Originally Posted by
cerealmarketer
So, why did United quickly become even less effective (think: profitable) on long-haul international routes?
IMO, it was - and remains - the result of truly horrible, ineffective in-flight services.
Many, including me, simply quit or when not possible, migrated to foreign carriers; I did and I was shocked by the improvements."
+1. UA is an airline that can be very useful for business travelers...if their flights were more reliable. On the other hand, their 747s--with the (perceived) "burden" of a first class cabin--don't fit. The passing of this airplane and the absence of a true replacement not only validate this, but also the destiny of three-cabin service on US carriers. (DL made this decision years ago with Leo Mullin. AA is taking a little longer.)
I'll mourn the passing of the 747, but I note with pleasure they lasted longer than Smisek.