Prepare For Takeoff

5 Pages 1320 Words

Prepare For Take-Off
Since the tragedy of September 11th, our nation’s airports have undergone several security changes to prevent such a tragedy from happening again. Some of the changes are more obvious than others, like the presence of the National Guard in our airports. However, there are some changes that are not seen nor felt by the public until they are presented with them, like not being allowed to bring drinking containers down into the terminal. Because most people are not aware of the changes, things tend to run a little slower now in our airports than normal. Louis Armstrong International Airport, formerly New Orleans International Airport, has been no exception.
For 2 and a half years I was employed at Armstrong Airport by one of the venders and witnessed first hand the affects of September 11th. Because of the new security regulations, passengers had to wait longer to board their planes, which made my job more of a hassle.
The best way to make a flight experience more enjoyable starts before one boards the plane. It is now suggested that passengers arrive two hours before their flight’s departure time. Do arrive early as suggested. When arriving at the airport, there will always be men and women with uniforms on asking “Do you need a skycap?” These ladies and gentlemen are there to be at a passengers service to help them check in their luggage, receive their boarding confirmation without the hassle of having to go to the ticket counter. This service is called “Curb-Side Check In”. It is quick and allows the passenger to head straight down to the terminal. However, this service is for domestic flights only. International flights have to go to the ticket counter but can use the service to help with the luggage. Don’t forget to tip the skycaps because they can be out there up to twelve hours a day and they are only paid minimum wage.
If one has to go to their airline’s ticket counter, th...