Not sure where to post this - mods will move if appropriate I assume.

Say you go to a restaurant and order the 16oz prime rib, but the server comes back with the 8oz. You will usually get:

a) A profuse apology, probably from the manager
b) Offer to replace the entree or comp the one brought in error
c) Free dessert or some other amenity

Say you go to an airline and order the 20-inch wide seat, but they give you the 17-inch. You will usually get:

a) An explanation of why it is only right and proper that they do this;
b) Rushed along by the GA;
c) A long, annoying correspondence with Customer Disservice to get any refund that is due; and
d) Rather than an extra amenity, your free drink and snack basket are history

I'm wondering, was flying ever different? I started flying regularly in about 1988, but I don't really remember that far back. I know that there was a time they tried to make long-distance air travel as luxurious as cruise ships, within the obvious limitations of what's possible. Was there ever a time when service was a race to the top, rather than a race to the bottom? Anyone old enough to remember?