This is a nasty, rotten business.

Robert L. Crandall, CEO & President of American Airlines.

You fucking academic eggheads! You don't know shit. You can't deregulate this industry. You're going to wreck it. You don't know a goddamn thing!

Robert L. Crandall, CEO American Airlines, 1977

There is an interesting article from AoM on traveling like a Gentleman.  Women are free to translate to ladies or Gentlewomen.  Based on my latest travels, civility is lost.  On my next adventure I am sure to use the tips from AoM.  Except with the TSA thugs and the theater of security!

Sure, the Golden Age of Air Travel had its own drawbacks. Less flights, not as safe, and, a whole lot more expensive. The drop in ticket prices since the days when Pan Am ruled the skies has been a boon for the man of modest means who still wants to see the world (or, just his family a few states away for the holidays).

On the flip side, the democratization of flight has turned it into something that has to be endured, rather than enjoyed. When you’re being herded through security and made to wait an hour and a half on the tarmac, it’s easy to feel more like a head of cattle than a traveling gentleman.

http://artofmanliness.com/2012/11/21/how-to-fly-like-a-gentleman/

The TSA has issued some special packing tips for travelers before Thanksgiving weekend. They say not to bring food, sharp tools, or any shred of dignity.

Jimmy Fallon

"Last week, I picked up a 'TSA Customer Comment Card.'  First, it's important that we get one thing straight: I am not the TSA's 'customer.'  The term 'customer' denotes an honorable relationship in which I and a seller voluntarily trade value for value.  There's nothing voluntary about my relationship with the TSA.

A much more appropriate term for our relationship is 'subject.'  The TSA stands between me and those with whom I would like to trade, and I am not allowed to without their blessing.

Forbes

An airline pilot wrote that on this particular flight he had hammered his ship into the runway really hard. The airline had a policy which required the first officer to stand at the door while the passengers exited, smile, and give them a, "Thanks for flying XYZ airline." He said that in light of his bad landing, he had a hard time looking the passengers in the eye, thinking that someone would have a smart comment. Finally, everyone had gotten off except for this little old lady walking with a cane. She said, "Sonny, did we land or were we shot down?"

Airline announcements are here: Snopes.com

Let's make a statement to the airlines just to get their attention. We'll pick a week next year and we'll all agree not to go anywhere for seven days.
Andy Rooney