I don't agree flying sucks now. I flew on Pan Am in early 1970 (coach) and the service was reprehensible. The food was awful. They wouldn't even give any water to the women behind us and this was after five hours of waiting on the ground. First class accomodations were no better than today's outdated (non flat bed) business- and this was a 747-100.
Fly international first class on virtually any airline today (not business first or business elite) but on a three class airline and the food, service and amenities are unmatched. Singapore and Emirates will blow your socks off. United, BA and others are far nicer than you can imagine. And yes even coach on a lot of airlines offers far more than they used to. You can upgrade to a coach seat that offers far more legroom than you got in the 70s. And airlines are starting to offer fold down seats that equal a bed- in coach! Check out Air New Zealand.
Getting through the airport may suck, security may suck but I've experienced few things as luxurious as international first class. I wish I could do it more often.
Emirates
BA
Singapore
United
Thai
Thai first class menu image by gardkarlsen on Photobucket
BTW Rick your Mom is sizzling.