more affordable today than it was in the 60's when the standard you mentioned existed? In other words isn't the value of flying in America today the ease and amazement of several classes of people being able to move their bodies from one location to another in a matter of a few hours vs several hours when driving?

The luxury of flying is available to just about all except people in extreme poverty, part of making it affordable for most to fly means giving up the pampered experience. I don't expect anything when I fly economy but a drink of water and some peanuts. I don't believe my sky miles or $200 airfare entitles me to anything more really.