Cattle mode ...

As a seasoned airport traveller, I must marvel for a moment at the bewildered state of many of my fellow travellers. Sitting here at 05:55 having been awake for just over an hour, I am now sipping coffee in the departure lounge waiting for the gate to be called in around 22 minutes.

Looking at the queues in baggage check in and security, experience has long taught me that the little extra for speedy boarding and priority lane in security reduces stress when you are trying to get an early morning flight.

For most local airports, between 06:00 and 09:00 is a peek outbound time. With peek comes crowds, with crowds queues and queues encourage cattle mode behaviour.

While the travel will be paid for by the company, I am happy to pay the extra. Just to reduce stress, enjoy coffee and slide through the system with ease.

It is worth it.

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