Return to the Line, Please
Back to the End of the Line, Sir The gate attendant emerged from the podium area, gesturing dramatically at the boarding group sign. He firmly instructed Kyle to step back past the barrier and wait for his group’s number. Kyle muttered his objections softly, but the line carried on without him. Some passengers edged sideways to create room as the agent reestablished order. From the jet bridge, the chatter of voices merged into a low, continuous hum. I continued along the winding path until the airplane door appeared and a warm greeting awaited.
Return to the Line, Please
Approaching the Plane Through the Jet Bridge
Into the Uncertain Abyss of Boarding The jet bridge constricted as it neared the aircraft’s body, while a chilling breeze slithered up my arms. I adjusted my backpack, balancing its heft between my shoulders. Up ahead, a flight attendant at the entrance acknowledged each traveler with a rehearsed nod. Safety cards were neatly piled on the galley counter as someone replenished them. The line briefly stalled, then gradually inched onward. I crossed the threshold into the plane and felt the cabin’s warmth envelop me, banishing the tunnel’s cold.
Approaching the Plane Through the Jet Bridge
