subject: Searching Around The World With Airplane Flights [print this page] Anyone who has flown the airlines for a number of years is well aware of the many changes which have taken place. Although one can sometimes get a ticket for flights at a "bargain price" they find taxes added on as well as other charges. There has, however, been an improvement in speed and routes that are available which lowers the time to get from one place to another.
History shows that the first attempt at transporting airline passengers came about in Germany in 1909. This was actually a dirigible with an attachment underneath to hold the passengers. It did not last very long. It was not until 1914 that the first American commercial flight came into being. It, too, used the dirigible approach.
The airlines started to blossom during the late 1940's and several different companies came on the scene. New technologies were beginning to be introduced such as increased speed, pressurization and other feature. In the 1970s the jumbo jet was introduced and brought with it supersonic travel. This type of plane is still being used today in international travel.
The airbus, in Europe, is considered a great success and of real value to the people who use it. Designed like a regular bus it can get one from one place to another with no problem. Many use it for going from city to city and while not as fast as regular aircraft, it serves its purpose very well.
The deregulation of the airline industry in 1978 opened the door for many new airline companies. A large number were formed but, unfortunately, many found they could not continue due to pricing competition from the larger companies and other things. However, for the remaining companies' passenger travel has increased tremendously.
Where, originally flying on a commercial aircraft meant the best service possible that changed with the emergence of airlines offering low cost flying with no frills. However, some of these airlines have also ceased to do business. Today, as a passenger in the economy section one finds that there are lunches served at a price and the only thing offered is a soda and pretzels or crackers. This is very different from the original amenities provided.
Many of the cuts in airline service has been due to the increased price of fuel and other things. At one time, a fuel charge was added to the airline ticket but that is not being done today, they just raised the price of the ticket. There is now a charge on most airlines for an extra piece of luggage checked previous to the flights. One airline is even charging for carry-on luggage, which is stored in the overhead compartment.
