This morning I spoke to a representative from Northwest Airlines regarding reservations. I haven't booked yet (just pricing), but when we discussed my desire for paper tickets, he got somewhat irritable and gave me a little "speech" on how I "better get used to electronic tickets."
I know this issue has been discussed here many times and I know I'd much rather have paper tickets, but I'm wondering if anyone knows why the airline reps are so adamant about using electronic tickets? (Is it as simple as that it's easier for them?) I find this particularly interesting in light of this month's events and the airline request for some paper documentation to get on flights.
Any opinions?

Eileen, that is a different response than I received. I have e.tickets and was told because of that I would have an extra step in my boarding process. Consequently, I have decided to go to the airport the day before and change to paper tickey in order to cut down on my wait time some what.

What is the extra step? I haven't flown since 9/11, did they add something just for e-tickets? Anyone???

Eileen if he was noticeably bothered be bothered back. Having said that, I can't remember ever flying with Northwest when they didn't have an attitude on the plane or on the ground. Don't forget there were the airline the inspired the legislation for passenger rights, TWICE. I only fly with them if it is absolutely necessary. They also receive consistently low customer service marks by whoever that is that rates the airlines every year.

An e-ticket will not be honored if you loose your connection and need another carrier to take you home. I was asked why I wanted a paper ticket by American 9/5 and I gave this response and the ticket agent completely understood. Travel shows all tell you not to accept E-tickets. They will be great a few years down the road but they have some kinks at the moment.

Don't forget there were the airline the inspired the legislation for passenger rights, TWICE.

Meant to say something a bit less convoluted like. Don't forget they were the airline that inspired legislation for passenger rights, TWICE! Think this bill is still hanging around in limbo but it came from unacceptable treatment of passengers by NW.

Mike, I flew with an e-ticket and only a carry-on bag on 9/22. The difference is that now you have to check in at the counter if you have an e-ticket, even if you have no bags to check, so that you have a boarding pass, in addition to picture ID, to show at the security check.

Mike, let me comfirm what Barbara posted as the extra step that I mentioned. I don't/didn't stand in line at the counter with an e.ticket, but I understand that is what is required now.

Thanks for your responses. I'm definitely going to go with the paper ticket. The rep (as noted) had an attitude. I passed it off as stress, but now I hear it's typical of Northwest. The fare I'm pricing is around $190.00 compared to over $400.00 on all the other airlines including Southwest. Since there's three of us, that's a considerable savings.
How miserable will we be?