Newsstand - Stupidity in High Places (Like 30,000 Feet)

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/11/business/11flier.html?ref=travel

I’M a problem solver and have spent most of my career helping companies unravel everything from complex financial issues to complicated regulatory matters.
Despite that background, one problem I’ve never been able to understand, let alone solve, is why bright, successful business travelers experience brain drain, that lack of common sense.

I don't think that any of those examples are specific to stupidity in the air/on an airplane (except the kid climbing into the overhead bin, and then just because it was available). The sorts of "stupidity" described happen everywhere all the time. Sad commentary on society in general, but nothing specific to air travel.

i do like the part about the kid climbing into the o/h bin

On another trip I watched a little boy, about 5 years old, climb into the overhead bin. It was one of the funniest things I’ve ever seen. Everyone on the plane was watching his masterful attempt except for his parents. When he successfully got into the bin the passengers applauded his efforts. His mom turned red. His dad barely looked up from his newspaper.

but it would have been better if someone then closed the bin with the kid inside ;)