Air Travel in 2025: A Frustrating Experience

So, how would one describe flying in 2025? It’s probably costly. Stressful. Panic-inducing, for sure. Honestly, I’d say it feels like hell.

You’re waking up at 3 a.m. because you thought it was a good idea to book that 6 a.m. flight to save fifty bucks. Then, you have to either drive to the airport or pay a hefty price for an Uber or taxi. And if you’re parking your car, well, that’s anywhere from $25 to $75 a day. Just great.

Then there’s the TSA, acting like it runs a surveillance state. The long checkpoint line is like a traffic jam you didn’t ask for. Finally, as you approach the X-ray machines, you ask the TSA agent if you need to take your laptop out of your bag. They give you a scowl and then shout, “Yes, remove your electronics!” Well, at least we get to keep our shoes on.

Once you reach the gate, it’s time for a coffee. Maybe a bagel? You know, just something to eat. And just like that, you’ve spent around $23 on a medium cup of coffee, a stale bagel, and a bag of Cheez-Its.

The flight itself? Even worse. You’re crammed in this old Boeing with a hundred other passengers, jammed together like cattle. Business class? Never going to happen, and really, it wouldn’t matter much for a two-hour flight from New York to Ft. Lauderdale.

This is agony, especially during the holidays.

Recently, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy suggested that holiday travelers consider dressing up a bit better. No more slippers or sweatpants. Just, you know, try to look decent.

DUFFY: “Let’s try not to wear slippers and pajamas as we come to the airport.”

That’s a nice thought. But can we really fault people for wearing what’s comfortable? And are they really the cause of air travel being such a nightmare?

Many people, myself included, like to reminisce about the golden age of airline travel. I mean, I wasn’t around back then, but I enjoy looking at those retro Pan Am ads. The planes had room to breathe. The seats were spacious and comfy. Passengers looked sharp in their suits and dresses, while the flight attendants seemed to genuinely enjoy their job, serving cocktails and champagne.

I love these vintage Pan Am ads.
“There are even areas for non-smokers.”

Sure, back in 1985, wearing a suit on a Pan Am flight made perfect sense. It was a luxurious experience. But fast forward 40 years to a crowded United flight, squished by the restrooms? That’s just ridiculous. Like, would you dress up for a meal at McDonald’s? I don’t think so. So, you wouldn’t wear a suit flying economy in 2025 either.

A more effective suggestion from Duffy might have been: Let’s all use deodorant and, oh, maybe not recline our seats.