Silver Elite

"M'am can you take my coat please?"
"Sure, sir, and would you like something to drink?"
"Yeah, can I get a red wine, please?"
"There you go sir....."
"Thanks"

As I sipped my red wine, I smirked at other frustrated economy class passengers making their way past me, bustling to find the much coveted overhead cabin space and the rights to rule their neighbours arm-rests. As I soaked in my cabernet, I mockingly muttered to myself, "If only you guys had worked a little harder". Arrogance had finally arrived, it was probably fleeting....but I was loving every minute of it!

Till about last year, I had never flown First Class in any airlines. However, 2008 has started out with a big surprise, as I have now flown 4 out of my last 5 legs in that luxury cabin at the front of the aeroplane. This reversal of fortune is the fruit of my year long allegiance with Continental Airlines, which earned me the Silver Elite status through Feb 2009. Prior to moving to Houston, I lived in Los Angeles, which due to its location never served as a major airline hub. This resulted in me earning miles on 4 different accounts and never reaching a point where I could rake up enough miles in a year to reach the elite status. However, the city of Houston is serviced almost entirely by Continental, and courtesy my trips to Asia and Europe last year, I finally clocked enough miles to get inducted into the elite club.

As an economy coach traveller, the curtain between the coach and the First Class cabin always reminded me of the heirarchy in the society. There is a whole world of difference in the 2 classes. I get my first cocktail even before the flight leaves the gate. For meal, I get white linen spread on my table and get silverware, not some cheap plasticware! Infact on the flight back from Costa Rica, the first class actually served Steak for dinner and Sundaes for dessert! The rest-room is always empty, and I dont have to wade throught the aisle with 1000 prying eyes resting on me. There are no crying toddlers or garralous war veterans annoying me. There are tired business travellers who either work hard or sleep hard and respect your privacy.

However the best part of the Elite Status, is the feeling that you are better than others. On second thoughts, it is not the feeling, its the fact that you are better than others. While others snake through a mile long queue to get through security, I step on a blue carpet welcoming me and breeze through it. Even while boarding, as soon as those nasty toddlers board the planes, I get to board and use up as much of the overhead cabin space as I decided to consume. It gives a great sense of importance to board, when 95% of the passengers are still getting fidgety in their seat looking at you enviously before they get their chance to board. I also relish at the prospect of the sadistic pleasure of watching your friends haul past you into their crampy economy coach, while you esconce yourself in the comforts of your huge seat.

Sometimes I wonder if I will ever be able to go back and adapt myself to Economy coach anymore?