I have started steering away from American, even at a price premium, if it’s not that big of a difference. I have had really good international trips with American, but they had a lot of operational issues last summer that really impacted some travel. So I’ve decided to avoid them while they find their way, or whatever they are going through.

i have choices From my city, and AA simply end up low on my list. I would hate to be captive to them. I remember living in Detroit in the 80s and 90s and being captive to Northwest. Now that was enough to make me question my life choices. I avoided them whoever possible, but it was rarely possible, All biz travel at my company was always NW.

now, I love being a free agent. I don’t get a lot of perks that I don’t pay for, but I do get where I’m going and it’s a more pleasant journey.