#American Airlines Name Change Policy

[airlineinsights]

Fly with Confidence: American Airlines Complete Guide

American Airlines is one of the major airlines in the United States and a prominent player in the global aviation industry. Founded in 1930, it has a rich history and has grown into one of the largest airlines in the world. With its headquarters in Fort Worth, Texas, American Airlines operates an extensive network of domestic and international flights, serving destinations across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and beyond.

American Airlines had a fleet size of over 870 aircraft, consisting of various models from manufacturers such as Boeing and Airbus. The airline offers a range of services to cater to different travel needs, including first class, business class, premium economy, and economy cabins.

American Airlines is a founding member of the global airline alliance, Oneworld, which allows it to provide seamless connections and reciprocal benefits to passengers traveling with its partner airlines. It also has codeshare agreements with numerous other airlines, further expanding its reach and connectivity.

The airline has faced various challenges over the years, including economic downturns, competition, and the impact of events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly affected the aviation industry. However, American Airlines has continuously adapted and innovated to navigate these challenges, implementing initiatives to improve customer experience, enhance operational efficiency, and prioritize safety and sustainability.

Overall, American Airlines has established itself as a prominent player in the airline industry, offering a wide range of services and connectivity options to travelers across the globe. With a focus on customer satisfaction and continuous improvement, it continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of air travel.

How to make Reservations for American Airlines?

When it comes to making easy American Airlines reservations, there are a few key points to keep in mind. Here are the main aspects to consider:

Booking Options: American Airlines provides multiple channels for making reservations. You can book flights online through their official website or mobile app, by calling their customer service hotline, or by visiting one of their ticket offices or airport counters.

Flight Selection: American Airlines offers a vast network of domestic and international destinations, allowing you to choose from a wide range of flight options. They operate numerous daily flights to popular destinations, ensuring flexibility in scheduling.

Fare Classes: American Airlines offers different fare classes to suit various travel needs and budgets. These typically include First Class, Business Class, Premium Economy, and Economy. Each class comes with its own set of amenities and services.

Additional Services: During the reservation process, American Airlines provides options to select additional services like seat upgrades, preferred seating, checked baggage, in-flight meals, and Wi-Fi access. These services may have associated fees.

Loyalty Program: American Airlines has a frequent flyer program called AAdvantage, which rewards loyal customers with miles that can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other benefits. It's worth considering joining the program if you plan to fly frequently with American Airlines.

Flexible Booking Policies: American Airlines has implemented flexible booking policies that allow passengers to make changes or cancel their reservations under certain conditions. It's advisable to review the specific terms and conditions associated with your ticket, as they may vary based on fare type and booking channel.

By considering these main points, you can ensure a smooth reservation process with American Airlines, tailored to your preferences and travel requirements.

What is the American Airlines Cancellation Policy?

Here are the main points of the American Airlines cancellation policy, however, please note that policies and terms may have changed since then, so it's always advisable to check the most up-to-date information on their official website or contact American Airlines directly for the latest details.

24-Hour Cancellation Policy: American Airlines allows passengers to cancel their reservations within 24 hours of booking without incurring any cancellation fees, regardless of the ticket type. This applies to both refundable and non-refundable tickets.

Non-Refundable Tickets: If you cancel a non-refundable ticket after the 24-hour window, you may not receive a refund. However, the value of the ticket may be eligible for future travel credits, subject to certain conditions and fees.

Refundable Tickets: Refundable tickets offer more flexibility. If you hold a refundable ticket and decide to cancel, you can typically receive a full refund of the ticket's value, regardless of the cancellation timeframe.

Cancellation Fees: For non-refundable tickets, if you cancel after the 24-hour window, a cancellation fee will usually apply. The fee amount varies depending on factors such as the fare type, destination, and ticket class.

Basic Economy Tickets: Basic Economy tickets, which typically have more restrictions, may have stricter cancellation policies. It's essential to review the specific terms and conditions associated with Basic Economy tickets before making a purchase.

Elite Status and AAdvantage Members: Passengers with elite status or AAdvantage membership may have additional benefits and flexibility regarding cancellations, such as waived fees or enhanced refund options. These benefits depend on the member's tier and the specific terms of the program.

It's always recommended to consult the official American Airlines website or contact their customer service directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding their cancellation policy.

American Airlines Manage Booking with the Official Website

When it comes to managing your booking with American Airlines, there are several key points to be aware of. Here are the main aspects of American Airlines manage booking feature:

Online Access: American Airlines provides an online platform where you can conveniently manage your booking details. Visit their official website or mobile app and navigate to the "Manage Reservations" section.

Retrieve Booking: To access your booking, you will typically need to provide relevant information such as your last name and booking confirmation number. Alternatively, you may log in to your AAdvantage account if you have one.

Itinerary Review: Once you have accessed your booking, you can review the details of your itinerary, including flight dates, times, routes, and passenger information. Ensure that all the information is accurate and up to date.

Seat Selection: American Airlines' manage booking feature allows you to select or change your seats, subject to availability. You can choose seats that suit your preferences, such as extra legroom or seats together with your travel companions.

Upgrades: If you are interested in upgrading your seat to a higher class, such as upgrading from Economy to Business or First Class, the manage booking feature may provide options to explore and request upgrades. However, availability and eligibility for upgrades may vary.

Special Requests: You can use the manage booking feature to make special requests, such as dietary requirements, wheelchair assistance, or other specific accommodations. Ensure to provide the necessary details well in advance to allow the airline to make suitable arrangements.

Flight Changes: Depending on the fare type and specific conditions associated with your ticket, you may be able to make changes to your flight details through the manage booking feature. This includes modifying travel dates, routes, or even canceling and rebooking flights.

Baggage Additions: If you need to add checked baggage to your booking or modify your existing baggage allowance, the manage booking feature often provides options to do so. Note that additional fees may apply for excess or overweight baggage.

Check-in: Some manage booking features also allow you to check in for your flight online, saving time at the airport. You can select seats, receive electronic boarding passes, and complete the necessary check-in process ahead of your departure.

Payment and Refunds: In certain situations, you may be able to process payments for outstanding amounts or request refunds through the manage booking feature. However, refund eligibility and processes may vary based on fare type and specific circumstances.

It's important to note that the available options in the manage booking feature can vary depending on factors such as ticket type, fare rules, and the specific services offered by American Airlines. Therefore, it's always advisable to review the details and instructions provided on their official website or contact their customer service directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding managing your booking.

How to Rebook American Airlines?

When it comes to rebooking your flight with American Airlines, here are the main points to consider:

Flight Changes: If you need to modify your travel plans, American Airlines allows you to rebook your flight. You can change your flight date, time, or even the destination, subject to availability and fare rules.

Change Fees: Depending on the fare type and the specific conditions associated with your ticket, rebooking may incur change fees. Non-refundable tickets generally require payment of a change fee in addition to any fare difference.

Fare Differences: When rebook American Airlines, fare differences may apply if the new flight has a higher fare than your original booking. Conversely, if the new fare is lower, you may be eligible for a refund or travel credit for the price difference, depending on the fare rules.

Flexibility Policies: American Airlines has implemented flexible policies, particularly during unforeseen circumstances or exceptional events. These policies may provide additional flexibility for rebooking without change fees, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic or severe weather conditions. It's essential to review the current policies and any associated timeframes or limitations.

Booking Channels: You can rebook your flight through various channels, including the American Airlines website, mobile app, or by contacting their customer service. The specific options available may depend on the fare type and the original booking channel.

Elite Status and AAdvantage Members: Passengers with elite status or AAdvantage membership may have additional rebooking benefits, such as waived change fees or enhanced flexibility. These benefits vary depending on the member's tier and the specific terms of the program.

Timeframes and Restrictions: It's important to be aware of any timeframes or restrictions associated with rebooking. Some fare types may have limitations on how far in advance or close to departure you can make changes. Additionally, certain promotional fares or discounted tickets may have specific rules and restrictions regarding rebooking.

Contacting Customer Service: If you encounter any difficulties or have specific requirements for your rebooking, it's recommended to contact American Airlines' customer service directly. Their representatives can provide guidance, assistance, and information regarding available options and any associated fees or requirements.

Remember that the rebooking process and associated policies can vary based on ticket type, fare rules, and the specific circumstances. It's always advisable to review the details and instructions provided by American Airlines on their official website or contact their customer service directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding rebooking your flight.

American Airlines Change Flight Policy 

Here are the main points of the American Airlines change flight policy. However, please note that policies and terms may have changed since then, so it's always advisable to check the most up-to-date information on their official website or contact American Airlines directly for the latest details.

Change Fees: American Airlines typically charges change fees for modifying your flight. The amount of the fee depends on factors such as the fare type, destination, and ticket class. Non-refundable tickets generally require payment of a change fee in addition to any fare difference.

Fare Differences: When changing your flight, fare differences may apply if the new flight has a higher fare than your original booking. Conversely, if the new fare is lower, you may be eligible for a refund or travel credit for the price difference, depending on the fare rules.

Change Options: American Airlines offers various channels for changing your flight. You can make changes online through their official website or mobile app, by contacting their customer service, or by visiting their ticket offices or airport counters.

Timeframes and Restrictions: It's important to be aware of any timeframes or restrictions associated with changing your flight. Some fare types may have limitations on how far in advance or close to departure you can make changes. Additionally, certain promotional fares or discounted tickets may have specific rules and restrictions regarding changes.

Flexible Policies: American Airlines has implemented flexible policies, particularly during unforeseen circumstances or exceptional events. These policies may provide additional flexibility for changing your flight without change fees, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic or severe weather conditions. It's essential to review the current policies and any associated timeframes or limitations.

Elite Status and AAdvantage Members: Passengers with elite status or AAdvantage membership may have additional benefits when changing their flights, such as waived change fees or enhanced flexibility. These benefits vary depending on the member's tier and the specific terms of the program.

Refundability: The refundability of your ticket depends on the fare type and its associated rules. Non-refundable tickets typically do not qualify for a refund, but the value of the ticket may be eligible for future travel credits, subject to certain conditions and fees.

Booking Channel: The availability of changing your flight through specific channels may vary based on the original booking method. For example, if you booked through a third-party website or travel agency, you may need to contact them directly for changes.

Remember to consult the official American Airlines website or contact their customer service directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding their change flight policy.

What is the Change Name Policy on American Airlines Tickets?

American Airlines did not have a specific policy regarding name changes. However, airline policies can evolve over time, so it's best to refer to the most up-to-date information on the American Airlines website or contact their customer service directly for the latest details. That being said, here are some general points to keep in mind regarding American Airlines name change Policy:

Name Correction: Airlines typically allow minor name corrections free of charge, such as fixing a misspelled name or correcting a typographical error. These changes are usually made to ensure that the name on the ticket matches the traveler's identification documents.

Name Change: Most airlines have restrictions or fees associated with changing the name on a ticket. In many cases, name changes are not permitted or are subject to specific conditions. This is primarily to prevent the misuse of tickets or fraudulent activities.

Transferability: Airline tickets are generally non-transferable, meaning they cannot be transferred to another person's name. This policy helps prevent ticket scalping or unauthorized reselling.

Flexibility: Some airlines offer more flexible ticket options that allow for easier name changes, typically at a higher price. These may include refundable tickets or tickets with flexible change policies.

Documentation: When requesting a name change, airlines may require documentation, such as a copy of the passenger's identification or a marriage certificate in the case of a name change due to marriage.

Remember, these points are general guidelines, and specific policies can vary between airlines. It's always advisable to consult the airline directly or refer to their website for their specific name change policy and any associated fees or requirements.

How to Get Help through American Airlines Customer Service?

American Airlines customer service can be contacted through phone, online support, social media, or at airport service desks. For specific contact information and assistance, visit the American Airlines website or refer to their social media accounts, here are some general ways to contact American Airlines customer service:

Phone: You can reach American Airlines customer service by phone. The specific phone numbers may vary depending on your location and the nature of your inquiry. Visit the American Airlines website and navigate to the "Contact Us" or "Customer Service" section to find the appropriate phone number for your region.

Online Support: American Airlines provides an online support portal where you can find answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) and submit specific inquiries. Visit the American Airlines website and look for the "Contact Us" or "Customer Service" section. There, you may find options to submit a form, start a live chat, or access self-service tools.

Social Media: American Airlines maintains an active presence on various social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook. You can try reaching out to their customer service team through these channels by sending them a direct message or tagging them in a public post. However, keep in mind that social media responses may not be as prompt or comprehensive as other customer service channels.

Airport Customer Service: If you're already at an airport, you can visit an American Airlines customer service desk or counter for assistance. The staff there should be able to address your concerns or provide you with relevant information.

Remember that these methods are subject to change, and it's always a good idea to check the American Airlines website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date information on how to reach them.

[mostlysignssomeportents]

How plausible sentence generators are changing the bullshit wars

This Friday (September 8) at 10hPT/17hUK, I'm livestreaming "How To Dismantle the Internet" with Intelligence Squared.

On September 12 at 7pm, I'll be at Toronto's Another Story Bookshop with my new book The Internet Con: How to Seize the Means of Computation.

In my latest Locus Magazine column, "Plausible Sentence Generators," I describe how I unwittingly came to use – and even be impressed by – an AI chatbot – and what this means for a specialized, highly salient form of writing, namely, "bullshit":

https://locusmag.com/2023/09/commentary-by-cory-doctorow-plausible-sentence-generators/

Here's what happened: I got stranded at JFK due to heavy weather and an air-traffic control tower fire that locked down every westbound flight on the east coast. The American Airlines agent told me to try going standby the next morning, and advised that if I booked a hotel and saved my taxi receipts, I would get reimbursed when I got home to LA.

But when I got home, the airline's reps told me they would absolutely not reimburse me, that this was their policy, and they didn't care that their representative had promised they'd make me whole. This was so frustrating that I decided to take the airline to small claims court: I'm no lawyer, but I know that a contract takes place when an offer is made and accepted, and so I had a contract, and AA was violating it, and stiffing me for over $400.

The problem was that I didn't know anything about filing a small claim. I've been ripped off by lots of large American businesses, but none had pissed me off enough to sue – until American broke its contract with me.

So I googled it. I found a website that gave step-by-step instructions, starting with sending a "final demand" letter to the airline's business office. They offered to help me write the letter, and so I clicked and I typed and I wrote a pretty stern legal letter.

Now, I'm not a lawyer, but I have worked for a campaigning law-firm for over 20 years, and I've spent the same amount of time writing about the sins of the rich and powerful. I've seen a lot of threats, both those received by our clients and sent to me.

I've been threatened by everyone from Gwyneth Paltrow to Ralph Lauren to the Sacklers. I've been threatened by lawyers representing the billionaire who owned NSOG roup, the notoroious cyber arms-dealer. I even got a series of vicious, baseless threats from lawyers representing LAX's private terminal.

So I know a thing or two about writing a legal threat! I gave it a good effort and then submitted the form, and got a message asking me to wait for a minute or two. A couple minutes later, the form returned a new version of my letter, expanded and augmented. Now, my letter was a little scary – but this version was bowel-looseningly terrifying.

I had unwittingly used a chatbot. The website had fed my letter to a Large Language Model, likely ChatGPT, with a prompt like, "Make this into an aggressive, bullying legal threat." The chatbot obliged.

I don't think much of LLMs. After you get past the initial party trick of getting something like, "instructions for removing a grilled-cheese sandwich from a VCR in the style of the King James Bible," the novelty wears thin:

https://www.emergentmind.com/posts/write-a-biblical-verse-in-the-style-of-the-king-james

Yes, science fiction magazines are inundated with LLM-written short stories, but the problem there isn't merely the overwhelming quantity of machine-generated stories – it's also that they suck. They're bad stories:

https://www.npr.org/2023/02/24/1159286436/ai-chatbot-chatgpt-magazine-clarkesworld-artificial-intelligence

LLMs generate naturalistic prose. This is an impressive technical feat, and the details are genuinely fascinating. This series by Ben Levinstein is a must-read peek under the hood:

https://benlevinstein.substack.com/p/how-to-think-about-large-language

But "naturalistic prose" isn't necessarily good prose. A lot of naturalistic language is awful. In particular, legal documents are fucking terrible. Lawyers affect a stilted, stylized language that is both officious and obfuscated.

The LLM I accidentally used to rewrite my legal threat transmuted my own prose into something that reads like it was written by a $600/hour paralegal working for a $1500/hour partner at a white-show law-firm. As such, it sends a signal: "The person who commissioned this letter is so angry at you that they are willing to spend $600 to get you to cough up the $400 you owe them. Moreover, they are so well-resourced that they can afford to pursue this claim beyond any rational economic basis."

Let's be clear here: these kinds of lawyer letters aren't good writing; they're a highly specific form of bad writing. The point of this letter isn't to parse the text, it's to send a signal. If the letter was well-written, it wouldn't send the right signal. For the letter to work, it has to read like it was written by someone whose prose-sense was irreparably damaged by a legal education.

Here's the thing: the fact that an LLM can manufacture this once-expensive signal for free means that the signal's meaning will shortly change, forever. Once companies realize that this kind of letter can be generated on demand, it will cease to mean, "You are dealing with a furious, vindictive rich person." It will come to mean, "You are dealing with someone who knows how to type 'generate legal threat' into a search box."

Legal threat letters are in a class of language formally called "bullshit":

https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691122946/on-bullshit

LLMs may not be good at generating science fiction short stories, but they're excellent at generating bullshit. For example, a university prof friend of mine admits that they and all their colleagues are now writing grad student recommendation letters by feeding a few bullet points to an LLM, which inflates them with bullshit, adding puffery to swell those bullet points into lengthy paragraphs.

Naturally, the next stage is that profs on the receiving end of these recommendation letters will ask another LLM to summarize them by reducing them to a few bullet points. This is next-level bullshit: a few easily-grasped points are turned into a florid sheet of nonsense, which is then reconverted into a few bullet-points again, though these may only be tangentially related to the original.

What comes next? The reference letter becomes a useless signal. It goes from being a thing that a prof has to really believe in you to produce, whose mere existence is thus significant, to a thing that can be produced with the click of a button, and then it signifies nothing.

We've been through this before. It used to be that sending a letter to your legislative representative meant a lot. Then, automated internet forms produced by activists like me made it far easier to send those letters and lawmakers stopped taking them so seriously. So we created automatic dialers to let you phone your lawmakers, this being another once-powerful signal. Lowering the cost of making the phone call inevitably made the phone call mean less.

Today, we are in a war over signals. The actors and writers who've trudged through the heat-dome up and down the sidewalks in front of the studios in my neighborhood are sending a very powerful signal. The fact that they're fighting to prevent their industry from being enshittified by plausible sentence generators that can produce bullshit on demand makes their fight especially important.

Chatbots are the nuclear weapons of the bullshit wars. Want to generate 2,000 words of nonsense about "the first time I ate an egg," to run overtop of an omelet recipe you're hoping to make the number one Google result? ChatGPT has you covered. Want to generate fake complaints or fake positive reviews? The Stochastic Parrot will produce 'em all day long.

As I wrote for Locus: "None of this prose is good, none of it is really socially useful, but there’s demand for it. Ironically, the more bullshit there is, the more bullshit filters there are, and this requires still more bullshit to overcome it."

Meanwhile, AA still hasn't answered my letter, and to be honest, I'm so sick of bullshit I can't be bothered to sue them anymore. I suppose that's what they were counting on.

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/09/07/govern-yourself-accordingly/#robolawyers

Image: Cryteria (modified) https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:HAL9000.svg

CC BY 3.0

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en

[callsignspark]

change your ticket home

a top gun maverick AU

pairing: Bradley Bradshaw x Sherrie McHone (fem!OC)

summary: After a successful business trip on the West Coast, two Wells Corporation engineers have problems getting back home. Thank god for Bradley Bradshaw, a man who is determined to make their hours waiting in the terminal as enjoyable as possible. And if he and his pretty travel companion (and colleague) get closer along the way? Well that’s just a bonus.

warnings: difficulties of being a woman in a male-dominated field, minor misogyny from coworkers, yearning, pining, Bradley being an absolute sweetheart, it's vaguely alluded to but Sherrie is named after the Steve Perry song, American Airlines bashing bc this fic is based on a real and horrible experience I had a few years ago. and yes, the title is from the one direction song.

word count: 9.8k | masterlist

note: happy saturday! this has been in the works for almost a year and I'm so thrilled to finally be sharing it! this is dedicated to @gretagerwigsmuse, who gave so many wonderful ideas and has continually been a cheerleader for this fic. happy birthday!

Friday, July 15, 2016 | 06:36 AM PST | San Diego, CA

“If I fake a heart attack, we can get out of this meeting, right?”

She looks over at Bradley sprawled in the uncomfortable café chair in his navy suit, his arm slung over the back of her chair. He’s down to just his crisp, white button-up, jacket, and tie abandoned within the first ten minutes of the call.

“Suck it up, we’re almost done.” She rolls her eyes. “And Martin knows you’re a supremely healthy thirty-two-year-old, so no, I don’t think that will work.”

“Sherrie…” His whine is cut off by her hand covering his mouth as she unmutes her microphone and mentally praises his decision to sit so close to her. Not having to pull out both laptops was just an additional perk on top of her ability to silence him.

“That’s correct, Sean. We got them to agree to a small batch trail run for the connectors. We’ll be working together on running them through environmental testing before committing to a full contract.”

“And why are they agreeing to that? Because frankly, it makes no sense to me why they would want to do that.”

Bradley straightens up, his eyes narrowing at the Teams box showing the older man’s initials. “Well, Sean, as Sherrie explained before. Harris hasn’t produced connectors like this before, and they’re interested in the test results, specifically the shock data. So they agreed to take on half the burden so they can use the information for their own use. If this works how we think it will, this will be a huge boost for their business, even if the patent is shared.”

She looks at him, half admonishment and half appreciation, always a little bit amazed when he had her back, no matter how many times he had done it. “The contracts team is drawing up the final agreements and negotiating with their team next week, so best case scenario is we have reports with usable data by the end of the summer. Worst case, it’ll drift into the middle of Q1.”

“That’s great work you guys did out there, thank you. Alright, I think that covers everything we had to talk about today. McHone, Bradshaw - have a safe flight back, and everyone have a good weekend!” Martin ends the call before anyone can add anything.

Bradley laughs. “God, he’s just as sick of Sean as I am. I can’t wait until he retires.”

“He’s not that bad; you’re just grumpy because you had to dress up for the staff meeting, and then Martin said cameras off today.”

“I am upset about that! I will be logging yet another suggestion that we should have casual Fridays and casual travel policy. But I’m more upset because he talks down to you all the time! Like you haven’t been carrying this department on your back since we started ten years ago!”

“Carrying is an exaggeration, Bradley.” She looks up from where she’s putting her laptop away. “I think you have time to change into something comfy before we board.”

“American Airlines Flight 2307 from San Diego to Charlotte, Boarding Group A can now board.”

“Or not.” She giggles as he groans, reaching over to pull her other air pod out of his ear. “Come on, it’s a long flight; you can sleep on the plane. Just be thankful you’re not wearing an underwire bra and heels.”

“I don’t know how you do that.” He mutters, shooing her away when she tries to pick up her carry-on, throwing it over his shoulder alongside his own.

“I don’t either. I’m going to get a massage when we get back to Boston.”

“Ohhh, a massage sounds nice.” He subtly sticks his elbow out for her grab, which she gratefully does, letting his tall frame guide her to their gate. “You know you didn’t have to wear heels, right?”

“You should shut up while I’m still thankful you yelled at Sean for me.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

Sherrie leans her head on his arm as they wait in the priority boarding line, one of the perks of traveling on the company’s dime. Normally, she would worry about being more professional while carrying her work bag that had the Wells Corporation logo embroidered on it, but she can’t bring herself to care. Yesterday’s meetings ran late, and the following client dinner had kept them out until almost midnight. After packing, going to bed late, and having to get up at 3:30AM to get to the airport, she was exhausted.

She takes her bag before they scan their tickets, not fighting when he grabs it again on their walk down the jet bridge.

“Where are you sitting again?”

“I’m in 16C.” She snorts at Bradley’s pout. “What? You knew we weren’t going to be sitting together.”

“But I’m going to be bored all the way back in 21D by myself.”

“Bud, you’re going to fall asleep in the first 30 minutes like you always do, and then I would be stuck for the next four hours with you leaning and drooling on me.”

Bradley whips his head around, “That is a baseless accusation. I do not drool!”

“You 100% definitely do drool, I’ve seen it.” Her smirk widens when his attempt to fight back is cut off by the flight attendants greeting them.

He ushers Sherrie on first, politely nodding to the flight crew before following her down the aisle, ducking down to whisper. “I do not drool.”

“You absolutely do drool. You also snore.”

She can feel eyes on them as they shuffle down the aisle, making eye contact with an older woman who raises her eyebrows in appreciation at the hunk of a man behind her.

This happens everywhere they go.

Bradley is such a gentleman, always opening doors and carrying her bags, that people never believe the two are just friends and coworkers. She’s had complete strangers fight with her when she says there’s nothing between them. Unable to accept that it’s just platonic.

As much as she wishes it could be more.

After years of learning all the little details of each other, she knows they would be good together. Their decade-long friendship allowing her to thoroughly analyze how well their personalities would mesh. They share the same beliefs and have the same interests; they even have overlapping friend groups. They’re made for each other.

On paper.

In reality, it will never happen.

She won’t let it.

“Is this good here?” Bradley’s question interrupts her weekly internal spiral; his big brown eyes blink at her over his shoulder as he puts her bag into the overhead compartment.

“That’s fine. Can you grab my water bottle out of the side pocket?

“Here ya go, ma’am. I’ll meet you by the water foundation when we land, okay?”

She nods, smiling as he hustles back to his seat to avoid a family almost flattening him in their haste to get to their assigned seats.

Her seat neighbors haven’t arrived yet, so Sherrie sits down without bothering to buckle, tucking her work bag under the row in front of her after pulling out her plane kit. Her pencil case from college that she’s repurposed to hold her headphones, phone charger, gum, hand sanitizer, and a few other small necessities.

Her phone buzzes as she’s storing her water bottle and the little bag away in the pocket of the seat in front of her.

Bradley is woken up by his seat neighbor hitting his arm as he reaches to grab a drink, nodding at the guy’s apologetic face before trying to get comfortable again. Alan talked way too much at dinner last night, and it was a struggle to stay awake during the project manager’s third round of gushing over how brilliant and profitable Sherrie’s proposal would be for both companies.

“Sir? This is for you, do you want it?” The muffled question is accompanied by someone shaking his shoulder. He peels open his eyes to see the flight attendant holding out two packets of Biscoff cookies.

His face must be confused enough for the short woman to take pity on him. “Your friend up there said these are your favorite and asked me to give hers to you.”

His heart warms up, taking the treats and saying thank you. He enjoys the cookies, washing them down with the ginger ale he also got, thinking about how well Sherrie knows him. He forces himself to wait for them to finish snack service before he gets up to use the restroom.

“Thank you.” Bradley revels in the way Sherrie jumps when he pops her headphone out, purposefully brushing his lips against her ear. “Hmmm, you were right, your seatmate is cute.”

She glares up at him, a smile threatening to break through. “Isn’t he? He fell asleep five minutes after take off, just like you.”

“Yet, another baseless accusation!”

“I heard you snoring.”

“You shouldn’t lie in front of small children.”

“His mom said he’s seven months old; I don’t think we have to be concerned about teaching him to lie while he’s still in a car seat.”

“Probably shouldn’t chance it, though. Say I don’t snore.”

“You just said I shouldn’t lie. Should probably go to the bathroom before you start holding up traffic.” She puts her headphone back in, wiggling her fingers at him before going back to reading on her phone.

It gives him the strangest sense of déjà vu.

Tuesday, March 25, 2005 | 10:43 AM EST | Charlottesville, VA

“…and he said you had already-” Bradley cuts himself off, realizing she can’t hear him. He chuckles; he should have known better than to just walk up and start talking.

He doesn’t know Sherrie McHone very well. They had taken all the freshman intro to engineering requirements together, and this year their classes had split into their chosen disciplines. His mechanical, hers electrical. But he knows her well enough to know that she can pretty much only be found without her headphones during class.

He remembers the first time they spoke last semester after he accidentally walked right into her. He had told Danny it’s because she’s so much shorter than him, but it’s really because he wasn't paying attention.

Sherrie had only taken one earpiece out to make sure he was okay before continuing onto her class, seamlessly weaving between upperclassmen as she shoved her headphone back in.

“Sherrie?” No response.

He lets out a tiny huff and checks his watch. Normally, he wouldn’t care that she’s clueless to his existence even as he’s right beside her, but he’s got a class soon, and he’s still two buildings away. So he does the only thing he can.

He pops her headphones out and steps back for fear of getting smacked.

Her head whips up, narrowing in on him freakishly fast. “What the fuck, Bradshaw?”

He’s surprised to learn that she knows his name.

“Sorry, Sherrie! I’ve been trying to talk to you for like five minutes, and you somehow haven’t noticed, but I’ve got class in 15 minutes, so I needed to get your attention.”

“Oh…” Her green eyes widen in surprise, the apples of her cheeks turning a light pink. “Sorry about that. What did you need? Wait. How did you find me?”

A fair question.

“Khondker told me where you sit.” He partially fibs.

All semester he had been watching her disappear after EE221, the one class they shared. It had taken him a while, but he was pretty sure he had found her secret study nook in the electrical engineering wing of the building. Their TA had only confirmed Bradley’s theory of where he could find his fellow sophomore.

“I don’t understand this last section we’ve been learning, and Khondker said you had already finished the homework and could help me. So could you?”

“He didn’t help you?” Sherrie raises an eyebrow in disbelief.

“He tried.” Bradley scratches the back of his head, remembering how frustrated the patient man had been after his third attempt at explaining. “I just really don’t understand circuit loops. And he thought having a classmate explain it to me would make it stick. That or he was just so sick of me, he’s pawning me off.”

He watches her think, her pencil rapidly tapping against her notebook, making him nervous.

“I don’t want to be rude, but if you don’t understand current loops, I’m not sure how much help I can be. I understand the material, but I’m not a miracle worker.”

Her bluntness makes him smile. “I’m not expecting miracles, just help with the homework. If you have time.”

“Okay, just as long as you don’t get your hopes up too much.” She grabs a bright pink notebook and opens it up. “So, I’m usually free-”

“I don't want to interrupt, but I do have to get to class, so could we figure out a time later today?”

“Sure, I’ll be here until my class at four. Feel free to sit down if I’m not here; it just means I’m grabbing food.” He nods, backing away. “Wait! Bradley! Go down this hall and out the side door. You’ll be like halfway there already.”

“Awesome, thanks!” He starts to jog down the hallway, looking back to see her putting her headphones back in. Waving back when she smiles and wiggles her fingers at him before going back to her homework.

Friday, July 15, 2016 | 3:16 PM EST | Charlotte, NC

“Our flight got delayed, and I’m hungry.”

Sherrie jumps, not expecting Bradley to get that close to her face three seconds after she exited the bathroom.

“Okay, I could eat. Where do you wan-”

“Auntie Anne’s.”

He’s walking away before she can even process what he said. She allows herself one second to appreciate the way he looks, walking through the concourse - navy slacks fitting his legs perfectly and all their bags thrown over his broad shoulders - before she’s clicking along after him.

“Bradshaw!” He freezes and turns, almost taking a lanky teenager out with her backpack. “Oh my god, Bradley! Be careful! You almost took that kid’s head off.”

His smile is sheepish as she shuffles them over to the wall. “I did not do that on purpose.”

She giggles and takes her backpack from his shoulder. “Yeah, I kinda figured. But you should have seen his face. His life flashed before his eyes. All sixteen years.”

“I can carry that Sherrie.”

“That’s okay, I got it. No! Bradley!”

He ignores her, smiling at her frustrated little stomp when he hands over her tan, cross-body purse out of her work bag. “You just carry that and make sure I don’t take out any toddlers or old ladies.”

“How am I supposed to do that if I’m ahead of you?” She snarks as he steers them toward the food stands.

“You’re smart; I’m sure you’ll figure it out.” Bradley laughs when she mocks him under her breath. “I can hear you, smartass.”

“You were meant to, Bradley.”

His heart flutters at the teasing wink she sends over her shoulder. It’s been twelve years since they became friends, and he still feels like that 20-year-old kid who was nervous to talk to the pretty red-headed girl he had a crush on.

He can feel eyes on them as her heels catch people’s attention, and he finds himself glaring at men who are shamelessly staring. Her shoes aren’t loud as they click along on the tile floor, but it’s hard to ignore the beautiful woman striding along in business casual.

It happens everywhere they go.

Sherrie has always been beautiful and painfully unaware of her effect on men. It never matters where they are - at work, the rare baseball game he forces her to attend, happy hour with their friends from school - she always catches attention. It doesn’t bother him because she never reciprocates, and he’s always the one to give her a ride back to her apartment.

Even if he wishes it was their apartment they were going to.

He’s watched her change over the last decade, seen her grow as a person. He’s risen through the ranks with her professionally, the two of them matching each other step for step with each promotion and raise. He’s publicly assured her that her hair still looks good as it’s deepened color with age, now less red and more auburn. He’s privately appreciated the way her body has changed, softer and curvier than when they were kids. Her wide hips are a frequent star in his daydreams.

It's the only place where they’ll ever be in a relationship.

He knows they’d be perfect together. Old friends who know each other so well they don’t even have to talk to communicate sometimes. Whose attitudes fit together like puzzle pieces, perfectly in sync with each other. He knows it won’t happen. Can’t happen.

“Grab us a table, and I’ll get the food.”

“Okay.” He doesn’t fight her about paying, knowing this will be covered under their per diem. “Don’t forget my-”

“You’re frozen lemonade, I know!”

Bradley rolls his eyes at the hand that waves over her shoulder, settling their bags at a table and keeping an eye on Sherrie while sending an update to Mav.

His thumbs hover over the keyboard. He wants to tell his uncle the whole situation - that he’s not afraid to flirt with Sherrie.

“Everything okay?”

Bradley looks up to find her eyebrows furrowed as she sets a tray down.

“All good. Just sending my family an update that we’re delayed.”

She nods, sitting in the chair across from him. “Here’s your mini pretzel dogs, with mustard and a frozen lemonade. This is my pretzel nuggets, cheese sauce, and Diet Coke. Oh! And I got us these cinnamon sugar pretzels to share!”

“Thank you for remembering the mustard.”

“Bradley, when have I ever forgotten the mustard? Here, take some napkins.”

He shoves an entire mini pretzel dog in his mouth in lieu of answering her question, which they both know the answer to. Never. She has never forgotten his love for pretzels with mustard.

They eat in comfortable silence, the way only two friends can, occasionally dunking into each other's sauces as they scroll through their phones.

“Hey, how is your da- oh Bradley! You got mustard on your shirt!” His head snaps down to his shirt, groaning when he sees the yellow blob on his white button-up.

“Fuck! This is new, too!”

Sherrie dives into her bag, muttering about a stain stick, a triumphant noise escaping when she comes up successful. Scooting closer to him, she’s hit with a wave of nostalgia as she helps him clean his shirt.

Friday, April 6, 2007 | 10:12 PM EST | Charlottesville, VA

“You should’ve been gone, knowing how I made you feel!”

Sherrie’s head pops up from the lab reports she’s grading.

“And I should've been gone, after all your words of steel!”

She knows that voice.

“Oh, I must've been a dreamer! And I must've been someone else!”

She knows that voice very well.

“And we should've been over!”

She rushes for the front door, hoping and praying that the idiot she’s become close friends with this year isn’t actually outside her townhouse.

“Oh! Sherrie, our love holds on! Holds on!”

She whips the door open and, sure enough, drunkenly singing to her neighbor's house is Bradley Bradshaw.

“Bradley!” She hisses at him, ignoring the flutters in her stomach when he points his big, goofy grin towards her and not the tulips the soccer girls next door planted in front of their bay window. “What are you doing? It’s 10 PM!”

“You didn’t come.”

“First man to ever care about that.” She mutters, snorting at her joke.

“What’s funny?”

“Nothing. What are you doing here?”

His puppy dog eyes are vicious, and she has the urge to slap her hand over her eyes so she doesn’t succumb to their power. “You didn’t come to the party!”

Sherrie sighs, she thought he might be disappointed she didn’t come to the annual Sigma Chi Easter Bash, but she never thought he would actually notice her absence. Or that it would result in a drunken serenade.

“Bradley, I told you I had a lot of grading and might not make it tonight.” She gently reminds him, stifling a laugh when he trips over his own feet while standing still. “You okay?”

“I have to pee. Can I come in?”

She’s pretty sure he’s just making excuses but lets him in any way; she doesn’t need to deal with him getting a public indecency charge on top of everything else. “Shoes off, Bradshaw. Bathroom is right here; I’ll be in the dining room.”

“Yes, ma’am!” He sloppily salutes her, losing his balance and thunking against the wall, one shoe still on.

Sherrie just blinks at him before returning to her spot at the dining room table, holding in the laugh threatening to escape. She settles in her chair, focusing on the mediocre reports her students had turned in.

“I washed my hands!” Bradley’s abrupt entrance startles her. “Can we have a snack? I’m hungry?

She watches in amusement as he shuffles to her fridge, riffling through the shelves before opening the freezer and gasping.

“I love pretzels. Can we make these? Please?”

The box of pretzels belongs to her roommate, but she’s not strong enough to deny Bradley’s big brown eyes two times in a row so she makes a mental note to buy Amna a new box the next time she goes to the store. “Yeah, we can. But no touching the oven when you’re drunk. Go sit down.”

“I’m not drunk!” He argues even as he follows her directions, plopping himself at the table and nosily leafing through her done pile. “Wow, lots of red here.”

“Bradley! Don’t look at those!”

“Why not?”

“Would you want some random student looking through your homework?”

His rebuttal gets cut off by the oven beeping, announcing it’s up to temp. After she pops the tray in the oven, she turns and catches him appreciating the pj shorts riding up her shapely legs.

“What?” Her head cocks in confusion.

“Nothin'… cute shorts.”

“Thank you.” He watches in fascination as she snips at him even while her cheeks turn pink. “It’s almost like I was dressed for comfort and not planning on being interrupted.”

“But you’re glad I’m here, right?”

“I’ve had worse company on a Friday night.” She nudges him out of her chair. “While those are baking, go find something to watch, and I’m going to finish grading this report.”

“Such a responsible TA.”

Pride fills his chest as Sherrie snorts at his joke and goes back to work. They’ve officially been friends since last year, but he still tries his hardest to make her laugh. She's always so busy and stressed, and she does the cutest little snort-laugh when he catches her off guard.

He puts on a random movie, just grabbing a VHS case with the Disney logo on the side, before plopping on the couch. “Is there a reason you have so many kids movies?”

“Those are Jayla’s, she collects them.” Sherrie answers, never looking up from the table. “What did you choose?”

“It’s a surprise!”

“You don’t remember, huh?”

“Nope! I’ll be quiet now.”

She hums a thank you in his direction, and Bradley keeps his promise, watching her work and staying quiet until the timer goes off. His chin hooked on the back of the couch; he follows her movement through the kitchen as she pulls the pretzels out and transfers them to a plate.

“Can I have mustard, please?”

“Sure can.” Sherrie smiles at his dopey smile as she makes her way to the couch. “Here, take these, then we can eat.”

He gulps down the painkillers she drops in his hand, chugging the rest of the apple juice after they’re gone, smiling when she absentmindedly praises him for listening. He shoves a bite of pretzel in his mouth and mashes the play button, and is pleasantly surprised to find A Bug’s Life was the mystery choice.

“I love this movie,” he garbles through a pretzel. “I love how Flick wins over the princess just by getting a chance to show off his true self.”

“That was shockingly wise for the drunk man sprawled on my couch.”

Bradley thanks her, already a bit more sober but not enough to pick up on her teasing. “So, why didn’t you come? Grading really couldn’t wait?”

“It probably could have, but I’m not a partier, Bradley. You know that.” She dips a piece of pretzel in the mustard. “Besides, I really didn’t think you would notice I wasn’t there, Mr. Popular.”

“You’re the only person I invited; of course, I noticed when you didn’t show up.”

“Really? No one else? Why?”

“I know it’s almost finals, but I wanted to hang out without any books in front of us; that’s all we do lately. Study. Plus, you’ve been extra stressed about something that you don’t want to talk about, and I just wanted you to relax since you won’t talk to me about whatever is bothering you.”

“That’s sweet of you, Bradley. It’s not that I don’t want to tell you; it’s just that my family has been…” She waves a hand through the air, a deep sigh escaping. “It’s complicated. I’m trying not to think about it too much.”

“Well, I’m here if you do want to talk.”

“Thanks bud. How about you? How’re your parents?” She takes one last chunk before nudging the plate in his direction and settling back into the corner.

“Mom is good; she’s close to being considered cancer-free. I think we’re gonna throw a party when she gets there.”

“That’s awesome, Bradley! I’m glad she’s doing so well. How’s your dad?”

“Mav isn’t my dad.”

A record scratch plays in Sherrie’s head as she freezes. She knows she’s heard Bradley talk about his dad, and she’d seen photos of his parents the one time she had visited his frat house last year. He had specifically pointed the photo out, telling her it was his parents. She had even been next to him when he was on the phone when he said “dad” to the person on the other end.

“My dad died when I was three. Mav is- was his best friend. I call him dad sometimes because he’s the closest thing I’ve got.”

Sherrie feels her heart break as Bradley sniffles and sadly shoves a mustard-covered pretzel in his mouth, unshed tears clumping his eyelashes. She’s never seen her friend like this before; she’s experienced many other emotions - frustration, joy, confusion - but the pain creasing his brow is new.

Comforting crying people has never been her forte, but instinctively - almost like they moved without her permission - Sherrie’s fingers run over his hair. Gently stroking the sun-streaked waves as a few tears escape down his cheeks and she scoots closer, letting her body press into his side and hoping the proximity helps.

“I’m sorry for crying on you.” He quietly apologizes after a few minutes of tears.

“S’okay. Family can be hard sometimes.”

“Complicated.”

“That too.” She hums, not moving as he swipes at his eyes and leans against her more, his head resting on her shoulder in a slouched position that can’t be comfortable.

“I love Mav; he’s my dad in all the ways it matters. It just sucks that my actual dad won’t be here for graduation. Like, I know he’s missed so much of my life already, but something about him missing college graduation is worse than everything else. It’s just so unfair; I barely remember him, but I just- I just miss him so much, Sherrie.”

Her heart cracks in half at the whispered confession. She can’t even imagine the pain of losing a parent at such a young age. The inability to remember one of the people responsible for giving you life, all memories fuzzy and most built from second-hand recollections of those who can remember. So she says the one thing she would want to hear.

“Tell me about him.”

Sherrie knows she said the right thing when his red-rimmed eyes brighten, and he immediately launches into a beloved story detailing his father’s love of pranks. She listens dutifully — laughing at the right moments and asking questions when Bradley gets carried away, forgetting that she doesn’t know all the people in his story — and feels her heart warm more and more. She’s always liked Bradley, probably more than she should, but it’s hard not to like him. He’s considerate, smart, and funny, not to mention handsome.

Thankfully, before she gets lost in thoughts of broad shoulders and strong jawlines, a big glob of mustard drops on Bradley’s t-shirt, abruptly cutting him off. The two stare in silence at the yellow condiment sitting on the black cotton shirt, somehow surprised at its appearance, before breaking down into giggles.

“C’mon Bradshaw,” Sherrie grabs his hand, pulling him off the couch. “I have a Tide pen we can use on that mess.”

Bradley follows her up the stairs and into the bathroom, teasing Sherrie about the way her tongue pokes out when she focuses. She takes the gentle taunts, grateful he’s focusing on that and not on her pink cheeks or the way her eyes keep darting to his toned stomach. She’s not sure it was completely necessary for him to strip his shirt off, but she won’t be complaining.

“Well,” A few minutes later, she interrupts his rambling story about a slip and slide. Or she thinks that’s what it’s about; she missed the first part. “I think this is as good as I can get it.”

“That’s okay; it’s not like it’s new or anything. Thanks, Sherrie.”

She steadfastly ignores the pounding heart in her chest as miles of golden skin gets covered back up, trying to not feel too disappointed by its disappearance.

Friday, July 15, 2016 | 3:56 PM EST | Charlotte, NC

“Oh, this is ridiculous!” Bradley complains a bit too loudly, ears going hot when several pairs of eyes curiously dart toward him, but his focus doesn’t stay on that for very long when he catches the face Sherrie makes. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing!”

He squints suspiciously as she avoids eye contact. He usually takes her at her word and doesn’t push, but the frown pulling down the corners of her pink lips sets off bells in his head. “Sherrie, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing, Bradley. I’m fine.”

He grumbles at her lack of response but settles again in the spot they had claimed after finishing their snack. The gate was still packed, but they had found a prime location with outlets; the only downside was having to sit on the floor, something that is getting harder the older they get.

Bradley scans the area, trying to scout out some open chairs for them to grab, while Sherrie goes back to the movie they’ve been watching on his phone. His eyes drop away from the chairs in surprise when she scoots closer and leans on his shoulder. It’s not uncommon for them to sit close like this at home in Boston, sides pressed together, but she makes a point to be professional when they’re on travel.

“Hey,” he gently nudges her side, concern rising when she doesn’t lift her head, choosing to tilt her neck back, looking up at him with tired eyes. “Are you sure you’re okay?”

Panic grips his chest when tears start forming, clouding her green eyes. “Sherrie?! What’s wrong?”

“We were supposed to be halfway home by now, and I’m so uncomfortable. I’m sorry, Bradley, I’m just so tired.” She whimpers, hiding against his bicep.

It hits him like a glass of cold water. Of course, she’s uncomfortable. She’s been walking around in heels and her pantsuit since 4AM California time after getting maybe three hours of sleep. His suit and shoes are comfortable and easily wearable for twelve-plus hours, not to mention the jacket and tie that were ditched sometime after the mustard incident.

“Oh, Sherrie, it’s okay. Let’s go change, yeah? Then we’ll find a quieter place so you can close your eyes and maybe get some sleep.”

“But the policy…”

Bradley resists the urge to roll his eyes at her insistence on rule-following. “In the nicest way possible, Sher, fuck the policy. You’re uncomfortable, and I care about that way more than I could ever care about a stupid, archaic policy.”

He stands, unplugging their phones and gathering their bags on his shoulder before turning to his best friend, who is still on the floor. “C’mon, we’re putting comfy clothes on.”

“But Bradley-”

“No arguing.” He interrupts, helping her off the ground and directing them back towards the restrooms. “We’re not going to sit in our suits for god knows how much longer.”

“But Bradley, I don’t have anything to change into. We had such a packed schedule I didn’t bother to bring normal clothes.” He ignores the thumping of his heart when her hand grabs his forearm, warm fingers slipping under the edge of the rolled-up sleeve as she tugs to slow his pace. At that information, he slides them out of the flow of traffic and over to the wall, Bradley pressing her against one of the columns lining the concourse atrium.

“You don’t have any regular clothes? What about your pajamas?”

“I have a pair of leggings because I was going to do a training run in the gym last night, but that’s it. I can’t wear my pjs because… well, they’re not appropriate for public.”

“Your leggings are clean, though, right?” He asks, ignoring the thoughts of what non-public appropriate pajamas might look like.

“Well, yeah, dinner went so late I barely had time to sleep before we had to be up. I guess I could buy a shirt at one of the SmartShop- what are you doing?”

Bradley peers up from his knees, where he had started digging in his bag. “I’m grabbing one of my shirts for you. Would you prefer a t-shirt or a sweatshirt? Actually, you’re definitely gonna get cold, sweatshirt for you.”

He pulls the worn, gray crew neck out, shaking it out before handing it over.

“You still have this?” The disbelief in her voice makes him laugh.

“Of course, I still have that! Relay was always my favorite event of the year. And that year was my favorite one.”

As the philanthropy chair of Sigma Chi, part of his job was to sign the brothers up for volunteer events and fundraisers. With his mom’s diagnosis, he ensured their schedule included the campus’ annual Relay for Life event, pouring as many resources as he could into the fundraiser that directly helped advance cancer research.

“Wait, but why was junior year your favorite?” She asks, brushing her fingers over the cracked, screen-printed logo.

“Because that’s the reason we became friends, Sher.”

Surprised green eyes meet sincere brown eyes, a thousand words said in the silence of their stares, both remembering the lead-up to that day in April so many years ago.

Bradley’s eyes widen in panic as everyone at the gate starts moving as a herd. They had finally found seats to relax in after changing, the group of passengers waiting with them shrinking as time went on. And now, with only ten minutes until boarding, their gate has changed again.

“Sherrie, wake up!” He feels bad shaking the snoozing woman off, but they have to move with the group to make it to the new part of Terminal A in time for their flight. “C’mon, honey, they changed the gate again — we gotta go!”

“What are you- again?! Shit!” She wipes the bleariness from her eyes, slinging her bags over her shoulder and grabbing the hand he holds out.

The two coworkers, along with fifty of their fellow passengers who have stuck this out, speed walk down the first branch of the terminal. The entire group picking up the pace when turning the corner towards the second branch where the new gate lives. By the time they hit the second branch, everyone is practically running — time ticking down to boarding — no one wanting to miss this flight.

As if the blob of Flight 1121 passengers racing toward the end of the terminal didn’t garner attention from other gates, the entire terminal is staring by the time they reach gate A28, and several people start yelling in frustration.

“This is unbelievable!” An older gentleman’s unhappiness is interrupted by three simultaneous updates pinging everyone’s phones.

Bradley’s head drops back in disbelief, wrapping his arm around Sherrie when her head thunks against his chest. He doesn’t even get a chance to comfort her before the gate agents are making announcements about getting people on other flights, providing hotel rooms, and the vouchers that will be shared.

“Again, we apologize, but if you have flexible travel plans, we ask that you please go to the end of the line so those with time constraints can be taken care of first. Thank you for your cooperation, folks!”

“Well, that’s us, huh?”

“Yeah, I guess.” Sherrie blows air out of her lips, a mischievous smile taking over her face. “Hey, at least this means extra per diem money.”

Bradley laughs as they move to the back of the squiggly line that’s forming, letting her take the bags so he can step away to call to update their supervisor and then his pet sitter. It only takes a few rings for his boss to pick up. “Bradshaw! What’s up? You okay?”

“Hey Martin, all good. Just wanted to let you know that our flight has gotten supremely delayed. We won’t be home until tomorrow morning sometime.”

“Jesus, do you guys need anything?”

“Nah, we’re good. The airline is putting us up in a hotel for the night and giving vouchers for a bunch of stuff. Just called to let you know and for a heads up on the expense report.”

“Well, that is the most important part!” Martin’s honking laugh makes Bradley chuckle as he glances to check on Sherrie’s progress in line. “How’s Sherrie? She good?”

“Yeah, she’s good. She’s holding our spot in line for getting new tickets and stuff.” And it looks like she’s made friends already, he silently adds, smiling at her interacting with the elderly couple in front of her.

“Good. Alright then, I’ll see you on Monday, but let me know if you guys need anything. And hey! If you two end up in the same hotel room — remember what I said on your first day!”

The line goes dead, and so does Bradley’s smile, his stomach churning like it does every time he remembers his first day at the Wells Corporation.

Tuesday, July 10, 2007 | 11:15 AM EST | Boston, MA

“Will you calm down?”

“I can’t, Bradley. What if no one likes me? What if I fuck up?!” She hisses, working to appear calm as they wait for their supervisor to show up, but failing.

“First of all, we’re starting together, so you have at least one person that likes you. And you’re great, everyone will like you. Second, there will be mistakes, but we just graduated — they’re not going to let us do anything alone because we don’t know anything yet.”

Sherrie nods, tucking her hands under her legs and trying to breathe. Bradley’s words are encouraging, but he doesn’t know how difficult her internship was last summer. The older engineers she shadowed treated her like a glorified coffee girl and secretary. Even when she had pointed out a mistake they all had missed, there was no change — just the addition of making her type their reports to see if she could catch something the non-engineer tech writers would miss.

This is a brand new company, but misogyny wasn’t unique to Waite Green Construction. Every woman has to work twice as hard to prove her worth and intellect, no matter her age or experience. She’s just hoping her onboarding mentor will be the only other woman in the department; it would be the perfect way to gain a professional mentor once she’s out of the probation period.

“Good morning, kids! How was orientation?” Mr. Teresi walks into the conference room.

Bradley shakes his hand first, “It was good, sir. Nice to see you again.”

“Good to hear! Learn lots of new things.”

“Yes, I think we can be considered experts on trade secrets now.” Sherrie jokes, focusing on making sure her handshake is firm but not too firm.

“Wonderful. So, I’m guessing you two have been introduced, but just in case you haven’t. Bradley, this is Sherrie McHone; she’s an electrical engineer. And Sherrie, this is Bradley Bradshaw, a mechanical engineer.”

“We actually went to school together, sir.”

“We’re friends,” Bradley adds, the two of them exchanging small smiles.

“Oh, great! Well, that makes things easier getting started. Now let’s go over my plan for the two of you, and then we’ll get lunch, my treat for your first day.”

Their supervisor talks for half an hour, going over things they’ll need to be trained in and their first assignments. By the time he’s done, several notebook pages have been filled and highlighted with things that need to be looked up.

“Alright!” The older engineer claps, rubbing his hands together. “I’m sure your brains are overloaded with information, so go drop your things at your desks, and we’ll head to lunch.”

The recent graduates gather their notes and head for the door, quietly talking about a training they’ll be attending next week when he stops them. “One more thing, guys. They never mention it during R&D orientation, but I feel it’s necessary to mention it to new people. Here at Wells, there isn’t a fraternization policy among non-management coworkers or between any employees in different divisions. But we are a fairly small department, so keep in mind who you interact with and what impacts that may have at work.”

Sherrie feels the blood drain from her already pale face as her brand new supervisor stares at her the entire time he speaks, ignoring Bradley completely. She’s going to be sick. Less than four hours into the first professional role of her career, and it’s already happening.

This is the moment it starts, she thinks, her heart pounding in her throat as she robotically nods. It’s never the men that get these warnings. It’s always the women. Always us. Always me.

“I don’t care about that. But there are some people who will, even though they shouldn’t. And I want you guys to have the best experience here you possibly can. You’re both extremely bright, and I’m excited about your futures. I don’t want you to get bogged down by the opinions of others. Understand?”

“Yes, sir.” They answer in unison before filing out of the conference room.

“Sherrie, don’t worry about that. He’s just-”

“Trust me, Bradley. I know exactly what he was saying. I’m going to use the restroom, and then I’ll meet you guys at the elevator.”

“Sherrie…”

But she ignores her friend, shrugging her purse over her shoulder and keeping her face neutral as she heads for the single-stall ladies’ room. Fighting to hold the tears back until she’s inside for fear of being perceived as emotional. A quality no woman can afford to have in a professional setting.

Friday, July 15, 2016 | 8:05 PM EST | Charlotte, NC

“Hey, everything? Martin says hi.”

“We’re good! This is Mr. and Mrs. Ludden; they’re going to visit their newest granddaughter. How’re Sophie and Louis?” Bradley smiles at the excited way she introduces them, putting a steadying hand on her back when she bounces up on her toes.

“Oh, congrats! They’re good; Marie can watch’em one more day, problem.”

“Good, we’ll have to get her a thank you present for the short notice.”

“You didn’t tell us you guys had kids!”

Bradley and Sherrie freeze in place, eyes widening in surprise at the older woman’s words.

“Oh- uh- we-” Sherrie giggles awkwardly. “Sophie and Louis are our cats; we don’t have kids.”

“I’m so sorry!” Mrs. Ludden gasps, hand covering her mouth in shock while her husband groans her name.

“Louise, how many times do we have to do this before you stop making assumptions?”

“It’s okay, innocent mistake,” Bradley assures them.

“Well, they’re such a cute couple. I just thought they would have adorable children, too!”

“Actually… we’re not…”

“Oh, lord. Let me guess. You’re not dating. You’re just friends.”

“Coworkers too, but we were friends first.” Sherrie suppresses a laugh when the older gentleman rubs a hand over his eyes in exasperation.

“Don’t even start, Clayton!”

“I wasn’t going to, dear.”

Bradley can’t help the laugh that escapes at the comfortable ribbing they give each other; it reminds him of his friendship with Sherrie. The easy way they tease, never going too far.

“Would you two like to join us after we get rebooked?” Bradley asks. “We’re going to use our food vouchers tonight to grab dinner before we head to whatever hotel they put us up in.”

The four adults move through the line, chatting about small things and comparing pictures of grandkids and cats. It’s a nice way to spend the time, especially when they get to share judging looks when a woman throws a tantrum and yells at the gate agent. But soon enough, they’re walking back to the main concourse and deciding what food to get.

“No, stop. You just sit here with the bags, and I’ll grab the food.” Bradley gently pushes Sherrie back into her chair, rolling his eyes as he talks over her protests. “I know. You want mac and cheese, Diet Coke, and whatever pulled pork flavor looks best.”

“He’s sweet,” Louise says, watching the two men make their way over to the BBQ place.

“He’s annoying.” Which makes her companion laugh. “Yes, he’s very sweet. I’m lucky to be such good friends with him.”

“Can I ask why the two of you aren’t together? He even knows what food to bring you.”

“It’s just never been like that between us. We’ve always just been friends. And he’s annoyingly smart, so he always remembers what I order.” Sherrie half smiles, pushing down the pain in her chest at the harmless curiosity, watching Bradley laugh at something Clayton says as she remembers the first time he remembered one of her favorites.

Saturday, March 4, 2006 | 1:34 PM EST | Charlottesville, VA

“Thanks for meeting me on a Saturday, Bradshaw. It’s just such a busy semester.”

“No problem. You know you can call me Bradley, right?”

“Oh, sorry. Do you not like being called Bradshaw?” Sherrie blinks when a bottle of Diet Coke and a small bag of Skittles is set on the table in front of her. “What’s this?”

“Your favorite snack.”

“Right… but why?”

“Because you have that about 50% of the time when we meet up to work on this project. Now, I finished transcribing the interview with Commander Buck last night. Did you want to- Sherrie?”

She shifts her focus from the food to the boy across from her in the study nook they’ve claimed as theirs for the semester. “Why do you remember my favorite snack?”

“Because we’re friends?” Brown eyes look into hers, equally confused.

“We’re friends?”

“I hope so; otherwise, this is gonna get awkward when you hug me in a minute.”

“Why am I going to hug you?!”

Bradley laughs at her flabbergasted expression, but it doesn’t hurt her feelings like it does when other people laugh at her. Something about the tone of the laugh makes it feel like he’s laughing at her, but rather with her, and she just doesn’t know the joke yet.

“Because as team captain, I am happy to announce to the Relay Chair that Sigma Chi has officially raised $5,000 thanks to your idea.”

“Bradley, that’s incredible!” She doesn’t feel silly when she bounces around the table to hug his neck, rocking them back and forth in excitement.

“Well, if you think that’s good - let me show you what we’re anticipating to raise this month…”

Friday, July 15, 2016 | 10:12 PM EST | Charlotte, NC

“I just don’t understand how we’re having such bad luck!”

Sherrie rolls her eyes as he unlocks the door. “Bradley, breathe. You’re being very dramatic right now.”

“How is “we’re out of rooms” a legitimate reason for the hotel to give? Not that I mind sharing with you, but like how is that possible? The airline specifically works with them to book rooms for things like this! And the airline! That gate agent who wanted to book us to fly into Hartford and then drive the rest of the way to Boston! That's insane!”

“I don’t know, the Bradley flying into Bradley joke was pretty funny.” She mutters, clicking the lights on as she checks the cleanliness of the room.

“It wasn’t.” Bradley pouts, flopping onto the bed closest to the door. “Do you want to shower first?”

“No, go ahead, but I’m going to wash my face first so I can do a face mask. I’m so dry from the airport air.” He listens to the sounds of water running and the quiet humming as she carefully applies the drenched sheet to her skin. “All yours!”

“Thanks, Sher. I won’t be long.”

He showers quickly but takes extra time cleaning his teeth, his mouth feeling gross after the long travel day. When he comes out, he’s surprised at how cozy the room feels. With only one lamp on, the air conditioning set low to keep the fan running, and an old movie on the TV, it almost feels like they could be at home in his living room. They silently move around each other, Sherrie heading to the bathroom with a pile of things while Bradley organizes his things for the morning, wanting to get as much rest as possible before their early alarm.

He scrolls through emails and texts while he waits for her to shower, turning the television off since he knows there’s a small chance of either of them making it five minutes after they kill the lights. He's updating Mav on tomorrow’s travel plans when Sherrie comes out of the bathroom, her hair wrapped in a towel. Bradley sees her packing things out of the corner of his eye, not fully paying attention until he plugs his phone in.

“That’s what you wear to bed?”

“Bradley!” He laughs at how she jumps, her hands coming down to cover her shorts.

“What? They’re cute! Very pink.”

Her face goes as pink as the pajama set she’s wearing. “Stop making fun of me!”

“I’m not! You know, I love strawberries.” He can’t help the way his eyes roam up and down her body, admiring from the spaghetti straps on her smooth shoulders to the scalloped edge of her shorts. “I see why you didn’t want to change into those at the airport.”

“Oh my god…” She huffs, climbing into her own queen bed and stuffing herself under the sheets. “You set an alarm, right?”

“Yes, ma’am. Want me to turn the light off?”

“Please. God, this day cannot be over soon enough.”

He chuckles and turns the lamp off, listening to her shuffle around in the sheets as she gets comfortable. It’s quiet for a few minutes, and he can hear her breathing leveling out, but he can’t keep quiet; the conversation at the airport running through his mind.

“Sher?” It takes a second, but she quietly hums in response. “We have to talk about it again.”

“No, we don’t.”

“Sherrie-”

“No, Bradley. We talked about this two weeks ago. Nothing has changed since then.”

“Yes, things have changed since then. You interviewed for that principal engineer position. Which if you get-”

“I’m not going to get it. They’re going to pick Trevor.”

“They’re going to pick you. You’re the best person for the job!”

“That’s not how it works, and you know it.”

He’s silent, the crushing weight on his chest feeling heavier when he hears her sniffle.

“Oh, Sherrie…” He slips out of his bed and into hers, wrapping the woman he loves in his arms. He lets her cry, knowing she’s frustrated and exhausted, only speaking up again when she’s calmed down. “I’m sorry, honey.”

“No, I’m sorry, Bradley. It’s not fair that we’ve been dancing around this for so many years, and I keep saying no. You deserve someone who isn’t afraid to be with you. Not a coward like me.”

“You’re not a coward; you’re one of the bravest people I know, Sherrie Anne McHone. I know how critical people are of women, in this field especially. And I love you, so I don’t mind waiting until we’re in a position that you’re confident won’t jeopardize your career. So, we’ll wait to hear about the job, and once you hear that you’ve gotten it, I’m treating you to the nicest dinner in Boston.”

“Bradley, we don’t know-”

“I know we don’t know. But think about how it would be if it does. Wouldn’t that be amazing?”

“But what about-”

“Doesn’t matter, honey.”

“You don’t even know what I was gonna say.” Sherrie mumbles, cuddling further into his side, making it clear that he wasn’t allowed to leave.

“I know, but it doesn’t matter, whatever it is — we’ll figure it out.”

Saturday, July 16, 2016 | 10:32 AM EST | Somewhere over Virginia

“She’ll take a ginger ale; thank you so much.” Bradley balances his apple juice, the two packets of Biscoff cookies, and the bubbling soda he got for Sherrie. The smiling flight attendant moves past their row as he turns to his row companion.

They’re finally on their way home after waking up to more delay announcements. The additional time meant there was time to get coffee and some fruit from the hotel before their taxi back to the airport arrived, and the Luddens had even stopped to chat for a second at the gate, excited that they had gotten bumped up to first class since the flight was nearly empty.

All things considered, it had been a good morning even though Sherrie was insisting on working during the flight. Bradley is sure it’s an attempt to ignore their talk from last night, not wanting to dwell on the emotional moment when things are still so up in the air.

He looks over at the woman he’s known since he was eighteen, overwhelmed for a moment by how little things have changed since the first time he ever noticed her. Bradley fondly watches as she furiously types, hunched over her laptop with headphones, playing what he knows is eighties hair bands.

Her nose wrinkles in frustration, and suddenly it’s 2003 again, and he’s trying to get the attention of the red-haired girl whose table has the only empty chair left, something he desperately needs since this book can’t leave the library. He’s unable to get her attention and resorts to knocking on the table, heart skipping a beat when the prettiest green eyes he’s ever seen blink up at him. Bradley gestures at the empty chair, silently asking if he can sit, and is grateful when she nods because her smile is making his knees wobble. For the next hour, he tries to take notes for his paper, but he keeps getting distracted by the beautiful girl across from him. Bradley isn’t sure if he’s upset or happy when she packs up her stuff and leaves, giving him a little wave when she notices him watching her.

That had been thirteen years ago, and her intense focus still distracts him, but he’s not afraid to interrupt her this time. Fingers rub her arm that is covered in his sweatshirt again, but this time, he knows it smells like her shampoo instead of his cologne. Her smile still sends his heart skipping when she looks up at him, her pretty eyes widening in joy when she catches sight of the red snack packaging and the plastic cup holding her second favorite soda.

“Thank you!” She whispers, leaning across the empty middle seat in their row to kiss his cheek. “Oh, and we should go out to lunch when we get back! I want to try that new noodle place that opened in Southie.”

He just smiles when she immediately gets back to work; cheek puffed out from the cookie she stuffed in her mouth.

Maybe she’s not avoiding our talk from last night.

Thursday, August 11, 2017 | 2:15 PM EST | Boston, MA

“You got a minute?” Bradley knocks on the edge of her cubicle. It may be a different floor of their building, but all of the office space is the same dated stuff from decades ago.

“Yeah, what’s up?”

“First of all…” He ducks down and presses a swift kiss to her plush mouth, still trying to make up for all those years he couldn’t. “And don’t say anything because I already checked before I did because I wanted to kiss my girl.”

He chuckles at the pink spots that shine on her cheeks. It’s been a year since Sherrie snagged the promotion, and they officially became an item, but she still turns a little red whenever he says something sweet.

“Second, you are all packed, right?”

“Yes, why?”

“I was gonna swing by the apartment and get our bags so we can head straight to the airport after work.”

“You took the afternoon off? Why?”

Bradley was expecting this question and smoothly fibs. “I worked the hours out with Martin for this week so I could run a few last-minute errands. Do you want me to grab snacks?”

“Okay, Mr. Secrets. When you’re at home, could you water the ivy? I forgot this morning, and I don’t want it to die while we’re gone.”

“Of course! Need me to do anything else?”

Sherrie hums, staring at the ceiling as she thinks. “One more kiss?”

“Yes, ma’am.” Bradley happily complies with her request.

“Okay, now you have to go. I have to finish prepping for this meeting where I get to yell at Sean.”

“That’s my girl. I’ll pick you up later. I love you.”

“I love you, too. Have fun with your mysterious errands.” Sherrie teases, and Bradley smirks back, knowing how much she would be freaking out if he knew what he would be doing while she professionally reamed out their least favorite colleague.

“Thanks, honey. Text me if you think of something.” Sherrie waves over her shoulder, already zoned back into her work.

Bradley doesn’t dare look at his buzzing phone until he’s safely on the elevator, pleased to see confirmation texts from their hotel and the airline. Would it be cheesy to quietly propose in the airport that was a catalyst in their relationship? Maybe, but he knew Sherrie would love it. He’s just hoping the TSA didn’t call out the ring that would be hiding in his carry-on.

#deltasupremacy I also want to give a special thanks to @sometimesanalice, who gave so much encouragement through the texts despite having no idea what I was writing - you're the best! tagged some friends and most those who interacted with the original announcement post for this fic all those months ago!

tagging: @gretagerwigsmuse @sometimesanalice @laracrofted @theharddeck @hangmanbrainrot @hangmanssunnies @thesewordsareallihavetogive @princessphilly @katieshook02 @atarmychick007 @kmc1989 @a-court-of-roscoe-and-baby @misfitpeach @luckyladycreator2 @scarlettwidow19 @mini-bee-bee @midnightstarqueen @shamelessghostwagonwobbler

divider credit

[skelingtonsderek]

While I'm on the topic I just want to put a little gentle minder out in the field that if you call a place and are rude or mean in any way the person you're talking to doesn't want to help you and plans to do the bare minimum but if you're nice

If you're kind and patient... It's my experience that that person will go far and above beyond the call of meeting minimum standards to help. I once stayed three hours late to fight a French hotelier for someone who said please and thank you. Like. I was on three hours of sleep after having to come in 7 hours early for some bullshit training and I still fucking stayed even though I didn't have to. I've spent hours on the phone with fucking American airlines who is, in fact, top 5 worst airlines, to get someone a waiver for their expensive change fee because they called me by name.

But to the guy who called unhoused people receiving shelter at a local hotel thugs and bums and asked for all his money back because these guests were doing the heinous act of sitting outside in shorts having a drink on a Saturday afternoon, I want you to know that I did my level best to not get you what you wanted. I even got manager approval to override company policy so I could say no to you. And even when you filed a complaint with corporate and they came back and said I should have done it I didn't get in trouble and neither did my boss.

Anyway! Be nice to people over the phone! It doesn't cost you any and it makes them feel better because everyone and I do mean everyone is taught to treat call center employees like shit and honestly having to sit in a 3 by 4 cubby in a gray office surrounded by dozens of people and not allowed to have a book or phone or anything to brighten the otherwise awful and bland day at your awful and bland desk is already punishment enough for wanting to live we don't need you being nasty 🙃

[okeyardtraveloffi]

Does American Airlines Permit Name Corrections On Tickets?

If you mistakenly mentioned the wrong name on your American flight ticket, you can still get it altered. Furthermore, you need to ensure that your name on the air ticket must be similar to the name listed on your government-authorized identification documents or passport. The policy is customer-friendly and flexible, which helps travelers to efficiently request name modifications before their scheduled departure. In addition, under the American Airlines name change policy, you can make different kinds of alterations like adding or removing prefixes/suffixes, spelling mistakes, etc. This comprehensive guide will take you through the policy, criteria, procedures, and fee structure. Hence, walk through it attentively. 

[allindiaproperty]

How to Change the Name on an American Airlines Ticket: A Complete Guide

Planning a trip is exciting, but what happens if you make a mistake when booking your flight? One common issue travelers face is a name error on their airline ticket. This can be a minor typo or a complete name change due to marriage, divorce, or other legal reasons. If you're flying with American Airlines, it's essential to know how to handle such situations. This guide will walk you through the steps to change a name on an American Airlines ticket, ensuring a smooth process.

Why Correcting Your Name on a Ticket Is Important

Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about why it’s crucial to have the correct name on your ticket:

Security Regulations: The name on your ticket must match the name on your government-issued ID (such as a passport or driver's license). This is a security requirement, and if there’s a discrepancy, you might be denied boarding.

Avoiding Delays: Incorrect names can lead to delays at the airport. Fixing errors ahead of time can save you stress and ensure you’re not held up at security or check-in.

Legal and Financial Issues: Some name changes, such as those due to marriage or divorce, might require legal documentation. Ensuring your ticket reflects your legal name can prevent legal or financial complications.

Types of Name Changes and Corrections

There are different types of name corrections, and understanding which one applies to your situation is the first step:

Minor Corrections: These include fixing typos, adding or removing a middle name, or correcting a spelling mistake. For example, if your name is “John Smith” but the ticket says “Jon Smit,” this is a minor correction.

Legal Name Changes: This applies if your name has legally changed due to marriage, divorce, or other legal reasons. For example, if you were previously known as “Jane Doe” and your name changed to “Jane Brown” after marriage, this would be a legal name change.

Major Corrections or Complete Name Change: This involves changing the name entirely, possibly due to identity changes or errors made during booking that do not reflect your actual name. This type of correction might be more complex.

Steps to Change or Correct the Name on an American Airlines Ticket

Now that you understand the types of corrections, let’s go through the steps to change or correct your name on an American Airlines ticket.

1. Review the American Airlines Name Change Policy

The first step is to familiarize yourself with American Airlines' policies regarding name changes and corrections. According to their policy:

Minor corrections: These can usually be made without much hassle, and in some cases, they might be free of charge.

Legal name changes: These might require you to provide supporting legal documents.

Major corrections or complete name changes: These might require reissuing the ticket, which could involve fees.

Visit the official American Airlines website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date information on their name change policies.

2. Contact American Airlines as Soon as Possible

Once you realize there’s an error or need for a name change, it’s crucial to act quickly. The sooner you notify American Airlines, the easier it might be to correct the mistake. Here’s how you can contact them:

Phone: Call American Airlines customer service at 1-800-433-7300. Be prepared with your booking reference number, the exact correction needed, and any relevant documents.

Online: You can also reach out to American Airlines via their website. Log in to your account, go to the “My Trips” section, and look for options to edit your booking.

Social Media: Some customers find success by contacting American Airlines through their official social media channels like Twitter or Facebook.

3. Provide Necessary Documentation

For minor corrections, you might not need any documentation. However, for legal name changes, you’ll need to provide proof of the change. This could include:

Marriage certificate

Divorce decree

Court order for a name change

Government-issued ID with the new name

Make sure to have these documents ready when you contact American Airlines. In some cases, you may need to send these documents via email or upload them through the airline’s online portal.

4. Be Aware of Possible Fees

While some name corrections might be free, others could incur a fee. The fee depends on the type of change and the fare rules of your ticket. For instance:

Minor Corrections: Typically free, but it’s always good to confirm.

Legal Name Changes: There might be a small fee, particularly if the ticket needs to be reissued.

Major Corrections or Complete Name Changes: These might involve higher fees and sometimes require the purchase of a new ticket.

Always ask about fees upfront to avoid surprises later.

5. Confirm the Change

After you’ve requested the name change, American Airlines will process it and update your ticket. Make sure to:

Check your email: You should receive a confirmation of the change along with the updated ticket.

Verify the new ticket: Double-check that the corrected name matches your ID perfectly.

Keep copies of all communication: Save any emails, receipts, or documents related to the name change process in case you need them later.

6. Check Your Other Travel Documents

If your name has changed legally, it’s also important to update your other travel documents, such as your passport, driver’s license, and frequent flyer accounts. This ensures consistency across all documents, which can help avoid issues at the airport.

Tips to Avoid Name Mistakes on Future Bookings

To prevent the hassle of name changes in the future, consider the following tips:

Double-check before booking: Always review the name on your ticket before finalizing the booking. Ensure it matches your ID exactly, including middle names if required.

Use your full legal name: When booking flights, always use the full legal name that appears on your government-issued ID. Avoid using nicknames or abbreviations.

Update frequent flyer profiles: If you frequently fly with American Airlines or other airlines, keep your frequent flyer profiles updated with your current legal name.

Book through official channels: Booking directly through the airline’s website or a trusted travel agent can reduce the risk of errors. Third-party booking sites may not offer the same flexibility for name changes.

Act immediately if you notice an error: The earlier you catch and correct a mistake, the easier and cheaper it will be to fix.

Conclusion

Correcting or changing a name on an American Airlines ticket is a straightforward process if you follow the right steps. Whether it’s a minor typo or a major legal change, American Airlines provides options to ensure your ticket matches your ID, allowing you to travel with peace of mind. Always remember to check the airline’s policies, act quickly, and keep all your documents handy.

By being proactive and attentive, you can avoid the stress and complications that might arise from an incorrect name on your ticket. Safe travels!

[airline-travel23]

American Airlines Group Booking: Everything You Need to Know

American Airlines offers convenient options for group bookings, making it easier to coordinate travel plans for large groups such as corporate events, family reunions, or educational trips. Understanding the process and benefits of American Airlines group bookings can help you secure discounted fares and streamline your travel arrangements.

Benefits of American Airlines Group Booking

Discounted Fares: Enjoy special pricing and discounted fares for groups booking 10 or more passengers on the same flight.

Simplified Booking Process: Manage multiple tickets in one transaction, reducing administrative tasks and ensuring all travelers are booked together.

Flexible Terms: American Airlines offers flexibility in payment schedules, name changes, and sometimes even allows for adjustments closer to the departure date.

How to Book a Group Flight on American Airlines

Contact American Airlines: Start by contacting American Airlines’ group travel department directly. You can reach them via phone or through their website’s group travel section.

Provide Details: Have the following information ready:

Travel dates and duration

Departure and destination airports

Number of passengers (adults, children, infants)

Any special requirements (e.g., wheelchair assistance, dietary preferences)

Negotiate and Confirm: Discuss pricing, payment options, and any additional services your group may need, such as seat assignments or extra baggage allowance. Confirm the booking with a deposit or full payment as required by American Airlines.

Manage Your Booking: After booking, keep track of your group reservation details. Monitor flight schedules and communicate any changes or updates to all group members.

Tips for Booking with American Airlines

Book Early: Secure your group booking well in advance to maximize savings and ensure availability, especially for peak travel seasons.

Check for Special Offers: American Airlines may offer additional perks or incentives for group bookings, so inquire about any ongoing promotions.

Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with American Airlines’ policies regarding group bookings, including cancellation fees and refund options.

Conclusion

American Airlines group booking provides a convenient and cost-effective way to organize travel for large groups. By leveraging discounted fares and streamlined booking processes, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for everyone in your group. Whether you’re traveling for business, pleasure, or educational purposes, American Airlines’ group booking options cater to a variety of group travel needs.

[johnold]

Does American give you flight credit if you cancel a flight?

Can I use American Airline Credit to pay for someone Different?

People often receive travel credit in the event of canceling their reservations for flights through American airlines. Travel credit can provide discounts when purchasing the next flight from the airline. Credits can be used to obtain discounted and cheap tickets to all destinations. To be able to obtain credit from American airlines, you must be aware of the rules and procedures of credit travel. This step-by-step guide will provide further guidance on how to receive credit on travel with American airlines.

Start the official site of American airlines.

Then, on the home page look for the option “AAdvantage” and click it.

Then click the join AAdvantage link and enter the necessary information such as name, email address telephone number, address, and so on.

Click Continue and join the American Advantage Club.

If you’re an existing member of Aadvantage you must sign into your account to keep using the service.

When you’re done with the procedure of joining the Advantage Club You will then become an affiliate of American airlines. This will benefit you in a variety of ways, for instance, you can utilize the travel credits to make future bookings and gain access to special offers, and also earn miles on every travel. Credits are transferred into your Aadvantage club account after each trip.

Are you sure American Airlines Give You Credit?

Travel credits are awarded to passengers according to a range of factors, including:

You can get travel credits when you make any changes to the original ticket. For instance, when you change the ticket and alter the date or destination of your flight and the balance of the cost is transferred to you as a form of credit.

Customers who cancel a reservation that is non-refundable are eligible for reimbursement from the account, in the form of travel credit.

Credits for travel are redeemable at the following booking and last for one year following the date of issue.

Credits can be earned through booking flights as a token of appreciation from American airlines.

The American Advantage club members receive travel credits each time they buy tickets.

Travel credits have an expiration date. So be sure to redeem them before the expiry time.

Are American Airlines Extending Flight Credits?

Trip credit or travel credit is given by American airlines to cover reasons such as reimbursements, compensation, and the remaining value of flight Credit exchanges for example. Flight credits come with an expiration date that is specified in the conditions and terms. Usually, the time of expiration is one year following the date of the issue. Credits for travel are not redeemable upon seat selection or receiving an additional baggage allowance. This means that you cannot use the American Airlines flight cannot be extended according to the policy. Additionally, you can contact the customer support team of American airlines to obtain more details regarding the travel credit you have earned. The customer service department is readily available via calls and live chat, emails, and social media platforms. You can contact them via any of these channels to receive an answer.

How to Use American Airlines Flight Credit?

American airlines offer three major travel credit cards to all passengers. one of which is trip credit, the other is flight credit, and the final option is vouchers. These are all redeemable upon booking a flight and not for baggage or seat selection. Therefore, the method to redeem the travel credits is quite simple. Just follow these steps:

Locate your travel credit account email you may have received.

You can get the 13-digit number for your credit card via the same email.

Visit this link to the American Airlines official website.

In the Find Flights section, type in your departure and destination area, and then choose how many passengers with the date of travel.

Select the Search button.

There is a list of flights on the next page. You can choose any of them to suit your needs.

Input the name of the passenger, age, email address, or phone number.

Follow the on-screen prompts to begin the booking procedure.

Once you have reached the page for payment, you can select trip credit as a method of payment.

Add your 13-digit trip credit code, then click add trip credit.

This page for payment will show the current amount left after subtracting the credits. The rest of the amount using another method of payment, if you wish.

Can American Airlines Refund Credit?

Passengers can claim the travel credit after canceling the flight or altering the date of departure and destination. Travel credits are not refundable. If the individual has already used it the credit is also not returnable. Passengers cannot receive cash as payment for travel credits. It is only deducted on booking flights. The travel credits are not transferable that is to say the person who has the trip credit is the only one who is able to redeem them.

Be sure that you’ve not violated any of the terms and conditions of their policies in order to get the credits. If the flight itself is unable to cancel your flight for unavoidable reasons such as a flood or natural disaster or weather conditions. Then you’re entitled to the credit as a form of reimbursement. In the event that the passenger could not take the flight because of an emergency, such as the death of a close person. In this case, they could receive the credit for the refund by presenting the required documents.

How to Use American Airlines Credit From Canceled Flights?

American airlines offer a complete refund in the form of credit in the event that they decide to cancel your flight from their end. Also, you can get an amount of money back for the canceled flight that can be used on future bookings. Passengers can utilize the travel credit towards upgrading their flights also. The credit you get in the event of a flight cancellation can be used to make a flight through this official website. Make sure to follow the booking procedure and choose the pay with credit option on the payment page. The credit amount for your travel credit will be deducted and the remainder of your ticket will be transferred to other payment methods. You are also able to connect with the customer support representative of American airlines flight upgrade by phone live chat, chat, or via email for assistance on the reservation of your tickets.

[americanairlinesnamecorrection]

"Precision in Every Detail: American Airlines' Name Correction Policy"

☎️ Phone: +1-888-261-0054

🌎 Website: https://www.fareoyard.com/american-airlines-name-change-policy

[airtripsadvisor]

American Airlines Cancellation Policy

American Airlines, the largest airline in the world, offers flexible cancellation options for customers. This helps to improve customer satisfaction and encourages passengers to follow simple policies. The type of flight booked will determine the AA cancellation policy. You can cancel your reserved flight without any hassle, as passenger priority is the highest priority for US-based American Airlines. If you have ever had to deal with this type of issue, or are currently facing it, it can be frustrating. This article will address the most important points concerning American Airlines cancellation policy. It will show that cancelling and requesting a refund are easy.

How can I cancel American Airlines flights without paying a fee?

American Airlines' cancellation policy is determined by the type of flight you booked when you reserve your seat. The more expensive your flight ticket, the more freedom you have to modify your booking. It is important to remember that American Airlines has three types of tickets. They are refundable, partially refundable and non-refundable. If your ticket cannot be canceled or changed, AA can refuse to honor your request.

American Airlines Basic Economy Policy: Cancellation Policy

It is easy to cancel your air ticket. These simple rules will allow a passenger to cancel their flight via the airline website.

Go to American Airline's website and click on - Check-in or Your Trip. Enter your name and record locator. Once you have signed in, your travel details will appear automatically on the screen.

Select your trip from the list of flights in the pop-up and click 'view/select. You have two choices: cancel a flight or change a travel itinerary. Click on the appropriate option to guide you through the process of changing or cancelling your flight as per American Airlines cancellation policy for basic economy.

American Airlines Cancellation Fee

A refundable American Airlines ticket can be used when you cancel or change your booking. For cancelling your reservation, however, AA charges USD 150. When you book a flight with American Airlines, cancellation policies are non-refundable. For cases like a death in the immediate family or health concerns, the airline will cancel or change your ticket at no cost. The American cancellation policy states that a ticket that is partially refundable must be booked before the departure date. Cancellations made more than seven to ten days in advance of departure are subject to a USD 50 charge by AA.

American Airlines Cancellation Policy 24 Hours

American Airlines is flexible with its policies. Many customers find that they are easy to follow when it comes to cancelling, refunding or changing flights. But, each rule must be followed step-by-step. The basic rule for this category is to cancel your AA flight tickets within 24 hours. Only if you comply with the American Airlines 24-hour cancellation policy, can you get a full refund for your reserved flight ticket. Within 7-10 business days, the refund amount will be credited to your account. There are several options for cancelling the order if you cancel after 24 hours.

Basic Economy - There are no cancellation fees for domestic and international flights

Economy: USD 200 for domestic and international flights

Premium Economy - USD 200 Fee for all domestic and international flights

Business Class - No charges for domestic or international flights

First Class - No fees for domestic or international flights

Reward tickets - No fees for domestic or international flights

American Airlines Ticket Cancellation Policy

American Airlines cancellation policy is different for each type of air ticket: economy class, basic economy and economy. The ticket cancellation and refund policies for AA basic economy are only valid for 24 hours after booking the flight ticket. No cancellation fees are allowed after the 24-hour time limit.

Cancelling within 24 hours of your flight will result in a full refund. Economy tickets are slightly more expensive than basic economy tickets. However, cancellation policies will apply to tickets purchased beyond 24 hours by AA. This policy will result in a USD 200 charge. The customer will receive a refund of the remainder.

American Airlines cancellation policy for the main cabin allows to cancel or change your reservation at any time. You must cancel or make changes to your reservation at least 24 hours prior to the flight. You will be charged a fee if you can't cancel your booking within this time frame. USD 200 is required to cancel a booking for the main cabin. If you cancel or change your American Airlines reservation within 24 hours, the fee is USD 200

[airlinerefsouthwestairline1]

Airline Ref. Southwest Airline

1. Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines Co. is commonly known as Southwest. It is the largest airline in America and the most well-known low-cost carrier. Southwest Airlines was established on March 15, 1967, under the name of Air Southwest Co. The airline changed its name to Southwest Airlines Co. in 1971, when it became an intrastate carrier wholly within Texas. Southwest has 45 airports along with a variety of Central American destinations. Southwest's current slogan is "Low costs." There's nothing to hide.

2. Southwest Air Lines Reservations

a. Southwest Airline Booking Numbers. 

Our staff is available 24 hours a day to assist you. You can make reservations for Southwest Airlines online at any time. For more details, customers can contact the reception desk. Customers can avail special discounts and promotions to attract new customers.

3. Southwest Airlines Facilities

Each airline is unique. United One: These premium business class seats are designed for long transcontinental and global flights. They are flat seats and have aisle access from every seat. * Southwest Comfort: This seat has a huge overhead space. Priority boarding, complimentary drinks and wine, as well as up to 250 miles can be included in your journey. Many flights come with a headset. * Premium select: the cabin features more legroom, as well as an adjustable knee rest. The cabin is more comfortable and spacious seat, as well as recliners and legroom. Southwest Airlines is among the most WI-Fi-equipped airlines. Customers can bring their tablets, laptops, and smartphones to the airport. Each seat has magazines so that passengers can keep up to date with news from around the globe.

4. Southwest Airlines Popular Destinations and Hubs

Southwest currently has eight Customer Support and Services Centers: Albuquerque, Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Oklahoma City, Phoenix, and San Antonio and our Source of Support (SOS) Center is located in Dallas.

5. Southwest Airline Check-in and Boarding Pass

Southwest Airlines' Web Check-in and Boarding Pass allows customers to check in online at any time prior to departure. Print your ticket for boarding and an e-ticket by following the method described by Southwest Airlines. Your ticket number as well as confirmation number will allow you to determine the time of your flight. This is among the easiest methods of getting your boarding pass, and also ensures a smooth check-in. There are many other methods to check into Southwest Airlines. * Web check-in * Mobile check-in * Southwest Airlines counter check-in at the airport * Call Southwest Airlines customer care check-in at +1 (800) 435-9792.

6. Southwest Airline Policy

a. Baggage Policy and Fees

This is the complete guide for Southwest Airlines baggage policy & allowance. Carry-on baggage allowance Carry-on rules Southwest Airlines allows you to carry one bag and one personal item onboard. This is completely free. Be sure that your hand luggage fits into the overhead bin for convenience.

b. Pet Policy

Cats, dogs, and any household pets can travel onboard for $125 one way to/from most destinations. Only domestic flights within the US allow pets. The pet allowance fee is $200 when traveling outside the United States.

c.Cancellation and Refund Policy

The cancellation policy at Southwest Airlines provides a seamless process for its customers. You can dial for a direct refund at +1 (800) 435-9792 or visit our official site http://www.Southwest.com which helps you to manage your bookings. You will then have the option of cancelling or reconfirming your reservation.

[cancellationfl]

How to book group travel with American airlines?

Sometimes, people intend to fly for a business meeting or plan a vacation with the family. However, the American Airlines Group Travel policy can offer benefits if flying with a group of ten or more. 

It is among the major airlines in the United States & also recognize as the world's largest airline. Customers are offered amazing services whenever they try to book seats with the respective airlines. 

However, the airline's motto is to provide an enhanced travel experience. 

How to make group reservations?

There are some easy steps below:

The first thing is to access the official site of the American airlines

In the booking section, look for the group option & move forward

You need to follow the same steps for a normal booking process & need to mention all the booking details.

Here, the customers have to mark the dates and destinations, along with the time preference 

The customers also need to confirm whether they wish to fly a one-way or round trip

After that, you need to mention the details about the number of the travelers 

Now, search for affordable flights & pick one. 

At last, you need to make the payment via cash, card, or miles. 

These are the Ways to Book American Airlines Group Travel at Affordable prices.

What are the advantages for the group traveler?

Here are some points that refer to the multiple advantages while tarveling in group :

You can make the Group booking upto 11 months in advance. 

Moreover, if you feel like changing the name, it's free to do it without any charges. 

This facility is only for a single person & should be done before 48 hrs of the scheduled departure.

There is no way for a minimum stay; however, passengers can stay as per the requirement.

How to get the discount with the group booking?

The passengers can search for the low fares at the time of booking & in the payment section, you can apply for the discount. Moreover, speak to the live person & get the other details. 

Conclusion:

So, the readers can go through the above details about the American Airlines group booking process.

[allegiantairlines8]

|Airlines Reservations| ALLEGIANT AIRLINES Reservation number 📞+1-888-621-0447 |PHONE NUMBER|

Allegiant Airlines is an American airline that assists customers in traveling to remote locations. The airlines give excellent service to their passengers. Passengers benefit from these services during their journey. Allegiant Airlines' corporate offices are in Summerlin, Nevada, a Las Vegas suburb. This airline is the United States' eighth largest commercial airline.

Allegiant Airlines has a fleet of 90 planes. The airlines fly to 121 different locations across the world. Allegiant Airlines is well-known across the world for offering exceptional service to its clients.

Learn how travelers may obtain a refund from Allegiant Airlines: Allegiant airlines ticket reservation number +1-888-621-0447. Passengers who have made Allegiant Air Reservations for airline tickets may ask for a refund by following the steps outlined below. Allegiant Airlines officials can be contacted if an issue develops when filing for an online refund for canceled airline tickets with Allegiant Airlines. Passengers must first visit Allegiant Airlines' official website and select the manage reservation area. In the managed reservation area, travelers must provide the booking reference ID as well as their last name. This is the Allegiant Airlines number to call +1-888-621-0447 24 by 7.

Finally, travelers may proceed by selecting the online refund option.

Here, travelers must input the specifics of their bookings and any other information they desire. So, by using these methods, travelers will be able to obtain a refund for canceled airline tickets. Speaking with the executives reduces the number of difficulties, speeds up, and simplifies the entire process.

• what is Allegiant Airlines' booking number? | Allegiant Airlines' flight booking number?

Passengers can contact Allegiant Airlines officials by contacting the Allegiant Airlines reservation phone Number. This number assists travelers in communicating with executives. These executives are prepared to listen to the challenges and offer relevant advice. Appropriate help is provided to passengers who are eager to resolve the difficulties that they are experiencing.

• Allegiant Airlines' new booking number? | Allegiant Airlines ticket booking number?

Allegiant Airlines provide a flight changing facility if sometimes you are not capable of boarding your flight passengers can also book from this Allegiant airlines new flight booking number by officials. You can change your Allegiant Airlines flight within 24 hours before the scheduled departure online with the help of the below steps:

• Visit the official website of Allegiant Airlines and then tap on the option Manage reservation.

• Now type your confirmation number and the last name printed on the ticket into the given field.

• After that, click on the Find tab and then select a flight from your previous booking that you want to change.

• Now follow the instructions that appeared on your screen to change your flight on Allegiant Airlines.

If these above-described flight change steps do not help, then dial Allegiant Airlines flight change phone number (888)621-0447 and change your flight as per your requirements with the help of customer service which is very qualified and skilled. They will change your flight on Allegiant Airlines just within fewer times.

*Did you know that Allegiant Airlines has a refund policy?

Passengers' booked flight tickets may be canceled under Allegiant Air's Refund Policy. If a flight ticket is canceled within 24 hours of being purchased, there are no cancellation fees assessed to the passengers. A certain amount of the cost is refunded if travelers cancel airline tickets that are booked more than 24 hours after booking them.

[airline-travel23]

Group Flight Booking: A Comprehensive Guide

Group flight bookings offer several advantages for large parties traveling together. Whether it's for business trips, family reunions, school trips, or any other group travel, booking as a group can simplify the process and provide cost savings. Here’s an in-depth look at how to make a group flight booking with various airlines, focusing on the benefits, process, and tips for a smooth experience.

Benefits of Group Flight Booking

Discounted Rates: Group bookings often come with discounted fares not available to individual travelers.

Flexible Payment Terms: Airlines typically offer flexible payment options, including the ability to pay a deposit upfront and the balance closer to the travel date.

Coordinated Seating: Ensure that all group members are seated together.

Dedicated Support: Access to a dedicated group travel coordinator for assistance with booking and travel arrangements.

Additional Perks: Some airlines offer additional benefits like extra baggage allowance, priority boarding, and customized itineraries for group bookings.

How to Make a Group Flight Booking

Determine Group Size: Most airlines define a group as 10 or more passengers traveling together. Check the specific requirements of the airline you plan to book with.

Contact the Airline:

Phone: Many airlines have a dedicated phone line for group bookings. For example, American Airlines can be contacted at 800-433-1790.

Online Request Form: Airlines like American Airlines offer an online group travel request form on their website.

Travel Agents: You can also use a travel agent who specializes in group travel to handle the booking process for you.

Provide Travel Details:

Number of passengers.

Travel dates and preferred flight times.

Departure and arrival cities.

Special requests (e.g., seating arrangements, meal preferences).

Receive a Quote: The airline will provide a quote based on your travel details. The quote will include the total fare, payment terms, and any special conditions.

Confirm the Booking: After accepting the quote, you’ll need to pay a deposit to secure the booking. The remaining balance is usually due 30-60 days before departure, depending on the airline’s policy.

Submit Passenger Details: Provide the names and other required information for all group members. Ensure that all details are accurate to avoid any issues during check-in.

Manage Your Booking:

You can make changes to the booking if necessary, but be aware of any change fees or fare differences that may apply.

Stay in touch with your group travel coordinator for any additional assistance or adjustments.

Tips for a Smooth Group Flight Booking Experience

Book Early: Group rates and availability can change, so it’s best to book as early as possible.

Stay Organized: Keep track of all communications, payment deadlines, and passenger information.

Communicate Clearly: Ensure that all group members are aware of the travel itinerary, payment deadlines, and any special requirements.

Prepare for Travel: Check in as a group at the airport to streamline the process and ensure everyone is seated together.

[dontmeantobepoliticalbut]

The White House announced a sweeping executive order Friday to promote competition throughout the U.S. economy, in the most ambitious effort in generations to reduce the stranglehold of monopolies and concentrated markets in major industries.

The order — whose details POLITICO first reported last week — also includes elements designed to lower the price of prescription drugs, protect consumers' privacy and increase scrutiny of abusive business tactics in the tech industry.

The effort marks a major push by President Joe Biden’s administration to focus on competition as part of the economic recovery from the pandemic. It also offers a response to progressives’ criticisms that the federal government has focused too much on supporting banks and other corporations without concern about the effect on consumers, who have watched their choices dwindle over the years.

Biden plans to sign the order at 1:30 p.m., the White House said.

The order’s impacts could be felt in industries including agriculture, airlines, health, broadband and banking. Previously unreported elements include a provision urging the Federal Communications Commission to reinstate its Obama-era net neutrality rules, as well as a call for financial regulators to allow data sharing among financial companies.

It dives into the specifics on some policy issues — for instance, by calling for over-the-counter sales of hearing aids, urging the Food and Drug Administration to allow imports of prescription drugs from Canada, and ending "exclusivity arrangements" in which landlords "stick tenants with only a single internet option," according to a nearly 4,000-word White House fact sheet issued Friday morning.

The White House said order will include initiatives to require airlines to refund fees to passengers who receive shoddy Wi-Fi service or baggage handling; restricting businesses’ ability to foist noncompete agreements on employees; challenge occupational licensing requirements that limit competition in industries like health care; and guarantee farmers and motorists the right to repair their own vehicles without voiding warranty protections. The last provision would also have implications for consumer products like Apple’s iPhones.

Top White House officials said the order seeks to ensure small businesses and consumers have access to fair markets.

“The overarching objective with the executive order is to make sure the president is encouraging competition in industries around the country,” White House press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters Thursday.

Taking aim at just one industry the order will cover, Psaki added: “It doesn’t sound right to most people that there are three shipping companies that are dominating the market and upping and increasing costs for suppliers, small businesses, people across the country. That doesn’t sound right or fair, because it isn’t.”

Background:

The executive order builds off one that former President Barack Obama issued in 2016, which encouraged agencies to consider competition in their decisions and rulemakings. That order — largely the work of Jason Furman, chair of the White House Council of Economic Advisers — came near the end of Obama’s presidency. Few agencies followed through on the White House’s prodding, and those that did saw their actions largely overturned by former President Donald Trump’s appointees.

Biden’s order goes a step beyond Obama’s by offering pointed suggestions for steps to take, rather than leaving implementation entirely to the agencies.

The new order is the product of months of negotiations among White House officials, particularly Tim Wu — who served on Obama’s National Economic Council and is now a Biden aide focused on technology and competition policy — along with the Justice Department, Federal Trade Commission and other federal agencies.

While the White House can command executive branch agencies like the Departments of Transportation and Agriculture to take action, the order styles its directions as “suggestions” to avoid the appearance the administration is inappropriately seeking to direct independent agencies like the FCC or FTC. That could avoid the kind of blowback that Trump faced when he pressed both agencies to crack down on social media companies.

A Columbia University law professor and antitrust advocate, Wu is considered one of the founders of the New Brandeis movement in antitrust, along with Lina Khan, a fellow Columbia professor whom Biden named FTC chair last month. Wu and Khan have both argued that the federal government should use a variety of tools beyond antitrust enforcement, particularly agency rulemakings, to promote competition.

The White House order will include these items:

Airlines and shipping: The Transportation Department will issue rules aimed at boosting transparency of airlines’ fees for baggage and Wi-Fi service while helping consumers recover those costs when their trips are delayed or the service is substandard. The agency had proposed similar rules in 2016 that would have forced airlines to disclose baggage and change fees before passengers buy their tickets, but the Trump administration canceled the rulemaking.People familiar with the executive order had said they expect it to suggest efforts to encourage competition at major U.S. airports with capacity constraints, such as New York’s JFK International and Ronald Reagan Washington National near D.C. However, the fact sheet does not mention this issue. The order also tasks the Federal Maritime Commission, which regulates ocean shipping, and the Surface Transportation Board, which oversees trucking and railroads, with seeking ways to bring down shipping costs.

Agriculture: The USDA will undertake several rulemakings aimed at protecting farmers and ranchers against unfair practices by large meatpackers and other agribusinesses. The rules seek to make it easier for the agency to challenge unfair and deceptive practices by meat processors and would allow farmers to more easily file complaints with USDA or sue under the Packers and Stockyards Act. People familiar with the order said it would also tighten the rules for so-called poultry grower tournament systems, in which contract farmers are paid more or less than their peers in the same area depending on how closely they meet buyers’ standards. The agency is also moving forward with rules that seek to increase food access through alternatives to supermarkets, like local farmer’s markets, and increase consumer transparency about where meat is raised.

Labor: The order takes aim at noncompete agreements — contractual provisions that attempt to prevent workers from switching jobs within the same industry — and urges the FTC to make rules barring or limiting them. About one in five Americans today is bound by noncompetes, particularly in tech and health care, where the clauses are common. The order will also urge the FTC and the Justice Department to challenge overly broad job licensing requirements imposed by state governments, a move the administration says could make it easier for workers to obtain new licenses when they move to a new state. During the pandemic, about half of U.S. states agreed to modify their occupational licensing requirements to allow out-of-state physicians and health care workers to work in the state or offer telehealth services.

Financial Services: The order is also expected to support open banking regulations, which seek to allow data sharing among financial firms to increase consumer convenience and price transparency. New regulations could provide more clarity about the consumer protection and cybersecurity obligations of financial apps that have access to data from customers' bank and brokerage accounts. Under the 2010 Dodd-Frank law, consumers have the right to access their own financial data. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has yet to issue standards that would govern consumer requests and transfers, however, although it started a potential rulemaking on the subject in October. Progressive groups have called on the Biden administration to adopt a strong interpretation of the law that would make it easy for consumers to switch among banks and take advantage of innovative upstart technology firms that provide lending and investing services.

Right to repair: The order will also task the FTC with establishing rules on when consumers can bypass manufacturers to seek repairs on products they own, a concept known as “right to repair.” The widespread issue affects farmers seeking to fix their own equipment, as well as consumers who want to use cheaper independent mechanics rather than car dealerships for auto repairs ― or small repair shops instead of Apple for cracked iPhone screens. In a May report to Congress, the FTC suggested it might undertake such a rulemaking that would clarify when repair restrictions violate the law. Manufacturers have fought against “right to repair” proposals, saying they could expose customers to substandard repairs or even violate their privacy by undermining devices’ security.

Mergers: The order would urge the FTC and DOJ to update guidance on how they review mergers, potentially pulling back on guidelines the Trump administration approved last year. Those guidelines focused on so-called vertical mergers, which involve companies that are not direct competitors but are in the same supply chain, and which have typically attracted little scrutiny from regulators. The FTC’s two Democrats opposed the Trump-era update, calling it overly deferential to business. Changes to those guidelines could affect several pending deals, including Amazon’s proposed purchase of MGM Studios and UnitedHealth Group’s deal to buy Change Healthcare. The order will also recommend that federal banking regulators work with the Justice Department to update guidance on bank deals. The DOJ partners with the Federal Reserve, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. to vet bank mergers, but hasn’t changed how it looks at potential tie-ups since 1995.

[lemonluvgirl]

In the Clouds

An Everlark Birthday fic for Sparkling Stella

I wrote this fic for the wonderful, funny, amazing, and talented @the-sparkling-way !!! It’s her birthday today so don’t forget to send her well wishes! Hope you like it my friend! And a special thanks goes out to @pookieh​  for helping me with the Canadian phrases and slang. LOL you helped me so much! And also to @jhsgf82​ for helping me beta read and giving me feedback! Part 2, with smut, coming soon!

“Get your head outta the clouds boy,” Captain Abernathy barked at Co-Captain Peeta Mellark. 

Peeta grunted in annoyance and looked away from the retreating form of the beautiful woman who had just come in to let them know they were ready for take off. 

“Sorry, Captain,” Peeta replied, fighting a flush at being caught staring at one of the flight attendants. 

She was the newest stewardess to start with Panem Airlines in recent weeks, and her name was Katniss. 

“Don’t be such a keener, Mellark,” Haymitch said as he barked out a laugh at his younger co-captain’s expense. “You should make your move, kid. Those American girls are less aggressive than our women. A lot of them wait for the man to initiate things. And you’ve been drooling over that bittie like a puppy eyeing a box of Timbits for weeks now,” Captain Abernathy said. 

Peeta scoffed, but didn’t reply. He disliked that his crush on Katniss was being compared to a dog eyeing a box of donuts. 

Even if it was slightly accurate. 

He had noticed Katniss right away when she started working at Panem Air because she was very pretty, exotic-looking even. Being Canadian, from Toronto, he had grown up around a mix of different people from different places. He had always had a penchant for olive skin and dark hair. But so far none of the women he’d tried dating had left any kind of lasting impression.

Unlike his new coworker. 

One thing he never knew about himself until he met Katniss was just how affected he was by steely gray eyes, or long dark hair braided into a thick plait. She hardly even wore makeup. But he’d never met a girl so understatedly beautiful. 

 He also noticed other things about her. Like how she was quiet, hard-working, and not one of the pilot-chasers. A good portion of stewardesses and pilots were known to carry on interpersonal relationships despite company regulations discouraging such things. It often made for awkward workplace tensions. For that reason alone, Peeta had tried to steer clear of getting involved with any of the stewardesses he’d known before he met Katniss. 

She had changed his ideas about whether dating a co-worker was worth the hassle, and he had developed a serious crush on her. Unfortunately, she didn’t seem to take notice of him, or any other pilot. 

Which was good, considering on certain days he flew with guys like Cato Anderson as his co-pilot. He was a typical cocky young buck, who thought his license to fly a plane also gave him license to chase stewardesses. Those kinds of pilots were assholes who’d sleep with anything in a skirt, and Katniss always ignored their flirting and innuendos. 

And while he was glad she didn’t fall for their tactics, Peeta was disappointed to learn she wasn’t open to dating him either. 

On their last flight, a connecting one from New York to Edmonton, his sometimes co-captain Finnick Odair had asked her to go out for drinks, and she had turned him down saying, “I don’t date pilots” dismissively before turning around and going back to her duties. 

Peeta had been happy that she’d turned Finnick down, even if the man was his friend and ultimately a good person under his playboy personna, but he had been crushed to hear about her dating policy -because it meant he was automatically barred from dating her as well. 

So, the only thing he could do was admire her from afar. 

Peeta returned his attention to the controls and the readouts coming from the displays on the cockpit circuit board. 

“All clear, Captain. Let’s give’er,” Peeta told the older gentleman, and Captain Abernathy nodded before he clicked on the announcement mic and began his rehearsed spiel about how clear the skies were and how smooth their flight would be to ease the passengers into take-off mode. 

~

Halfway through the flight, the same stewardess knocked on the cabin door and poked her head in to let the pilots know there was a couple who had snuck into the lavatory together and were causing a disturbance to the other passengers. 

Peeta grimaced as Katniss told him that the door had been locked for twenty minutes and there were all manner of strange sounds coming from inside. 

Katniss’ face had been an embarrassed shade of crimson when she had to ask for Peeta’s help in removing the couple from the washroom. 

“Yeah, no, don’t worry; I’ll get them outta there in two minutes flat,” Peeta assured her before setting his controls on standby and unbuckling from his seat. 

“Don’t go too hard on ‘em, boy. Young love knows no bounds!” Captain Abernathy chuckled in amusement as Peeta vacated his co-pilot seat. 

Peeta rolled his eyes and muttered, “Young love, eh? Probably just two hosers looking to join the mile high club.” 

Katniss apparently had heard his comment and looked back at him with a curious expression on her face. 

“Hosers. It’s Candian for idiots. Do you all still say idiots in the States?” Peeta asked her with a tilt of his head. 

Katniss pursed her lips like she was fighting off a smile. Peeta wondered what it would take to make her let go and laugh. 

“Yes. I know about the term hosers. I’ve been working around you Canucks long enough to pick up on that one,” Katniss said with a subtle arch of her left eyebrow and a twinkle in her eye. That fact that she’d picked up on the slang word for Canadians made Peeta smile, which in turn made Katniss smile back. Her expression lit up her whole face with gentle beauty. 

 It made Peeta want to lean in to get a better look at the shades of gray in her eyes, framed by thick, dark lashes. But he held back, out of politeness. After all, it wasn’t very Canadian to invade a woman’s (or anyone’s for that matter) personal space. 

Katniss cleared her throat and started over, looking away from him. “I meant the mile high club? What’s that?” she asked quietly. 

Peeta had to do a double-take to make sure he’d heard her question correctly. 

“Uh, well, you know. The mile high club. I think-er-the term was actually invented in The States…..” Peeta said, too dumbfounded by her innocence to answer her question correctly. 

Another stewardess, Johanna Mason, who had three years working for the airline under her belt, snickered when she heard Peeta struggle to answer Katniss’ question. 

“How can you be a stewardess and not know about the mile high club, Brainless?” Johanna teased, and Peeta shot her a look. He knew Johanna was virtually harmless; the girl was all bark and no bite, but he didn’t appreciate the way Johanna teased Katniss sometimes and called her Brainless. 

Katniss was an adult (22 years old, to be exact; Peeta had found out from some of the other stewardesses by asking some discreet questions), but she had this quality about her. She wasn’t naive per se; it was more like she was pure. 

“Don’t worry, give it a couple of months, and the things you’ll see on some of these planes will educate your virginal mind,” Johanna added with a smirk. 

“I’m not a virgin!” Katniss exclaimed angrily, seeming to have spoken first without thinking. 

Peeta couldn’t help but look at her in that moment. She seemed to realize what she just said, and her cheeks flushed with a dark cherry-red stain while she closed her eyes in an embarrassed wince. 

“Whoa, I didn’t say you were. I just said your mind was virginal. It would be a crying shame if a grown woman like you didn’t know about‒” Johanna started to say. 

“That’s enough, Ms. Mason. That kind of talk isn’t appropriate in the workplace,” Peeta cut Johanna off, and this time she actually clammed up and looked mildly contrite. 

Peeta snuck a look at Katniss and saw that she was scowling; because of her embarrassment or because he had intervened on her behalf, he didn’t know which one it was. 

Peeta shook his head and cleared his throat, returning his attention to the matter at hand. 

“Let’s go get those passengers back in their seats,” Peeta said sternly, and Katniss nodded before following him towards the back of the plane where the lavatory was located. 

The passengers in question, Glimmer and Marvel Jones (newlyweds, who apparently couldn’t wait until they got to their honeymoon suite) were easy enough to wrangle back into their seats after Peeta had a stern word with them through the lavatory door. 

They stumbled from the washroom pink-cheeked and disheveled and slunk off after muttering some apologies to Peeta and Katniss. 

Katniss thanked him quietly, and Peeta returned to the cockpit without further ado. 

~

“I’m really not as stupid as Johanna makes me out to be.” Katniss’ voice surprised him. Peeta turned around in the empty plane to see her standing there, determined-looking but also slightly apprehensive. 

They had just finished landing and exiting procedures at Edmonton International, and most everyone including the other stewardesses were rushing off to their next assignments.  

“I don’t think you’re stupid, Miss Everdeen, I think you’re a class act,” Peeta replied, and then he winced because he thought that sounded like something a geriatric citizen would say. He wasn’t that much older than Katniss. He got his pilot’s license at 21 and had been flying for the last four years. He was usually a lot smoother with women, but there was something about Katniss Everdeen that made him feel like a tongue-tied teenager. 

“Thank you, sir,” Katniss said in a careful tone, and Peeta groaned internally. 

She definitely thinks I’m a deadshit. He thought to himself ruefully as he tried to scrounge up a piece of conversation that wouldn’t be boring. 

“How many times do I have to ask you to call me Peeta?” he said with a sigh, because it was the only thing his brain could come up with in response. 

“I don’t know. I guess I’m just used to a more formal work environment. Back in the States there were stricter rules,” Katniss said with a huff. 

Peeta noticed her dissatisfied grimace. 

“Well, you’re in the Great North now, beautiful, and us Canadians are known for being very polite and friendly, no matter what you do, or where you’re from,” Peeta told her, and then he gave her one of his friendliest smiles. 

Katniss bit her lip and nodded. 

“I think I’m starting to understand that,” Katniss said quietly. It looked like she was biting back a smile. 

Peeta looked up with hope in his eyes, wondering if Haymitch had been right and he should just go ahead and ask her out, even if she didn’t want to date him right away, maybe they could start out as friends. 

“What you sayin’ tonight?” Peeta blurted out. 

“Huh? Where am I staying?” Katniss asked and gave him a bewildered look. 

“No! That's not what I meant, or, actually, that’s not what it sounded like. ‘What you sayin’ is a Canadian way of asking, ‘What are your plans for tonight?’” Peeta rushed to explain, and then he turned scarlet when Katniss gave him a blank, disbelieving look. 

“I’m not one of those kinds of girls!” Katniss protested, narrowing her eyes at him. 

Peeta felt like she’d slapped him across the face. 

“No! What? Of course not! I just—I thought we could grab something to eat, if you’re done for the day,” Peeta clarified nervously. 

Katniss blinked at him, still suspicious and disbelieving. 

“As friends. I know you don’t date pilots,” Peeta said in a slightly sullen voice. 

“Oh,” Katniss replied, her eyes widening in realization. But she made no other attempt to speak or answer, and after a few seconds Peeta was even more embarrassed. 

“Yeah, no, it’s fine, if you don’t want to,” Peeta said, holding up his hands. “Sorry I asked! My friends all tell me I can be a real doughhead,” Peeta said with a laugh that was supposed to come out self-deprecating and humorous but instead sounded brittle. He moved away sharply, to escape back to the cockpit since he didn’t feel like trying to get past her in the tight airplane aisles. 

“No, wait!” Katniss called after him. 

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To be continued…