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Taken August 2002 from Seattle to San Jose

I have flown Alaska frequently for the past 17 years, and have never had a bad experience - not even so much as lost luggage. I find these tales of emergency landings rather suspicious, I have not had such an experience in more than 150 flights (1/3 of which have been in the past two years).

This airline treats its frequent flyers very well. Currently, MVP Golds have all service fees waived and also enjoy a dedicated call center, express check-in, express security, and are offered complimentary First Class upgrades at the time of booking. And, while Alaska's route network is limited, they have dozens of mileage-earning partners worldwide, including American, Continental and Northwest domestically.

If you fly Alaska, you will not regret purchasing an e-ticket. In addition to saving the $10 paper ticket surcharge, e-ticket passengers may use doezens of express check-in kiosks located at all domestic airports, as well as 24-hour web check-in (just print your boarding pass at home and go straight to the gate upon arriving at the airport).

Cabin service has been streamlined, but still exceeds the offerings of other carriers. Meals or snacks are served during traditional meal-hours, although seldom is anything offered on mid-afternoon or late evening flights. Complimentary Wall St. Journals are available to First Class and frequently coach on weekday morning flights.

The vast majority of Alaska flights depart and arrive on-time. Especially in recent months, a good number of flights have been arriving early. That said, they are extremely cautious about aircraft maintenance, and occasional delays and cancellations occur. If a delay can be forseen, they will automatically notify you by phone or e-mail and protect you on the next flight. They will generally re-accomidate you in the most expeditious fashion possible, even if on another carrier.