Over the years I’ve flown a number of different airlines, and for a while my favorite airline was United. Why United? I can’t say there was ever a real star quality that set them far past the rest; However, they did a few things better than most.
- Majority of my flights were on-time
- Frequent flyer program was good
- Customer service was better than most of the others
- Generally the aircraft were in good interior condition
Airlines these days are cutting perks and adding fees wherever possible. They’re skimping on the frequent flyer programs, and charging you for every peanut you inhale. It’s difficult enough to sit on a plane for 5 hours, trapped in a seat designed for only the smallest of adults, but really made just for kids, and the joy of the seat back in front of you driving into your knees. Great experience? I think not…
Are there other options? YES! Why fall mercy to the airlines scrambling to keep afloat because of their own bad business practices when you have options like JetBlue, or Midwest?
The most important feature to me when I fly is comfort. If I have to be on a plane for 5 hours(or even 2), can I atleast be somewhat comfortable? After that, I look for a good rewards program, and next to that would be the added extras; such as TV, or WiFi.
When it comes to cost… I can’t say that’s really a deal breaker for me. I’d rather pay the extra cost and know I’m going to have a good flight.
What’s most important to you??
Midwest is one of those airlines that seems to get it right, although I have noticed recently their ticket prices have really shot up, or maybe just out of Boston?
- Excellent customer service (phone & check-in, and in-flight from my experiences)
- Clean, modern planes
- Extra wide leather seats
- Good rewards program (including the dining rewards)
Something’s missing from that list….? Wait for it… Oh yes, baked on board fresh, WARM, chocolate chip cookies. That right there my friends is a winner in my book!
As much as I love chocolate chip cookies, I did find another airline that won my business. That airline is JetBlue.
JetBlue wins on a number of levels, and they do it consistently.
- Reasonable fares
- Comfortable, roomy seats
- TV at EVERY seat
- Good free snack selection
- Top class customer service
- Modern, clean aircraft
- Excellent rewards program
The one thing I notice most about JetBlue is how interested they are in their customers feedback. Their JetViews program sends out occasional surveys related to the customers experience, and what is most important to the customer.
In every situation for which I’ve had to interact with JetBlue they’ve ensured it was a great experience.
For now, that’s all I got.. I’ll work on getting back into normal postings, and you work on reading them. Wish you all a great Thanksgiving and hope to hear your experiences as well.

We had a horrible experience with United – http://areason2write.wordpress.com/2009/01/04/karma-is-haunting-me-wrinkle-one/ – thanks for the feedback on Jet Blue – we will try them.
By: areason2write on January 8, 2009
at 5:59 pm