At first glance, the title of this column might suggest that the subject matter involves airline code sharing. The phrase “metal neutral” has been a buzzword used by airline management to indicate passenger revenue obtained through fare agreements with other carriers. The concept implies that it is immaterial whose logo is painted on the aluminum. Regardless of the advantages, airline employees grit their teeth at the concept. It allows for a reduction in labor force and thus a reduction in job security.
On a trip home from London, I thought of a more positive connotation for the term. Metal neutral is an attitude shared by an exclusive club. Membership in the club is dynamic. The only requirement for membership is to participate as a crew member on a flight across the North Atlantic. How so?
