I hate flying. This wasn't always true, however. Thirty years ago, the airlines weren't going out of their way to insult "economy" travelers. You could get a meal then. Sure it wasn't very good, but still--it was a meal, not just a (small) bag of peanuts. You got a decent amount of room around your seat, not the stingy, impossibly crowded space imposed on air travelers today. You know what I'm talking about: The guy in front of you leans back, jamming your tray table into your rib cage. Your elbows spread out slightly while you're reading and they encroach on your rowmate's space. The carry-on bag you're permitted to bring onboard doesn't really fit under the seat in front of you and leave you room for your feet. I could go on (and may, later).
Why not upgrade, you ask. Well, consider this: A roundtrip economy-class ticket on British Air between Seattle and London costs about $1,000. The "business-class" seat for the same RT ticket costs about $8,000. I don't know about you, but the $7,000 difference is HUGE for me. So, what's a nonwealthy traveler to do? Seriously, what is such a traveler to do?
1 comment:
As someone who travels a lot I completely understand what you are saying! Unfortunately I have no solution for the economy class insult that is provided. The only thing that I make sure I do is have my frequent flier card ready ... After 5 consecutive flights I've gotten an upgrade on KLM to business class (for free) almost every time. It's worked a few other times with British Airways and Kuwait Airways as well ... but I guess that's the only way to get something out of flying ...
Aside from the cramped space ... what I want to know is ... when will they start offering flights that don't have screaming and/or nosey children on board? Now that is something that I would consider paying for!
Post a Comment