I also think it's shameful that airlines are using this tragedy as an excuse to slash perks, lay off tens of thousands of workers, and ask for government money at the same time.

I'm disappointed with AMR's announcement that meal service will be eliminated on American Airlines and TWA Airlines domestic flights under two hours. They've always had good food (at least on all the flights I've taken with them). I hope other airilines don't start following suit. It makes Southwest's product look more and more favourable.

Southwest passengers love flying them because they're getting a comfortable seat, an on-time flight, reliable baggage handling, and friendly staff at the lowest fares possible. One doesn't have great expectations when flying them, but for a $99 ticket across the country, their product proves to have excellent value. I think they'll pull through the current situation without posting a financial loss.

As for government bailouts, I think it's a very bad idea. The only airline I think truly deserves any funds is US Airways because the FAA's decision to shut down DCA indefinitely is the main threat to their survival.