What The F Were They Thinking?

 

Ah, those were the days.   This is one of those iconic passageways at LAX that connected your gate with baggage claims.   That long, long, long walk that was made easier by the inclusion of those sliding people movers.   You just stood on it and, if you chose, you didn't have to move a single foot.   Perhaps you remember these from the opening credits of "The Graduate."

Well, it's 2026 and most terminals at LAX are sprucing up for the burgeoning Summer Olympics of 2028.   They are updating and upgrading the facilities.

And, as a result, those handy people sliders?   Gone.  Replaced by...well...nothing.  And with gates moved out more, this walk to your gate or to baggage claim on incoming flights is an unmitigated disaster.   Indeed, the American Airlines terminal at LAX is now a horror show for anybody that is ADA-compliant.  Or like me...coming off hip, knee, and hernia surgeries.

As the title says...what the bleep were they thinking?

Okay, they have a solution and I did try it out on my last plane trip.

Waymo Wheelchairs!  

The waiting attendant programs in your gate number or ultimate airport destination and off you go.  

At one mile a minute.   If you're flying next Wednesday, you might want to get your chair on Tuesday.  It's a help for sure.   But wasn't the original sliding gizmo a better alternative?

Indeed, at this point, the only people who will be fit enough to attend the Olympics will be the athletes who are in the Olympics.

Dinner last night:  Sandwich.