You are correct about NWA not paying attention to cabin conforts. NWA in my opinion is trying to run a no frills type operation. I think if NWA's freq flyer program was not so liberal they would not have near the loyalty they have. NW's domestic first class is lousy. Unless you can chug down enough free drinks to make it worth it. The DC-9 first class seats are so thin that the person behind you can grope you just buy putting something in the seatback. I do not know how NW compares intl, But my opinion is that NW's product need serious improvement to remain competitive.