Originally Posted by
MEM_ATC
And how many tax payer dollars have been spent to bail your worthless airline out of bankruptcy? Or maybe you are still waiting for the call to the majors? Still flying checks and newspapers? Quit your bitching and get off of my taxiway, SWA is behind you and they're ready to go!
Everyone has the opportunity to be number one and hit the gap, but when you leave the ramp at a snail's pace that causes 15 other aircraft to burn thousands of pounds of fuel waiting for your ****-poor attitude -- don't expect ATC to hold other aircraft for you.
I see ATC's view of this. They are just trying to sort out all the traffic in the busy terminal areas, and SWA flights seem to step up each time. I don't like going behind SWA all the time, either, but I refuse to get rushed or leave my own comfort zone. If they want to go 250 kts to the marker while I go on a 7-8 mile downwind, fine. I get paid by the hour. I'd rather slow up and be 170 kts at the marker, anyway. Less stress. Now, as far as taxiing at 35 kts, that is a little too high.