Airlines
Getting there efficiently - a frequent flyer's honest take
Airlines I Fly
After hundreds of flights for work, here's my honest take on the carriers I use most and what to expect from each.
Delta Air Lines
4 out of 5 starsMy primary carrier for domestic flights. Reliable on-time performance, the SkyMiles program actually rewards loyalty, and Comfort+ is worth the upgrade for the extra legroom on longer routes.
Southwest Airlines
4 out of 5 starsSouthwest has evolved - they now have assigned seating and bag fees, but the planes are updated and nice, the crew is always so friendly, and the flexible change policies still make it a solid pick for business travel.
American Airlines
3 out of 5 starsHuge domestic network and the AAdvantage program has its perks. Consistency can be hit or miss, but the Admirals Club lounges are a decent place to work between flights.
JetBlue
5 out of 5 starsBest domestic business class in the US with their Mint product. Even in regular economy, the legroom and free Wi-Fi make it a strong choice for coast-to-coast flights.
Business Flying Tips
Earn Status Strategically
Pick one airline alliance and stick with it. Status perks like free upgrades, lounge access, and priority boarding make a real difference when you're flying every week.
Stay Productive in the Air
Download everything you need before boarding. Airline Wi-Fi is improving but still unreliable. I prep offline docs, expense reports, and presentations for every flight.
Book Smart
Tuesday and Wednesday flights are usually cheaper and less crowded. Book early morning departures to minimize delay cascading, and always have a backup plan for connections.