How Airlines Reach Out to Serve You

Submitted by: h2o staff

In a world where people are more mobile than in any previous
generation, travelers have come to expect many little, and
not so little, extras from the airlines. From a young mother
keeping her attention focused on small children, to a
business person experiencing their own particular pressures,
the challenge of time spent traveling can be daunting.

Even ten years ago the actual time in the air was small
compared to the challenge of traveling to the airport, and
once there finding a parking spot and getting from the car
to the check-in-counter. Long lines were not uncommon and
there was nothing to do but stand there. Layovers in other
airports could be frustrating, wasted hours. While an actual
flight might be three hours, the time in the air wasn't
conducive to productivity.

The airline's desire to provide real service is reflected in
their adding many benefits for business flyers - benefits
that take place long before the plane takes off. The flyer
can often request an airline to provide chauffeur service
from his/her home or office to the airport. For those who
drive their own car, the airlines will often park your
car for you and then retrieve it when you ask. Expedited
check-ins have eliminated much frustration, allowing the
traveler to check in at curb-site, or at special check-in
lines inside.

Accomplishing work and also having fun are now part of the
actual flight process. One of the great amenities that some
airlines are now providing is the use of a power port.
Looking like a cigarette lighter plug-in, it allows
travelers to recharge their laptops and cell phones. The
problem of long flights and dead batteries is now resolved.
Families are also benefiting from the power port, as DVD
players, CD players, electronic and video games become part
of the flying adventure.

Over the years the airlines offered movies to the travelers
to lessen the boredom of a long ride. However, viewers had
the option of either watching the movie or not watching it.
Variety was not an option. Now the traveler's can bring
their own portable CD or DVD player, along with their
personal choice of entertainment. The mobile technology of
today has opened many options for a traveler who used to be
weary.

For those who don't want to lug their own equipment around
with them, flights on many airlines have the option of
individual screens with a catalog of choices where you can
select a movie - or even a video game. And, many provide you
with the opportunity to even check your e-mail. Home and
office travel right along with you.