Why I Love "Fly Amercia"

With some grants there are various stipulations about which air carriers you can fly. I (Mo) guess this is a way to ensure that some of the US grant money gets channeled back into the US economy. My research in Jordan was funded by the Council for American Overseas Research Centers (CAORC) and as a result I had to "Fly America". While I am extremely appreciative of the grant, "Fly America" is never the cheapest option, nor it is the most direct route. As most seasoned travellers will tell you these flights are often the most expensive and often a circuitous route. Here are some of the reasons why I love "Fly America":

1. The "Fly America" flights from Amman leave at a reasonable hour and not at 2:50am,
2. United Airlines is a code share with Lufthansa, which means you get to spend a delightful 12 hours in the Frankfurt Airport waiting for a connecting flight,
3. You can always book your seat ahead of time ensuring the most legroom and the best view of the movie,
4. They often don't have a movie, which means extra quality sleep time,
5. And finally "Fly America" doesn't allow your final destination to be troublesome countries like Canada.

So after arriving at Washington Dulles, I waited around for another 4 hours for my flight to Toronto, only to be told that I was on standby because I didn't originate in the US. Luckily two drunken, seasoned business travellers interceded on my behalf at Dulles (they could see the impending melt down).

Thanks "Fly America" for making my travel experience one I won't soon forget.