United and its team has succeeded in keeping my expectations low. SFO-FRA last month service was extremely rushed up front, FA slammed the tray table open and seemingly dropped my meal from the maximum viable height. I asked for a drink at some point and was promptly given a glass and two BTs and FA was gone before I could figure out what happened.

But really? I don't care that much. The US majors have always known their premium cabin service is such a long shot from ME3 or LH/AF F that it's silly for them to try. Give me a good seat, good price, and reliable wifi - I'd take a boxed meal where it's necessary, UA is never going to knock it out of the park elsewhere but they can win there.

Now, the problem is, UA is advertising and charging for a premium level of service in the J cabin that is much more exception than the norm and even then not really there with the catering quality.