Thought of the Day - August 23 2021 - Domestic Travel

Like many of you it has been quite a while since I last flew. This week I took the opportunity of the lull before the next storm to travel to New Brunswick to see family and friends.

I was not sure what I expected but I knew there would be at least some subtle changes since last travelling to Mexico early in 2020 ( Thought of the Day - February-17 - Mexico Bound ).

YVR, domestic section anyway, was not very busy. There were none of the anticipated health questionnaires or temperature checks. I had checked-in ahead of airport arrival and simply headed to the gate through the "normal" security screening. Most of the stores and boutiques were closed, early morning or COVID victims, I was not sure.

Boarding the plane there were some definite differences:

• First, upon boarding, you are handed a large and really-wet towellette with which you clean your own seat.

• On board, gone are blankets/pillows and inflight magazines.

• While everyone was wearing masks, as part of takeoff commentary, you are reminded masks are a federal requirement but also, in case of emergency, you should remember to take it off before donning your oxygen mask!

• No meals are available, even for purchase, however alcohol is still available.

• Finally, the toilets. As people spend an inordinate amount of time hand washing, and then in contortion trying not to touch anything as they exit the lavatories, after the first half hour the lineup is pretty well continuous.

In summary all in all not an unpleasant experience. A far cry from reports from the US as of late. For example, I was reading United has decided to discourage their fight attendants from considering "duct taping" unruly customers to their seats, as other airlines have done recently (for example Frontier Airlines on their recent flight from Philadelphia to Miami). I found fellow passengers, most of whom were travelling to see family across the country, were some of the most courteous I have ever experienced. Everyone was chill.

Would I travel domestically again? Yes sir.

Cheers

Cliff