My days of flying Qantas are over. The flight down to Melbourne was uneventful, but for the snooty male flight attendant at the door. That said, it may have just been that it was 6 in the morning and I was tired and grumpy.
Checking in for the return flight I had bags to drop off, and the bag drop queue went for miles. I’ve never seen anything like it… The queue went the length of the counters, then wrapped around and continued behind the counters. It was about 20 minutes before I was able to drop my bag off. I was travelling with Dad, and we had a suitcase between us. It seems, however, that Qantas sees this as unacceptable. To wit:
Qantas agent: Sir, are you aware that your bag is 3 kilos over the limit?
Me: Really? 35 kilos? (the max checkable weight is typically 32 kg).
QA: No, 26 kilos. You’re allowed to have 23 kilos a person.
Me: But there are two to travel. Aren’t we allowed to combine our allowances?
QA: Well, you’re allowed 23 kilos a person. You’ll have to…
I knew what she’s going to say and butted in… I had my own bag within the one we were checking.
Me: …I’ll repack. I’m not paying excess baggage.
QA: *grumble grumble* Never mind, sir. Just remember not to travel with more than 23 kilos next time.
She then slapped my luggage tag on the counter and gave me a look that said “go away” before sliding a charming smile onto her face and putting her hand up.
“Next.”