste
for the whole process of flying. I would agree with that. I
for the whole process of flying. I would agree with that. I
5
Dramamine and gate check.
The onesie made me laugh so hard I cried. Thanks.
The onesie made me laugh so hard I cried. Thanks.
3
If you think about it, First or Business Class and the reward-status-mileage programs have with very little value for money: you are spending a few thousand bucks for boarding the airplane first and getting an average meal on a slightly more comfortable chair. They are so popular mostly because they give you a "status" and make you feel special.
The only time where flying business class makes economic sense, is on overnight business trips.
The only time where flying business class makes economic sense, is on overnight business trips.
7
Actually, I view discounted first class as paying close to what we probably would be paying if the CAB still regulated fares to enjoy an experience close to what flying in coach was like in the 1970s. (For those who remember flying coach in the 1970s.)
2
You get what you pay for. Both the plunging real cost of tickets and the increasingly uncomfortableness of air travel began with the deregulation of the industry.
4
I avoid flying if possible but when I do fly my loyalty is with Southwest, without any inducements whatsoever.
It's a one class airline with a fairly reasonable way of treating its customers. Fares always seem fair if you book early. No bag fees, no change fees, a seemingly logical rewards program that I never use, happy to pay for what I need rather than have my life driven by "rewards," like Pavlov's dog. No advanced seat assignments. If I have more luggage than my carry-on backpack I check it, for free.
The boarding process is straight forward. The sooner you check-in online the sooner you board, or go to the head of the line for a modest fee. I prefer to sit in back, the safest part of the plane, so the scramble for front seats is irrelevant.
So, check-in early, board early, go to the back of the plane, select my seat (I prefer the window to have something to look at besides a screen), put my backpack under the seat in front of me, no overhead bin competition. When the plane lands I simply wait in my seat until everyone else has deplaned and then walk off the empty plane alone, still getting to baggage claim about the same time as my checked bag.
Finally, the SW flight attendants generally have a good sense of humor and reciprocate friendly treatment well.
All in all, not so bad.
It's a one class airline with a fairly reasonable way of treating its customers. Fares always seem fair if you book early. No bag fees, no change fees, a seemingly logical rewards program that I never use, happy to pay for what I need rather than have my life driven by "rewards," like Pavlov's dog. No advanced seat assignments. If I have more luggage than my carry-on backpack I check it, for free.
The boarding process is straight forward. The sooner you check-in online the sooner you board, or go to the head of the line for a modest fee. I prefer to sit in back, the safest part of the plane, so the scramble for front seats is irrelevant.
So, check-in early, board early, go to the back of the plane, select my seat (I prefer the window to have something to look at besides a screen), put my backpack under the seat in front of me, no overhead bin competition. When the plane lands I simply wait in my seat until everyone else has deplaned and then walk off the empty plane alone, still getting to baggage claim about the same time as my checked bag.
Finally, the SW flight attendants generally have a good sense of humor and reciprocate friendly treatment well.
All in all, not so bad.
457
Totally agree now that they have the number-ordered boarding classes (before there was a line-up-an-hour-before-hand tradition). Southwest follows its policies consistently. That's what I look for.
6
Agree with everything Terry said. Especially about Rapid Rewards. It is a simple and straightforward frequent flyer program that is easy to use even for those who don't fly a lot since points don't expire as long as you either fly or use a partner like a car rental company once every two years.
My only knock on SWA is they are no longer consistently cheapest. But that often is countered by no bag fee. Plus their employees are hired for personality and that makes flying fun.
My only knock on SWA is they are no longer consistently cheapest. But that often is countered by no bag fee. Plus their employees are hired for personality and that makes flying fun.
12
I agree. Though I fly frequently on United ( my employer's preference ) I am impressed by SWA. Due to the free bag policy there is no mad dash and scrum for overhead space. And the boarding process is orderly and relaxed. United could take a lesson.
5
We use points to fly business class or don't go. Prefer to go by train in Europe or within the US where possible.
I refuse to go through the scanning machines and request a pat-down. Generally the TSA female officers have been polite and professional and use a private space.
US carriers seem to be the worst. Cathay Pacific premium economy from New York to Vancouver was very nice, and better than United first class from Anchorage to Chicago.
Hopefully the airlines are starting to wake up after the Dr Dao debacle, and the almost weekly video of some form of bad airline behaviour.
I refuse to go through the scanning machines and request a pat-down. Generally the TSA female officers have been polite and professional and use a private space.
US carriers seem to be the worst. Cathay Pacific premium economy from New York to Vancouver was very nice, and better than United first class from Anchorage to Chicago.
Hopefully the airlines are starting to wake up after the Dr Dao debacle, and the almost weekly video of some form of bad airline behaviour.
10
I flew the same airline recently, one domestic flight from east coast to west coast and on international flight, east coast to western Europe.
Both flights were between 5 and 8 hrs. On the domestic flight we were given a sandwich (which I was actually surprised). The international flight, however, supplied two meals along with free beer or wine.
I believe this better international travel is due to competition with foreign carriers.
If we allow foreign carriers to fly in the US, maybe this new competition will make for a better experience, or not.
Both flights were between 5 and 8 hrs. On the domestic flight we were given a sandwich (which I was actually surprised). The international flight, however, supplied two meals along with free beer or wine.
I believe this better international travel is due to competition with foreign carriers.
If we allow foreign carriers to fly in the US, maybe this new competition will make for a better experience, or not.
29
I do not agree with the sentiment of this article. I have flown for years for both business and personal almost always in Economy.
Americans are in a bad mood and there are a lot of agitated, unhappy people on airplanes. We have such anger spewing from the White House that people are on edge. While the economy is cooking along and unemployment is in the 4% range (nationally), the uptick in dissatisfaction on board airplanes has kicked into high gear since Obama left office. How can we be anything but on edge when our president shows absolutely no compassion for other human beings? The attitude is coming from the top.
Americans are in a bad mood and there are a lot of agitated, unhappy people on airplanes. We have such anger spewing from the White House that people are on edge. While the economy is cooking along and unemployment is in the 4% range (nationally), the uptick in dissatisfaction on board airplanes has kicked into high gear since Obama left office. How can we be anything but on edge when our president shows absolutely no compassion for other human beings? The attitude is coming from the top.
66
As much as I loathe 45, I have to disagree with you partially; not all of the unpleasantness in flying is new. I think what makes people on planes so edgy and drives some of them to behavior they likely wouldn't otherwise engage in is the feeling of being herded around in both massive crowds but on tight deadlines, all while being nickel-and-dimed at every turn. Think about it: every line is as slow as possible because there's only 1 person to repeat the same script over and over and over, plus the need to supervise every last activity; no matter how much time you plan, it's never enough; the announcements are hard to hear with important info buried in constant loops of scripts; and everything is outrageously expensive at the airport to boot. Airline employees have to follow the rules (or what they think are the rules) or else. Business travelers will just pay more not have to deal with as much of this as possible (Pre-Check was an ulcer-ender for me): checked bags, lounge access, personal hotspots to avoid the crappy airport wifi, power bricks to lessen the dependence on finding an available plug for the phone etc, but your average family flying to visit Aunt Tilly in Buffalo once a year is simply driven mad by all of this nonsense, hence the confrontations over a seat, a t-shirt or a stroller. I know lots of people who will take the train in the Northeast corridor (especially DC-PHL- NYC and NYC- BOS) or who will just drive, especially if the drive time is less than 6h.
2
Many of us long for Obama to come back! And, that's impossible, so we weep or complain. I do hope he's having fun now; God knows, he earned it.
3
ab, well said. Thank you.
1
This article is hilarious, painful, and correct! Thanks so much for flying this crazy route and sharing your insights. The writing is fantastic.
32
I urge the writer to do a few days on a cross-country train. I'd be very curious about her reactions. I discovered cross-country train travel a few years ago and now, whenever I can, I take the train rather than fly. Yes, it is not fast, delays are frequent due to sharing tracks with freight trains, and getting a sleeper car can is more expensive than coach, but it's all worth it. The food is served in a dining car by servers who love to talk and joke, you can stretch out, talk with all kind of people, walk around, sit in comfortable seats, and you don't have to worry about overhead luggage or rude flight attendants. You can take a shower, enjoy huge windows, and never wear a seatbelt. Try it out.
222
Sounds like heaven!
1
Agreed! I recently needed to go to Washington, DC from home and took the AmTrack. A totally wonderful experience. I hope to never have to fly again. Years ago, it was fun. Now it's just something to suffer through. If you're going far enough, get a sleeping car compartment. All meals are included in the ticket price. Wonderful people.
2
And let's hope that the Republicans don't defund Amtrak.
3
Bravo !
You captured it all - I relived my recent middle seat angst (economy) from LA to Sydney that I bought using hoarded points. The scowling woman in the aisle seat next to me informed me as we took off "I hope you don't need to use the bathroom a lot".
In contrast to an unexpected upgrade years ago to Tel Aviv, where I dined on duck montmorency and sipped champagne before settling onto my bed. Alas, the latter is not likely to happen very often. The former, regrettably, ,is where you will usually find me.
Thanks for the laughs.
You captured it all - I relived my recent middle seat angst (economy) from LA to Sydney that I bought using hoarded points. The scowling woman in the aisle seat next to me informed me as we took off "I hope you don't need to use the bathroom a lot".
In contrast to an unexpected upgrade years ago to Tel Aviv, where I dined on duck montmorency and sipped champagne before settling onto my bed. Alas, the latter is not likely to happen very often. The former, regrettably, ,is where you will usually find me.
Thanks for the laughs.
8
"interrogated by a security agent" - NEVER respond to questions from these people; you aren't required to do so. Tell them you don't give personal information to people you don't know and walk away.
Love your onesie! I wonder how TSA would handle it if they wanted to put their hands down your pants.
Speaking of which, anyone who experiences a TSA screener's hands, front or back, in their genitals needs to file a complaint of sexual assault with the police at the airport.
TSA is too cowardly to use the word "genitals" when describing their new comprehensive pat down procedure. Instead, they use the word "groin", which is a separate area of the body from the genitals or they use the phrase "sensitive area". There is no part of the body known anatomically as "sensitive area". Because TSA refuses to accurately explain to passengers how they will be touched, passengers cannot "consent" to a pat down if they do not know what it entails. If you do not consent to having your genitals searched, you have been sexually assaulted and need to file a complaint with the police.
Love your onesie! I wonder how TSA would handle it if they wanted to put their hands down your pants.
Speaking of which, anyone who experiences a TSA screener's hands, front or back, in their genitals needs to file a complaint of sexual assault with the police at the airport.
TSA is too cowardly to use the word "genitals" when describing their new comprehensive pat down procedure. Instead, they use the word "groin", which is a separate area of the body from the genitals or they use the phrase "sensitive area". There is no part of the body known anatomically as "sensitive area". Because TSA refuses to accurately explain to passengers how they will be touched, passengers cannot "consent" to a pat down if they do not know what it entails. If you do not consent to having your genitals searched, you have been sexually assaulted and need to file a complaint with the police.
24
Let's STOP the Tax Destructibility, of First Class Travel ! If the " WELL OFF" want Special treatment, " Pay for it" yourself !
It only took me a few sentences to cringe uncontrollably from this article. DO NOT BRING CREAMY, LIQUID FOODS ONTO A FLIGHT! When are people going to learn that on a crowded hot flight you only bring a candy or granola bar at best, maybe a bag of chips.
I loved reading this article. In the past we flew a lot. Were upgraded to First Class on an overseas return flight; were able to use some of our frequent flyer miles to buy a pair of tickets (both ways) on the Concorde. Those were the days.
Now flying is hell. We drive whenever possible.
Now flying is hell. We drive whenever possible.
5
My gripe is the seats. I fly Southest often and am convinced they are saving moeny by elinimating any padding in the seats. It's like spending 4 hours on a church pew without the sermon.
I hadn't heard the term "gate lice" before. Quite apropos.
Those of us who have flown a lot know all this, so this piece does nothing but scare the infrequent traveler. And that may be a good thing.
Those of us who have flown a lot know all this, so this piece does nothing but scare the infrequent traveler. And that may be a good thing.
18
Airlines look at economy passengers as just luggage with boarding passes. I dream of upgraded rail service someday.
35
DEREGULATION--
The Airline deregulation Act of 1978, promoted by Alfred Kahn a "Professor" from where I don't recall, and those ever friendly consumer advocates and "labor union lovers", Teddy Kennedy and Jimmie ("I'll never lie to ya" Carter....
Enjoy!
3
The entire process created by TSA and the greedy, grubby, money grabbing profiteers who run the airlines begins to feel obnoxious even before I leave home to drive two hours to Atlanta or Charlotte. Result? I will no longer participate unless I'm traveling to Europe or west from the mainland. For the rest of my travels, I use my car and just lengthen those two hours. Three days to New Mexico? Fine. Five or six to California? OK. Toronto by car. Right on! No more with this corrupted and unfriendly system. To have them feeling my groin? No Sir. Not on my life. AND why have we only inadequate passenger rail? The undemocratic power industry has over our comfort.
8
Wally--try AMTRAK next time
They do get you there safely as others pointed out and that is the most important thing. I've always found the cabin crew to be polite and sometimes very friendly. I did have a very unpleasant experience with some ground personnel who were extremely rude and totally uncalled which has left me with a desire to never fly again. Officiousness at its most extreme. That's just me.
Basically being courteous at all times helps and that includes treating staff and fellow passengers with some degree of respect.
Basically being courteous at all times helps and that includes treating staff and fellow passengers with some degree of respect.
4
Great article that highlights among other things the big divide between premium seats on domestic flights and the rest of the passengers, which is why I love Southwest Airlines. Everyone is in the same boat, er plane.....No hostility between classes of passengers. Not the poshest airline but the fairest and often the least expensive. The author reveals what most of us already know, we would welcome new airline brands that will treat customers like, well, customers....
28
HAHAHA!! So funny and so well written...and sadly so true. But, flying is what you make of it so cheers to those of us doing our best to not be "that guy" !!!
5
To the airline captain who recently wrote in the NY Times that the good old days were not so good. Yes, they were. They were far and above better than today. Remember you are still sitting in the same seat you were back then. You are not crammed into a tiny dirty seat like your passengers. I, for one, would gladly go back to a previous era in flying when it was far more enjoyable. (I notice the good captains op Ed allowed no comments-wise move)
22
The good old days also included a far higher opportunity to die in a horrible crash. I prefer a smaller seat.
3
Why are you complaining so much, you got where you wanted to go. And didn't pay much compared to what air travel cost in those days of yore you longingly hearten back to.
5
As I read this article about air travel in America I was reminded of another report in the NYT not too long ago concerning "Concierge Medicine". It seems like America is becoming two countries. One group can fly first class in the front of the plane and get immediate doctors' appointments and deluxe hospital rooms. The rest of us are relegated to economy class flights where we can develop deep vein thrombosis in our legs and gain an intimate association with the humans sitting next to us. We can seen the doctor in three weeks and are grateful to get that appointment.
157
Oh come on! It's always been this way! I'm old enough to remember what train travel was like; regular, one step above being in a cattle car and no guarantee of a seat, and pullman or compartment, which was really quite lovely. And then there are ships - steerage or a stateroom on the Titanic.
I recently flew business class to London; first time I had been in anything other than economy in decades. It was a LOT nicer, no doubt about it! I used accumulated FF miles. The miles add up! But even on that, I was identified at my local airport for a full body search, including the groin patdown - the poor girl who had to do that was far more mortified than I was. Why was a white 73 yr old well-dressed woman picked? Because my medical device showed traces of nitroglycerin. Huh? It lives in my basement where I use it twice daily, and I don't take any heart medications that might leave such residue on my hands. I have NO idea why this was or if it was just a too sensitive test or the person doing it was an idiot. But I'd far rather have a groin patdown than have someone with a bomb get on my flight!
A tiny economy vehicle is not nearly as nice to drive as an Audi. It also costs WAY less. Are you suggesting what Winston Churchill so well describes: "Socialism is the philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy. Its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery."?
No thanks - I'll just keep saving my FF miles.
I recently flew business class to London; first time I had been in anything other than economy in decades. It was a LOT nicer, no doubt about it! I used accumulated FF miles. The miles add up! But even on that, I was identified at my local airport for a full body search, including the groin patdown - the poor girl who had to do that was far more mortified than I was. Why was a white 73 yr old well-dressed woman picked? Because my medical device showed traces of nitroglycerin. Huh? It lives in my basement where I use it twice daily, and I don't take any heart medications that might leave such residue on my hands. I have NO idea why this was or if it was just a too sensitive test or the person doing it was an idiot. But I'd far rather have a groin patdown than have someone with a bomb get on my flight!
A tiny economy vehicle is not nearly as nice to drive as an Audi. It also costs WAY less. Are you suggesting what Winston Churchill so well describes: "Socialism is the philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy. Its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery."?
No thanks - I'll just keep saving my FF miles.
2
This sounds no different from the class divisions between our government in Washington and all the rest of us in the US.
7
Funny, but I studiously avoid nearly all the airlines that she traveled on, for many of these reasons. I have not flown on Delta since they gave me a seat that didn't have a seat cushion, and piled up pillows rather than reassign me. I reported it to the FAA, pictures and all, because it was a clear safety violation. I rarely fly American, and it usually proceeds poorly when I have to. I would have liked to have seen what her experience was if she had looped in some legs on Jet Blue - they get most of my business these days.
5
Living in Minneapolis, I try to fly as much as possible on Sun Country, which is technically a low-cost carrier but which provides a better experience than Delta, especially if you can buy one of their affordable first-class upgrades, and, as an added bonus, leaves from the less-crowded terminal that the low-cost carriers are exiled to.
My last trip was to a destination that Sun Country doesn't serve, so I flew Delta and bought up to first class. It wasn't nearly as nice as Sun Country's. I had extra legroom, but no extra width, and no meal, just a bag of my choice of junk food (I chose the potato chips) with my drink.
My last trip was to a destination that Sun Country doesn't serve, so I flew Delta and bought up to first class. It wasn't nearly as nice as Sun Country's. I had extra legroom, but no extra width, and no meal, just a bag of my choice of junk food (I chose the potato chips) with my drink.
1