Airline: Patience Is The Key To Avoid Airline problems

It seems that no matter which airline you fly, you will run into problems. The mention of airlines and airports causes frequent travelers to cringe. They don’t want to be reminded of their most recent airline nightmare. However, many airline and airport problems can be avoided, or easily resolved, if you have the right attitude, follow certain guidelines, and hold on to your patience.

First, keep in mind that most airlines have had major cut backs. Some cutbacks started before September 11, 2001, and while there has been an increase in security, cutbacks of airport and airline personnel have occurred since the 9-11 attacks as well. This means that the remaining employees are overworked. These people are trying to cater to the wishes of thousands of travelers every single day – and you simply cannot please all of the people all of the time.

These cutbacks are not an excuse for the rudeness and poor service that many travelers experience in airports and in-flight – especially since the airlines are in the service industry. However, keeping the cutbacks and the overworked status of the employees in mind may help you be more tolerant of personnel that really are trying to fix the problems.

Start with the guidelines. Arrive at the airport at least two hours in advance to insure that you are checked in, through security and at your gate well before your scheduled departure time. Follow the rules, and avoid having anything suspicious, or anything that could be used as a weapon, in your carry on, or in your baggage. Keep in mind that these security measures are in place to protect you, the other passengers, and as we now realize, the entire world population as a whole. If a random search occurs, be cooperative and understanding. Remember, these security checks are necessary, even if they are a nuisance.

Double check your flight reservations upon check-in. Ask about special meals you ordered, special seating requests, or special assistance you may need. Ask the status of the flight – is it on time? If the employee seems unfriendly or rude, try to remain pleasant. Look around and see what is going on, and try to identify the reason for his or her attitude. If you can identify what the problem is, let them know that you commiserate with them. You will be amazed at how much nicer they become. Thank them for all their help. These people don’t get much in the way of thanks.

At your gate, double check everything with the gate attendant. They should know if the flight is on time, and be able to tell you what the boarding procedures will be. Knowing what the procedures are in advance will often help you retain your patience once the boarding actually begins. Again, if the attendant is rude or has a bad attitude, look for the reason, and commiserate. Thank them for their help.

Use the same method of commiserating and thanking in-flight as well. This doesn’t mean that you allow any airport or airline employee to disrespect you or walk all over you. It is simply a way of getting a better attitude – and better service – from each individual person. The ‘kill them with kindness’ attitude works universally.

When problems arise – and sometimes they will – remain calm. Talk in a level voice, and be as nice as you possibly can. Explain your situation, or your point-of-view, and listen to theirs. The nicer you are, the faster your problem will be resolved. Yelling, cursing, and threatening will not help the situation, and in most cases will only get you poorer service. No matter how bad it gets, try to remain nice, and don’t complain. First, you would not be complaining to the right department, and second, your complaining won’t get you anywhere – the employee will be less motivated to help solve your problem.

After the flight, when you no longer need an airport or airline employee to solve a problem for you, if the problem was not solved to your satisfaction – complain to the airline. It is usually futile to voice your complaints to the employee. If your problem needs immediate attention, however, ask to speak to a supervisor. Supervisors are often able to accomplish things that other employees are not authorized to accomplish. Again, remain calm, and be nice. You will catch more flies with honey!

Jason Petrina is the Editor and Publisher of Article Click. For more FREE articles for your ezine and websites visit - www.articleclick.com

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