Two weeks ago, I meandered into JFK terminal 7 at about 11:45AM and attempted to check in for a 2:15 flight in full fare F. I politely and quietly stood in front of a long line of check-in stations, all empty except for one solitary attendant, who spent much of the next 15 minutes chatting on the phone, refusing to make eye contact the entire time. Finally, when I could stand it no more, I shouted out "Is everyone here on strike?", loud enough for the folks at BA to enjoy. I was not amused.

Even after all of this, I still had to wait somewhat longer for another attendant to come out of hiding. Once finally checked in, I engaged in a frank but cordial chat with the station manager. Although I ended up waiting for my flight in the comforts of the F lounge, the check-in experience was especially disappointing because it is a location in which I have been typically treated quite well.