Originally Posted by
scnzzz
Nicely written report. You've convinced me to stay with AA
While DL sounds attractive, we just don't have enough options out of the SF Bay Area.
AA definitely has a better F soft product (there again, unlike other carriers they're not giving away the entire F cabin with free upgrades).
I do think AA's cabins are pretty nasty on many aircraft - way worse than DL.
Overall, IMHO DL has the best cabins (cleanliness and maintenance), the best IFE and Wifi coverage (will be better still when the PMNW aircraft start to get IFE), and the service is generally decent.
AA has the best soft product (meals, beverages), but poorly maintained cabins.
UA is hit and miss, their meal service tends to be better than DL, but some of the cabins are better than others.
US is at rock bottom and I would never pay for F class on US anymore unless it was literally just a few dollars more than coach.
Thanks OP for the detailed trip report and comparisons!