We’re seeing airlines make drastic cuts to inflight service. We’ve seen Southwest Airlines suspend all inflight service, and we’ve seen American Airlines suspend most inflight service. Now Delta is joining in as well.
In this post:
Delta Air Lines inflight service changes
For flights as of today (Wednesday, March 25, 2020), Delta is reducing inflight service. There’s no end date for this new policy, though service is expected to be brought back once the COVID-19 situation stabilizes.
What’s changing to Delta inflight service?
Service changes on flights under 1,000 miles
For Delta Air Lines flights under 1,000 miles, the following will be changing:
- In economy there will be no service on flights under 350 miles
- In economy there will be a bottle of water and packaged snack on flights of over 350 miles; there will be no Comfort+ snack basket
- In first class there will be a bottle of water and packaged snack inflight, and no pre-departure drink or other drink service
Service changes on flights over 1,000 miles
For Delta Air Lines flights of over 1,000 miles, the following will be changing:
- In economy there will be a bottle of water and packaged snack; there will be no Comfort+ snack basket
- In first class there will be a bottle of water and Flight Fuel Box, and no pre-departure drink or other drink service
How this compares to American’s policy
Delta is taking an even stricter approach in first class than American. American is still serving meals all at once, while Delta is just serving a packaged snack box in first class. Furthermore, American is serving alcohol and other drinks in first class, while Delta isn’t.
In economy there will at least be a proactive bottled water service on Delta, which isn’t the case on American on flights under 2,200 miles.
Stop being ridiculous, folks
Gets on soap box…
Look, I’ll be the first to hold airlines accountable when they’re being crappy. But this isn’t one of those cases. Reading the comments section of the previous post about American cutting service is leaving me shaking my head:
- No, flight attendants who are “too chicken to provide normal service” shouldn’t take unpaid leave
- No, this isn’t an “excuse to cut costs”
- No, airlines shouldn’t be “reducing the cost of tickets” because of this
- No, airlines aren’t being “punitive to passengers,” and this isn’t because flight attendants “typically suck on passengers’ leftover ice cubes or nibble on their last pretzels”
Stop being ridiculous, people. You’re being the wrong kind of selfish. I’ll admit I’m being selfish. I’m staying at home and not interacting with anyone because I want this to be over so that life can return to normal.
Maybe some of you aren’t aware of this, but:
- We currently have a “Level 4” do-not-effing-travel warning, and many places (including where I live) have “shelter-in-place” warnings
- Nobody should be flying right now unless it’s absolutely essential
- Airlines are losing literally billions of dollars right now, and they’re even losing money on most of the flights they’re operating
- Flight attendants are at high risk of getting COVID-19 due to the fact that their job entails doing exactly the opposite of social distancing
Once things are back to normal and if service doesn’t recover, I’ll be right there with you and will call out the airlines.
But if at this very moment your biggest concern is whether you can get some (probably pretty crappy) wine, or that you want airlines to lower a fare in first class by $3.50 because you’re not getting some nasty cheese lasagna or brisket meatloaf, well, I don’t have much to say…
…gets off soap box.
Bottom line
Airlines are cutting inflight service, and that’s the right thing to do. Flight attendants need to be able to take all necessary precautions, and reducing service is part of that.
This really should be a non-issue, since unless you’re traveling for “essential” reasons, you shouldn’t be on a plane. And if you are traveling for essential reasons (because you’re medical staff or whatever), then surely you realize the gravity of the situation, and appreciate this, rather than being bothered by it…
As I said above, if this leads to long term service cuts, let’s cross that bridge when we get there. But this is not the time.
Face it..THE ENTITLED willalways bitch about something..and..they fly to palm beach INFECTED or let their kids go on Spring Break..to INFECT..then run to the HAMPTONS to close them down for the summer. Gotta have my boxed wine
My only objection on Delta's food service is the decision to go water-only (rather than water-or-soda-in-a-can/bottle) in First. The rest of the service change, I totally get, but *that* feels almost punitive. The net impact of offering a bottle of Coke (or Sprite, etc.) versus a bottle of water in terms of infection risk is basically null as far as I can tell (I'd be surprised if they couldn't source similar-sized soda bottles, for example).
...My only objection on Delta's food service is the decision to go water-only (rather than water-or-soda-in-a-can/bottle) in First. The rest of the service change, I totally get, but *that* feels almost punitive. The net impact of offering a bottle of Coke (or Sprite, etc.) versus a bottle of water in terms of infection risk is basically null as far as I can tell (I'd be surprised if they couldn't source similar-sized soda bottles, for example).
It stands out because of the load factors on a lot of flights, where lots of folks are going to be getting comped into First *anyway* (and of those who don't, they're as likely as not to end up with a row to themselves), and in doing so seriously undermines the logic of bothering to buy First.
Everything else is generally understandable (even if I'd push back on the meal point on flights over about six hours with an eye towards how many airport vendors are actually open in the terminal(s) in question...effectively no meal plus a tight, often once-daily flight at this point can be a bit of a problem), but that particular element has me furrowing a brow.
I've not read all the comments, but have seen a few negative ones.
As an airport worker in the UK I continue to go to work daily as an essential worker.
I keep myself safe at work by keeping distant from my friends and coworkers.
I don't touch my face, I don't eat when I don't have to. I keep myself safe.
Yet I still get stuck in traffic. I still...
I've not read all the comments, but have seen a few negative ones.
As an airport worker in the UK I continue to go to work daily as an essential worker.
I keep myself safe at work by keeping distant from my friends and coworkers.
I don't touch my face, I don't eat when I don't have to. I keep myself safe.
Yet I still get stuck in traffic. I still have passengers shout in my face. I still get asked for compensation, even when countries have closed their borders.
I am not safe.
I support our critical health care services because they are on the frontline. I also support the crew on board, as that's my background. They are stuck in the tube with everyone on the flight. And the last one. And the next one.
You choose to be on the aircraft. They don't. Be nice to them. Because when you stop choosing to be there, they won't have to be there. You'll be at home. They'll be without a job.
They're there for your safety, but they aren't safe.
You might not get the service you think you should, but if you get there safe that's all you can ask for.
I've not read all the comments, but have seen a few negative ones.
As an airport worker in the UK I continue to go to work daily as an essential worker.
I keep myself safe at work by keeping distant from my friends and coworkers.
I don't touch my face, I don't eat when I don't have to. I keep myself safe.
Yet I still get stuck in traffic. I still...
I've not read all the comments, but have seen a few negative ones.
As an airport worker in the UK I continue to go to work daily as an essential worker.
I keep myself safe at work by keeping distant from my friends and coworkers.
I don't touch my face, I don't eat when I don't have to. I keep myself safe.
Yet I still get stuck in traffic. I still have passengers shout in my face. I still get asked for compensation, even when countries have closed their borders.
I am not safe.
I support our critical health care services because they are on the frontline. I also support the crew on board, as that's my background. They are stuck in the tube with everyone on the flight. And the last one. And the next one.
You choose to be on the aircraft. They don't. Be nice to them. Because when you stop choosing to be there, they won't have to be there. You'll be at home. They'll be without a job.
They're there for your safety, but they aren't safe.
You might not get the service you think you should, but if you get there safe that's all you can ask for.
I am afraid nothing will ever go back to normal.
As such flying will be back to 1962.
10k minimum... each way.
Excellent food, amenities. But only for the few rich.
It is going the way of General Aviation. 400 planes sold a year, 200 / hr to operate on average and only for wealthy people as toys or business minded schools or providers. Like me.
I am a pilot...
I am afraid nothing will ever go back to normal.
As such flying will be back to 1962.
10k minimum... each way.
Excellent food, amenities. But only for the few rich.
It is going the way of General Aviation. 400 planes sold a year, 200 / hr to operate on average and only for wealthy people as toys or business minded schools or providers. Like me.
I am a pilot who got lucky to buy myself a Cirrus (with a loan) and doing the hoops and loops for a Part 135 operation i.e on demand air taxi.
Guess where I will be? charging 2-3k to people to fly maybe 500 miles regional flights. My niche.
Crossing my finger it works but with 2-3 people anyways in those expensive 737s or 320s my capacity may be on par now.
@ Ray - You posed the supposition “just not understanding the logic”...I was posting my POV as a part of the group that ARE the “people that are doing functions necessary to survival“, I’m not sorry that you disagree with it.
Oh wait, you didn’t disagree, just posted that “A call to open the economy means drop the self isolation, return to work” (a skewed interpretation of my prior post), showered insults and then...
@ Ray - You posed the supposition “just not understanding the logic”...I was posting my POV as a part of the group that ARE the “people that are doing functions necessary to survival“, I’m not sorry that you disagree with it.
Oh wait, you didn’t disagree, just posted that “A call to open the economy means drop the self isolation, return to work” (a skewed interpretation of my prior post), showered insults and then wanted to shut down further discussion.
I described the impact of maintaining a TOTAL shutdown on those of us still functioning and fielded the support of staged re-opening as an approach to the either/or scenario. I may have resorted to hyperbole in my last sentence, but if the shoe fits...As in any civil discussion you are free to disagree, but hurling insults and demanding the cessation of the responses makes you the loser. Just because you yell louder doesn’t make your POV the most right. If you shut down all other voices that doesn’t mean only yours is correct.
I WILL stfu now but only because i have to get back to providing essential services and don’t have enough hours in my day to support conspiracies, fear mongering or politicizing a VIRUS. A biological, science based threat that is unaffected by your comments but is very much affected by my actions.
Totally agree. Too many ugly thoughts not just here but in almost every site with comments.
@Ray, dude, you need to chill out a bit. You assumed a lot of a person by that. Should I call you a stupid, brain-dead liberal snowflake?!!! No, cause I do not know you. But you calling someone a deplorable and a Trumper makes you look really ignorant.
@Not a useless whiner: you actually are. The point of the post wasn’t directed at people that are doing functions necessary to survival. Are you that ignorant? Never mind, don’t answer. You are as ignorant as the rest of the deplorables. A call to open the economy means drop the self isolation, return to work. Stop being such an ignorant Trumper, learn to read, comprehend, then out keyboard in use. Until then: stfu.
“I just don’t follow the logic of “open the economy as the cure is worse than the disease”. “
Ok so try to keep up- there a many, many of us that are supporting our society in ways that you fail to consider. Grassroots efforts are in progress to survey and find the most vulnerable that are afraid, weak or fearful about daily efforts to support their lives. I have 2 sons of around...
“I just don’t follow the logic of “open the economy as the cure is worse than the disease”. “
Ok so try to keep up- there a many, many of us that are supporting our society in ways that you fail to consider. Grassroots efforts are in progress to survey and find the most vulnerable that are afraid, weak or fearful about daily efforts to support their lives. I have 2 sons of around 30 years old. One is servicing calls to keep HVAC services intact to skilled nursing facilities. The other is packing on-line orders for curbside delivery.
Far from being stupid and thinking they are invincible, they recognize the personal risk involved both to them and the people they are serving. (( Ok, we allow those that think they are invincible to go to work. They continue to circulate the virus. (Of course they are stupid enough to think that if you don’t have symptoms you don’t have the disease).)) I have a brother that is a trucker - a complete & maintained shutdown seriously impedes his ability to transport YOUR needed goods and what I need to care for the sick and elderly. Healthcare workers are overwhelmed in hard hit areas but to lock down healthcare in clear areas deprives the everyone else of needed care.
The stay at home guidelines were never intended to STOP the virus but rather to slow it down. Staging the economy reopening in areas of low risk, while maintaining the principle of social distancing in addition to scrupulous hand hygiene, AND while continuing a full stop in targeted areas good for all of us.
What I’m saying is that a minority has been doing the heavy lifting for the majority and (where it’s possible), those folks need to get off their ass, shake off their fear, quit bitching & complaining & criticizing and get back to work.
Lucky,
I'll give you my situation. I am an Automation and Electrical Engineer in the Mining industry (that's as far I want to say). I was in Missouri 2 weeks ago...then in California last week. My red-eye flight on Delta, a 737-900 from California to DTW was about 1/3 full max. Flight from DTW to home had maybe 20 pax on a CRJ-900. It's depressing seeing this. I was supposed to self-quarantine for 2 weeks...
Lucky,
I'll give you my situation. I am an Automation and Electrical Engineer in the Mining industry (that's as far I want to say). I was in Missouri 2 weeks ago...then in California last week. My red-eye flight on Delta, a 737-900 from California to DTW was about 1/3 full max. Flight from DTW to home had maybe 20 pax on a CRJ-900. It's depressing seeing this. I was supposed to self-quarantine for 2 weeks (my company is actually a work from home through 4/10), but I have to get out to a customer site next week Monday (I can drive to this one at least). I take as many precautions as possible, but my job requires to be done and is literally the bedrock of the economy. I hope things get back to normal soon, but in the meantime I do not mind not being crammed in a plane with it full (but I know that is critical that they are).
Bravo, Ben.
I have to say this is your best post, ever!
Clearly some of you all have no idea how gloves and masks should be properly worn, and what's more, how proper hand washing must still accompany glove use.
So, considering there's a national shortage of masks and gloves and sanitizers. How do you expect airlines to aquire sufficient supplies for their crews considering masks and gloves SHOULD BE CHANGED WITH EACH "PATIENT", AND HANDS WASHED BEFORE, BETWEEN AND AFTER.
The typical American ideology...
Clearly some of you all have no idea how gloves and masks should be properly worn, and what's more, how proper hand washing must still accompany glove use.
So, considering there's a national shortage of masks and gloves and sanitizers. How do you expect airlines to aquire sufficient supplies for their crews considering masks and gloves SHOULD BE CHANGED WITH EACH "PATIENT", AND HANDS WASHED BEFORE, BETWEEN AND AFTER.
The typical American ideology on germs is " protect me from everyone else"
How about you look at it as "protect everyone else from me"?
One infected flight attendant potentially interacting with say 20 passengers per flight × 4days of flying × 2-3 flights a day (average, some have more, some have less)
Now the same flight attendant also has to stop and get food from restaurants while on the road (3 meals a day× 1 cashier\delivery driver x 4days)
And also check into and out of hotels during the trip. (3 hotel visits x 1checkin agent)
Someone also has to clean the room (3 rooms x 1 housekeeping staff)
Oh and then the flight attendant also has a life, that involves interacting with essential people.
So lets rewind to day 1, flight one. A gloved/masked
Flight attendant is coughed on by or collects waste from passenger A, who is asymptomatic but covid+. ( gloves make you invincible...why change them.)
Mins later a coworker notices them touching their face and encourages a glove change.
At this point its too late.
At a minimum 264 people are now possible collateral damage, and thats just the direct path, indirectly thousands could be in the cluster... All over your entitlement to be served a disgusting luke warm lasanga, cheezits with 2 woodfords + a can of diet. And now the asymptomatic flight attendant gets to go home to their family. ( oh yeah, flight attendants have those too.)
A week later, flight attendant gets a call from work, letting them know they've been exposed. So what now?!
Have a seat.
Just not on anybodys airplane, anytime soon.
@Kathleen, how true. And most from the same people that love to spout what the Founding Fathers were meaning in their foundation for the country. The Founding Fathers showed strength and conviction, not fear going forward.
Dear God, we really and truly are a lost country. Credulous (toward the very same center of power that has lied countless times), cowardly (though ready to wave the banner of "home of the brave"), and willing to commit economic suicide out of a fear of death.
I just don’t follow the logic of “open the economy as the cure is worse than the disease”. Ok, we allow those that think they are invincible to go to work. They continue to circulate the virus. (Of course they are stupid enough to think that if you don’t have symptoms you don’t have the disease). The virus will continue to spread, it is already hitting people under the GOP death age. Interesting how those...
I just don’t follow the logic of “open the economy as the cure is worse than the disease”. Ok, we allow those that think they are invincible to go to work. They continue to circulate the virus. (Of course they are stupid enough to think that if you don’t have symptoms you don’t have the disease). The virus will continue to spread, it is already hitting people under the GOP death age. Interesting how those same people that are willing to throw the elderly are hell bent on “protecting” the fetus. Are you “pro-life” or not? Or is it only life that you want? What is your pecking order: we start with the elderly, then move to the poor, then people of color, then Asians in general since this is their fault anyway, maybe then the LGBTQ+, then we prioritize religions. We play this right we can get down to white only population with blue eyes and blond hair. I look forward to the “plan” you have in mind since saying we are only talking about the virus and effects on the elderly clearly is only a piece of the thought.
Of course you’re right. It is an international emergency, and people have to ‘get real’ about what can and cannot be offered, tempering their expectations. I’m not flying now, but if I were I wouldn’t expect anything beyond a bottle of water ( and I’m not sure that I’d accept/drink that...)
Flight attendants are right to be anxious, and they shouldn’t be expected to make themselves more exposed than they already are.
ok but whens the next youtube live happy hour
“FA handing them out upon boarding” (One point of transmission; one pair of gloves)
“FA could leave the bag on the pax seat” (Another point of transmission)
“they could collect the trash after the flight” (another point of transmission; another pair of gloves.
X how many flights & how many FA’s?
So, straight up, you think we should continues to use needed supplies and continue person to person exposure & transmission to...
“FA handing them out upon boarding” (One point of transmission; one pair of gloves)
“FA could leave the bag on the pax seat” (Another point of transmission)
“they could collect the trash after the flight” (another point of transmission; another pair of gloves.
X how many flights & how many FA’s?
So, straight up, you think we should continues to use needed supplies and continue person to person exposure & transmission to prevent POUTING?
And I’m supposed to take care of your family members without protection?
C’mon man
Your unnecessary travel demands are a WASTE OF RESOURCES and space. It would be better served to transport needed health personnel and medical cargo
#sotiredofCovidiots
Anyone remember the AA bistro bag meals for main cabin? The pax served themselves out of coolers at the gate or on the jet bridge, pre 9/11? These were prepackaged sacks self contained including a half sandwich, chips, a piece of fruit and a small container of OJ or water. You get the idea.
Anyway couldn't these come back with the FA handing them out upon boarding requiring no other cabin service but collecting...
Anyone remember the AA bistro bag meals for main cabin? The pax served themselves out of coolers at the gate or on the jet bridge, pre 9/11? These were prepackaged sacks self contained including a half sandwich, chips, a piece of fruit and a small container of OJ or water. You get the idea.
Anyway couldn't these come back with the FA handing them out upon boarding requiring no other cabin service but collecting trash. Seats are assigned FA could leave the bag on the pax seat prior to boarding to maintain social distancing. With loads of 10% on board, they could collect the trash after the flight.
For First, upgrade the contents. Fine cheeses, charcuterie, quality half bottles of wine and pax would be just fine.
Creative solutions are a weakness of US carriers. Ok so is customer service.
Lastly it seems that first class pax are not nearly as spread apart as main cabin at this time.
@Tired Healthcare
First thank you! It’s unimaginable the dangers and fatigue you and your colleagues face today and in the near future. I think your comments are very apt and apply to all of us. Please stay safe.
Perhaps when the obituary on Covid-19 is written, it will address the role and responsibility of travel in this Global crisis.
@voldoo
Of course You may say what you feel about this reduction in service in airlines. It would be too bad though if you didn’t view this as a learning experience in case you needed to drop into the current healthcare situation. As a healthcare provider in the thick of things, I can assure you that an attitude of self entitlement, demands or tantrums about what you want or deserve will not serve you...
@voldoo
Of course You may say what you feel about this reduction in service in airlines. It would be too bad though if you didn’t view this as a learning experience in case you needed to drop into the current healthcare situation. As a healthcare provider in the thick of things, I can assure you that an attitude of self entitlement, demands or tantrums about what you want or deserve will not serve you well. Distribution of services will not be realigned to your point of view. It will not make you less sick or move you to the front of the line due to status or what you paid in advance. You have demonstrated that you know NOTHING about infection control measures and resource allocation only that you’re rigid and unwilling to adapt
Please stay well
I don’t have time for your arrogance and ignorance
Ben,
get back up on that soapbox and lay it all down again !! Good Job making the proper points. Do it again, this time a little louder !! You are concise and correct !!
So now what? My company buys me a $8k long haul ticket in Delta One and I all I get onboard is a pre-packaged meal and a water bottle? You can't be serious... How completely retarded is that? The airlines are the ones screwing everyone left, right and center -> No refunds, no service, yet expensive fares... They are getting a massive government bailout and this is their response? My proposed solution to this: On...
So now what? My company buys me a $8k long haul ticket in Delta One and I all I get onboard is a pre-packaged meal and a water bottle? You can't be serious... How completely retarded is that? The airlines are the ones screwing everyone left, right and center -> No refunds, no service, yet expensive fares... They are getting a massive government bailout and this is their response? My proposed solution to this: On domestic flights Delta should offer everyone with a First Class ticket (not upgraded passengers) a meal and drink voucher to redeem in the airport before departure. SkyClubs should be instructed to give out a reasonable amount of drinks for premium passengers (e.g. 2 cans of coke or 2 bottles of beer) to take and drink on the flight. For international flights everything should continue as planned because everything else would be an utter disgrace. If my company pays $8k for a ticket I expect to be wined and dined in Delta One. No matter if some Chinese virus is going around... BTW, if Delta made up a rule that only stewardesses aged 18-40 and with a healthy BMI are allowed to fly ("Health Concerns") that would make for a much more enjoyable ride. Cheers
@Lucky perhaps a good idea to post a link to the science behind transmission of the disease and the measures being implemented at various levels; the effects of these measures including the “flattening the curve” article as well. Hopefully science will win versus opinion.
Amen!
Hi! I agree with you, these are challenging times. I'm not traveling for awhile anyway, but if I get the virus and recover, I wonder if I will be allowed to travel freely? Well, if I do here are a couple of suggested solutions. When I get in my seat I wipe everything down (seatbelt, seat, head cushion if there is one, tv screen, tray table, arm rests, cocktail tray, back of seat in front...
Hi! I agree with you, these are challenging times. I'm not traveling for awhile anyway, but if I get the virus and recover, I wonder if I will be allowed to travel freely? Well, if I do here are a couple of suggested solutions. When I get in my seat I wipe everything down (seatbelt, seat, head cushion if there is one, tv screen, tray table, arm rests, cocktail tray, back of seat in front of me) then I use hand sanitizer and put some Neosporin in my nostrils - things I have done long before Covid 19. After all that, I would really like an alcoholic beverage. So I suggest the following: 1. In 1st class, Delta asks for your food order prior to flights, how about asking for your drink order and just have it there with the bottle of water, blanket and pillow when boarding or 2. Let passengers bring their own little bottles of booze/mixer before boarding. Limit the number of drinks they bring on board. Sell them at the gate or from a kiosk or at a bar if they are still open in airports.
Agree with Lucky. An amazing range of opinion in these comments. If I had a trillion dollars, 2 trillion dollars, the last thing I'd do would be start an airline and have to serve some of you.
All of you all being ridiculous about demanding to be served meals during a global pandemic are privileged nut-sos. The things with a pandemic is no matter how much you pay for a service whether it's to see the best doctor or to have a first class seat, you are just as equally likely to to contract the virus as any other human being. No amount of money can protect you. With this particular virus,...
All of you all being ridiculous about demanding to be served meals during a global pandemic are privileged nut-sos. The things with a pandemic is no matter how much you pay for a service whether it's to see the best doctor or to have a first class seat, you are just as equally likely to to contract the virus as any other human being. No amount of money can protect you. With this particular virus, unlike the flu, you can have it for so long without any symptoms that a flight attendant leaning over you to grab a trays/cups/etc could give it to you or vice-versa and no one even knows. The world is literally falling apart and you're sitting there pouting about a first class meal that is nothing but 1000% of your daily salt intake and enough preservatives to give you cancer. Getting food through a drive through or take out is not that same as on an airline - you can keep great distance from the drive through people. On an airplane, you are basically sitting on other peoples laps and some FAs have to fall over people to reach the aisle seats. This isn't some corporate airline conspiracy to cheat you out of amenities. This is crisis level through the rough for every airline on this planet.
Now, when this is all said and done, most service on all airlines will be bare basic and take a while to get back to what it was...maybe a few years. But it's because the airline is trying to stay in business after a global economic meltdown. It's not to screw you even though you may think that the world revolves around you. In reality, airlines and staff are considered "Critical infrastructure" - like roads. There is nothing in the critical infrastructure clause that states airlines have to provide first class meals with steak and wine. It's just like roads and railways, it's just to get people and goods from A to B. Anything else is an extra perk and in times like these those perks are out the window. I think most people understand it but the fact that there are people who are still demanding their normal lives during a pandemic boggles my mind. The pandemic itself will last 2-3 months and the recovery is going to take longer. If you can't handle it 2 weeks in, you're going to go bonkers pretty fast.
I wish the disgusting American (and it is almost invariably stupid white Americans) edgelord douchebros who whinge about cancel culture and censorship would grasp the concept that free speech doesn’t mean everyone is obligated to agree with them or pander to their entitlement and misplaced sense of martyrdom.
The level of smarmy entitlement is mind boggling.
Except for things like medical needs, national defense, critical infrastructure repairs, people should not be flying.
I'm still working but I've been declared "essential" due to my work in defense but "essential" is thrown about rather lose and fast since the AZ governor declared golf courses as "essential".
Other than some water or something prepackaged (granola bars, peanut crackers, etc.) service should be minimal. As to masks and gloves, can those employees and even passengers...
Except for things like medical needs, national defense, critical infrastructure repairs, people should not be flying.
I'm still working but I've been declared "essential" due to my work in defense but "essential" is thrown about rather lose and fast since the AZ governor declared golf courses as "essential".
Other than some water or something prepackaged (granola bars, peanut crackers, etc.) service should be minimal. As to masks and gloves, can those employees and even passengers get them? I see nothing available in my area. Did find toilet paper today (without even looking for it)!
@Brian - I certainly think you're right, and I won't be holding my breath for the return of these services anytime soon, even after the crisis has passed. At that point and time I think a healthy debate (and plenty of griping) is due. HOWEVER, in the current situation what @AndrewP said is paramount - I'd rather know that as much as possible we're reducing the risk of transmission to/from FAs/pax for everyone's safety. I'll...
@Brian - I certainly think you're right, and I won't be holding my breath for the return of these services anytime soon, even after the crisis has passed. At that point and time I think a healthy debate (and plenty of griping) is due. HOWEVER, in the current situation what @AndrewP said is paramount - I'd rather know that as much as possible we're reducing the risk of transmission to/from FAs/pax for everyone's safety. I'll deal with skipping some crappy G&Ts if it means folks (and their families) can stay healthy.
@Joe - you're certainly right and we (as a country and as a collective global society) are really between a rock and a hard place. None of these decisions are easy, and there will be no "winners" when this whole thing is over. The best way to have minimized the economic impact of this while maintaining our healthcare infrastructure would have been to ramp up national testing back in January to definitively identify the truly infected for quarantine (similar to what South Korea, Hong Kong, and to an extent Germany) - regrettably, and for largely political reasons, that did not happen and we remain woefully behind.
Lastly, if I could give @Rob a standing ovation for this I would:
"I would ask everyone to think about just what emotions or reactions you’d like your comment to create. And that goes not just for this site, or the web, but in real life as well. People are scared, times are uncertain, and there is a lot of suffering for a lot of reasons. Kindness, understanding and patience are needed now more than ever."
Too often in our polarized environment everything becomes a reason to fight some sort of strange zero-sum game. Kindness matters.
I am sorry, I don’t understand the whole “government pays the furloughed workers.” I thought us the tax payers did. If u pay more than $13,000 a year in federal taxes in the USA per Capita, u are a net donor.
I for one don’t feel like paying for people staying home. U want that furlough check I am paying? Go on the street and pick up garbage. Do mandatory customer service training on line.
Bankruptcy, stock dilution and loans are the answer.
If you read the article in the NYT today, they have stopped offering coffee and water in the breakrooms. This is 100% about cost cutting, under the guise of "safety". It will be a swift, and very slow, if ever, to return. Why offer meals on flights longer than 2,200 miles? We didn't during coronavirus concerns, why do we need it now?
@Lucky. What a great post.
Thanks for adding balance and reason. Of course cabin crew safety is more important than a lousy meal.
Stay safe everyone
*dying from this virus.
@ConcernedMD
"Abandoning that belief to save the Dow is to abandon what makes America exceptional."
... the assumption here is that when people express economic concerns, it is ONLY about the stock market. Are there not legitimate concerns about the immediate impact on jobs. And to that end if enough people end up on the streets and end up dead as a result, did we do right by them? If next week we had...
@ConcernedMD
"Abandoning that belief to save the Dow is to abandon what makes America exceptional."
... the assumption here is that when people express economic concerns, it is ONLY about the stock market. Are there not legitimate concerns about the immediate impact on jobs. And to that end if enough people end up on the streets and end up dead as a result, did we do right by them? If next week we had an easily distributable vaccine, is everybody just immediately returning to business as usual? Will our society truly be the same? Are we instantly hiring back everybody laid off, etc...
On its face talking about the economy sounds callous... but there will be truly deadly consequences from the damage done.
But TBH, what I just wrote is devil's advocate. I'm on the side of our current measures- but nobody close to me is in any immediate risk of being out on the streets, and people close to me are at risk of dying from this.
@Lucky, I know I relish giving you crap when I disagree with you as much as you relish “ragging on AA” when they’re being stupid. But I completely agree with you on this front and applaud your attempt to reset people’s priorities in this time of crisis. It seems to me a whole section of the comments would be improved if everyone could just stop being sarcastic SOBs. Thanks for keeping things real
@ConcernedMD, THANK...
@Lucky, I know I relish giving you crap when I disagree with you as much as you relish “ragging on AA” when they’re being stupid. But I completely agree with you on this front and applaud your attempt to reset people’s priorities in this time of crisis. It seems to me a whole section of the comments would be improved if everyone could just stop being sarcastic SOBs. Thanks for keeping things real
@ConcernedMD, THANK YOU TOO! Your response to Voldoo is everything I would have liked to write, but am too sick and tired from COVID myself to get past the seething anger and hate this selfish idiot’s posts engender.
I would add that I disagree with cancel culture, so I do believe that he and the other “alt-rights” on here now should be able to express their opinions. But I would ask everyone to think about just what emotions or reactions you’d like your comment to create. And that goes not just for this site, or the web, but in real life as well. People are scared, times are uncertain, and there is a lot of suffering for a lot of reasons. Kindness, understanding and patience are needed now more than ever.
Re: soapbox
Exactly. Essential travel means essential travel. Like, repatriation or supply of essential goods or relocating to where one's essential services are needed.
Things like in-flight services are not going to be included on these flights. That's a very different kind of flying. And you're probably not going to be one of those people.
And if you are still flying for leisure, there is something seriously wrong with you.
About time mommy yelled at her kids.
If it is only supposed to be essential flying now, why am I receiving sale fare e-mails stating that I can fly for only 39 dollars? Does this mean that the airlines still think that I should engage in non-essential flying? It seems that the travel industry is still very encouraging about traveling right now.
I still say it is cost cutting. If they were really worried about the health and safety of their customers and employees, they wouldn't be flying at all.
@Voldoo — Read my post again. At no point did I suggest people 50+ would have an easy time finding jobs. I said people your age (35) would have an easier time, once the economy is back on track.
But as I’m sure you well know, I’m addressing your clear age (and weight) discrimination from your original post.
To quote you: “I swear there is a union rule out there preventing the airlines...
@Voldoo — Read my post again. At no point did I suggest people 50+ would have an easy time finding jobs. I said people your age (35) would have an easier time, once the economy is back on track.
But as I’m sure you well know, I’m addressing your clear age (and weight) discrimination from your original post.
To quote you: “I swear there is a union rule out there preventing the airlines from hiring any FA under 50 years old or weighing less than 200 lbs.”
You clearly have an issue with FAs of a certain age and weight, and it says volumes about you.
Another poster had a great idea in the Southwest Suspending Inflight Service article. She mentioned having passengers pickup their wrapped food and drink boxes at the gate that way they aren't served by FAs thus limiting contact.
I think this is a great idea.
@Ben/Tiffany what do you think?
oh, and they dont rely on tips
@ Mr obvious
Well in the UK government pays 80% of the furlonged staff wages, to ensure social distancing.
Perhaps it's both? It certainly harkens back to the immediate post-9/11 days when the suspension of expansive beverage services, especially in Y was a method to reduce the amount of weight from unconsumed/choice beverages. I think anyone in the general public, let alone those who follow the industry (such as the majority of readers on this site), would realize the airlines are severely wounded financially by the current crisis, some likely mortally, without sizeable federal...
Perhaps it's both? It certainly harkens back to the immediate post-9/11 days when the suspension of expansive beverage services, especially in Y was a method to reduce the amount of weight from unconsumed/choice beverages. I think anyone in the general public, let alone those who follow the industry (such as the majority of readers on this site), would realize the airlines are severely wounded financially by the current crisis, some likely mortally, without sizeable federal intervention. It may help that this safety intervention (and it truly is one, as @Lucky pointed out) also happens to save some cash. As others have pointed out, it will be interesting to see how long after the crisis is over it takes for these services to return. To those claiming the sky is falling though, get a grip - it took a while but most of the post-9/11 service cuts had largely disappeared prior to the current crisis.
For those who have been arguing that "well the FA breathes the same air as the passengers, so what does it matter" - we're increasingly confident the novel coronavirus spreads by droplet transmission, rather than airborne transmission, though with an unfortunately long out-of-host survival time (hence why fomite spread is such a concern). Minimizing the number of things FAs have to touch between passengers and FAs does have a considerable impact on the likelihood of spread to the FA themselves (or, conversely, from a sick FA to a passenger). Happy to explain further if anyone wants.
I'm troubled, however, by those who - at this point - are willfully ignorant as to why we pursuing such draconian measures. The goal is not necessarily to decrease the number of infections nor to decrease the absolute number of deaths, but to spread those out to the point where our health system doesn't get overwhelmed.
On a good day, most major hospitals in this country operate at a 90-95% capacity - you don't keep the lights on and staff paid by having a half-empty hospital much as the way a half-empty hotel won't stay in business for very long. Our healthcare system and supply chains, for myriad reasons (mainly political) have mastered the art of providing sufficient supplies/care just in time, without having large stockpiles (read: expenditure) of supplies and staff. There simply is not sufficient flexibility to account for a surge in patients requiring intensive care. Abandoning social distancing, as painful economically as it is, could lead to just such a surge - leading hospitals to be overwhelmed to the point those suffering from other serious, unrelated conditions which affect people of all ages (e.g. car accidents/trauma, heart attacks, severe infections from other sources), leading to even more preventable deaths in addition to those from the coronavirus itself, as is happening in Lombardy.
I am appalled by those such as @voldoo who seem to 1) argue that the oldest amongst us are expendible to save the economy (ignoring the irony that many of the same folks were likely in an absolute fever-dream tizzy about 'death panels' 10 years ago) and 2) who (naively) think they are invincible because of their age. To the latter - I assure you, from personal experience seeing my own young colleagues wind up admitted and on a vent, you are not. To the former, one of the things which sets our country apart is a belief in individual worth - that no one's life is truly any more or less worthy or saving than their neighbor's. Abandoning that belief to save the Dow is to abandon what makes America exceptional. To those in my own age bracket who make flippant comments like that, I ask them to think carefully about how they would feel if someone were to view their parents' or grandparents' lives as "expendible".
Thank you @JK for the unconstructive dialogue and spewing your one-sided opinion on the rest of us. In my world people need a steady income in order to provide the bare necessities for their families. So yes, we have patronized a few places and I have provided 100% tips every time to those workers to help them at this time. I guess my ignorance is someone else's gain, and I'll keep it that way.
@Adam
Sorry to hear you got sick and are stuck in KL.
Would love it if you commented on one of Kyle's posts over at Live and Let's Fly and let him know your story. He just went to KL on a mileage run because he thought it was a great time to get good deals and earn miles, and is continuing to write absolute garbage and being a completely irresponsible blogger IMO.
@Mr. Obvious - while I think your views are quite short-sighted and likely ill-informed (assuming you live in a more rural / exurban environment with a Republican state governor ), I don't lump you in w/the Alt Right folks - those are the ones who revel in the temporary occupant of the White House's proclamations about this being a "Chinese / Wuhan virus" and celebrate mass uprisings & the collapse of civil society.
@ Mr obvious
It is very stupid and irresponsible of you to take your family out. i hope they dont catch anything. Virtually all restaurants (including Macdonalds) are shut in the UK.
What are you smoking? This is totally about cutting costs. How is serving wine or a can of Coke any different than serving water? The FAA requires every airline to have water on all fights, regardless of length. Even on short Delta flights with no service in economy on a CRJ-200 they have to give you water if you ask for it.
I am dumb founded. I never thought I would say this, but I agree with the post.
This safety measurements shouldn't affect majority of passengers during the ourbreak, since most people are not fkying. For those claiming that you should get a refund because you purchased the flights before this situation, go ahead! Most airlines are giving full refunds. Only essential flying as of right now. Airlines are blocking middle seats to give separation...
I am dumb founded. I never thought I would say this, but I agree with the post.
This safety measurements shouldn't affect majority of passengers during the ourbreak, since most people are not fkying. For those claiming that you should get a refund because you purchased the flights before this situation, go ahead! Most airlines are giving full refunds. Only essential flying as of right now. Airlines are blocking middle seats to give separation between customers while also continue to serve money losing routes.
If an FA hands an unopened can of beer (or other drink) or bag of chips (or other food) to a passenger, then sanitizes his or her hands, and the passenger wipes down the can or bag with a Clorox wipe before opening it, the risk of COVID transmission between the parties is really very low. When picking up the can, the FA can wear gloves.
So the cuts in service are not actually entirely warranted.
I suspect that my comment will have little effect but here it is:
If you are going to the gas station and not cleaning your hands immediately after using the pump. You are correct that the risk is similar. One could argue actually greater.
If you are putting a bare straw in your mouth that someone else has touched. Again risk is similar.
If you are eating take-out from the container with your hands or...
I suspect that my comment will have little effect but here it is:
If you are going to the gas station and not cleaning your hands immediately after using the pump. You are correct that the risk is similar. One could argue actually greater.
If you are putting a bare straw in your mouth that someone else has touched. Again risk is similar.
If you are eating take-out from the container with your hands or using the utensils provided that someone else has touched. Again similar.
All of these behaviors can be modified to reduce risk to yourself. It is YOUR choice whether you do so. If you choose not to you are putting yourself and by extension the rest of us at risk when you don't.
If we lost our jobs and told them we wanted to cancel a no refundable ticket they would tell us to pound sand. The rules don’t get to change when it’s them.
You need capital, you can’t steal to obtain it. Go through the bankruptcy courts like anyone else.
Let’s be clear here, airlines aren’t doing the right things. Right now they’re hoarding people’s money who have canceled their tickets and still flying all over (granted with a reduced capacity). They’re the ones at fault. Blaming the public is poor form.
Here we go again - certain people who don't "want" to allow others to have a differing opinion! I fully align with Voldoo's point-of-view (though don't totally agree with his initial delivery as many are pointing out). So you gonna want to ban me too? Go someplace else if you want a safe haven to rant about 'Alt-Rights' (@UA-NYC). I for one appreciate constructive dialogue, even a little ribbing back and forth, even if I...
Here we go again - certain people who don't "want" to allow others to have a differing opinion! I fully align with Voldoo's point-of-view (though don't totally agree with his initial delivery as many are pointing out). So you gonna want to ban me too? Go someplace else if you want a safe haven to rant about 'Alt-Rights' (@UA-NYC). I for one appreciate constructive dialogue, even a little ribbing back and forth, even if I don't agree with every one (nor do I expect everyone to agree with me).
As far as food on aircraft - explain this to me - I just took my family to a taco bell drive-thru last night - how is serving food on a plane any different than any of the takeout/delivery food that we have been asked so much to continue to patronize? You think you are any safer going to the grocery store to pick up your essential groceries, or pumping your gas, or receiving packages/mail? No - my POV is that this is a cost cutting measure in tough times. If the logic made sense, then things down here and the ground would need to be WAAAAAYYYY different too.
@Dan
You bring up age discrimination but still believe that people age 50+ would be able to re-enter the workforce easily after massive layoffs and furloughs? The people who are in the 50-year-old age range are entering the twilight of their working careers are the ones who are going to get hit most by the quarantines, not people like me. If you think these people are getting pushed out of their current positions now, just...
@Dan
You bring up age discrimination but still believe that people age 50+ would be able to re-enter the workforce easily after massive layoffs and furloughs? The people who are in the 50-year-old age range are entering the twilight of their working careers are the ones who are going to get hit most by the quarantines, not people like me. If you think these people are getting pushed out of their current positions now, just wait until unemployment hits 20-25% as current projections suggest. If you want these people to remain in the workforce (as I do), then shutting down all ‘non-essential’ commerce is probably not the best way to go about it.
Lucky - if people shouldn’t be flying then the gov should do the right thing and shut the airlines down. Look, I agree with you. I have canceled a number of flights coming up. But I also don’t fault people who booked a flight, are flying as it’s still allowed and the frickin airlines are still flying. And yes they should get a service commensurate with the fee paid. It’s not the public’s fault. The...
Lucky - if people shouldn’t be flying then the gov should do the right thing and shut the airlines down. Look, I agree with you. I have canceled a number of flights coming up. But I also don’t fault people who booked a flight, are flying as it’s still allowed and the frickin airlines are still flying. And yes they should get a service commensurate with the fee paid. It’s not the public’s fault. The gov wants to do everything EXCEPT halt all air travel. If the carriers are still operating, you can’t fault the public who might be angry they paid 4K for a ticket.
Thanks Lucky.
I've stopped reading FT due to all the pathetic, self-centered whining.
@Voldoo — I’ll repeat Ben’s point about being over 50 and looking for a job. You’re 35 and will have little problem finding a new job if you’re laid off and the economy comes back.
But wait til you’re 50.... According to propublica.com, (https://www.propublica.org/article/older-workers-united-states-pushed-out-of-work-forced-retirement), the majority of 50+ workers in careers are involuntary removed from their job. Corporate America generally prefers younger (read: cheaper) employees. And once you lose a job after 50, it’s...
@Voldoo — I’ll repeat Ben’s point about being over 50 and looking for a job. You’re 35 and will have little problem finding a new job if you’re laid off and the economy comes back.
But wait til you’re 50.... According to propublica.com, (https://www.propublica.org/article/older-workers-united-states-pushed-out-of-work-forced-retirement), the majority of 50+ workers in careers are involuntary removed from their job. Corporate America generally prefers younger (read: cheaper) employees. And once you lose a job after 50, it’s brutal trying getting back to good, if you ever can. The job offers just don’t exist like they did for a 35 year old. So maybe a bit of compassion, and hope that it doesn’t happen to you.
More important, we ALL want to get the economy back up and running as soon as possible. But that’s unlikely unless we stop spreading the virus. Everyone who’s going out for no reason and going out without maintaining their distance from others is making it that much harder to stop this thing and get back to normal. The economy cannot, will not recover until COVID-19 is stopped and mass testing is available.
@Lucky, You got rid of Debit, isn’t it time to dump @Voldoo?
@Voldoo - My friends and family are not expendable! We don’t put a price tag on the lives of Americans. Time to STFU and soldier on. You will survive without your PDB or your hot meal.
@David - The risk is not only to the FAs. The risk is also to you. Is getting a drink really worth risking your health and the health of your loved ones? Let alone potentially becoming a link in the spread?
Every time a person comes closer than 3 feet to you your risk level increases. People seem to think that wearing gloves is some sort of magic. Gloves can act as a source of...
@David - The risk is not only to the FAs. The risk is also to you. Is getting a drink really worth risking your health and the health of your loved ones? Let alone potentially becoming a link in the spread?
Every time a person comes closer than 3 feet to you your risk level increases. People seem to think that wearing gloves is some sort of magic. Gloves can act as a source of infection just as easily as bare hands. They are only protective to the wearer and that is only if they don't touch themselves with them. When someone else has touched something you intend to put in your mouth you should think twice before ingesting it.
Assume everyone you meet is potentially infectious. The numbers touted in the media are KNOWN cases only. The actual infection rate is substantially higher. The last estimated rate I have seen is 10-11x higher. This is the only way to explain so-called "spontaneous" or unknown link infections. i.e. infected individual has not traveled, has no known contacts with infected individuals etc.
Try to keep things in perspective
It seems to me you should be more critical of the airlines for continuing to fly so many routes. You’ve posted that you can’t understand why they are doing this, other than to have a better point in negotiating for bailouts. But there was no strong criticism of that position, as there is of readers who disagree with you on this topic (I, personally, agree with you here).
Ben. . great article. One of the reasons I have been reading your blog and ignoring other (View from the Wing). AA has taken a lead in keeping people safe (although the mask issue was more fiction than fact) and DL and SWA have also gone a long way to keep us safe.
Just read that AA is now blocking up to 50% of center seats and adjusting seating while on boards to keep...
Ben. . great article. One of the reasons I have been reading your blog and ignoring other (View from the Wing). AA has taken a lead in keeping people safe (although the mask issue was more fiction than fact) and DL and SWA have also gone a long way to keep us safe.
Just read that AA is now blocking up to 50% of center seats and adjusting seating while on boards to keep distance. Good call!
Thank you again for reporting facts and telling it like it is and not demonizing the airlines during this difficult time.
I think the blog's strong point when it comes to public health or indeed travel planning is more likely to be informational not instructive. Your opinions are just that. Why have a comments section and then belittle or block those who comment?
@Lucky / Tiffany - you guys currently have gun display ads being served up on your site. Really not a good luck at the moment w/ a lot of Alt Right types popping up these days around here .
Ben, I would never want flight attendants to get stick with a dangerous virus, but how would serving passengers really worsen this? The crew is still exposed to the passengers breathing the same air in the cabin regardless. Would it really worsen their chances of not contracting the virus by providing a single inflight drink service in First Class, for instance with protective gloves? I think the truth lies somewhere in between, i.e., airlines are...
Ben, I would never want flight attendants to get stick with a dangerous virus, but how would serving passengers really worsen this? The crew is still exposed to the passengers breathing the same air in the cabin regardless. Would it really worsen their chances of not contracting the virus by providing a single inflight drink service in First Class, for instance with protective gloves? I think the truth lies somewhere in between, i.e., airlines are using the outbreak as an excuse to reduce costs when flights are so empty that it barely costs them anything to serve drinks since they still have to comply with minimum cabin crew requirements based on the number of seats on the aircraft whether they are filled or not.
@Ryan the FAs are too chicken to give service . That was the comment of the year.
Bottom line If you’re not happy just getting from point A to B right now then you shouldn’t be flying.
@Ben "I know based on other comments you think things should just return back to normal and you think 5% of the population should be sacrificed for the economy (as if things would go back to normal if we just stopped social distancing now)."
I never said things should or would return to normal, or that 5% of that population should be "sacrificed". I simply stated my opinion that the path we are on will...
@Ben "I know based on other comments you think things should just return back to normal and you think 5% of the population should be sacrificed for the economy (as if things would go back to normal if we just stopped social distancing now)."
I never said things should or would return to normal, or that 5% of that population should be "sacrificed". I simply stated my opinion that the path we are on will lead to an economic and social situation that will be worse than anything the virus could have caused. You have sympathy for the sick and elderly? So do I......but I also have sympathy for the other 99% of the population who will NOT die from this and who are being asked to give up their freedoms and livlihoods for the benefit of a select few. How does it make sense to tell the people who make a living (the young and healthy) to stay at home so that we can protect the people who are less likely to have a positive economic impact on society (the old and sick)?
I realize this sounds heartless, but you have to deal with reality sometimes. How do you think the U.S.A. can continue to suggest these massive quarantines without a complete collapse of our economic system? How long do you think less stable governments could sustain this? Do you really believe we can afford to have people sitting at home not working, while being able to generate the economic activity necessary to treat the millions around the world who need our help?
We have some precedant on this; early in the 20th century this country suffered both the Spanish Flu (which killed 60 million world-wide, mostly working-age men) as well as the Great Depression. One event is merely a footnote in our history books that most people forgot, the other is considered perhaps the worst period ever for this country outside the Civil War. People like you are worried about preventing one scenario, others are worried about preventing the other. Perhaps prevention of neither is possible.
FYI, I am 35 and still thankfully employed but fully expect to be laid off within three months if this continues. I'm not worried about my economic situation; my wife and I are very fortunate and frugal people who will be able to weather this storm better than the cast majority of people.
@Lucky - on Voldoo's comment - I think that when he/she is over 50 and looking for a job, they'll claim that it's for the good of the humanity to harvest new borns for blood so that people over 50 can have food and liquids to drink...
To a lot of people, everything is just me me me...
They should copy LH’s “delights to go” concept and distribute only a bottle of water to passengers aboard. Better safe than sorry
Amazing that people aren't just complaining but still flying for business. Everyone at my company (including Executives) are working from home and NOT traveling. Doing so is putting their lives and the lives at others at risk.
And no, an urgent business meeting does not qualify as a need to travel. That's what video conferencing is for. The only folks who should travel are those that are those first responders and others directly connected to...
Amazing that people aren't just complaining but still flying for business. Everyone at my company (including Executives) are working from home and NOT traveling. Doing so is putting their lives and the lives at others at risk.
And no, an urgent business meeting does not qualify as a need to travel. That's what video conferencing is for. The only folks who should travel are those that are those first responders and others directly connected to combating COVID-19 who physically cannot accomplish this goal remotely.
@ SFO Flyer -- That's an excellent question. A reader on the last post left the following comment:
"Seriously, Lucky or what ever your name is. How can you support this? I have to fly for business, regardless of the situation. As an EP on AA I expect service, regardless of the cabin."
Would actually love to know what people are doing who are still traveling for work. Those who are "essential" travelers understand...
@ SFO Flyer -- That's an excellent question. A reader on the last post left the following comment:
"Seriously, Lucky or what ever your name is. How can you support this? I have to fly for business, regardless of the situation. As an EP on AA I expect service, regardless of the cabin."
Would actually love to know what people are doing who are still traveling for work. Those who are "essential" travelers understand the severity of the situation, so what about the rest of the people? Anyone?
@Lucky - wrong.
This is a cost-cutting maneuver. Full service could be done with gloves and masks with virtually zero risk, so this IS cost-cutting. And so what?
Airlines are in a dire position. For now, they need to cut costs to stay around. Get rid of drinks, stop catering, get rid of the carts (weight), reduce frequencies, reduce # of crew to bare minimums. Close clubs, reduce offerings... Whatever they need to do...
@Lucky - wrong.
This is a cost-cutting maneuver. Full service could be done with gloves and masks with virtually zero risk, so this IS cost-cutting. And so what?
Airlines are in a dire position. For now, they need to cut costs to stay around. Get rid of drinks, stop catering, get rid of the carts (weight), reduce frequencies, reduce # of crew to bare minimums. Close clubs, reduce offerings... Whatever they need to do they should do. None of us alive in the world has been through this. SARS? A blip compared to this. This is simply unprecedented.
Cost-cutting move? 100%. And good for them.
When things get back to normal we can chastise the airlines. For now, cut away!
I don't get on a plane to eat. I usually don't eat anything even when flying business class international. I can eat healthier and better outside the plane. Thus, having no food won't change anything on my side. I agree with Delta and applaud their decision to not serve food.
Well, Lucky, it looks like you need to get on your soap-box a few more times.
Still there're comments (@Greg @Voldoo) who simply haven't been listening. As the UK's Deputy Chief Medical Officer said, "If your life feels even vaguely normal today, you not getting the message."
For example, the comment about eating a snack box with your fingers. Oblivious to the advice/instruction, "Wash your hands for 20 seconds or sanitise it with gel." Simple, really.
Well...according to your president...there's nothing to be worried about and everyone should instead be flying like they did before by the time Easter rolls around.
I do think that instead of just making the service changes, Airlines should (most have but not enough) market more on the fact that they are excessively cleaning aircrafts for the people who needs to travel.
Food wise, US airline food are pretty bad at the best of times even...
Well...according to your president...there's nothing to be worried about and everyone should instead be flying like they did before by the time Easter rolls around.
I do think that instead of just making the service changes, Airlines should (most have but not enough) market more on the fact that they are excessively cleaning aircrafts for the people who needs to travel.
Food wise, US airline food are pretty bad at the best of times even in first class, so no major lost really...
The people complaining probably take 4 round trips a year and call themselves frequent fliers.
Bravo Ben! Thanks for the perspective from your soapbox. Thanks for standing up and saying what needed to be said.
@Voldoo - If I had to deal with people like you all day everyday I too would avoid you like the plague (or Covid-19) and have it viewed as "laziness"
This is completely off-topic (sorry), but can anybody tell me whether a Delta ticket purchased partially with Ecredits will trigger the Amex airline credit? I know that purchasing partially with gift cards recodes the charge in the system and thus works, but does this apply to Ecredits as well?
Spot on. How anyone could think this is a bad thing is beyond me.
And best wishes for good health Adam.
Adam why are you certain it was the flight? Plenty of transmission in London.
U.S. flight attendants are some of the laziest workers I have ever seen and frankly a little shake-up in that profession wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world for consumers.
The long-haul flights are particularly terrible. I swear there is a union rule out there preventing the airlines from hiring any FA under 50 years old or weighing less than 200 lbs.
@ Voldoo -- I'll bite. What's your point, actually? I know based on other comments you think things should just return back to normal and you think 5% of the population should be sacrificed for the economy (as if things would go back to normal if we just stopped social distancing now).
But what do your comments actually have to do with this? What "shake-ups" do you want to see?
I certainly hope you're never over 50 and looking for a job...
Serving a snack box that you have to eat with your fingers???
Come on...
Safest way to eat in a served setting is with a fork or spoon - heated foods or packaged foods. In other words a proper hot first class meal.
This is Delta leading the way with nickel and diming
Well said, Ben. I flew Qatar from London to Kuala Lumpur on the 11th and wouldn’t you believe it? Caught Covid-19 (almost certainly en route) so now I am in quarantine isolation in a foreign hospital, and am the only not Malay here. Not sure when I’ll get out (hopefully soon) as soon as Intest negative, but gonna reroute back to family in Colorado - IF the flights are still flying. (embassy said they would...
Well said, Ben. I flew Qatar from London to Kuala Lumpur on the 11th and wouldn’t you believe it? Caught Covid-19 (almost certainly en route) so now I am in quarantine isolation in a foreign hospital, and am the only not Malay here. Not sure when I’ll get out (hopefully soon) as soon as Intest negative, but gonna reroute back to family in Colorado - IF the flights are still flying. (embassy said they would military medevac me if they had to, but said they don’t see it going that far...).
But I applaud the flight attendants for doing their jobs, and the airlines for doing what they can to keep in the air. Thank you for speaking truth.
@ Stop being ridiculous, folks..........Absolutely true Lucky...I have never seen a bunch of morons like the ones who have passed some of the most stupid comments on this wonderful blog. of yours ..at such a critical time no one should even contemplate travel unless really deemed necessary and stop expecting caviar and champagne
I shake my head too, but because for sure the service will NEVER come back.
Lucky, today you stand by airlines to suspend service under the name of covid 19. Tomorrow you’ll find yourself getting no service on these US airlines and wondering how naive you thought service would come back because you call out airlines.
It’s now or never.
@ NoServiceAA -- Huh? What is "now or never," exactly? Getting full service on flights while people shouldn't be flying?
Oh lordy, some people still haven't realized that the globe has pressed pause on life as we know it. I'm with Lucky, settle down, the last thing you should be doing is complaining. Most people on those planes are relieved to just get on a plane to get home, service is the last thing on their minds and I would be the same way whether I got that sweet upgrade or not. Breathe everybody, the...
Oh lordy, some people still haven't realized that the globe has pressed pause on life as we know it. I'm with Lucky, settle down, the last thing you should be doing is complaining. Most people on those planes are relieved to just get on a plane to get home, service is the last thing on their minds and I would be the same way whether I got that sweet upgrade or not. Breathe everybody, the right to complain will be upon us soon, let's just be thankful for the people that are working to help you get through this, this includes the airlines.
Agreed, Lucky.
Long are the days when we looked forward to and enjoyed travel. My AA admirals club credit card was up for renewal in April. I just canceled it. They offered me like a 60 or 70 percent reduction in the annual fee (if you spend 5K in the first 3 months). I decided not worth it. AA was already on a downhill before covid, and why pay for it now.
Wow. Delta Air Lines actually being a follower and not a leader, for a change. What has this world come to?? The airlines don't deserve a bailout unless they use the funds to provide healthcare and continued payroll for their employees, as they are on the front lines, face tremendous risk, and apart from pilots, really aren't paid well anyway. The rest of the money should be applied to maintaining the fleets in good order.