Hmmm.  Very interesting question.

Last night as I was settling myself in for the long flight from Denver to London, something was amiss.  I got to my seat, found the expected complimentary pillow waiting for me in 22A.  I stow my luggage, and start eye balling the overhead bins looking for a blanket.  After all, it's a long flight, and a blanket feels almost like a necessity.

As we are going through all the preflight preparation, the pilot announces that due to the Swine Flu (or whatever jumble of letters and numbers we are now supposed to call it), United has taken extra precautions to protect our health and removed the blankets.  Really, removed the blankets?  

Now, I know I am not an infectious disease doctor, but something is just not playing out for me.  Blankets, which are customarily used to drape over your lap, and yes, maybe on occasion tuck under your chin....these are removed.  But pillows, by the nature of their design, are most often used to support our head and neck are still available?  Last I checked, my mouth, which if I was infected with the flu, is the part of my body which would sneeze, thereby spewing flu germs over things right near my head ....duh, like the pillow!  

Now, maybe there is some totally rational explanation....it's just not clear to me....or maybe this is just what flying is about these days?  I feel as about "protected" by having the blankets removed as I do with taking my shoes off at security, and segregating all my liquids into a quart zip lock baggie.  Go figure.  

Anyway, off to see the Queen tomorrow!