In a world where people are more mobile than in any previous
generation, travelers have come to expect many little, and 
not so little, extras from the airlines. From a young mother
keeping her attention focused on small children, to a 
business person experiencing their own particular pressures,
the challenge of time spent traveling can be daunting. 

Even ten years ago the actual time in the air was small 
compared to the challenge of traveling to the airport, and 
once there finding a parking spot and getting from the car 
to the check-in-counter. Long lines were not uncommon and 
there was nothing to do but stand there. Layovers in other 
airports could be frustrating, wasted hours. While an actual
flight might be three hours, the time in the air wasn't 
conducive to productivity. 

The airline's desire to provide real service is reflected in
their adding many benefits for business flyers - benefits 
that take place long before the plane takes off. The flyer 
can often request an airline to provide chauffeur service 
from his/her home or office to the airport. For those who 
drive their own car, the airlines will often park your 
car for you and then retrieve it when you ask. Expedited 
check-ins have eliminated much frustration, allowing the 
traveler to check in at curb-site, or at special check-in 
lines inside. 

Accomplishing work and also having fun are now part of the 
actual flight process. One of the great amenities that some 
airlines are now providing is the use of a power port. 
Looking like a cigarette lighter plug-in, it allows 
travelers to recharge their laptops and cell phones. The 
problem of long flights and dead batteries is now resolved. 
Families are also benefiting from the power port, as DVD 
players, CD players, electronic and video games become part 
of the flying adventure. 

Over the years the airlines offered movies to the travelers 
to lessen the boredom of a long ride. However, viewers had 
the option of either watching the movie or not watching it. 
Variety was not an option. Now the traveler's can bring 
their own portable CD or DVD player, along with their 
personal choice of entertainment. The mobile technology of 
today has opened many options for a traveler who used to be 
weary. 

For those who don't want to lug their own equipment around 
with them, flights on many airlines have the option of 
individual screens with a catalog of choices where you can 
select a movie - or even a video game. And, many provide you
with the opportunity to even check your e-mail. Home and 
office travel right along with you. 

Geranas Strahl is the owner and webmaster of Face Airline, 
a leading Internet directory for airline information. For 
more airline information and resources, be sure to visit:  
http://www.faceairline.com