Air travel continues to undergo significant changes, but the good news is that it appears to be getting more satisfying.
As TSA does away with controversial policies like the tedious shoes-off rule and makes it easier for families to get through screening, airlines' pursuit of a better bottom line continues to plague passengers.
The push for profit is evident in Southwest Airlines' dramatic transformation. The low-cost carrier is eliminating some of its iconic perks, such as free bags and open seating, in the name of "choice" and competition.
Spirit Airlines has been preparing for what appears to be its final curtain call amid multiple bankruptcy restructurings, even slashing jobs and routes in an effort to remain afloat.
Frontier Airlines is confident that it's well-positioned to capitalize on these changes, but the fact is, travelers have fewer choices when it comes to budget air travel these days and that trend is likely to continue into 2026.
Chaotic boarding aside, I have always cherished the simplicity of flying Southwest. There's something to be said for booking a flight at a fair price and knowing exactly what to expect in the wake.
A bit of overhead bin space, a ginger ale, crackers, free live TV and friendly flight attendants are all you can ask for. I don't doubt that experience is going away, but how we get there is.
Much like the mid-20th century, it's likely we'll look back on this period as the golden age of budget air travel.
Perhaps it's why Southwest is still trying to dig out of its financial hole. In my opinion, the traveler won, but dynasties don't last forever.
Right now, you have Southwest trying to become more like every other airline and Spirit failing spectacularly even as it attempts to reinvent itself.
Air travelers will adapt because they always do, but you'd be wise to appreciate the current state of budget air travel before it's gone.
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