As we had a lunchtime flight we really didn't have time to go back to the Grand Old Opry so we had the car brought up and had a quick drive around Downtown before heading to the airport. Having returned the car we headed to the AA check in (having checked in on-line the previous evening). The agent at drop off said the flight load was very light and said she'd make sure nobody else was sat in our row. She also waived the baggage fees when we confirmed we were flying back to the UK with AA in a few days time which I thought was kind (as we were fully expecting to pay the $15 first bag $25 second bag as it asn't a connecting flight) .We then headed for security where yet again (and as expected) the carry on bag full of car parts caused some concern.Lots of puzzled looks and scratching of heads. TSA were again very pleasant and polite (why this defeats them in every other US state I really don't know).The TSA agent who checked the bag was obviously a bit of a car bore too, as he knew what most of the parts were and wanted to know what was being re-built.
He again thanked us for our patience , wished us a good trip and having re-packed the bag we headed off to seek some food and found a Jim Neelys (no ribs though only sandwiches)[:D]. One pulled pork and slaw sandwich later our flight was called and I had just enough time to buy a couple more boxes of Goo Goos[:D].Even though the load was light, boarding was strictly enforced , with priority boarding followed by zone. The flight was only about a third full and the attendant said we could move after take off if we so wished.
Nice new 737,clean, comfortable (not like the concrete NWA seats)with decent legroom.The loos were spotless too.Departure was prompt and we were soon airbourne.One of the crew worked the first class cabin (which was full) and the other two worked coach.Drinks were served once we'd reaced cruising altitude (soft free, alcoholic $6, snacks $4) and offered a replenishment a little while after that. Mr DL did move to the empty exit row in front so I had 1 1/2 hours of peace (watching Dave which was shown on the overhead monitor).The flight was uneventful and we were soon descending into sunny MIA.Following arrival at the gate we were off within minutes and by the time we got to the reclaim area the bags were coming around.Having grabbed the bags we were at Dollar within 20 mins and on our way 5 mins after that (Dollar Express makes a massive difference if it's busy).
Good flight and a great end to our Southern expedition. When we go back (I know we will because Dragonbaby wants to see Graceland and the Gibson factory, and the truth be told I'd love to do Graceland again) we'll stay in Nashville and drive to Memphis.
DL
