I think another thing of the 80s was cooler aircraft on smaller routes. UA was using 767s LGA-ORD, LGA-DEN. I was even once on a Pan Am, whose APAC routes UA bought, SFO-LAX on a 747SP (which I think continued to SYD). I remember the fare was $39 and we were put in C Of course, all that lack of efficiency contributed to the bankruptcies.

I remember once I was flying back from ORD to LGA during the evening "rush hour" - 767 with full meal service in Y. A business traveller in his suit and tie was sitting next to me. I was thinking - maybe one day I would get to do this. I never did - commuted for a few years with 1K status but never had to wear suit and tie