The Golden Age Of Airplane Travel Compared To The Drudgery Of Today
By | March 27, 2017
In light of recent events we thought we would take a look back at how air travel used to be compared to the complete mess it has become.
United Airlines passenger being dragged off plane because the airline overbooked the flight.
The advancement of technology has been, for the most part, great, but there are things we wish we could take back, if only to get some more comfort while traveling. Not only are ticket prices through the roof now, but now airlines are overbooking flights to increase revenues resulting in passengers being forced to miss their booked and paid for flights. There are no more free pillows or earphones, hardly any free food and drinks and a lot less room to move around in. In the earlier years, getting around by plane was a production, something I think we all would enjoy today. Let's take a look at how travel has changed from then, to now.
In-flight Entertainment then
Before the personalized TV screen at your seat during a flight, in-flight entertainment was simple, for example, a game of cards was played well comfortably with co-passengers in the cabin or writing a postcard. Also, drinking alcohol was a form of in-flight entertainment.
In-flight Entertainment now
Now we have personalized TV screens, where each person can watch his/her own channel, which can be watched using their own headphones. If you desire to watch a movie, it can simply be paid for or nowadays passengers walk with their iPads or whatever device that provides entertainment for them during the fight.
Airport Security then
Back in the day, airport security was simple and predictive. A metal detector stand had to be passed through, and nearly anything could be packed and traveled with.
Airport Security now
These days, before proceeding through the upgraded metal stands, now X-ray machines, your shoes has to be removed to be scanned in the machine. Also, on some occasions officers with dogs would be on patrol, not to mention, passenger screening where you can be detained or sent back from to your country based on suspicion alone.
Smoking then
Smoking was allowed during travel back in the day, whether or not the other person was a smoker. Passengers were free to “light it up” as they pleased during the flight; though they were not allowed to smoke in the terminal for fear it would ignite and start a fire.
Smoking now
Presently, smoking is a huge NO on flights. There are “No Smoking” signs posted inside the aircrafts.
Air Traffic Control then
Before, everything was done manually, there were lots of papers and rotary dial telephones. Switch boards and people had to man them.
Air Traffic Control now
At the digital stage we are at now, less people are required for air traffic control. Touch screens and headsets are in full use along with multiple computer screens.
Cockpits then
The cockpits back in the day were more complicated. It was manned by more than just a pilot and co-pilot; along with lots of buttons and meters, which not only appeared above the heads of the pilots but in front and to the right of them.
Cockpits now
Now, it’s a bit less complicated where only a pilot and co-pilot are enough along with guidance from Air Traffic Control, and a few digitized screens. Buttons are now only in front and just above their heads.
Flight Attendants then
Though they were called Stewardesses, they were classy women who also had to be of a certain weight limit, wore girdles and had to be single.
Flight Attendants now
Now called Flight Attendants; you no longer have to of a certain weight. You just have to meet the criteria. Your relationship status is no longer an issue.
First Class then
When flying was introduced passengers got all dressed up to travel, especially those of first class. It was also all about the space; it was so spacious that it is compared to that of a modern hotel room. Full meals were also served and lobster was considered as one of them.
First Class now
Now, the best drinks and food is reserved for those who travel first class. With more space and leg room, the attire is not restricted to suit and tie but anyone who purchases first class seats are free to dress how the please.
Cocktail Service then
Back then Cocktails were made upon passengers’ request right in front of them. You were free to enjoy your conversation while you waited.
Cocktail Service now
Nowadays, it has become a Do-It-Yourself service, where you order the ingredients and you make it as strong or light as you wish.
Food then
Before, a buffet table would be set up. Full meals were provided and there was an unlimited amount of drink servings. Free champagne was also offered.
Food now
Now, a snack and a drink or two (2) minimum is complimentary, any meal or additional food that is offered had to be paid for, at an unreasonable price.
Economy Class then
Before, the economy class had lots of space, to move around and stretch your legs. The overhead bins didn’t bother anybody when putting or retrieving luggage.
Economy Class now
Now, the economy class is the most cramped seating space on a flight, where you bump into passengers as you pass. People are almost over you when it comes to putting their carry on in the overhead bin.
Economy Class Sleeping then
Before, sleeping accommodations were made on flights, there was a built in compartment where passengers would go to catch some sleep. Even what seemed to be like a double bed was provided with curtains for little to no disturbance while they slept comfortably.
Economy Class Sleeping now
Now, airplanes are not built with that accommodation anymore, you simply sleep how you can in your seat. Some passengers carry a neck pillow to aide in the uncomfortable sleep during the flight.
Customs and Border Control then
Back then, about two officers would simply stand at a desk and quickly search the luggage. Therefore, the lines were not very long because the process was swift. Also, there was no limit as to how many pieces of luggage a person should have.
Customs and Border Control now
Now, there are long lines because, at the check-in, the luggage is taken and weighed, is tagged, as well as transaction payments when the maximum weight is surpassed. Also, bags are searched before anyone is allowed to enter the country.
Airport Lounges then
Before, airport lounges were interesting, a bar was provided where passengers were able to smoke. It was decorated nicely. They were also very spacious, a far cry from what we have today.
Airport Lounges now
Now, almost every airport lounge is the same, and very modernized. The big international airport lounges are more upscale and offer a variety of bars which sell from snacks to souvenirs.
Dress/Clothing then
Before, passengers would get dressed in their best clothes to travel. Men would be in suits and women in dress suits and pearls and gloves. It was an extremely glamorous affair.
Dress/Clothing now
Now, passengers travel in whatever attire they please, although they mostly dress for the weather of the country they are going to. From leggings to tanks tops and jeans to sweatpants, there are hardly any rules to travel fashion these days.
Conversation then
Before, there were conversations while flying. Passengers would converse while having a drink or a smoke, despite them not knowing each other prior to the flight. Friends were made while flying.
Conversation now
Now everyone is so into technology or whatever is on their personalized TV screen that they barely notice the other person sitting next to them. And if they do, they hardly say a word to them.