Hire for attitude, train for skill

Abstract

As my fellow passenger folded himself into a center seat, he grumbled that air travel today is about as much fun as going to the dentist. Accustomed to hearing my profession being used as a synonym for anxiety and discomfort, I just smiled and nodded. He had a point, after all: the average flight, like a dental appointment, is at best an inconvenient means to a necessary end. In fact, with the progressive elimination of meals, direct flights, legroom and even restroom privileges, the proverbial root canal is starting to look like a pleasant and civilized alternative to a business trip.