My current occupation affords me the luxury of getting to make use of air travel on occasion. Last year I made several trips across these United States. One trip was scheduled on Sept. 12. It would have been a pretty ordinary day, had nothing happened the day before. That flight was rescheduled and every flying experience since has been different. It has almost become a hassle to fly. I have a few things that anger me now about the airline industry.
First, they received a bailout from the government for income lost in days following Sept. 11. The already-struggling companies were now hemorrhaging money after being grounded by the Federal Aviation Administration. Our government came to the rescue, using our tax dollars, and saved the day. Let's take a closer look at the situation.
Of the money that was given to the airlines for the bail-out, only two-thirds of it was needed to cover money lost. This leaves the other third as a straight profit. So, someone could say the airlines profited from this tragedy caused by airplanes.
Second, there have been some strange prices on air travel during the past few months. You hear about insanely cheap deals on tickets. You could attribute this to airlines trying to recoup losses, but they have already been bailed out from the government. They could be doing this to establish interest in air travel again. If you look at where you can go for these prices, you'll find something else.
Typically these discount rates only apply to specific dates and specific locations. For example, before Sept. 11, I could get a direct flight from Los Angeles to Salt Lake City for $30 plus all applicable taxes, if I can fly on specific dates set up by the airline. Now I can fly from Los Angeles to Salt Lake City for no less than $150 with the same restrictions. So, it costs me $120 more to fly after Sept. 11 than before.
My last real problem with air travel is the new security measures. When properly implemented, they are supposed to make air travel very safe. On my recent trip to Utah, I had my bags searched before I could check them. I had to show my license and itinerary. I had a baton metal detector ran over me. I walked through a metal detector. I had my backpack scanned. I had to remove my shoes, belt, and any overlapping clothing. I was patted down. I had to show my license and tickets. I finally made it to my gate.
Before I could board the plane, I had to step to the side into a special area. Once there, I was asked to remove all overlapping clothing (shoes, jacket, belt, etc.). I was then patted down. I had the baton metal detector ran over me. They searched my backpack again. I had to show my license and tickets. I was finally allowed to board the plane. This process was repeated on the return trip. The only difference was that I had to deal with Mormons on the way back.
I know all of the extra security measures are supposed to make air travel safer, but with the increased prices and longer lines at security points in airports, how is it better?
Federalizing security in airports just means that everyone gets to pay for airport security, not just those using it. I always thought a simple solution would be to have soldiers in full riot gear and flack jackets standing at security points with shotguns; it was probably the most intimidating aspect of security when traveling out of the country.
Write to Aaron at rantinrex@hotmail.com
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
