Time Out

In the early days of business travel I flew out of San Francisco International.  Terminal 4 was American Airlines.  At that time American was the premier airline.  Now it is just another crappy American carrier trying to squeeze every inch out of the seats so that their customers can be as uncomfortable as possible.  At the same time they hire an ad agency to convince you that this is an amazing way to travel.  You could park and run directly to the gate as there was no security to go through.  What was important at that time was to get every minute out of your day before you reached the airport.  The goal was to run on the plane as they were closing the doors.  The idea of getting to the airport early was, well, it just wasn’t the thing to do. 

Obviously the world is different now.  For years we have been indoctrinated to arrive hours early for flights.  Two to four hours depending on where you were going.  In the beginning this recalculation seemed so foreign to me.  Unnecessary and un cool as the goal was to get there “just” in time.  But I have evolved…..

 I have been converted.  I am flying to London today.  I made a point of arriving to the airport early.  Not just the two-hour early requirement, but earlier.  I have discovered that arriving early has its advantages and it is not only for the benefit of the airline.  After all why would one do anything to benefit organizations that spend their time thinking of new ways to make you as uncomfortable as possible.  Arriving early has several advantages.  You have checked in. Maybe baggage checked. Essentially you have no baggage or any other responsibilities.  Depending on how much time you have allowed you have a two-hour time out from life.  Your only responsibility is getting your self to the gate and walking onto the plane.  The amount of baggage you create is completely in your control.  You can Instagram scroll to your hearts content. In general, you get a pass from constant availability. 

“I’ll be traveling can we have out conference call after I arrive? I will call when the plane lands” Talking on the phone while on a plane is still a societal no no.  We just do not want to hear your one-sided conversation. International travel is perfect because of time zones are a natural governor to always being available.

 Your immediate responsibilities are concluded once you are checked-in, bags disposed of and now all you have to do is wait.  A brief time-out from society.  A true opportunity to selfishly meditate, read, and listen. In other words your senses are yours and no others while you recline in quiet anonymity.  It’s one good things airlines and the constant drum of instruction that accompany air travel ---- a welcome time out.

 Your flight departs at 4:52 pm,  Please arrive early - indeed I will.