90% of the times I fly I will fly Souhwest. And this recent trip to New Orleans from Sacramento I got to put the service of Southwest against that of United Airlines.
Here's how they matched up:
PRICE: Southwest is known for being the low fare leader, but when I shopped the other airlines for the "to" leg of my trip (Sac to NOLA), United was half what southwest wanted. United actually also came in a few bucks cheaper on the ride home as well, but considering they charge $25 a checked bag and southwest is still free for checked bags, I rode home on southwest.
COMFORT: I always thought that southwest was the sardine can of airlines but I will correct that myth right here and right now. I didnt have the middle seat on either leg (thank god) but all of the planes I went on were jam packed and southwest still had more leg room over United. I actually am wondering if United shrank their leg room to make way for those annoyingly bright little tvs on the back of the headrests that charge you to watch the news? Hmmm
SERVICE: Southwest wins hands down. Still has the cheeriest flight attendants and the quickest service. If you want a drink (as I often require when I fly) then you wont be waiting long to get one on a Southwest flight :) United flight attendants need a lesson in friendly. On both of my stops (Sac to DC and DC to NOLA) the flight attendants had attitude. Forgive me if I have waited half the flight for a drink of water and I down my 2 oz glass of water like a shot and ask you for another before you move the drink cart another 6 inches down the aisle...is it really necessary to glare at me like I just asked you to let me fly the plane? GAWD I get you are a middle aged flight attendant and your job is clearly rocket science. Please forgive me for needing another 2 oz glass of water.
No doubt I will pay whatever it takes next time to fly Southwest. No drama, just good service.