I had been under the impression that the South West boarding system was designed to maximize efficiency and on time take off. Actually it seems it is to cater to people with abused secretaries willing to get them an A boarding card. I am a business traveler who regularly travels with an 18 month old. Last trip I was expected to carry my child, car seat, carry on bag, computer and diaper bag half way down the plane. On the trip out I was literally sweating trying to get it done. Further, my child was slipping and falling all over the walkway (amazing he was not hurt) when my request for some help from the ground staff resulted in them taking my stroller and then never returning to help with the rest. When I suggested to the "gentleman" boarding us on the way back that I was not willing to work that hard and that I would simply take my time in future (carry one thing at a time if necessary), I was informed that SW did not believe that they should have to be disadvantaged by my "choice" to have a child.
Well I will not be disadvantaged by their "choice" to have a stupid boarding policy. If it takes me 10 minutes to load on then all the "selfish me first" business men will just have to wait and be disadvantaged by a late takeoff as well. Bottom line is I am not showing up to meetings looking like I came out of a sweat shop so lazy businessmen are spared having to take seats in row 10. I believe that this policy is not only an indication of the bad management at SW, but also a comment on what these selfish bums are learning in Business School. They continue to think they should get to ride in the front of the bus in exchange for leaching on society. In my opinion, those who can't do have their daddies buy them a Harvard NBA.
I did call Virgin America and they do preboard families. In future I will fly with airlines that preboard when possible and if not I will take all the time I need to get on safely and with dignity with or without the support of the illustrious managers at SW and the selfish business class they seem to value so much.
Meg
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