I do believe that there is a difference between a "tizzy" and a healthy discussion. If you look at the original post it said "Perhaps I'm not seeing both sides of this but I was just curious what others thought." This is asking for opinions -- from both sides.
I have since spoken to some FAA officials who said that a lot of things are being discussed and it is always possible that they could become the rule. So, obviously, this has been discussed by more than one agent. It is in a group of things being discussed and in the future, possibly recommended. I have found, in our country's history, that often things become the "rule" when there seems to be no apparent objection to them. While I understand the need to wait and see what happens, I also understand the need to let those, we have elected, know how we feel on issues, even ones like these. That is the American Way. This forum allows us to bring those issues to others attention. It also allows us to be able to try to see the other side of things. That is good. It helps us as we process all this information. So I don't think anyone is getting worked up into a "tizzy". Perhaps I am wrong but as I read this thread I think we are simply voicing opinions and having a healthy electronic discussion. Discussing the what ifs and alternatives. A lot of good ideas are presented on this forum. That is wonderful. And while we may not agree with all of them, they are legitimate because they belong to unique individuals. And we are able to discuss them in a civil manner. That in itself, is an accomplishment.
As far as entertaining kids on planes. I flew regularly for 15 years without a child. During that time I saw many things concerning kids -- good and bad. I have been flying at least once a month with my son since he was 6 months old. My goal, always, is to bring things that will help me entertain my son so he doesn't bother other passengers. I have been thanked many times by both passengers and flight attendants. My son is easily entertained, by himself, at home. He loves to read. But there are few kids who will read and color for 5 hours. Discipline has nothing to do with it. A lot has to do with ther personality of the child and many other factors. Distraction and keeping him busy work much better, in my opinion, on an airplane. I have seen both and chose to do the later. Fellow passengers, at least from what they tell me, find it refreshing that he can do a variety of things, in his seat, and not bother anyone. At age 3 I am thrilled with this. That is my goal. Parenting is a very personal thing and people quickly take offense at broad statements that put everyone in a single category. Like I said before, it is important that all of us try to understand different views.
Back to the issue of carry ons. I really like the 15# rule. On a flight I took in August one passenger brought on an oversize backpack. The kind where you put the sleeping bag in the top. It took up a whole bin. No one said anything. They let him stow it above. I believe, in the discussion about carry ons, common sense will prevail -- at least I'm hoping. At times I think, if the airlines would strictly enforce the carry on rules that they have right now, many of the problems would be eliminated. We only bring on one carry on per person. And it always fits under the seat in front of us.
I think we can find a happy compromise between no carryons and large carryons. Safety is the issue. And if this is a good thing for airlines to eliminate all carry ons then I would assume we would also need to do the same for all forms of public transportation. Doesn't make much sense when you look at it that way.
But I enjoy this type of discussion. I'm glad to see that others feel the way I feel and it is also educational to look at the views of those who disagree.
Hope this happens.
