Missus on a flight, JFK-LHR, UAL B777. Econ. class crates have video screens in
the backs of the seats. Missus was watching something til the person in front
reclined back all the way. Then, typical of LCD displays the angle of the dangle
was such that it was now impossible to watch.

On the leg, LHR-SIN via SIA B744 the displays had hinges in them so you could
angle it in any direction that you needed to.

(and yes, she made sure that the 777's screen didn't have a hinge arrangement.
It was firmly screwed into the seat. OK I s'pose if you are a dwarf or a six
year old...)

She was happy with Singapore Airlines as far as service went. But when it comes
to food, particularly out of SIN, well, put it this way, a serve of hotcakes at
Maccas near Melbourne airport yesterday morning was muchly appreciated, given
what it is...

UAL, like most airlines, it seems is cost cutting due to high fuel costs. It's
now charging for things like the pillows and blankets, domestic flights food is
no longer included in the fare, stuff like that.

SIN has strict baggage limits. She had two checked bags and a carry on. On UAL
it was OK because the ticket was booked before a specific date. Anything after
that a one bag limit is imposed with charges for extra.

Anyway, when she checked in at LHR, the pommy woman pax agent for SIA said that
her second bag was going to cost x pounds per pound. It meant that she'd be
looking at close to $500AUD! Missus was shocked. But she came from New York with
these two luggage items (she showed the woman the two tags off the luggage) and
it's supposed to be included in the fare. The PSA goes off to check. Comes back,
yeah, you're right she grunted. No apologies for upsetting the missus or
anything.

Apparently UAL staff is worse. Morale is so low with some of the airlines
because they're all struggling. Some suggest that it's a matter of time when,
not if, UAL goes the way of Pan AM.

It will be a shame, and a disaster for many, if that happens.