Today I Hate Southwest Airlines

I've always loved Southwest Airlines - cheap tickets, no stress, no hassle and some fun on the side. Lately though Southwest has been losing its luster. First there was that time earlier this year when my flight got canceled. I thought, "Hey, no big deal, happens to everyone eventually" until flew back a week later. I started talking with other passengers flying the same day to discover they had canceled about 30 flights just between Southern California and Northern California...not so cool.

Then there was this trip. It wasn't that they did anything particularly horrible. It was just a general feeling of frustration with grumpy and unhappy Southwest employees and Southwest's short hop addiction. I know, its my own fault for wanting to fly into Long Island instead of JFK. I knew I wasnt going to get there nonstop. I just haven't taken three legs to get across the country in a long time - wow! did it suck! Starting at 5am west coast time LAX to Phoenix, then a layover, then Phoenix to Chicago. Welcome to layover number two. Then Chicago to finally arrive in Long Island at almost 7pm east cost time. All told it was just a mere 14 hour project to get across the country.

At least I didnt have to worry about the flights getting cancelled. Every seat was taken on every one of those three flights. And I had slacked off and not checked in until 12 hours before my flight so on the second leg we were practically at the back of the line. Middle seats for everyone!

I did feel a bit of love for Southwest Airlines budding in me as I paid that $40 luggage fee to Delta on the way home. Southwest is still great for saving on all those stupid fees there are these days. Still I'm feelin a bit burnt on Southwest and will just be keeping them around for short hops. Maybe I'm just gettin old - but its time to focus on the nonstop service from now on. Thankfully getting back to one of my favorite places was worth it. As was the night in the city and the New York Pizza. And of course, Go Islanders!!!!