I just finished a trip. By air.
Flew on a couple of different planes. I've traveled by air quite a bit, and have some definite gripes and ideas.
1. I hate small planes. I'm a big guy - and it isn't the width of the seats that bother me. It's the leg room and height. It really doesn't matter for most people under six feet, but if you are six feet tall or over, you are guaranteed banged knees. You'll have them pressing against the seat in front of you - and if the jerk in front of you reclines their seat back, you're in misery. Also, having to stand up and walk down the aisle sucks. You have to hunch over and duck under low hanging equipment.
2. I hate airplane food. Why do flight attendants give you a half-can of a drink? Why not just give us the can of soda/water/juice? It would save on space. I mean, how many people are OK just drinking a Sprite out of the can? As long as it is cold, I don't need a little plastic cup with some ice. And since airlines are cutting back on food, all we get now (if we're lucky) is either Chex mix or peanuts. Unless you fly first class....
3. I don't like escalators, but I love the moving walkways. Big airports have great moving walkways that give you that extra 6 mph in walking if you are late to a flight. Escalators, on the other hand, are moving stairs. Why do some jerks need to walk up these???
4. Security. I know, since 9/11 we have more dangers. But you'd think they could afford a couple of more security stations, especially in the bigger airports.
5. The carry-on luggage rule should be enforced. I saw people with large, bulky cases cramming them into the overhead bins. Briefcases/Laptop cases and small bags are one thing, but don't just carry on your suitcase because you hate baggage claim.
6. Finally, I loved the "Self-Checkin" that Delta and other airlines use. A touch-screen computer will help you check in faster. Nothing against airline ticket people, but they seem to type and type away for minutes just to enter in your name. Automation was great.
Lastly, in this huge rant, I don't get the 'you need a boarding pass to go to the gate" idea. This kills families seeing off their loved ones and hurting the homecoming fun. Just a thought.
