Airlines: Customer service matters

US airlines when compared to their international rivals lag so significantly that one dares not put up a comparison chart.  As an international traveler, I always opt for one of the airlines from the (Persian) Gulf countries, give it a try once to experience what air travel should be like.

The USA Today article "U.S. airlines contend Gulf rivals are subsidized unfairly" here discusses a report by the big three US Airlines that contends subsidies to the Gulf airlines to the tune of $42 billion.  As a customer, I want good service and a comfortable flight, and I am willing to pay for it.

Just for fun, have a look at the 2014 World's Top 100 Airlines ratings on SKYTRAX here.  First US airlines Delta shows up at no. 45.  When you are so far down, simple subsidies are not the only reason.