I started flying CO in 1995. I had pretty much settled on either CO or NW (boy did I make the right choice).

What sealed the deal for me was a trip in late 1995, BOS-COS. It was snowing pretty bad in Boston and the CO terminal was a mess. The ticket agent told me that I was going to miss my connection in IAH. With about 30 unhappy customers behind me, she took the time to move me to a different flight, held that flight for me until she was done AND completed my upgrade while I was in the air.

I had no elite status at the time, but knew I would fly about 60K in 1996. Her pleasant demeanor and professionalism in the face of adversity sold me on CO.

I've been CO highest level elite for 4 years and 2000 will be year 5.