Raves, Rants & Roses

RANT: I have been flying the friendly skies since I was three months old. I have great memories of coloring books and receiving my first set of wings. I am only 28 years old and those days aren't that far gone. I realize the difficulties airlines currently face with rising fuel costs, but I didn't realize it now costs to receive common courtesy.

My husband and I recently traveled United Airlines with our 4-month-old daughter. Since I can remember it has been common practice people traveling with infants and handicapped persons were allowed to board the plane first. We proceeded to the front of the line and were very rudely told that we had to board with our zone.

I watched in frustration as a woman with three children under the age of five waited in line; jostling with her children while frustrated fellow passengers grew angry as she was too slow. We were told there had been a change in company policy. If you were a Vietnam Veteran with one leg you would receive no special assistance or allowances.

So many things have changed recently with air travel: soaring ticket costs, only one bag per person, no meals, no liquids and the list goes on and on.

Sadly, even courtesy now costs. When we called United to check into their policy changes we were informed that it no longer mattered if you had an infant or were handicapped you had to be seated by "fair revenue."

In other words those passengers with the most money receive the courtesy along with a red carpet.

Sadly, even common courtesy has a price tag.

Natalie Colby
Lindale