[daveapage]

Travelers today expect delays (security & airline), lost luggage, poor service and few amenities. Sentiment towards the airlines is poor. This low level of expectation is an opportunity for carriers like Delta.
I am traveling today with my family. Wife and 3 daughters, 6, 3 and 9 months. Right now we are not seated together. I think my 6 & 3 year old are together. My wife is with our infant (near by) and I am several rows away. I am sure some nice person will switch with me but still, how did this happen?
Here is the deal – Establish a Family First Policy.
Reason: Almost everyone has a family – treat them right and everyone will take notice. Secondly, traveling with kids is a pain-in-the-ass so make it easier and everyone benefits. There is nothing worse then a crying kid.

Simple changes that would make a huge difference.

1) Families board first (with people who need special assistance). Promote this policy
2) Families all sit together. If you are retired or single put them in an area of the plane where they can relax and enjoy their flight and not be around kids who may fuss. Existing parents are much more patient with other people’s children and more likely to help out someone whose child is misbehaving. Kids also find other kids as a source of entertainment – leverage this cure for boredom.
3) Play areas: There are always delays – Buy a bunch of toys and games and designate an area in the terminal next to the gates where families can all hang out and watch their kids. Again, reduce child boredom is key. I guarantee you other parents from other airlines will in the Delta play areas.
4) Give kids airlines swag. Flying on a plane is exciting for kids, play on this positive feeling and keep the kids happy and entertained. A happy kid results in a happy parent. I remember getting wings from nice pilots and flight attendants when I was a kid. What happened?
5) Additional service: Have the flight attendants over service families by providing juice boxes, coloring books, cool healthy snacks etc.

Delta has a huge opportunity to improve the travel experience for all their patrons by better servicing the traveling family. These services cost little $$ and promote our societies core values, taking care of families.

Maybe today, I’ll sit with my family for our 3 hour flight. If not, I wish the current passengers good luck with my 6 and 3 year old!

David Page