I recently flew for the first time as an adult, and the first time in over 10 years. My trip was from Indiana to Florida, and I chose Delta because I heard they were the best airline. Unfortunately, the experience was terrible. They lost my suitcase, and since I put everything in my suitcase, I had nothing but what I could fit in my pockets on the plane. The baggage claim customer service was awful; every representative gave me different information and acted like they couldn’t access the notes from previous interactions.
Additionally, Delta changed my seats on all but one of my flights. I had booked through Chase, though I’m not sure if that influenced anything. Despite booking seats at the front of the main cabin, I ended up near the back on almost every flight. After complaining on my last flight, they did move me to Comfort+ seating, which was a small improvement.
Given this experience, what is the best airline for future reference?
Hi, The best airline depends on factors like route, service quality, and personal preferences. Airlines like Singapore Airlines, Emirates, and Qatar Airways are often praised for excellent service and comfort. Budget airlines like Southwest and JetBlue offer competitive prices and good service within specific regions. Research and reviews can help find the best option for your needs.
When deciding on an airline for your next flight, consider the following factors:
Read Reviews: Check sites like TripAdvisor, Skytrax, and AirlineRatings.com for recent reviews, especially focusing on the routes you plan to fly.
Prioritize Your Preferences: Determine what matters most to you—whether it’s punctuality, amenities, or customer service. Different airlines excel in different areas; for example, Southwest is praised for its boarding process and free checked bags, while JetBlue offers comfortable seating and entertainment systems.
Consult Travel Blogs: Travel blogs provide firsthand insights into specific airlines and passenger experiences, offering valuable information beyond standard reviews.
Evaluate Star Ratings: Airlines are often rated on a 1-5 star scale based on safety, comfort, and service. While helpful as a guideline, consider other factors alongside these ratings.
Direct vs. Connecting Flights: Direct flights offer convenience, but connecting flights with a reputable airline could be preferable if they offer significant cost savings or better service.
Here are some airlines known for good customer service and on-time performance:
Alaska Airlines
Southwest Airlines
JetBlue
American Airlines
United Airlines
Additional Considerations:
Booking Through Chase: When booking through Chase or similar travel rewards programs, verify if there are any additional benefits or guarantees regarding seat selection or flight experience.
Filing a Complaint: Consider providing feedback to Delta regarding your recent trip. While it won’t alter your experience, it can contribute to improving their service for future passengers.
For domestic flights in the US, the experience varies based on the airline and the seating in first and business class. Delta and United generally offer decent options. In economy class, there’s usually no significant difference in seats or service.
Internationally, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific stand out for their overall experience. This includes check-in, lounge amenities like food and drinks, and onboard service. Their staff are well-trained and aim to replicate luxury hotel standards, which shows in details like how they serve drinks and food, though these subtleties might not be obvious unless you pay attention.
My trip was from Indiana to Florida, and I chose Delta because I heard they were the best airline. Unfortunately, the experience was terrible. 
They lost my suitcase, and since I put everything in my suitcase, I had nothing but what I could fit in my pockets on the plane. 
The baggage claim customer service was awful; every representative gave me different information and acted like they couldn’t access the notes from previous interactions. 
After complaining on my last flight, they did move me to Comfort+ seating, which was a small improvement. 
