I do fly AF frequently, and I don't find they're service awful, in the air or on the ground. What i've found is communicating in French, even so little as parlez-vous anglais (U.S. keyboards, dangit), gets a much better reception than "da**it, i'm an American, service me or we'll destroy you". It's all relative, I expect foreigners visiting the U.S. to know a few English phrases. Not only does it make it easier for them but it can also make their visit a safer one. I think it's adds to the fun of communication to know a little of the country's launguage in which your visiting/connecting. The exception to this is to/from AMS (i'm thrilled with the addition of KLM). I find the Dutch wanting to talk my ear off in English, every person in Amsterdam i've experienced loves the practice. So after all this chatter to answer your question, I find that AF treats me at least equal (I never expect better), than any other pax!! Quite frankly, i'm rather skeptical that UAL is going to make it through bankruptcy.

Cheers!!