Ft. Lauderdale to Pittsburgh on Southwest: $150 round trip, full credit for cancellations, no Saturday night stayover required, can book only one way trips, no change fees, no luggage charge, can pick my own seat, earn 4 free trips per year, drink for free
Miami to Pittsburgh on AA: $550 to $800. That's all I need to know.
Full time Southwest flyer here. If one airline has it figured out, why don't others?
In 2008 I flew 150 segments on AA (a flight with a layover is two segments). I fly Southwest sometimes, but I would never consider it for frequent travel.
On AA, they recognize that life is hard for people who fly very frequently. First class upgrades after a long week make a big difference. Being able to show up late to the gate and still get my preferred seat makes a big difference.
Southwest is great for casual travelers. While AA costs more it is 100% worth if for someone who travels every week.
As for the website as an indication of overall customer service, I have to disagree. I can call in and they know who I am and what flights I have booked from the caller id. When a travel day is going less than smooth, being able to call someone directly and get it resolved is great.
I was a frequent United flyer and agree completely. Massive route network, customer service and huge schedules are critical for business travelers.
What is most striking with the legacy carriers is the different level of service offered between a 100k+ flyer and someone who flies twice a year. This is where Southwest, JetBlue, and the LCCs are really strong. Consistent service is nice.
I couldn't agree more, they are one of the only airlines which understand that simplicity can actually be an advantage.
They fly only a single aircraft type (737), only have general seating (no first class), don't have in-flight entertainment, and the list goes on. They focus on simply getting you from point A to point B in a cheap and efficient manner.
While I'll concede that they're not always the best, they are nearly always better than most.
You're right that southwest, jetblue et al are pretty good for what they offer- but don't misunderstand the next steps- heavier competition, higher price crunch and then you end up with a service like easyjet or ryanair. If you've ever flown either, you'll understand just exactly how unpleasant flying can be.
Good point, I've never flown either but have heard plenty of stories. I think there is a fine line here between inexpensive and cheap which those airlines have go walk wisely.
Example:
Ft. Lauderdale to Pittsburgh on Southwest: $150 round trip, full credit for cancellations, no Saturday night stayover required, can book only one way trips, no change fees, no luggage charge, can pick my own seat, earn 4 free trips per year, drink for free
Miami to Pittsburgh on AA: $550 to $800. That's all I need to know.
Full time Southwest flyer here. If one airline has it figured out, why don't others?