Big Airlines Down, Cheap Airlines Up

Big airline carriers American and United tanked in customer satisfaction rankings in 2008. More bags were lost, more flights were delayed, and more pissed-off passengers bitched about the air giants, while low-cost carriers like Southwest and Jet Blue continue to earn high marks and happier passengers. For its part, Southwest airlines plans to offer connecting service to both Canada (2009) and Mexico (2010) and is hinting about possible Caribbean travel as well. And they're in talks to partner with Volaris for Mexico flights and WestJet for Canadian flights.

Speaking of expansions, economy airlines are making moves all over the country. Southwest is taking over Minneapolis, and Fare Compare is predicting a fierce fare war between Southwest, Delta, Northwest, United, and American come March. After recently digesting Northwest Airlines, Delta is launching a Pittsburgh to Paris route in June 2009. Lastly, Columbus welcomes AirTran service this week, with fares are as low as $54.