February 1, 2016:
They're asleep, some are watching video, some are playing games on cell phones, the smallest group are reading, usually romance novels, occasionally technical books. One or two in first class have laptops out and are on the clock.
It's sad how straightforward it is to read the reflection of class.
Those watching video or playing games are dressed from Ross and probably work service jobs or as caregivers. Those reading romance novels are dressed from Macy's and are supported by someone else. The white collar types with technical books wear hiking boots, denim jeans, and in my case a blue blazer. The managers up front are in business suits.
Aside from Jimmy Carter actual ruling-class types don't fly commercial airlines, any more than they attended public schools or their children will.
The change in my lifetime has been how many more working people fly. Visiting family far away.