United, Delta, American & Southwest Reviews

United Airlines

Overview

United Airlines has many classes for customers to choose from, with some examples being United Polaris, Business, Premium Plus, and Economy Plus. For an extra luxurious experience, select United Polaris, as it comes with a cozy bed, a gourmet hot meal, and amenities such as silk pajamas. Business will also provide you with a hot meal and two free checked bags, while Premium Plus includes upgraded seats and free alcoholic beverages. To ensure that you have extra legroom, opt for Economy Plus, an option that will give you a spacious seat.

While this airline has 8 different hubs that are all located in the United States and its territories, it also flies to over 200 destinations around the world. Belgium, France, and Germany are just some examples of popular countries that can be visited in Europe, while China, Japan, and Singapore are convenient for those hoping to visit Asia.

In addition to being a member of Star Alliance, known for being the world’s largest airline group, United Airlines has codeshares with many companies, including Air Canada, Austrian Airlines, and Lufthansa. The company also maintains joint ventures with additional airlines, such as Air New Zealand, Brussels Airlines, and Swiss International Air Lines.

This airline operates a fleet of over 775 aircraft, with all of them either Airbus or Boeing. The Boeing 737-900ER is the plane that is most commonly used by the company and many of them are decorated for special sporting events or in celebration of the Star Alliance. The Boeing 777-200 is oftentimes used for long international flights as it can fit over 350 customers.

>>United Airlines information

• IATA Code:UA

• Routes:1342

• Top route:Newark to Orlando

• Airports served:225

• Top airport:Newark

• Headquarters: 233 S. Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606

• Call:1 (800) 864-8331

• Website:https://www.united.com/ 

Where United Airlines Based and Where to Fly?

Chicago-based United Airlines flies to nearly 250 domestic destinations, while its roughly 130 international destinations across 69 countries cover Europe, Asia, Oceania, India, South America and parts of Africa.

United's airport hubs can be found in:

• Chicago-O'Hare.

• Denver.

• Guam.

• Houston-Intercontinental.

• Los Angeles.

• Newark.

• San Francisco.

• Washington-Dulles.

Pricing and Extra Charges

>>Tickets

United uses a standard approach to booking. On the first page, you’ll select all the requirements you’re looking for to narrow your search results – you can even book tickets with other Star Alliance airlines or compare United’s options with others on this webpage.

Here’s the breakdown of United’s class system (availability will vary by destination) and what’s included with each option:

• Basic Economy: includes carry-on and personal item, last to board and seat will already be assigned

• United Economy: includes carry-on and personal item with general boarding

• Premium Economy: available on international flights, includes carry-on and personal item, two checked bags with general boarding

• First: includes carry-on and personal item, two checked bags with early boarding, premier access check-in, premium dining and complimentary beverages

• Business: available on international flights, includes carry-on and personal item, two checked bags with early boarding, premier access check-in, premium dining and complimentary beverages

• United Premium Plus: available using the Mileage Plus program in the First/Business Class section, includes carry-on and personal item, two checked bags, free alcoholic beverages, free meal on domestic flights, noise-reducing headphones, premium bedding, larger entertainment screen

• United Polaris Business: this is top-of-the-line experience is reserved for select guests on select flights and has limited access. Polaris lounges have custom dining options for three-course meals with exclusive access to rest stations and shower facilities. Seasonal menus are offered in flight while seated in giant reclining seats encased in separate pods.

>>Baggage

United only includes checked bags in premium classes. All Economy guests will pay $35 for one checked bag and $45 for an additional checked bag per person. Economy guests are reduced to 50 lbs per bag, while premium guests can pack over 70 lbs in their suitcases. A fee will be assessed for overweight luggage.

>>Extra fees

• Checked bag fees: United doesn't publish baggage fees. Instead, you need to use United's checked bag calculator to see how much you'll pay. Checked bags for domestic flights currently start at $30 prepaid or $35 if you pay within 24 hours of departure.

• Carry-on bag fees: United stands alone among the three airlines in not allowing basic economy passengers to bring a carry-on bag. If you book a basic economy fare, you'll need to check any full-size carry-on bags — unless you can use elite status or a credit card to board early. If you get caught at the gate trying to board with a full-size carry-on bag, you'll need to pay the checked bag fee plus an extra $25 "gate handling charge."

• Seat assignment fees: United basic economy passengers need to pay to select or change their seat. All other fare types come with free seat selection.

• Change fees: On United, you won't pay a fee to change or cancel flights within the U.S., Mexico or Caribbean or on other international itineraries originating in the U.S. However, basic economy fares are nonchangeable for flights after Dec. 31, 2021.

Flight Availability 

>>Domestic Flights 

United is based in Chicago, with other main hubs in 6 other US cities and one in Guam. It reaches 258 destinations within the United States. United is part of the Star Alliance and has good relationships with dozens of other airlines around the world. It’s likely that if United can’t get you on one of their own flights that they will book one with another partner airline in the event of a cancellation.

>>International Flights 

United has a great international presence and flies to 362 different cities across the globe. They reach all 6 continents around the world with international flights departing daily. Several of their Star Alliance partners include Air China, Egyptair, Lufthansa and Swiss Airlines.

 Safety 

>>Aircraft Safety 

United has Airbus and Embraer plane models, but primarily uses Boeing 757, 767, 777 and 787 models. United also plans to replace many of their older 757 models with Airbus’ state-of-the-art A321XLR within the next few years.

>>Baggage Safety

We suggest you review each airline’s baggage requirements before flying to be sure you are not carrying prohibited items. Samsung Galaxy Note 7 is among United’s prohibited items, along with most electric skateboards in checked bags.As far as losing baggage goes, checking directly with the airline in the airport should be your first step. If no luck there, United has a bag tracing web page where customers can search for lost luggage and file complaints.

Ways to Save

>>United Travel Credit Card

United offers four personal credit cards and two business credit cards through Chase.

• United Gateway Card ($0 annual fee). Earn 20,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

• United Explorer Card ($0 intro for the first year, then $95). Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

• United Quest Card ($250 annual fee). Earn 70,000 bonus miles after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

• United Club Infinite Card ($525 annual fee). Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

• United Business Card ($99). Earn up to 150,000 bonus miles. Earn 75,000 miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Earn an additional 75,000 miles after you spend $20,000 total in the first 6 months.

• United Club Business Card ($450 annual fee). Earn 75,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

>>Airline loyalty programs

United MileagePlus

When you compare Delta and United Airlines, you’ll see that their flight rewards earnings are identical. United MileagePlus program members earn redeemable miles based on their elite level and how much they spend with the airline.

Star Alliance and other partner tickets earn redeemable miles calculated by a percentage of the total distance flown and the fare class in which you booked your ticket.

Here's how the miles earning potential for United flights works out:

Basic Economy Fares

If you want to fly on the most bare-bones ticket that United offers, be prepared for the following.

• Carry-on luggage: Permitted for a $25 fee for MileagePlus members. Nonmembers are not allowed a full-sized carry-on bag — if you try to take one aboard, prepare to pay the applicable checked bag fee and a $25 gate-handling charge.

• Checked baggage: Must pay, even on transatlantic flights.

• Personal item onboard: Permitted (9 inches by 10 inches by 17 inches).

• Seat selection: Available for a fee.

• Boarding group: Last (unless you’re an elite member or a co-branded United cardmember).

• Elite status qualification: Does not count as a Premier qualifying flight, but United MileagePlus members will earn Premier Qualifying Points, lifetime miles and accrual toward the four-segment minimum.

• Upgrades: Can pay for Economy Plus at check-in only.

• Flight changes / refunds: Not allowed more than 24 hours after booking unless you switch the ticket to economy.

In-Flight Experience

United announced in June 2021 that it would install seatback entertainment, additional premium seats, larger overhead bins and high-speed Wi-Fi. However, you may have to wait a few years to see these onboard improvements.

Seats and Legroom

• United Economy

Seats in United's Economy class have a width of 17.3 inches, and 31 inches of legroom.

• United Economy Plus:

Economy Plus seating on United has a width of 17.3 inches as well, but 37 inches of legroom. In other words, paying up means getting the same seat, but with 6 extra inches of legroom. Another perk is that Economy Plus seating also offers more of a recline (5 inches versus 3 — to put that into perspective, First Class has 7.5). 

Delta Airlines

Overview

Delta Airline is one of the pioneering airline companies in the United States.While it initially started off as a domestic airline company, it has grown to become one of the US’s largest operating airlines.

Today, its aircrafts fly across the globe to more than 330 destinations across 64 countries.These include global tourist hubs like Paris, Amsterdam, and Tokyo, along with popular US flight routes to New York, Salt Lake City, and Detroit.

Moreover, it has an impressive aircraft fleet with various features and cabin configurations that can fit the needs of all kinds of flyers.Special offers include Business Class, Delta Comfort+, and the Delta One.

As a purpose-driven brand, we connect humanity, and by doing so, drive forward empathy and a deeper respect and care for our planet and the people within it. With that in mind, Delta’s ESG strategy is centered on lowering our carbon footprint, driving forward a diverse workforce that values equity and inclusion, and living these values in the communities where we live work and serve. 

>>Delta Airline Information

• IATA Code:DL

• Routes:459 worldwide destinations in 97 countries

• Top route:Atlanta to LaGuardia

• Airports served:211

• Top airport:Atlanta

• Headquarters: 1030 Delta Blvd, Atlanta, GA 30354

• Call:1 (800) 221-1212

• Website:https://www.delta.com/ 

Where Delta Airline Based and Where to Fly?

Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines operates a network of nearly 300 destinations in over 50 countries across six continents.

Delta's U.S. hubs and key markets include:

• Atlanta.

• Boston.

• Detroit.

• Los Angeles.

• Minneapolis-St. Paul.

• New York-John F. Kennedy.

• New York-LaGuardia.

• Salt Lake City.

• Seattle.

Pricing and Extra Charges

>>Tickets

Delta has an easy-to-manage booking process with different flight times available on all days of the year and a user-friendly interface.

Delta has five different classes on their flights, though availability will vary by destination. Here’s the breakdown of what each one includes in the price:

• Basic: this is the lowest fare available and has its limitations. You’ll board last and be assigned a seat in the back of the plane. You won’t be able to upgrade or get a refund if you cancel.

• Main: this is Delta’s economy class. You’ll have general boarding and get to choose your seat. You’ll also be able to change your flight for free and can receive Delta credit if you cancel.

• Comfort: this is Premium Economy, which features more leg room toward the front of the cabin. You’ll have dedicated overhead bin storage, free beer, wine and snacks, and you’ll get to deplane first. You’ll also be able to change your flight for free.

• First Class: You’ll get two free checked bags, priority boarding and big, cozy seats. You can also change your flight for free. In flight you’ll receive premium meals, drinks and snacks, as well as special service.

• Delta One: the most elite option Delta has. You’ll get two free checked bags, priority boarding and lie-flat seating at the front of the plane. You can also change your flight for free and get complimentary Sky Club access. In flight you’ll receive chef-curated fine dining with special service.

>>Baggage

Delta will allow up to two free checked bags when you purchase First Class or Delta One tickets, but all other ticket options will incur a $30 fee for the first bag and $40 for the second bag. The third bag will be $150 and if you have overweight luggage it could cost $100-200 extra.

>>Extra Fees

Here are the extra fees you might get dinged for when flying on Delta:

• Checked bag fees: For domestic flights, Delta charges $30 for the first checked bag. Travelers with an eligible credit card or elite status may be able to avoid this charge.

• Seat assignment fees: On basic economy tickets, you'll need to pay a seat assignment fee to avoid getting a randomly assigned seat at check-in. All other fares allow free seat selection.

• Change fees: Delta has eliminated change fees for trips originating in North America and the Caribbean. However, basic economy fares purchased after Dec. 31, 2021, are nonchangeable.

Flight Availability 

>>Domestic Flights 

Delta has hubs in Atlanta, Boston, Detroit, Los Angeles, Minneapolis/St. Paul, New York City, Salt Lake City, and Seattle/Tacoma. Their influence is sprinkled throughout the contiguous United States, but has a primary focus on the East Coast.

>>International Flight 

Delta has a massive international presence, flying to hundreds of different cities across the globe. Delta is the only US airline that currently serves Copenhagen, Dakar, Lagos and Stuttgart. You can also book international flights through their SkyTeam Alliance partners like Air France, China Airlines, Kenya Airways and Virgin Atlantic.

 Safety 

>>Aircraft Safety 

Delta employs Airbus and Boeing, but primarily uses Boeing 717, 757, 767 models, along with Airbus A330. Delta typically prefers to renovate and repurpose old aircraft through their company owned TechOps, in order to save money on planes. But they have more recently been open to replacing outdated aircraft with brand new Airbus, Boeing and Bombardier models.

>>Baggage Safety 

Delta has an option to track your bags so you don’t lose them in the first place. But if you do lose them, they’ll ask you to submit a claim online or in the airport so they can investigate.

Ways to Save

>>Delta  Travel Credit Card

Delta offers four consumer and three small-business credit cards — all of which are issued by AmEx. Annual fees range between $0 and $550 and perks range from earning 2x miles on restaurants up to Delta Sky Club access. Terms apply.

• Delta SkyMiles Blue American Express Card ($0 annual fee). Earn 10,000 bonus miles after you spend $500 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. Terms Apply.

• Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card ($0 intro for the first year, then $99 annual fee). Earn 40,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $1,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. Plus, earn up to $50 back in statement credits for eligible purchases at U.S. restaurants with your card within the first 3 months of membership.

• Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card ($250 annual fee). Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles and 5,000 Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. Plus, earn up to $100 back in statement credits for eligible purchases at U.S. restaurants with your card within the first 3 months of membership.

• Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card ($550 annual fee). Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles and 10,000 Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. Plus, earn up to $100 back in statement credits for eligible purchases at U.S. restaurants with your card within the first 3 months of membership.

• Delta SkyMiles Gold Business American Express Card ($0 intro for the first year, then $99). Earn 50,000 bonus miles and a $50 statement credit after spending $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months.

• Delta SkyMilesPlatinum Business American Express Card ($250 annual fee). Earn 60,000 bonus miles, 5,000 Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs), and a $100 statement credit after spending $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months.

• Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business American Express Card ($550 annual fee). Earn 60,000 bonus miles, 10,000 Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs), and a $100 statement credit after spending $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months.

>>Airline loyalty programs

Delta loyalty program

With SkyMiles, your trips and purchases bring you closer to the next place on your travel wish list. Earn miles for flying Main Cabin or above and on everyday purchases. Use those earned miles toward travel on any Delta Air Lines flight, toward a Delta Vacations package with no blackout dates or for rewards like upgrades and premium drinks at Delta Sky Club.

The number of SkyMiles you earn per dollar is based on your membership level in the loyalty program.

Basic Economy Fares

Delta offers a basic economy ticket, and here’s what these flyers can look forward to:

• Carry-on luggage: Permitted at no cost (9 inches by 14 inches by 22 inches).

• Checked baggage: Must pay, even on transatlantic flights.

• Personal item on board: Permitted (9 inches by 10 inches by 17 inches).

• Seat selection: Permitted at no cost at check-in (when available).

• Boarding group: Last (unless you’re an elite member or have a co-branded Delta credit card).

• Elite status qualification: No.

• Upgrades: None.

• Flight changes / refunds: Allowed for a fee of $99 for domestic flights and flights to Mexico, the Caribbean and Latin America. The fee is $199 for international flights (including Canada).

In-Flight Experience

Delta owns many aircraft that are more than 20 years old, but you probably couldn't tell by looking at the cabin. Delta has retrofitted many of its older planes with new seats and in-flight entertainment screens. On international flights in economy, Delta has introduced premium meals, hot towel service and alcoholic drinks like Bellinis.

Seats and Legroom

Delta has a plethora of planes, so the exact dimensions of your seat will depend on the aircraft type and class of service. In general, though, expect the following range of sizes.

• Main Cabin

Economy seats are between 16-18.6 inches wide, with 30-33 inches of pitch (the distance from seatback to seatback), and two or three inches of recline. Depending on the type of plane you're on, they can be laid out in anything from a 2 – 2 pattern to one that is 2 – 4 – 2 or 3 – 3 – 3.

• Comfort

Comfort seats have the same width and recline, but offer up to 34 inches of pitch.

• First Class

Domestic first class seats tend to be 20-21 inches wide with 35-39 inches of pitch, laid out in a 2 – 2 pattern.

• Premium Select

Folks in Premium Select are seated in a 2 – 3 – 2 or 2 – 4 – 2 configuration and can expect chairs that are 18.5 inches wide with 38 inches of pitch and up to seven inches of recline.

• Delta One

Finally, folks in Delta One sit in a 1 – 2 – 1 pattern so everyone has direct aisle access. Seats are 21-22.5 inches wide and recline to flat beds that are 71-80 inches long. If you're on the A350 or A330-900neo, your pod will also have its own closing door for privacy.

American Airlines

Overview

Founded in 1930,American Airlines is now one of the largest airlines in the world. Throughout the years, American has created more than 900,000 jobs worldwide and supported close to 1,400 nonprofit organizations.

With nearly 6,700 daily flights serving destinations in 50 countries around the world, American Airlines (and its regional partner, American Eagle) is one of the nation's largest passenger airlines. Whether you're a dedicated American Airlines credit card holder or simply fly with whichever carrier has the best flights for you, you're likely to find yourself aboard an American Airlines flight at some point in your travels. And with a range of fare classes, new flight change policies, a variety of seat styles and configurations, and more, there's a lot to consider before booking your next flight.

In 2016, American Airlines Group Inc. topped Fortune magazine’s list of best business turnarounds and its stock (NASDAQ: AAL) joined the S&P 500 index.

>>American Airlines Information

• IATA Code:AA

• Routes:28 domestic destinations and 81 international destinations in 48 countries

• Top route:Dallas DFW to Los Angeles

• Airports served:99

• Top airport:DFW

• Headquarters: 4333 Amon Carter Boulevard, Fort Worth, TX 76155-2605

• Call:1 (800) 433-7300

• Website:https://www.aa.com/homePage.do 

Where American Airlines  Based and Where to Fly?

American Airlines bases its operations in Dallas-Fort Worth and flies to over 350 destinations across 60-plus countries on five continents. American focuses on flights to the Caribbean, Europe, South America and connecting its Oneworld partners to destinations in Asia and Oceania.

American Airlines' hubs are found in:

• Charlotte.

• Chicago.

• Dallas-Fort Worth.

• Los Angeles.

• Miami.

• New York-JFK.

• New York-LaGuardia.

• Philadelphia.

• Phoenix.

• Washington-National.

Pricing and Extra Charges

>>Tickets

American uses a fairly standard booking system, separating options into classes. Main Cabin seating is what we’ll be using for this pricing example, which allows you to choose your seat and includes no change fees, which is a plus if you need to switch flights after booking.

Here’s a full breakdown of what each American Airlines class includes:

• Basic Economy: includes carry-on and personal item, and advanced seat selection with general boarding for the lowest cost possible

• Main Cabin: includes carry-on and personal item, one checked bag and advanced seat selection with general boarding

• Main Cabin Extra: includes carry-on and personal item, one checked bag and advanced seat selection with early boarding, more leg room for $20 over Main Cabin

• Premium Economy: includes carry-on and personal item, one checked bag and advanced seat selection with early boarding, priority check-in and security, wide seats with more leg room, complimentary amenities bag, free WiFi, and exclusive meals with free alcoholic beverage for about $300 over Main Cabin

• Business: includes carry-on and personal item, one checked bag and advanced seat selection with early boarding, priority check-in and security, wide seats with more leg room, complimentary amenities bag, free WiFi, and premium dining on international flights with access to the Flagship Lounge and Admiral’s Club for about $1000 over Main Cabin

• First: includes carry-on and personal item, one checked bag and advanced seat selection with early boarding, priority check-in and security, wide seats with more leg room, complimentary amenities bag, free WiFi, and premium dining on domestic flights with access to the Flagship Lounge and Admiral’s Club for about $500 over Main Cabin

>>Baggage

All fares include one free carry-on bag (that does not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches) and one free personal item that can fit under the seat in front of you. Customers in first class can bring two to three complimentary checked bags that weigh up to 70 pounds (depending on the aircraft), business-class passengers can check two complimentary bags that weigh up to 70 pounds, Premium Economy passengers can carry two complimentary bags that weigh up to 50 pounds, and Main Cabin passengers can bring up to two 50-pound bags (but they will likely have to pay a fee, typically around $30 for the first checked bag).

>>Extra Fees

• Checked bag fees: American publishes a complicated grid of checked bag fees. You'll pay $30 for a first checked bag on domestic routes — unless you have elite status or an eligible credit card.

• Seat assignment fees: All American fares come with free seat selection except basic economy. Travelers flying basic economy can pay a fee to select a seat anytime after booking.

• Change fees: Like United and Delta, American has generally eliminated change fees for all fare types except basic economy. You can change your flight fee-free as long as you're flying within North America or on overseas trips originating in North America or South America.

Flight Availability 

>>Domestic Flights 

American serves 95 locations in the US, with it’s main hub in Dallas/Fort Worth and an additional 10 other hubs around the country.

Because of American’s giant alliance and network of codeshare agreements with other airlines in the country and around the world, booking, cancelling and flight changes should be easily accomplished – that is, if their relationships with their many various worker’s unions are in tact. There have been more cancellations recently due to mandatory plane groundings, which accounts for about 4% of their flights. This is considered a high number of groundings in the airline industry.

>>International Flights 

American serves almost the entire world with national and international flights departing daily. International destinations include 95 locations around the globe, serving 55 different countries on over five continents.

Safety

>>Aircraft Safety 

American uses mainly a mix of Airbus A320 and Boeing 737-800 narrow-bodied aircraft. The wider bodied planes in operation are their Boeing 777 and 787 models. Each of these is considered the highest standard of aircraft in the industry.

>>Baggage Safety 

It’s helpful to review each airline’s baggage requirements before flying. Some people may not know that the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 is among both airlines prohibited items, along with most electric skateboards in checked bags. American also requires mobility devices to be within certain guidelines and given advance notice.

American also has an option to track your bags and will reimburse you for the items lost while you’re on vacation when you file a complaint. If the luggage has gone missing for more than three days, a questionnaire must be filled out and their Central Baggage Resolution Office will handle it from there.

Ways to Save

>>American Airlines Travel Credit Card

American Airlines offers four AAdvantage credit cards through Citi and one AAdvantage Aviator credit card through Barclays. Annual fees range from $0 to $450 and perks vary from earning 2x points on groceries to a full Admirals Club membership.

• American Airlines AAdvantage MileUp Card ($0 annual fee). Earn 10,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles and receive a $50 statement credit after making $500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.

• Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard ($0 intro for the first year, then $99). Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after you spend $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.

• Citi/ AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard ($450 annual fee). Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage bonus miles after spending $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.

• CitiBusiness / AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard ($0 intro for the first year, then $99). Earn 65,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $4,000 in purchases within the first 4 months of account opening.

• AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite Mastercard ($99 annual fee). Earn 60,000 AAdvantage® bonus miles after making your first purchase and paying the $99 annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days.

>>Airline loyalty programs

American AAdvantage

AAdvantage members earn five miles per eligible dollar spent on airfare, with elite members getting up to 11 miles per dollar spent. You can redeem AAdvantage miles to over 1,000 destinations, and you can redeem miles on most partner airlines right on AA's website. Unlike Delta and United, American publishes an award chart showing how many AAdvantage miles you need for an award flight on American or any of its dozens of partner airlines. American miles are worth around 1.2 cents each for economy class flights and 2.5 cents for business class.

AAdvantage miles expire if you have no earning or redemption activity for 18 months.

Some other important facts about American Airlines’ AAdvantage program:

• If your travel plans are flexible, you can maximize the value of your AAdvantage miles by booking MilesSAAver award flights.

• You can redeem AAdvantage miles for as little as 7,500 miles each way when redeeming for a domestic MilesSAAver award flight in economy class.

• You can redeem AAdvantage miles for as little as 15,000 miles each way when redeeming for a domestic MilesSAAver award flight in first or business class.

• For international journeys, the number of miles you need for an award flight depends on the region: If you’re headed to Central America, you can redeem AAdvantage miles for as little as 12,500 each way for an off-peak MilesSAAver award flight in economy. If you’re going to Europe, you can redeem AAdvantage miles for as little as 22,500 each way for the same ticket type.

Basic Economy Fares

Basic economy is the cheapest fare class offered by American Airlines. Booking a basic economy fare entitles you to the same main cabin seat as other economy class passengers. There are just a few differences in the travel experience:

• Reduced earnings of Elite Qualifying Miles (EQMs), Elite Qualifying Dollars (EQDs) and Elite Qualifying Segments (EQSs) through Dec. 31, 2020. Beginning Jan. 1, 2021, and beyond, basic economy fares will no longer earn EQM, EQD or EQS toward future status.

• No choice of seats; your seat will be assigned at check-in unless you pay a fee.

• Placement in a low-priority boarding group (Group 8 or 9).

• No ticket changes or cancellations after 24 hours of booking (except on flights to Europe, where a fee applies).

• No free checked bags on flights within the U.S., Canada, Central America, Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe. (Exceptions to this rule: Flights to and from Alaska, Cuba, El Salvador, Haiti, Panama, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.)

In-Flight Experience

American Airlines offers a typical airline experience, and many flights offer first- and business-class seating. The airline offers complimentary beverages and snacks on some flights, and alcoholic beverages can be purchased. For some international flights, a meal and alcoholic beverage are included. Wi-Fi is available on many routes starting at $10.

Seats and Legroom

• America Airlines Economy

American's Economy class seats get you 31 inches of legroom and has seats that are 17.2 inches wide. 

• American Airlines Main Cabin Extra:

American's Main Cabin Extra seats get you 35 to 37 inches of legroom along with Preferred Boarding, and an earlier exit when you land.

Southwest Airlines

Overview

Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (IATA: WN; ICAO: SWA) is the world's largest low-cost carrier. Southwest operates non-stop flights to more than 100 destinations across 10 countries. Unlike many major airlines, Southwest does not use hubs, but rather a point-to-point system. About 15 airports with a significant amount of WN flights have been designated as focus cities. The airline's fleet is configured with just an Economy Class cabin. In contrast to many low-cost carriers, Southwest does not charge a fee for up to two checked bags; non-alcoholic drinks and pretzels or peanuts are also free on board. Early boarding access, automatic online check-in and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.Southwest Airlines is technically considered a Low-Cost Airline, but they do things a little differently than their low-cost competitors.

Southwest still offers a cheap basic fare. But unlike other carriers that give you just a bare bones seat and one personal item for that price, Southwest includes some great perks. 

 >>Southwest Airlines Information

• IATA Code:WN

• Routes:100 destinations in 42 states

• Top route:Albuquerque (ABQ) to Atlanta (ATL)

• Airports served:100

• Top airport:DIA

• Headquarters: PO Box 36647-1CR, Dallas, TX 75235

• Call:1 (800) 435-9792

• Website:https://www.southwest.com/ 

Where Southwest Airlines Based and Where to Fly?

Southwest Airlines flies to more than 100 U.S. cities, plus 10 other countries (and Puerto Rico) in the Americas. Its international destinations are in the list below:

• Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

• Cancun, Mexico.

• Cozumel, Mexico.

• Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

• Ladyville, Belize.

• Liberia, Costa Rica.

• San Jose, Costa Rica.

• Oranjestad, Aruba.

• George Town, Grand Cayman.

• Havana.

• Montego Bay, Jamaica.

• Nassau, Bahamas.

• Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

• Providenciales, Turks and Caicos.

• San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Pricing and Extra Charges

>>Tickets

Southwest pricing is also based on class, separating costs into three easy choices: Business Select (premium), Anytime (moderate) and Wanna Get Away (cheapest). There isn’t a huge difference between the classes since the seating is pretty standard across the board. The biggest differences are experienced with the extras included with each fare. Here’s the breakdown:

• Wanna Get Away: includes two free checked bags, no change fees and no cancel fees for the lowest price available

• Anytime: includes two free checked bags, no change fees, no cancel fees and the opportunity to change your flight last minute and get a refund for about $400 over “Wanna Get Away”

• Business Select: includes two free checked bags, no change fees, no cancel fees, opportunity to change your flight last minute or refund a flight, priority boarding, priority security line and a complimentary alcoholic beverage for about $400 – $500 over “Wanna Get Away”

>>Baggage 

Southwest never charges for luggage unless you have more than two checked bags per person. Each bag you bring in addition to the first two will cost $75 each. All checked bags must meet or be under the weight and size requirements, which is typically 50 lbs per bag at less than 62 inches long. Otherwise the fee could be $75 for an overweight or oversized bag.

>>Extra Fees

Southwest is known for being generous, and the brand includes a lot of extras in your ticket price.

• Your first and second checked bags are free.

• A third checked bag costs $75.

• If your checked bag is overweight or oversized, you will be charged $75.

• There is no fee to change your flight.

• There is no fee to cancel a flight.

• If you want early-bird check in, you’ll pay $15, $20 or $25 each way.

• If you want to upgrade your boarding group, you’ll pay $30, $40 or $50 for each segment.

• In-flight Wi-Fi costs $8 per day.

Flight Availability

>>Domestic Flights

Southwest has many destinations all over the United States, with it’s central hub in Dallas, TX, as well. Many flights are available daily within the country, even in the slower months. Typically, if a flight is cancelled or delayed, the company will get you on another Southwest flight as soon as possible. If you have to change your flight last minute, they will make you pay the difference if the flight is more expensive or they’ll give you a credit if the flight is less expensive than your original.

>>International Flights 

Southwest‘s farthest destination is San Jose, Costa Rica. They mainly operate inside the United States, but they have several locations in Central America including a Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Cancun and Cozumel in Mexico, and Belize City.

They also reach islands in the Caribbean including Cuba, the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, Grand Cayman, Montego Bay, Punta Cana, San Juan and Aruba.

Safety

>>Aircraft Safety 

Southwest‘s fleet is primarily comprised of Boeing 737 jetliners. Boeing, like Airbus, is among the safest types of planes on the market, with a .8% fatal crashes per one million flights according to Boeing’s Statistical Summary.

>>Baggage Safety

As far as losing baggage goes, checking directly with the airline in the airport should be your first step. If no luck there, Southwest has a separate web page where customers can file lost luggage reports and complaints. They’ll also pay up to $3500 for lost or damaged luggage if applicable.

Ways to Save

>>Southwest Airlines Travel credit card

Southwest Airlines offers both personal and business credit cards. Here are a few highlights of each card.

• Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card ($69 annual fee):Earn Companion Pass through 2/28/23 plus 30,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.3,000 points awarded every cardmember anniversary.

• Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card ($99 annual fee): Earn Companion Pass through 2/28/23 plus 30,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.6,000 points awarded every cardmember anniversary.

• Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card ($149 annual fee):Earn Companion Pass through 2/28/23 plus 30,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.7,500 points awarded every cardmember anniversary.

• Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card($99 annual fee): Earn 60,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.6,000 points awarded every cardmember anniversary.

• Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card($199 annual fee):Earn 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.9,000 points awarded every cardmember anniversary.

>>Southwest Airline Loyalty Programs

Southwest Rapid Rewards

You can earn Rapid Rewards points when you fly Southwest, shop and dine with partners, book with a qualifying partner hotel, or use a Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card. Points earned never expire as long as your account remains open. The number of points earned when flying depends on the fare type that you book. You’ll earn 6 to 12 points per $1 spent on your flight.

You can redeem your Rapid Rewards points for Southwest Airlines flights or, if you have a Rapid Rewards credit card, for international flights through other carriers. You can also redeem points for rental cars, hotels or gift cards. Points carry less value when redeeming for anything but Southwest flights.

Some other important facts about the Rapid Rewards program:

• The price of a flight in Rapid Rewards points corresponds to the cash price, which can depend on fare type, date and destination. You can redeem for Wanna Get Away, Anytime and Business Select fares. Because they’re cheaper, you’ll get the best value when booking for Wanna Get Away fares.

• Flights start at less than 3,000 points each way. For example, a recent fare search turned up Wanna Get Away fares from Los Angeles to Las Vegas for 2,671 points each way.

• Southwest Airlines has limited international flight options and lacks true first- and business-class seating. If either is important to you, Southwest Rapid Rewards might not be right for you.

Basic Economy Fares

While most competitors exclude many international flights and basic economy fares, Southwest’s change policy encompasses all fares. And if you want to hop on a different, cheaper flight, it’s not only allowed, you’ll also be compensated for the fare difference.

Southwest already has three different types of fares – Wanna Get Away, there's AnyTime, and Business Select. In that order they range from least expensive to most expensive. And, at the moment, all three fares include two huge benefits that allow Southwest to differentiate itself from the Big Three – two free checked bags and no fees to change a ticket.

In-Flight Experience

Southwest Airlines is known for its excellent customer service. The airline offers complimentary snacks and drinks plus alcoholic beverages available for purchase. Meals are not available for purchase. There’s free in-flight entertainment (but you must bring your own device) and $8 Wi-Fi.

Southwest Airlines doesn’t offer separate business- or first-class cabins. Instead, it offers Business Select fares. These are pricier but include perks like priority boarding, the ability to earn more points and a complimentary premium drink.

Seats and Legroom

In terms of seat specs and overall comfort, Southwest does well. They operate exclusively with Boeing 737 aircraft - a narrow body jet with a single aisle. Seats will differ ever so slightly depending on the plane you’re on.

• Even so, with an average pitch length of 31″-33″, a slight recline on most seats, and a full tray table, they pretty much rank right at the top of the low-cost economy seat list. Heck, they even rank above average when it comes to industry-wide economy pitch measurements!

• Additionally, the newer models have slimmer seats with a smaller armrest, giving customers a larger width - 17.8″ to be exact. (Supposedly, this is the largest in economy seating of any carrier.)

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates 2024

>> All Airlines Health and Safety Policy

At check-in, you’ll be asked to complete our “Ready-to-fly checklist” and acknowledge you don’t have symptoms of COVID-19. If you’re unable to check any of the boxes, you won’t be able to complete the check-in process.

Ready-to-fly checklist

These requirements apply to all travelers, including those who have received a COVID-19 vaccine:

Federal law requires that:

You must properly wear an acceptable mask at all times in the airport and on board. Vented masks and bandanas are not permitted.

You must wear masks in between bites and sips if you are eating or drinking.

United will refuse transport to any traveler not compliant with these requirements.

Health requirements:

You have reviewed CDC guidelines on testing positive, symptoms, quarantine, and isolation, and you attest you are fit to travel per the stated guidance.

If anyone does not meet these criteria, please reschedule your trip.

Please call 1-800-UNITED-1 (1-800-864-8331) or your local Customer Contact Center for your options.

About the ready-to-fly checklist:

 As part of our United CleanPlus℠ commitment and in partnership with Cleveland Clinic and Clorox, this checklist follows guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) and are subject to change. Additional local and destination specific restrictions may apply.

If you’re unable to complete the ready-to-fly checklist due to a positive COVID-19 test or a COVID-19 exposure, here’s when you’ll be able to fly with us again based on the CDC’s current guidance:

>>Face coverings

U.S. federal law requires that you wear a face covering at all times while indoors at the airport and on board your flight, regardless of vaccination status. If you refuse to wear one, you may be denied boarding and future travel on American. You may also face penalties under federal law.

These rules do not apply to children under 2, or if you have a disability that prevents you from wearing a face covering and meet the exemption requirements.

Airline COVID Ratings Compare

Change Policies Compare

Here’s how  the 4 airlines policy compares with the change policies of American, Delta ,United and Southwest:

Tips:This is not necessarily a comprehensive list. Some airlines have separate, temporary change or cancellation policies due to the coronavirus.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, these 4 airlines all can get you from Point A to Point B pretty easily, no matter what those destinations happen to be. It may be difficult to deal with these massive companies and their customer service, but the endless flights to just about anywhere in the world can make the hassle worth it.

If you’re choosing between Delta and United:

In the competition of Delta versus United, there isn’t a clear winner. Delta charges less baggage fees and makes basic economy more tolerable for a frugal traveler. United, on other hand, has a stronger loyalty program and a stronger presence when it comes to global connections.

Beyond this comparison of Delta and United Airlines, look at which airline serves your home airport as well as the routes you want to fly and make your final decision based on that.

If you’re choosing between American and Southwest:

American may offer slightly more in their Main Cabin option with no change fees and advanced seat selection, but the poor customer service, smaller facilities and the possibility of getting your flight delayed or cancelled is enough to leave this option behind. However, international flights in first class could well be worth your while.

Southwest, in this example, is minimally cheaper than American and includes two whole checked bags for one person. You’ll have a comfier chair, free snacks and drinks, free entertainment and much better service. However, you won’t get to select your seat ahead of time and could risk sitting separately from your travel partner.

If you’re choosing between Delta, United and American:

Delta and United tie with two apiece of these five categories, making the overall winner of the major U.S. airlines hard to pinpoint. Delta excels in providing a consistently good onboard experience, understandable fees and an extensive range of credit cards that provide a good fit for every type of traveler. United, however, offers travelers more destinations and charges the lowest fees (by $4 on average). You can take an even closer look at these two popular airlines in our study of Delta versus United.

In NerdWallet's analysis, SkyMiles are the highest valued of the three programs — but only for economy fares. If you're looking to fly business or first, SkyMiles won't stretch nearly as far as AAdvantage or MileagePlus miles.

The right airline for you depends on your specific situation. Delta, American or United may be a better fit if you're located in — or frequently travel to — one of their hubs.

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