The unfriendly skies
You’re not imagining it: Air travel really is becoming more unpleasant. Sure, COVID-19, germophobia, and mask mandates were a short-term catalyst of bad airline behavior, but there’s a deeper problem causing the skies to become less friendly: We no longer think it’s good or important to treat other people well.
TL;DR
- Air travel is becoming more unpleasant due to a decline in basic human kindness.
- Airlines like American Airlines have policies that discourage flight attendants from going the extra mile for customers, prioritizing cost savings.
- Passenger behavior also reflects a growing emphasis on individual autonomy, where personal peace and power are prioritized over the needs of others.
- A viral video depicted a conflict between passengers over a window shade, highlighting a lack of consideration for others' feelings and needs.