I'm the Trans-Pacific International traveller, therefore a FF program benefits me. In this case the OWA program with AAdavantage. It is a different world and a different arrangement of travel. Completely different than "the static and crackle" of the United States air-travel system. For me, I get all those perks and award travel much faster. All lounges are complimentary (with food, water, liquor), bonus miles, and more!

But if I was strictly a US domestic traveller, I'd seriously be considering other alternatives. Lounges are a fee, rude staff, ridiculous TSA security policies (unlocked checked bags.....silly and stupid) no food, CNN Airport Network (disgusting....if I her the sounds of another Sprint PSC commercial...), uncomfortable flights.....need I say more?

However, I did fly SW to RDU from PVD and had a delightful flight (2 segments via BWI). The best part was our aircraft maneuvered around a US Airways jet that was "parked" loaded with PAX, waiting for authorization to proceed. Everyone laughed! Great fare, great service, no frills. This is SW, that is the fare, seat on first come first serve, here is your drink and peanuts, smile, family atmosphere, an 'Adam's Family' song, and we land. RIGHT!