Let me start by saying that I am both a business and personal traveler. I have been loyal to Southwest since graduating from college ten years ago, and have flown Southwest since the mid-70's. All of that being said...
I have noticed, over the past couple of months, Southwest becoming less family friendly. As a business traveler, I appreciate being in the "A5" boarding group, but feel guilty about shoving families with toddlers to after A and before B. Having a four year old, I understand the importance of (1) being able to sit together as a family, and (2) being relatively close to the front of the plane (particularly for carry on and to catch connecting flights). This was not a problem on our last family trip because I had checked in 24 hours before the flight and had a low A number. Now I see there is another obstacle for the family traveler...BUSINESS SELECT (BS).
BS means, amoung other things, if I pay more I can board first. Given that I purchased family Thanksgiving travel well in advance (before BS), am I to expect that when I check in 24 hours in advance that I might have a high A or a B group awaiting my effort? BS! If you want to become American, please continue on the path you are heading down. Assign seats; provide classes of service per boarding group. At least if you assign seats, I'll know exactly were my family and I will sit.
I am mostly a business traveler, but I am not heartless about how families have to fly. Thank you for the low fares and freedom to fly the country, now bring back the family friendly Southwest Spirit!
Chris
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