<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by PARSpro:
You may not have a choice in the near future with UA, AA, US and CO in bankruptcy or on the verge of it.
I think NW's frugality has contributed greatly to its success and ability to remain competitive in such a difficult environment.</font>
There are certainly plenty of other choices.
DL - with BizElite product and a decent domestic F product
AS - DVD players in transcon F
B6, F7 - new jets with satellite TV
FL - Business class product available
HA - New Boeing 767-300ERs
That's just for domestic US, there's plenty more competition from international carriers (CX, JL, NH, SQ, etc to Asia - BA, AF, LH, etc to Europe - AC to Canada).
I think NW's frugality has made itself attractive to only frugal customers who choose NW on the basis of fare only. The generous frequent flyer program doesn't quite offset the vastly inferior cabin service/product, in my opinion.
[This message has been edited by keithguy (edited 01-28-2003).]