as for AA v UA, can't really comment there. i know you've had some good experiences with UA, but to me it's simple: their planes are old, and their configuration is for much shorter seats. they are simply too short for someone over 6 feet tall. AA's "more room throughout coach" has actually paid dividends for me on the occasions when i can't get an extra row seat – but on United i actually can't select an exit row seat b/c those are Economy Plus seats and cost more.

at the end of the day, it's the legroom that matters most for me. the little things, like food, don't really bother me one way or another.

the boarding process with both UA and AA now is absurd as well; on my flight out here, fully half the plane was status, so getting everyone on was a nightmare. i'd rather just board normally, by rows, because you end up getting off quicker.

I've been fairly balanced between AA and UA this year. UA has consistently outperformed AA in my opinion, though I have status on both of 'em. The United Express planes are nicer than the AEagle ones, UA has had food on more flights in first class, and they do seem to be willing to help more than in the past. If only the Premier Exec desk would handle "contract" ticket changes, as AA's Platinum desk does.