Baggage Carousel Red Rover

"Red Rover, Red Rover, Let Johnny Come Over!"

Oh sure, he WOULD pick on the girls.

We all remember this game from our childhood. Two teams line up across from each other with each team's members holding hands, forming what they hope is an impenetrable barrier.  Team one sends out the call and Johnny comes running from the other line trying to break through the other team's line.


I can't help but think of this game every time we're standing at the luggage return at the airport. Long before the suitcases start sliding down the baggage ejector ramp, a phalanx of travelers has formed that Red Rover line right next to the carousel, making it impossible to, 1) see your suitcase, and 2) pull it off without banging someone in the groin with it.  A 50-lb. fabric box with wheels and a small handle is hard enough to take off a moving belt without having to do so through a line of strangers standing should-to-shoulder.

"Hey you... at Carousel Two!  BACK UP!"

Is it too much to ask to have everyone take three steps back from the carousel?  From there you're still close enough to recognize your own bag, but far enough away to allow ample room to safely get it off the conveyor.