Sorry...I just realized I already put in my two cents, above.

[This message has been edited by Adman (edited 12-16-1999).]

I had one occasion where I flew United this year, SNA-DEN. It was on a full Y fare ticket. One week before the flight, I had called United becuase my itinerary stated that seats would be assigned at check-in. I asked if they had any exit row seats. They said they could not pre-assign me an exit row seat, even though they said seats were available in the exit row! So I asked if I could get any window/aisle seat assigned, and again the answer was a resounding NO (including the return a week later).

Now, I understand that UA blocks certain seats for PE's, etc., but I was flying on a full fare ticket! If this isn't reason enough, I don't know what is. In past experiences I have had with UA, seating problems are tops (never been elite with UA, but always on full Y fare tickets). I really have not flown them enough to get a better feel for them. But seating is my biggest peave, and UAL has given me bad experiences.

Catman, AA gets a paws up from me (yes, I am elite, Exec Platinum) MOST of the time. There are times when I am particularly upset with certain services. Elite status does matter, as it seems to with United, and probably most other airlines.

Just my two cents worth...I agree with the lack of professionalism in the premium cabins on AA (even int'l first!). Their employees do like to carouse during flight. I give UA the edge for the polish of its f/c experience and lounges, but for actually informing pax of flight delays and cleaning up messes for nonelite pax, AA is better. UA is only good if your part of the "in" crowd (elite), but I have to admit 90% of my problems with UA result from Shuttle flights (or cancellations). I think we're going to see DL come roaring back to it's undisputed position as the best in the near future, though.

Certain UA employees have acknowledged frequenting these bulletin boards. Any sign that AA reads them, and might get the hint that all is not particularly well?

And this just posted In The News today re AA:
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/Forum...ML/000476.html