Boarding an airplane isn't efficient. Airlines like it that way.
USA TODAY
The board-by-group method isn't the most efficient way for passengers to get on a plane, but it does earn the airlines some extra cash.
Cruising Altitude is a weekly column about air travel. Have a suggestion for a future topic? Fill out the form or email me at the address at the bottom of this page.
Saving time or making a few extra bucks? Southwest Airlines wasn’t the first, but it’s certainly the latest to remind passengers the aviation industry prioritizes money over efficiency.
“It’s an extremely significant change for Southwest. It’s one of the most monumental changes that Southwest has made as an airline because it changes a business process that the airline has used for 54 years,” Henry Harteveldt, president of Atmosphere Research, a travel industry analytics firm, told me. “Southwest recognized it could be much more competitive and much more profitable by embracing assigned seating and adding extra legroom seats ... File this under, if you can’t beat them, join them.”
Last week's Cruising Altitude: Even if you're not going there, the Iran war will affect your flight
The move by Southwest, which was long known as a customer-friendly, quirky airline that went its own way on many policies, shows how the aviation industry has homogenized over the years, and coalesced around the importance of Wall Street performance. Though Southwest did recently announce some tweaks after customers said the new process wasn’t going so smoothly.
Long lines at airports, the Iran war and other developments have left some travelers concerned about venturing out on vacation.
A red fox is seemingly in \
Tommy Bell and one of his doctors explain why his decision to seek care after concerning symptoms may have saved his life.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is investigating a gastrointestinal virus outbreak aboard the Star Princess.
The European Union is switching to a new biometric Entry/Exit System starting April 10, replacing passport stamps.
Some women who want to grow their families are choosing not to because of affordability, lack of access to maternal health care and other fears.
Some women who want to grow their families are choosing not to because of affordability, lack of access to maternal health care and other fears.
Certain cruise venues tend to be especially popular, creating scarce seating and long lines. But there are ways to avoid the crowds.
Some airports are contending with more than 50% of their TSA staff calling out of work as the DHS shutdown drags on.
Whether you’re looking for lazy days by the beach, tranquil nights or a week of adventure, there’s a national park for your family this spring break.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said Global Entry would resume operations March 11 to reduce airport disruptions.
The board-by-group method isn't the most efficient way for passengers to get on a plane, but it does earn the airlines some extra cash.
Carnival Cruise Line added a new expedited option in its main dining rooms, giving guests a multi-course dinner in less than an hour.