Originally Posted by
RFNJ
I have been flying them pretty regularly for 10 years, including during and after bankruptcy, and I haven't seen any changes because of it. In the 10 years, I have seen improvement - newer planes, better boarding experience. The criticisms are valid - they suck at refunds. Beyond a simple delay, they often seem to lack any authority/initiative. I have never been downgraded, so I can't speak to that.
I will say that all in all I don't usually have any problems with them. Routine delays are not uncommon, especially dealing with MEX. But I don't think they are a bad airline.
MEX is a disaster area. The immigration lines and then if you have to wait for luggage for your connection (SCL northbound is one of those cities...) - it is an hour+ typically for the luggage, as it goes through inspection prior to baggage carousel arrival. The bag re-drop and transit security is typically a 15 minute experience, max. The lounge situation is pretty bleak, but I've got a routine down, including the AX lounge. Onboard F&B ranges from awful to decent. The 787-9 is a nice ride. The 787-8 is an acceptable ride. Most of the 738s are ok, and more comfortable than domestic US narrow body front cabins. The crews range from "don't ask, I'll bite your head off" to quite pleasant. Boarding for US-bound flights tends to be a cluster, especially with the current doc verification.
But the price is often (but not always) right. And the MQDs for DL are almost always right.