QUOTE=pmaddock]Indeed - way too over the top to be anything but a post from a thinly disguised union rep.

Actually, this article was cut and pasted for an open review in this forum, as I am truly concerned about this issue. I was hoping for others insights on this topic.

Contrary to another’s post I am not opposed to having other nationalities working on the plane.

However I do hold serious concerns. First I am concerned about my safety on board today’s aircraft and I’m not talking about the seat belts friends. Secondly I’m concerned about the long-term effect of our collective actions.

National Defense is what I do for a living. I know what today’s flight attendants are actually trained for whether you realize it or not. Being involved I know that today’s threat on America’s fleet is extremely real. For someone to make the statement that they “didn’t realize safety was still an issue” is well - simply, arrogant and ignorant.

In today’s environment I hold my breath every time I take off and I am leery during flight concerning those seated around me not to mention what is in the cargo hold. With today’s cut backs I know screening cargo is limited not to mention the pressure TSA is under not to inconvenience the customers of the airline. Another poster held TSA with contempt. They actually are a very effective layer of security.

Granted we generally see only the topical version of the bitter employee (the Flight Attendant) during day-to-day activities. Recognizing this I also realize the extreme conditions under which these people operate. So now I would point out that after the TSA and the “screening” of cargo the Flight Attendant is our last layer of defense aboard the airline.

Certainly, I admit that while the stereotype exists there are many that also perform their duties to the letter and then some. The actions of September 11 have made many serious changes within this work group. Most recently I can honestly say I had both. It has been my experience that the more seasoned flight attendant is generally the surliest. Even with that said I know that based on their training I would feel more comfortable with the tried and true rather than the cheap an untested.

I do understand that business models change and that the business environment has changed, however I question are we changing to quickly? Have we considered the long-term effects of our actions here at home? As we sacrifice our work groups what will rush in and fill the void. Will we be cutting our own throats in the end? These are the questions I pose to you.

One poster read the article and purported that it was all hyperbola or extreme exaggeration meant to stir the pot. While it could have been I see it as a huge question mark.

As I am a passenger I am not a mindless corporate drone nor am I a whining Unionist looking for a harbor in a storm. I am a freethinking individual that would hope others could see past their respective wallets and look at the bigger picture for a moment.

What will it take for you to realize that we indeed live in a very unfriendly world? Pull your head out of the sand. That’s all I ask.

Please feel free to toss the tomatoes now.