Thanks LTU for the Space and a Chance to Sleep

Checking in on LTU’s JFK flight was so very pleasant, unlike just over a week ago in NYC. I went to the Business Class line as I was told to do and asked if my upgrade was available. The woman smiled as she said, “certainly”. Back in NYC the check in staff didn’t even bother to check, a simple no was all I could get. The Business class over was very empty. It is funny because it shows the difference between a fantastic airport and one that is at best difficult.

Most readers will probably think that we writers feel important when upgraded. The fact is I rarely watch a movie on the personal video or quaff champagne; I have frequently missed the meal. It is all about room to sleep. After flying to far flung destinations in the last two months, space is precious. I have had a two day delay on the way to Finland with a 10 hour lay over, nine on my flight to Kenya in the treacherous Heathrow Airport.

I would always prefer coach with some empty seats next to me. I was talking with a business man yesterday in the lounge in Düsseldorf and we discussed the business class situation. On his last few flights he has seen very empty business class sections, once being the only passenger up front. With the economy going as it is the coach tickets are far easier to sell, therefore move valuable to the airlines. Personally all I want to do in the air is sleep, it is the one difficult part about travel writing, and there is always a lack of it!