A Comparison of Southwest and Continental Airlines
Southwest and Continental Airlines are two of the most popular airlines in the United States. Both airlines serve a significant number of domestic and international destinations, and they have established themselves as major players in the aviation industry. However, which of these two airlines is better? This article aims to compare Southwest and Continental Airlines in terms of fleet and network, service quality, price and fees, frequent flyer programs, booking process, on-time performance, safety record, baggage allowance, in-flight experience, and customer satisfaction.
Fleet and Network: Which Airline Offers More Choices?
Southwest Airlines operates a fleet of over 700 aircraft, consisting mainly of Boeing 737s. The airline currently serves more than 110 destinations, including several international routes in Mexico and the Caribbean. In contrast, Continental Airlines, which merged with United Airlines in 2010, operates a fleet of over 720 aircraft and serves more than 240 destinations worldwide. Continental Airlines offers a wider range of destinations compared to Southwest Airlines, including several popular international destinations in Europe, Asia, and South America.
Service Quality: Do Southwest or Continental Airlines Offer Better Services?
Both Southwest and Continental Airlines offer excellent customer service, and they have received several awards for their service quality. However, Southwest Airlines is known for its unique approach to customer service, which includes offering free snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on all flights, a generous baggage policy, no change fees, and a relaxed boarding process. On the other hand, Continental Airlines offers a more traditional approach to customer service, which includes providing premium amenities such as lie-flat seats, in-flight entertainment systems, and premium dining options on select flights.
Price and Fees: How Do Southwest and Continental Airlines Compare in Terms of Costs?
In terms of pricing, Southwest Airlines is known for its low fares and transparent pricing policies. The airline does not charge change fees or baggage fees, and it offers several affordable fare options, including Wanna Get Away, Anytime, and Business Select fares. In contrast, Continental Airlines charges for checked baggage and offers several fare options, including Basic Economy, Main Cabin, and Premium fares. While Continental Airlines may offer more premium amenities, Southwest Airlines is generally considered to be the more affordable option.
Frequent Flyer Programs: Which Airline Offers Better Rewards?
Both Southwest Airlines and Continental Airlines offer frequent flyer programs, which allow passengers to earn points and redeem them for free flights, upgrades, and other rewards. Southwest Airlines’ Rapid Rewards program is known for its simplicity and flexibility, allowing members to earn points on all flights and redeem them without blackout dates or capacity restrictions. Continental Airlines’ MileagePlus program offers several levels of elite status, which come with additional benefits such as lounge access and priority boarding. While both programs have their advantages, Southwest Airlines’ Rapid Rewards program is generally considered to be more user-friendly.
Booking Process: Is Southwest Airlines Easier to Book Than Continental Airlines?
Both Southwest Airlines and Continental Airlines offer easy-to-use online booking systems, allowing passengers to book flights, manage reservations, and check in for flights easily. However, Southwest Airlines’ booking process is known for its simplicity and speed, allowing passengers to book flights quickly and efficiently. The airline also offers a mobile app, which makes it easy to book flights, check in, and access other important information on the go.
On-Time Performance: Which Airline Is More Punctual?
Both Southwest Airlines and Continental Airlines have a good reputation for on-time performance, with both airlines boasting high on-time arrival rates. However, according to the Department of Transportation’s Air Travel Consumer Report, Southwest Airlines has a slightly better on-time arrival rate compared to Continental Airlines. In 2019, Southwest Airlines reported an on-time arrival rate of 83.5%, while Continental Airlines reported an on-time arrival rate of 81.4%.
Safety Record: Are Southwest or Continental Airlines Safer to Fly With?
Both Southwest Airlines and Continental Airlines have excellent safety records, with both airlines implementing rigorous safety protocols and procedures to ensure the safety of their passengers and crew. In recent years, Southwest Airlines has faced several safety-related incidents, including an engine failure in 2018 that led to the death of one passenger. However, the airline has since implemented several safety enhancements, including inspections of its entire fleet of Boeing 737s.
Baggage Allowance: How Do Southwest and Continental Airlines Compare?
Southwest Airlines is known for its generous baggage policy, which allows passengers to check up to two bags for free. The airline also allows passengers to bring a carry-on bag and a personal item on board. In contrast, Continental Airlines charges for checked baggage, with fees varying depending on the route and fare type. The airline allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board.
In-Flight Experience: Which Airline Offers a Better In-Flight Experience?
Both Southwest Airlines and Continental Airlines offer a comfortable in-flight experience, with both airlines providing comfortable seating, in-flight entertainment, and Wi-Fi on select flights. However, Continental Airlines offers a more premium in-flight experience, with amenities such as lie-flat seats, premium dining options, and in-flight entertainment systems on select flights. Southwest Airlines, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed and casual in-flight experience, with free snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on all flights.
Customer Satisfaction: Are Southwest or Continental Airlines More Highly Rated?
Both Southwest Airlines and Continental Airlines have received high ratings for customer satisfaction, with both airlines consistently ranking among the top airlines in customer satisfaction surveys. However, according to the 2020 J.D. Power North America Airline Satisfaction Study, Southwest Airlines ranks slightly higher than Continental Airlines in overall customer satisfaction. The study measures customer satisfaction in several areas, including cost and fees, in-flight services, and reservations.
Conclusion: Which Airline Is Superior: Southwest or Continental?
In conclusion, while both Southwest and Continental Airlines have their advantages and disadvantages, Southwest Airlines is generally considered to be the superior airline. Southwest Airlines offers a more affordable and user-friendly experience, with excellent customer service, a generous baggage policy, and a simple booking process. While Continental Airlines may offer more premium amenities, such as lie-flat seats and premium dining options, the airline is generally more expensive and offers fewer destinations compared to Southwest Airlines. Ultimately, the choice between Southwest and Continental Airlines depends on a passenger’s individual preferences and needs.