On a cross-country flight I was surprised to find out that Spirit Airlines has the policy of “credit cards only” for in-flight purchases. They do not accept cash anymore for amenities they used to give out free.
The male flight attendant was rude and stubborn about the policy. As he made is way down the aisle, row after row, passengers asked a variety of questions, such as, “Does that include soft drinks” or “Even for a bottle of water?” And his blanket, corporate answer was, “All snacks, including hot and cold beverages, are available for purchase with a credit card.”
The bottom line is nothing was complimentary and only credit or debit cards could be used; legal tender was not accepted. If anyone asked anything about this policy, he or she received the same, recorded-sounding, corporate answer.
When the gentleman next to me tried to ask his question three different ways, he received the exact same answer three times: “All snacks, including hot and cold beverages, are available for purchase with a credit card.” I tried to help by offering the suggestion that the flight attendant must only have one response for all inquiries – the flight attendant then turned around, walked down the aisle, never to return to our row – so very unprofessional.
Once another flight attendant came by I ordered from the “good deals” listing, saving myself two dollars by purchasing a “value meal,” as found on page 47 of the Skylights Magazine. Yes, the experience had a fast-food feel to it and I’m surprised we didn’t hear, “Welcome to Spirit Airlines, may I take your order?” along the way.
Spirit Airlines is one of a dozen airlines not accepting cash anymore. Other “credit card only” carriers include Southwest, Air Tran & Jet Blue, as well as larger carriers such as American and United.
Flight attendants have a tough job, they are trained professionals, and I respect them. I dislike the fact that the airlines have turned them into waitresses and waiters, or “servers” as the PC term goes. I wonder: Will I have to calculate a gratuity for my in-flight purchases soon?
Michael writes about happenings in the Rochester area, travels across Michigan and destinations around the world. Contact him at Michael@RochesterMedia.com
About Michael Dwyer