Maybe I'm first here to give United Airlines a good review. It seems it is often the disgruntled who post negative reviews while satisfied customers give no feedback at all.
This review comes from the point of view of someone who hasn't flown in over 25 years, until yesterday... and by the way, I really don't like flying and hope I never have to do it again, ever. The only things that got me up there were 1) wanting to see my mother again, and 2) believing that Jesus would see me through the experience.
My plane took off 2 hours late and I missed connections twice, but that was because of weather, not because of employee or company error. I was grateful they delayed the fights because - why would I want to fly in dangerous weather? It was snowing in Spokane when I boarded the plane, and there were high winds in Denver causing all runways to be closed except one. That kind of slows things down! I am so grateful that the pilots have the experience and wisdom to know when it is safe to fly, and when it isn't.
Personally, I didn't like the fight experience. The people I sat next to were very nice people. I enjoyed chatting with them for a while - but I felt like we were packed in like sardines - three in a row, in narrow seats. I guess that's typical for flying these days. To get more room you have to pay a little more. It may be worth it. I'm pretty sure you'll get the same deal with any flight service you use. Long ago when I flew a few times, the seats were in rows of two, not three. This time I felt like I was on a Greyhound bus, only in the sky, with a more prosperous crowd of people: people who can afford flying rather than a bus.
When I was younger I didn't think about things like this. Now - I'm over sixty - and I'm just not tolerating the transportation system well. I prefer my quiet hermit type lifestyle so being in an "air bus" doesn't feel comfortable or happy to me. But people need to travel and get there fast, so airplanes will continue to be popular - and they are said to be the safest form of travel as well.
Many people were exhausted and had missed connections. Winter!!
What I like most about United, and why I gave them five stars, is the professionalism and dedication of the employees... including pilots, flight attendants, and airport employees. Every single one of them was dignified, personable, helpful, and apparently happy with their jobs. Because I personally would not want to be in an airplane any longer than possible... I have to admire these air warriors who go up into the sky day after day, who do it with a good attitude, and who aren't held back by sky-fears as so many of us are. Kudos to all of them. They have my admiration, respect, and praise. read more