Many years ago, we were on one of our adventures to Honduras and in conversation with a young couple from San Francisco. We had both arrived at the dive resort and were settling into the pace of the island. As the conversation came around to airlines the young lady said with a sarcastic laugh, "We barely arrived on Take A Chance Airline." After a long pause, we figured she was talking about the major central American airline servicing the country and island. Her explanation was that it was a third world carrier and could not possibly be up to US standards. Oh, my! Little did she know then or now of that airline or others south of our boarders and beyond.
That particular airline, at the time and now, uses the same planes and many times newer versions than US carriers. The rules for flying and safety are the same as in the US since they fly to US airports. These carriers did not and do not charge for every piece of luggage shipped. In fact they allow more baggage per person and for free. They serve meals, snacks, and free alcoholic beverages on most flights.
Recently we flew out and back on LAN Ecuador between Miami and Quito. Our plane was a Boeing 767 with personal entertainment centers and free earpieces. Each seat had a freshly wrapped pillow and blanket, adequate storage, and legroom--without any extra charge. Meals and drinks were served during each flight--and there was a choice of entrees. The flight attendants were top notch and eager to meet any of your needs.
We still have our favorite US carriers but will not hesitate taking one that is not based in the US, too. In checking out the best rated airlines in the world, it was found that the American companies don't make the cut of top ranking. With research and some spirit of adventure still sparked, we will be hopping on as many of those new airlines as possible in the weeks, months, and years to come.
As Auntie Mame said, "Life is a banquet. . . ." So let's eat!
Hear, hear. People assume it's always best at home! I flew China Eastern Airlines (!) from Beijing to Shanghai, a two-hour flight: it was a 747, it was on-time, and we had a hot meal. And the reputation for poor service on US carriers does get around. I was talking with a coworker who is going to fly to Cancun from Europe at Christmas. She was complaining about how expensive the direct flight on BA was, but added, "but I want to avoid having to fly through the States" and another added "the airlines there are horrible!" And that comes from Brits, most of whom I have met love visiting America. B has done the London - Miami route a number of times on BA, Delta and American, and she says BA is like flying in a different class. All anecdotal, but it just goes to show you can find good (and bad!) everywhere.
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