How does the saying go? "Well it doesn't suck."

I'm not ready to say that about air travel yet. But a combination of updated thinking and technology have at least improved a few areas.

Electronic Boarding Passes - No more scrambling for a printer at the hotel. I receive a check-in notice via email, complete the step, and my boarding pass is sent to Passbook on my iOS device. The QR code is scanned at the gate. It's now that simple.
TSA-Check Pre-approval - Some flights, though not all, include TSA preapproval with my electronic boarding pass. It's literally a stroll through security... with my shoes on.
Electronic Devices Powered Up - No more powering down the iPad and iPhone for takeoff and landing. Yes, I still have to go to Airplane mode, but I'll take that compromise over the old way of thinking.
Progressive Awards Programs - With just a little bit of planning, you can enjoy early boarding, free luggage, and other perks. (Luggage used to be free anyway...) Those help make the trip a little less annoying.

Don't get me wrong: I still don't like flying. There are so many hassles involved - layovers that waste time, over-crowded planes, inconsiderate passengers, disgusting restrooms, flight delays, and bad food. But now, at least, there are a handful of good things to offset some of the misery.

And in terms of travel, that means we're headed in the right direction.

-Derrick