A Silicon Valley resident, not to be beaten by Gary's East Coast technology
writes

These days the technology has advanced a little, making it even easier (at
least here on the East coast). You just request the mission using the web
form (no phone call is needed, though you can do it that way if you
prefer),
and the reply is via email rather than fax.

I think it's the same here, but I like calling Cheri et al (VERY nice
people), because sometimes they'll say something like: "I know it says SJC,
but they live closer to RHV, it that OK?" - or especially on multi-leg
flights, perhaps the meeting point can be negotiated. I've also heard
"Hilton, John just picked up this flight, how about this other flight that
isn't even on the web site yet?" But, I've also done the web/email thing,
definitely quick and convenient - and the web site tells you what number you
are in line (just to set expectations).

The point we're both making is that it is EASY, and not as difficult as it
sometimes sounds. Just that I've had numerous people ask me about all the
paperwork, phone calls, etc etc etc - that shouldn't scare them. FYI: AFW
(and others?) dropped the 'checkout' requirement a while back, but they
upped the hours required.

Hilton