Expect to be disrespected and talked down to at every turn. Expect your flight to be cancelled, Expect to be stunned when they finally get you in a middle seat in E- three days later, and stand there as if they are doing you a favor. If not cancelled, expect to be delayed. Expect to be very disappointed at boarding as the board others before first class just to make sure you don't get to feel special. Expect to be ignored by the crew as you board. Expect the area around your seat to not be that clean, expect them to forget to give you a pre-departure drink. Expect to be given attitude if you ask them to hang your coat. If they give you a meal at all, expect it to be small and poor quality. Expect to be on a dark 737-900 with no wifi, no entertainment and no power. Expect to arrive late. Expect to arrive without your luggage. Expect to get attitude from them (if acknowledged at all) when you try to get your bags back.

These sorts of things happen with regularity at United airlines. A quick glance at their Facebook or twitter page will show you these comments (multiple per minute) round the clock.

Now, if you go in with these expectations, you can only be impressed when you have a good flight.