So, how excited are you about air fares and the actual flying part of the trip?

[motomem Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close motomem]

I love to fly when it makes sense. I have spurts of business travel, plus some personal travel. Air fares haven't gone up that much, IMHO. Flying hasn't changed all that much. Some lines may be longer. Now we have bag fees - but I get 1st bag free on Delta simply because I have their credit card. No meals any more on domestic flights. I can do without that. A little PLANNING goes a long way. Arrive early at the airport so you don't have to rush.

I'll drive from Memphis to Little Rock (2.5 hours) or Nashville (3 hours) to fly Southwest. I don't do that often but I will to use my awards (obtained via using their credit card). It will be a day of glory when SW starts flying in/out of Memphis, if they ever do. But Delta out of Memphis is usually ok. Memphis is a hub for Delta so some flights are more expensive. It still beats driving in most cases.

What has changed is people. People are more grumpy in general. They seem to think flying should somehow be luxurious and that flights should never be delayed, canceled, or late.

I see flying as nothing more than getting me from point A to point B. Yes, I'd like to be on time but it won't kill me if not.

[JROBIN Junior Member Find all posts View Profile Close JROBIN]

I guess I am in the love to fly category because we log over 100,000 miles per year. This is almost all on vacation travel (maybe 1 trip a year for business). We have top tier status with AA, so all of the irritating fees are waived (no bag fees for 2 bags, 1st class check-in). I also pay for lounge access because most of our travel is to Hawaii, so it is not covered by our status. This allows us to relax away from the crowds in the airport. Lounge access also allows us to shower at the airport after a long flight. It is always refreshing to clean up after a 7-10 hour flight and then proceed on to your destination.

We buy coach tickets and are upgraded (on a space available basis) to 1st (domestic) or business (international using VIP upgrades). We have learned to travel at off-peak times (Tuesdays or Wednesdays) to minimize both the cost of airfare and to enhance the likelihood that we will be sitting in first class. So far this year, we have only missed our upgrade once and that was due to a last minute flight cancellation.

We both are able to sleep on the planes, so we typically arrive at the destination feeling pretty good and are able to maximize our time at the destination. We also supplement our mileage by traveling to Europe for a long weekend (leave on a Thursday and return on a Sunday). This is not bad as long as you are able to sleep on the way over and stay awake that first day. We actually prefer longer flights so that we can sleep, so we typically detour down to Dallas or Miami to maximize our time in the air.

It is always interesting to see the less frequent travelers grousing about delays, gate changes, flight cancellations, etc. We do have an easier time because of our status, but we have also learned to help ourselves and not rely on the airline to decide what would be the best option for ourselves. We also never get upset at the airline's personnel, because they are only trying to assist you to get to your destination. Unfortunately, because the planes are typically pretty full (and generally flying less frequently between destinations), it could mean a long wait if your flight is canceled before you make it on another flight.

[glypnirsgirl Member Find all posts View Profile Close glypnirsgirl]

how thngs have changed!

I hate the hassle of flying. Going thru security. Waiting. Nothing to eat. Paying for a bag is the pits. I don't mind the flight at all. I try to upgrade to Business class when possible. Air Tran allows that often.

I remember my first airplane flight. It was 1960. My grandmother packed a paper bag filled with sandwiches, fruit, deviled eggs for us. I found it embarassing to be carrying that paper bag. After all, we were going a long distance, Dallas to San Francisco. I don't think that it computed to her how little time we would actually be traveling. At that point, she was usually driving or traveling by train.

We ended up getting seated in first class and it was Delta's Royal Crown service. We were served shrimp cocktails and filet mignon with twice baked potatoes and rolls. It was as good as any restaurant food that I had had up to that point in my life (I was 6 - so not particularly critical). I got served ginger ale in a stemmed glass. My parents had champagne.

My how flying has changed! Now I would gladly have my grandmother's paper bag for a flight!

The one thing that has not changed is my attitude about it. I still love it!

elaine

[dorramide7 Junior Member Find all posts View Profile Close dorramide7]

I don't like flying period. I don't like the lines and waiting at the airport and I don't like being in the plane even in first class. I would rather take a train if it will get me there. I am NOT looking forward to our flight to New York next month.

I love to fly! I love getting to the airport about 2 hours early. Ian and I go through security, then sit and watch the planes. We might go and get a bite to eat. Sit and read our books. Then we get on the plane. About half the time I fall asleep before we are in the air. And I stay asleep until we begin our descent. The other half of the time, Ian and I visit with each other. We usually spend the time on the way to the trip discussing the final details of what we are going to do. On the way home, we plan our next vacation.

elaine
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[BocaBum99 Super Moderator Find all posts View Profile Close BocaBum99]

I used to be a 100,000 mile per year flier. I must admit that I really liked it because I was a United 1K flier and frequent Star Alliance Traveler. It was all business, so overseas trips were all in Business Class. Got spoiled.

Now that I have to pay for my own airline tickets, I fly coach. I take about 3-4 trips to the mainland each year. With the merger of United and Continental, I'll probably be able to become Premier or equivalent again.

I don't mind flying at all because I can sleep on the plane. And, I get a lot done that I normally don't do. I buy several magazines and maybe a book. I catch up on what's going on in the world when travelling on an airplane.

I am utterly amazed at how many fees the airlines capture from us now. They are getting really good at nickling and diming you. When they start having internet access on most flights, flying will be fantastic.

[ArtsieAng Super Moderator Find all posts View Profile Close ArtsieAng]

I hate flying.....I hate airports!

For me, it's most definitely medication time.

[Glitter Brunello Super Moderator Find all posts View Profile Close Glitter Brunello]

I used to be a 100,000 mile per year flier. I must admit that I really liked it because I was a United 1K flier and frequent Star Alliance Traveler. It was all business, so overseas trips were all in Business Class. Got spoiled.

Now that I have to pay for my own airline tickets, I fly coach. I take about 3-4 trips to the mainland each year. With the merger of United and Continental, I'll probably be able to become Premier or equivalent again.

I don't mind flying at all because I can sleep on the plane. And, I get a lot done that I normally don't do. I buy several magazines and maybe a book. I catch up on what's going on in the world when travelling on an airplane.

I am utterly amazed at how many fees the airlines capture from us now. They are getting really good at nickling and diming you. When they start having internet access on most flights, flying will be fantastic.

Business Class definitely changes the game. Business Class and GoGo inflight, a great combination. Throw in a friendly flight attendant and it's downright civilized, just as it should be! Unfortch, we usually have to fly coach.

I hate flying.....I hate airports!

For me, it's most definitely medication time.

[BocaBum99 Super Moderator Find all posts View Profile Close BocaBum99]

Business Class definitely changes the game. Business Class and GoGo inflight, a great combination. Throw in a friendly flight attendant and it's downright civilized, just as it should be! Unfortch, we usually have to fly coach.

I used to travel to Singapore and Beijing once per quarter from South Florida. About 30 hours door-to-door. I think that experience got me mentally prepared for running marathons.

My favorite leg was always from Singapore to Beijing because I would fly first class on Singapore Airlines at the time when it was considered the world's best airline. It was about a 6 hour flight. It started with the food available in the Singapore Airline first class lounge at the airport. Fantastic Indian food. Then, you get on the plane and all you ever had to do was look at a flight attendant and they would anticipate what you wanted and immediately come to serve you. They guess right most of the time. Then, they would have this unbelievable Roast Duck, caviar, Vodka, Champagne. Definitely my most memorable trips.

[RESORT2ME Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close RESORT2ME]

We are fortunate to have Newport News five miles away, Norfolk 25 miles and Richmond 60. There are all the major airlines to choose from. It is obvious they use all sources to compete for passengers. Any we choose are always packed full, so somebody definitely keeps tabs.

Anymore, seems like for economical fares, we can fly out of Richmond via Boston or Houston to get to Tampa. To save $20 per seat we can agree to be routed hundreds of miles out of the way. Non-stop flights to Tampa are usually booked at least two weeks out. We can go to Jacksonville fairly easy, but that’s a 3 hour drive then to the Tampa area.

We used to fly non-stop to Orlando in 2 hours. Rarely see that now and the rates are nearly double.

I don’t mind the flying. Hey… you want to GIT, so just do it! We never like being in the “cattle train” but that’s the way it is. And we are not going to pay the extra to sit a few rows closer to the front.. It would be great to have the extra space, but we (the whole plane) arrive together. BIG DEAL.

When we were flying into Florida, it was nice to pay $120 to 185 R/T. If it took 4 hours rather than 2, so be it. Most of it depends how bad we want to go. We have flown R/T to Orlando for $108 even though we are heading for Fort Lauderdale. The rental car there is usually enough cheaper, we pick it up and drive to Ft Laud.

Anymore we have more time then money (retirement) so we do the best we can. Of course now the fares are double so usually we drive the 1000 miles each way, have no car to rent or turn in. We go and return via whatever route we choose.

When SW acquires Air Tran, maybe we will see fares come down everywhere. Competition is good that way.

We enjoy seeing our USA, so actually prefer driving.

I like it that some of you are vacationing within driving distance.

[taffy19 Gold Contributor Find all posts View Profile Close taffy19]

I used to be a 100,000 mile per year flier. I must admit that I really liked it because I was a United 1K flier and frequent Star Alliance Traveler. It was all business, so overseas trips were all in Business Class. Got spoiled.

Now that I have to pay for my own airline tickets, I fly coach. I take about 3-4 trips to the mainland each year. With the merger of United and Continental, I'll probably be able to become Premier or equivalent again.

I don't mind flying at all because I can sleep on the plane. And, I get a lot done that I normally don't do. I buy several magazines and maybe a book. I catch up on what's going on in the world when travelling on an airplane.

I am utterly amazed at how many fees the airlines capture from us now. They are getting really good at nickling and diming you. When they start having internet access on most flights, flying will be fantastic.

Yes, it is great as I already did this on my last flight back from New York City to Los Angeles with Virgin Air. I was home before I knew it but it is the waiting at the airport and going through the security which is annoying but time goes fast too with a smart phone or iPad or Kindle or even a good old book that weighs a ton.

I heard on the radio or read on the Internet last night that they have a machine now that can X-ray all the fluids you take with you so we no longer have to travel with tiny bottles of shampoo, etc. in our carry-on bags and take it out to go through the X-ray machine. That will make it easier already.

[motomem Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close motomem]

It will be a day of glory when SW starts flying in/out of Memphis, if they ever do.

My day of glory WILL arrive... YAY to the SW purchase of AirTran (which flies in/out of Memphis). Woo hoo!!!

[Baily Junior Member Find all posts View Profile Close Baily]

What you are seeing with fares is a result of airline mergers. Thank the Justice Department!

RyanAir has talked about started TATL service and US domestic service. Once they do, then we will have real competition again.

As to flying, as long as I can get on a full sized plane for the domestic legs, I am fine. When I flew NW, I had almost 100% domestic upgrades to 1st, which is a comfortable way to fly, and so far with CO I am at 100%, too on full sized aircraft. The problem with CO is too many little planes on the routes I fly, so no upgrades on them. With the European legacy carriers, I also get free alcohol on the intra-Europe legs which is nice.

I recently flew to Hawaii from Los Angeles for $449.00. Other airfare were running about $200.00 more. It was a great flight. Anyone travelling to Hawaii in the next couple of months can take advantage of available discounts. Air/Car packages are also available.

[JWC Super Moderator Find all posts View Profile Close JWC]

I recently flew to Hawaii from Los Angeles for $449.00. Other airfare were running about $200.00 more. It was a great flight. Anyone travelling to Hawaii in the next couple of months can take advantage of available discounts. Air/Car packages are also available.

We are flying to Hawaii in April on Hawaiian Airlines. We got a great deal on first class tickets directly form Hawaiian Air. Cheapest I have seen first class for years. It was a special that they sent me an e-mail alert for.