Today, I took my first Southwest flight in nearly 3 years. Atlanta – Boston was the route, and I have to say it went well. Unlike a lot of the bloggerverse, I’m not looking to “break up” with Delta or any other airline. I enjoy flying Delta, and appreciate the level of care I receive as a Platinum Medallion. I am, however, not convinced loyalty for the sake of being loyal in the face of the new reality of SkyMiles 2015 and everything else going on within the airline industry is the smartest course of action. (Image courtesy of Southwest Airlines)
Today, I saved several hundred dollars without any impact on my quality of life or any other drain on my time. In return, I got reliable transportation between two points on a map in perfectly reasonable comfort. Every Southwest employee I interacted with was courteous and pleasant. Our flight was not only on-time, but early departing and shockingly early arriving. Inflight service was pleasant and plentiful. I’d hardly gotten through half my coffee before refills were offered. Inflight wi-fi was not blistering, but fast enough. I had an exit row seat on the aisle, and ultimately wound up with the entire aisle all my own.
When it was all said and done, I got reliable transportation delivered by courteous people. I don’t know that I’d relish the thought of flying Southwest to Hong Kong, but on a 3 hour flight or so….they work. They work so well that I can promise you and Southwest, I will be back.
-MJ, February 18, 2015
Welcome to the dark side. For my domestic travel, Southwest is working really well for me, especially since I travel with kids. I can reliably get seats next to them without paying a fee due to family boarding between groups A & B and flight attendants and gate agents are just nice. Not having to pay a change fee or bag fees is a nice perk too. Looking forward to more Southwest posts from you!
Nice! You got lucky with the empty exit row! I usually snag an exit row seat (I am A List), but I usually share it as the routes I usually take are often full.
The reasons you stated are why I love SW. I love that when operations are normal, they are almost always slightly ahead of schedule. I am so often stepping off the plane just before my official arrival time. And when things are not on time, SW is so helpful. I have had some rough delays and cancellations before, but I always tell people that SW always shows sympathy and patience, two things I may not get from other airlines. It keeps me coming back for more!
I don’t remember the last time I had an empty row of three!
Southwest has yet to fly to Hawaii so HK is definitely not in their cards 😉 SW is great domestically though!
Exactly, Elena. 🙂