How many times have you rushed to the airport, only to find yourself rotting in line at the security checkpoint area? After what seems like an eternity, you make it through, you put your shoes back on, make your way to the gate, board your flight, and finally fall into your seat and start going through a mental checklist: wallet… check… underwear… check… contact case… check… glasses… check… toothbrush… UGH! No toothbrush. No spearmint gum. No way to salvage your breath before coming face-to-face with your regional supervisor who offered to “graciously” meet you at baggage claim.
Sounds like bad news (and bad breath)… unless you are flying United Airlines’ low-fare unit Ted. The carrier recently began selling retail merchandise on domestic flights. The move marks the first time a major U.S. carrier has tried to sell retail goods on flights longer than 2 hours. Industry insiders say giving fliers the opportunity to purchase items in mid-air “represents another effort by United to increase revenues and bolster its bottom line.”
Along with toothbrushes, the carrier is also selling coloring books, stuffed animals, poker kits, candy, and jewelry. I chuckled when I first heard about Ted’s new in-flight “store.” I thought of my dad and how he would always return with gifts when he had to travel somewhere on business. Now, dads and moms have the option of buying last-minute gifts at 35,000 feet, instead of at the airport gift shop. I can hear the conversation now: Daughter: “Wow! Daddy, a new teddy bear. Where did you get him?” Father: “Somewhere over Omaha.”
Prices for the retail items range from $5 to $25. Here’s a sampling of other goods you can purchase on your next Ted flight: Origami kits ($5), crossword or Sudoku books ($10), window seat book featuring pictures from the air ($15), and compact sunglasses ($25). Oh, and did I mention you can also purchase a sterling silver heart bracelet for $20? Can you say last-minute anniversary gift?