San Francisco Photograph - Impressions by Alex Esguerra

Impressions is a photograph by Alex Esguerra which was uploaded on December 4th, 2014.

Impressions

Let's not mince words here - the price of a ticket is the major (for some, the DECIDING) factor in choosing what airline that can get you to your... more

by Alex Esguerra

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Title

Impressions

Artist

Alex Esguerra

Medium

Photograph - Color

Description

Let's not mince words here - the price of a ticket is the major (for some, the DECIDING) factor in choosing what airline that can get you to your destination will get your vote. But still, people love their perks once onboard. For most of us, it falls to the basics of, "PLEASE get me there on time," while others feel the need to experience whatever pampering they can get for their money. For airlines, the latter is NOT an easy challenge to meet. After all, how much Dom Perignon grade service can you give when you're trying to better (of not at least match) the often-bare-bone pricing of your competitors.

Still, airlines try, despite going into it almost literally with one hand tied behind their back, Things like a couple precious inches of legroom, the cabin crew going about their duties with a sincere smile. Setting yourself apart with things you can give your passengers that your competitors can't is another tactic they can use (I don't get "mood lighting", but many friends I know LOVE it). And even if it's something they have to PAY extra for, offering service that can offset the drudgery of being contained in a 500 mph sardine can with wings is a major plus!

It's a very close second that the other item that passengers love is getting the impression that, even in the smallest way, they are valued by the airlines. The almighty dollar still rules, but the sense of some airline CEO wants you to enjoy the ride is not far behind.

Virgin America is no doubt one of many carriers that have taken that concept to heart. It prides itself (per my research) on being highly customer focused, offering amenities sought by the traveling public (mood lighting included) and a service in a style all their own that keeps many of their passengers coming back. Like the rainbow against the dark skies on the day I snapped this photo, they and other airlines like them stand out from their competitors in a turbulent market that is largely viewed negatively.

Now could someone PLEASE explain to me the big deal that is mood lighting... *grin*

Uploaded

December 4th, 2014