Quote Originally Posted by BladesNBarrels View Post
I agree that current fares do compete with a bus ride and we all are now treated as if our trip was a bus ride (as I remember Greyhound and Continental Trailways)
And we dress as if we were expecting a long, hot bus ride. So which came first, the treatment by the airlines or the attitude of the passengers?

My last commercial flight, I flew Delta, round-trip, from Denver to Atlanta in June of 2006, paying extra to be in first class.
There wasn't any upgraded service over what was served in Coach Class and the leg room had been reduced. I didn't feel like first class.
After arriving in Atlanta, my luggage was not there - it had gone to Dallas.
I tried to confirm my seat for the return trip to Denver in three days, and I was told very curtly that I would have to wait until 24 hours before I left.
Not the experience I expected for the extra 75% cost.
Yeah, FWIW, I've never paid it. I should. I don't fly a lot, but it is absolute misery when I do @ 6'5".
But, for an extra grand plus (overseas), I'd almost rather suffer and use the money to finance a few extra days. Maybe next time.

Your point is spot on, though. It is amazing what people wear to fly, but you are right, given how we are treated, why not?
Plus, with all the hassle of 2 hours early, and then another at least 90 minutes to get your bag, shuttle, rental, etc, all but the shortest trips kill any plans of doing much upon arrival other than checking in and cleaning up anyway.