Everyone knows US airlines are trying to figure out how to slash costs. And no one is more ruthless in that department than one of Europe's largest discount carriers, Ryanair. Our Savvy Traveler, Rudy Maxa, says it's time for low cost airlines to go one step further than Ryanair.

Sure, Southwest and JetBlue only offer electronic tickets, as Ryanair does. Sure, they lease gates at smaller airports near major destinations, just like Ryanair does.

But here's where Ryanair moves to the head of the class. Its owner, Michael O'Leary removed pockets in the backs of every seat. Takes too long to clean them out, he said. Headrests and reclining seats are a thing of the past, too. Less stuff to break. And there's no free lunch on Ryanair; no free peanuts or sodas, either. Everything costs. Window shades? Who needs 'em? If your flight's cancelled, you're out of luck. If Ryanair doesn't have another flight for you that day, you can forget a hotel room or meal voucher.

I say, heck, if this is the future, let's get serious.

Let's eliminate reading lamps--most flights are during the day, anyway. And what's with carpeting? Linoleum is easier to clean. Now that I think about it, armrests seem a bit superfluous. And oxygen masks have been free for too long--pay a surcharge if you want one. Want to sit in the exit row with more legroom? That'll be $8 more. And really, on shorter flights, is there a need for lavatories?

Think I'm exaggerating? Last week, Ryanair's O'Leary said he'll eliminate checked luggage in the next couple of years. No need for check-in desks or luggage handlers. I say that doesn't go far enough. Couldn't we slide some seats into the luggage hold for passengers who don't care about countryside views?

I remember the media coverage years ago when former American Airlines chief Robert Crandall ordered the airline to remove an olive from the salad in first class. That was child's play. To make headlines in the near future, an airline exec will have to suggest passengers pitch in and help refuel the plane.

Wait a minute . . . now that I think about it . . .

In Boston, I'm Rudy Maxa, the Savvy Traveler, for Marketplace.

September 14, 2004