Flying at 106: The unexpected airport moment that caught one woman off guard—twice a year
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At 106 years old, Cretora Biggerstaff has lived through world wars, witnessed cultural revolutions, and adapted to the digital age.
But every time she heads to the airport, she’s met with disbelief—not at her energy or optimism, but at her age.
It happens like clockwork, twice a year—and now, she’s speaking out.
For Biggerstaff, the challenge isn’t boarding the plane—it’s getting past the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) line with her dignity intact.
Her Texas ID clearly states her age, but security often questions its validity.
On every flight, she says, she gets the impression that airport security treats her like "some stupid old lady."
"If I could get the airlines to realize I'm not some stupid old lady, and that's what they think I am, that I don't know if I'm coming or going," she said.
Cretora suspects that many airport systems simply aren’t built to register ages over 100.
That shortcoming has real consequences—not just delays, but assumptions and disrespect.
Her story shines a light on how outdated systems and biased perceptions create unnecessary hurdles for older travelers.
Tired of “jump through hoops,” Biggerstaff, with the help of her friend Arline Thienel, wrote to the Department of Transportation.
They also reached out to United and Delta Airlines, urging updates to technology and training.
“I'd like to see the computers aligned up to 120 or whatever,” Thienel said, “people live longer, so they don't have to go through all that stress every time they travel.”
Despite the setbacks, Cretora’s adventurous spirit hasn’t dimmed.
She travels twice a year to Gainesville with her daughter and dreams of one day visiting Italy.
“If I win the lottery, that’s the first place I’m going,” she laughed.
For her, age is just a number—and an inaccurate measure of capability.
When asked how she feels, she simply says, “How should I feel? I feel ok. I don’t feel 106.”
Last year, she celebrated her 105th birthday with three fellow centenarians at her senior living community.
Her daughter, Carol, calls her “amazing” and credits her faith and sharp mind for her vitality.
As Cretora says, the “good Lord” is keeping her young and sharp.
Have you or a loved one faced similar travel challenges due to age? What changes would you like to see in airport security or identification systems? Share your thoughts below—and let’s keep pushing for a world that values every stage of life.
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But every time she heads to the airport, she’s met with disbelief—not at her energy or optimism, but at her age.
It happens like clockwork, twice a year—and now, she’s speaking out.
For Biggerstaff, the challenge isn’t boarding the plane—it’s getting past the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) line with her dignity intact.
Her Texas ID clearly states her age, but security often questions its validity.
AA 106-year-old woman has expressed frustration with the way airport security treats her. Image source: FOX 26 Houston / YouTube
On every flight, she says, she gets the impression that airport security treats her like "some stupid old lady."
"If I could get the airlines to realize I'm not some stupid old lady, and that's what they think I am, that I don't know if I'm coming or going," she said.
Cretora suspects that many airport systems simply aren’t built to register ages over 100.
That shortcoming has real consequences—not just delays, but assumptions and disrespect.
Her story shines a light on how outdated systems and biased perceptions create unnecessary hurdles for older travelers.
Tired of “jump through hoops,” Biggerstaff, with the help of her friend Arline Thienel, wrote to the Department of Transportation.
They also reached out to United and Delta Airlines, urging updates to technology and training.
“I'd like to see the computers aligned up to 120 or whatever,” Thienel said, “people live longer, so they don't have to go through all that stress every time they travel.”
Despite the setbacks, Cretora’s adventurous spirit hasn’t dimmed.
She travels twice a year to Gainesville with her daughter and dreams of one day visiting Italy.
“If I win the lottery, that’s the first place I’m going,” she laughed.
For her, age is just a number—and an inaccurate measure of capability.
When asked how she feels, she simply says, “How should I feel? I feel ok. I don’t feel 106.”
Last year, she celebrated her 105th birthday with three fellow centenarians at her senior living community.
Her daughter, Carol, calls her “amazing” and credits her faith and sharp mind for her vitality.
As Cretora says, the “good Lord” is keeping her young and sharp.
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