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A resident of the Houston area is bringing attention to age bias in air travel, calling out the Department of Homeland Security and airline executives for the treatment she experiences during airport security screening.
Cretora Biggerstaff, who is 106-years-old, has been flying twice a year from Texas to Gainesville, Florida, accompanied by her daughter. She recounts that every time she travels, airport personnel question her age, making her feel disrespected.
In an interview with FOX 26 Houston, Biggerstaff expressed her frustration. She stated, “People will say to me, ‘How do you feel?’ I respond, ‘How should I feel? I feel OK. I don’t feel 106.'” This sentiment captures her youthful spirit and the disconnect she feels with those who challenge her capabilities based solely on her age.
During security checks, she frequently presents her Texas ID, which is equipped with a star indicating it complies with security standards. Nevertheless, she reports repeated requests to prove her age, which she finds disheartening. Biggerstaff voiced her belief that airline staff view her as a frail elder, saying, “If I could get the airlines to realize I’m not some stupid old lady, that’s how they think of me, as if I don’t know if I’m coming or going.”
According to Biggerstaff, she suspects that the computer systems in use do not recognize ages beyond 100. Her friend, Arline Thienel, supports this theory, stating, “I’d like to see the computers aligned up to 120 or whatever. People live longer, so they shouldn’t have to go through all that stress every time they travel.”
To address this issue, Biggerstaff and Thienel have taken their concerns to the U.S. Department of Transportation and have contacted CEOs of major airlines, including United Airlines and Delta Air Lines. They hope to see updates in the systems to better accommodate elderly travelers.
In the realm of air travel, rules dictate that passengers aged 18 and older must present valid identification at airport checkpoints. The Transportation Security Administration, or TSA, implemented this policy to ensure security for all travelers.
For passengers aged 75 and older, there are specific exceptions during the TSA screening process. For instance, seniors are allowed to leave their shoes on during screening, although removing light jackets is still required for Advanced Imaging Technology checks. If seniors cannot stand for screening, alternative security methods are provided to ease the process.
The TSA encourages feedback from the public and has been contacted for comments regarding Biggerstaff’s experience and her concerns about age bias. The agency maintains its focus on creating a secure environment for all passengers, while also accommodating the needs of older travelers.
Such experiences highlight the urgency for airlines and security agencies to reassess their policies and practices regarding elderly passengers. With the aging population continuously growing, adapting to the needs of older adults in travel contexts is more important than ever.
As societal norms shift, the expectations around travel experiences, especially for senior citizens, are also changing. Airlines and security personnel must recognize that discretion and respect towards elderly travelers will significantly improve their overall experience.
Experts in gerontology emphasize the importance of valuing older adults and their contributions to society. Addressing age-related biases in air travel aligns with broader efforts to foster respect and inclusivity for individuals of all ages. The case of Cretora Biggerstaff underscores the need for urgent reevaluation of systems that perpetuate age discrimination.
In the travel industry landscape, it is essential that customer service systems evolve to not only accommodate younger travelers but to also celebrate and honor the diverse experiences of older adults. By implementing more user-friendly systems, airlines can ensure that every passenger, regardless of age, feels respected and valued.
As Cretora Biggerstaff champions the cause of elderly travelers, her story resonates beyond individual frustration. It serves as a call to action for the airline industry to reflect on its practices and make necessary changes to enhance inclusivity for all.
Moving forward, the challenge lies in fostering an air travel environment where every passenger feels secure and respected, regardless of their age. Through awareness and proactive engagement, the aviation sector can cultivate a culture that values and acknowledges the full spectrum of travelers.
