07:37 Jun 18, 2011 

But at least airlines are, in a lot of cases, actual commercial companies. I find it especially insulting when local transit agencies call us “customers” instead of “passengers”.

13:05 Jun 17, 2011 

Unfortunately, airlines and railways stopped calling us "passengers" at about the time in the '80s that everything was being privatised and profit, rather than service was the goal. As a "passenger", it was clear that they had a duty to get you from A to B efficiently. As a "customer", it is equally clear that they are only interested in separating you from your money.

02:02 Jun 17, 2011 

Nothing wrong with “customers”. Around here (Canada), about everyone (including public libraries, the local transit system, and other government entities) addresses everyone as “customers”. I hate it too, but there’s nothing we can do about it.

01:48 Jun 17, 2011 

Some airlines address their passengers as guests also.

01:45 Jun 17, 2011 

"customers" should read "passengers"