Expectations and realities at the airport
Arriving on time is a mantra that many travelers repeat before each trip. On an August day, the atmosphere at the airport is a mixture of nerves and tranquility. However, this calm can be broken at any moment, and this is where the expression ‘just in case’ becomes vital. The amount of travelers is moderate, but enough to overwhelm you if you’re not prepared.
Check-in: a maze of obstacles
Once at the automatic check-in, the first surprise: my suitcase exceeds the permitted weight limit. An AENA employee, with a peculiar style reminiscent of a movie character, helps me resolve the mishap. His eccentric appearance makes me think of the diversity of people who work in this environment, each with their own stories and daily struggles.
A critical look at the system
As I empty my suitcase, I reflect on the working conditions of security workers, many of whom are migrants on precarious wages. The management of the company that employs them seems to prioritize profits over job dignity, neglecting aspects such as linguistic diversity, which has almost completely disappeared.
Daily tensions between workers
After the security check, I notice the dynamic between the security officers, who fight over a question of galleons as if they were characters in a comedy. These scenes make me smile, but also remind me of the pressure they endure in such a competitive environment.
Airport gastronomy: a disappointment
The gastronomic offer is a reflection of globalization: dishes typical of any airport in the world, but with a quality that leaves much to be desired. Opting for fast food is almost inevitable; the temptation to do so is too great, and the palate resigns itself to mediocrity.
Moments of reflection among smokers
Sitting in the smoking area, I find myself in a space full of contrasts. I look around and see a microcosm of travelers, each with their own stories and struggles. The smokers share a moment of connection amid the chaos of the airport, and I wonder if that stranger looking at me feels the same way about me.
The personal battle with tobacco
With September 1 in sight, the promise to quit smoking haunts me. The contradiction between wanting to free myself from this habit and enjoying a moment of relaxation in the midst of airport stress is palpable. Every cigarette becomes a reminder of my weakness.
A journey that starts late
Finally, our boarding gate is announced. The airline is one of those low-cost deals that makes us feel like we’re sacrificing quality for a lower price. Despite the delays, when we finally take off, a sense of freedom washes over me, and the applause from the passengers upon landing is a reflection of our collective satisfaction, as if we’ve overcome yet another obstacle.
