That is probably very true. People will be more disappointed with the familiar brand when it fails to live up to its past heights, than with a new brand for wich they have few or low expectations.

However, IIRC BA was heavily scolded on food some years ago (perhaps introduction of "time-of-day-concept"?) and after that kept a steady low level of quality? While Finnair has made enshittification the business model only lately. So it can be a timing issue too. A few years down the line, when people have adapted to the new baseline (ie gotten used to pack their own snacks, drinks, pillow/blanket, entertainment and a trashbag for the "quiche" before each AY flight ) then maybe less contempt!


Anyway, my sample size is low and this doesn't mean anything in the bigger picture (and is shorthaul so offtopic anyway), but I've had consistently better breakfast and service in J on BA (CPH-LHR) compared to similar stage length with AY. Lately IMO, AY has improved the shorthaul breakfast but I still would choose BA over AY, everything else equal. Those who know my general attitude towards BA realise how earthshattering that statement is