I would like to compare several airlines for an upcoming trip back to the US from UK, specifically American Airlines, British Airways, and Iberia. I am most interested in comfort, customer service, and reliability, rather than price. It's not that I'm not concerned about price; it's just that only certain airlines go where I want to go so it does me no good if someone else is cheaper. For websites to compare airlines, I have used Tripadvisor, but unless I've missed it I see only a chart and can't see a way to view specific reviews. I have used Skytrax and think it's pretty good, but to me, the site is a little inconvenient in that you have to choose very specific items and then keep going back and forth, plugging in new items in order to compare several different airlines. What websites do you think are the best to compare airlines? Does anyone have specific comments to make about the airlines I've specified? Thanks.
Posted by
Chicago
2876 posts
http://www.airlinequality.com/ Remember that those who have had bad experiences are far more likely to post reviews than those who have had good experiences. Personally, I've flown all the airlines you mentioned and I've never had a problem. I'd fly any of them again.
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
8066 posts
I have flown both BA and AA, also fly Delta fairly often, but have hit United, KLM, Lufthansa, plus any number of budgets and smaller airlines. My take away is that there is little significant difference. Some look at the meal served, entertainment options, whether alcohol is complimentary or a hefty charge, but for nearly everyone, Economy will be cramped and the seat uncomfortable after 5 hours. All of these while important to some, are more personal preference than critical. As for more significant data, On-Time percentage, delays, equipment problems, safety ratings, lost luggage, that data is available, but I am yet to be convinced that it is actionable. By this I mean that the difference are slight and represent a rarity, meaning the chance of those happening to you are slight, and you probably do not improve your chances by choosing based on that data. In the end, I find using a carrier that is optimum for the airport is a better strategy...Flying into London, AA/BA may be the best choice, Paris: Delta/Air France, Amsterdam: Delta/KLM. Your home airport of course may also dictate "best" airline.
Posted by
Pittsburgh, PA, USA
203 posts
I have learned quite a lot from the website www.flyertalk.com. It is geared towards the frequent flier community and related programs, but there is a wealth general travel information as well.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
I agree with Paul. I don't think there is much difference between any of the major airlines. I have swore off of US Air for probably petty reasons, one time preferred Lufthansa but the last trip was pretty average. I would go with price and schedule.
Posted by
aberdeen, scotland & london, uk
241 posts
Try seat guru
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