【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. cabin / ˈkæb ɪn / (n.) – an area inside an airplane where passengers sit
Example: The plane’s cabin is already full.
2. matter / ˈmæt ər / (n.) – the subject or topic being talked about
Example: The CEO wants to talk about service-related matters.
3. in-flight / ˈɪnˌflaɪt / (adj.) – referring to something done or made when flying in an airplane
Example: My dad doesn’t like in-flight meals.
4. board / bɔrd / (v.) – to enter a plane or any closed vehicle
Example: Passengers can now board the plane.
5. rabies / ˈreɪ biz / (n.) – a viral disease that is common in animals and can be transmitted to humans
Example: All dogs should be vaccinated against rabies.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
A low-cost airline might soon allow passengers to bring their pets inside its planes’ cabins during short-distance trips to Europe.
Ryanair, an Ireland-based airline, announced this plan in hopes of improving the company’s public image. This plan is under the airline’s “Always Getting Better” program. Currently, Ryanair does not allow any kind of pet inside its aircraft.
Before Ryanair completely decides on this matter, it is first asking the opinion of its customers. It is getting feedback from passengers through an online poll. The airline is doing so in order to ensure that majority of the customers will be happy should it allow pets inside the cabin.
The airline puts much value on its customer feedback. Other improvements done by the airline based on customer feedback include a new website, improved insurance policies, new crew uniforms, and better in-flight menu.
Currently, there are no rules within the European Union against pets boarding planes. However, there are still some safety guidelines. Passengers must make sure that their pets have been vaccinated against rabies, have undergone tapeworm treatment, and have pet passports or a certificate from a veterinarian. Pets are also required to be micro-chipped so they can be easily identified.
While most airlines do not allow pets inside their aircraft, there are some that allow passengers to bring their pets during flights. Among these airlines are Air Canada, Air France, Delta Air Lines, Virgin America, Flybe, Monarch Airlines, and Thomson Airways.
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【Viewpoint Discussion】
ディスカッションテーマ
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
· Do you approve of allowing pets inside plane cabins? Why or why not?
· What else can Ryanair do to improve its public image?
Discussion B
· Do you think Ryanair’s plan to allow pets can also be done by airlines in your country? Why or why not?
· What airline services or features would you like to be improved?
