I used to be very loyal to America West Airlines out of Phoenix, which once had a hub in Columbus,…read moreOhio. Then, it was US Airways flying across the country, again from Phoenix, and I was getting upgraded regularly. Now, it's American Airlines that I frequent, along with past America West Airlines and US Airways patrons. I find that, as with any other airline, customer service is often better than not, but there are always a few hiccups. With American Airlines, you can get someone on the phone, on a chat, on social media, or in person to assist, and with some respect on our part, we can often get what we need. I rarely have luggage issues, though there was one time when my bag was damaged, and American Airlines gave me a replacement while they repaired my original.
I regularly fly in and out of the American Airlines gates at Phoenix Sky Harbor and frequent hubs like Dallas-Fort Worth, Chicago O'Hare, Philadelphia, and Charlotte. I even make it out to Orlando on occasion, having visited at least every few years for a conference or an occasional Disney World vacation. Often, my travels require a connecting flight, and my flights are, more often than not, on time and without delays in departure or arrival. With status, an American Airlines credit card, and membership in CLEAR and Global Entry, I do not pay for luggage, receive priority luggage handling, board early, speed through security, sometimes receive upgrades, and access lounges. Traveling has become more of a hobby and a habit, and with American Airlines as my go-to airline, I accumulate miles quickly while also earning status and Loyalty Point rewards.
I have two travel premium credit cards: the AAdvantage Executive Mastercard, which offers complimentary Admirals Club access, and the American Express Platinum card, which offers lounge access, travel credits, and complimentary CLEAR and Global Entry memberships. With these two credit cards, I can access the Admiral's Club at Orlando International Airport or The Club at MCO. I may even be able to visit the Plaza Premium Lounge, though I've never checked. Also, through T-Mobile, I received free Wi-Fi on American Airlines flights (though now it is free for anyone with an AAdvantage account). Through my American Airlines AAdvantage status, I get upgrades or free paid snacks and drinks on flights, along with other benefits. To retain status each year, you need to earn Loyalty Point through flying, credit card spending, and promotions. You can also earn Loyalty point rewards after hitting 175,000 points, 250,000 points, and so on.
While it is difficult to receive upgrades due to the large number of people at the Executive Platinum status tier, the benefits I do receive are worthwhile. I have also experienced technical issues on flights, but not enough to cause me to abandon American Airlines, especially when every other airline faces the same challenges. All in all, American Airlines is a great company and does as well, if not better than, any of the other major airlines.