Dumbest Idea Ever...

I read an article online about American Airlines cashless cabin initiative, where you have to use a debit or credit card to buy snacks or headsets in the cabins.  My nieces fly unaccompanied all the time, so this concerns me greatly.  At 9 and 14, they don't have any card, yet I can't give them cash to make a purchase in the cabin.  I e-mailed American, which send me this response.

June 2, 2009

Dear Ms. Kirkland:

Thank you for your comment about our cashless cabin initiative.

We certainly understand that many young children do not carry a credit or debit card|We also understand that parents and guardians know what their children like to eat. We have always encouraged parents and guardians to pack food items from home they know their children will enjoy. Additionally, we do provide an escort pass so that you may accompany your child to their departure gate. This provides an opportunity for you to purchase food items that can be carried onboard as well. Please know however, our flight attendants have the discretion to provide our unaccompanied minors with a complimentary snack on flights where we offer food for purchase if they do not have their own. Additionally, soft drinks, juice and water are always complimentary.

Sincerely,

(Redacted because who really wants to find this when they Google themselves)
Customer Relations
American Airlines

This response concerns me. They only seem vaguely interested in accommodating unaccompanied children. They basically say pack a snack at home, buy something at the airport, or if the overworked, underpaid flight attendant who has just been harassed by the drunk who has consumed one too many Bloody Marys has an ounce of kindness left in her, she might just give the kids something. Insane. If you pack something for the kid, more than likely the will consume before they get on the plane. Hell, they don't let you take drinks past security. Hello? Even buying something in the airport, how many times does a kid get hungry by looking at the next guy's food. There's an idea... teach your kids to beg their fellow travelers to use their debit card for them. A pleasant flight for all involved right there.

The assumption is that if you have a plane ticket, you must have a credit or debit card. How classist of them! I know the cards simplify things in the cabin, but cash should be an option. I really hope the other airlines DO NOT follow suit.