SBS 0 #1 August 19, 2004 Looks like their employees aren't going to be getting any friendlier anytime soon... UA News -S_____________ I'm not conceited...I'm just realistic about my awesomeness... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Katzeye 0 #2 August 19, 2004 I hate UA - they should just sell off their crappy planes to good airlines, pay their people their retirement and go die quietly. They're just another Enron waiting to happen. Along those lines Hawaiian air sucks too - lousy mean service. Aloha? MY ASS! Is a chicken omelette redundant? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Zeemax 0 #3 August 19, 2004 I've flown with United a lot and have nothing but good things to say about them. When i flew back to the UK on tuesday after being all broken up at the WFFC they were excellent in offering me help, and then even upgraded me to buisness. UA rock Phoenix Fly - High performance wingsuits for skydiving and BASE Performance Designs - Simply brilliant canopies Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
jose 0 #4 August 19, 2004 They sucked ass anyways.....Maybe Hooters will buy em up. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites SBS 0 #5 August 19, 2004 Oh, good, so all I have to do is break myself to get treated well??? Sweet. -S_____________ I'm not conceited...I'm just realistic about my awesomeness... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites diverdriver 7 #6 August 20, 2004 QuoteI hate UA - they should just sell off their crappy planes to good airlines, pay their people their retirement and go die quietly. They're just another Enron waiting to happen. Along those lines Hawaiian air sucks too - lousy mean service. Aloha? MY ASS! That's the point. UAL hasn't paid into their pension obligations LIKE THEY SAID THEY WOULD. Now you and I tax payers will be paying for the old pensions through the government backing of the pension plan. You know, there are hard working people at that airline (I fly for a United Express carrier) and maybe you just wish they would go away but we don't want to lose our livelyhood and have to start over. The managers have run it into the ground with STUPID business decisions like trying to buy USAir ($250 million loss on the deal), starting a corporate fractional carrier (multi-million dollars), failed plans at a commuter terminal for O'Hare (it's one of the first buildings to be demolished when the runway realignment comes), etc.... You wouldn't like if I posted that I wished you'd lose your job. Would you? I thought not.Chris Schindler www.diverdriver.com ATP/D-19012 FB #4125 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Jimbo 0 #7 August 20, 2004 Ugh. The last time I flew United I remember thinking "Damn, I've jumped out of planes in better shape than this." Well, two hours later, and still at the gate, we changed to a different plane. UA scares me. - Jim"Like" - The modern day comma Good bye, my friends. You are missed. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Shotgun 1 #8 August 20, 2004 I recently flew from CA to NC and back on United and was impressed with how friendly they were (and no, I wasn't drunk )... But I seem to have "hit or miss" service with all the airlines. I was very anti-Delta for a while because they pissed me off SO bad, but then after having problems with other airlines too I realized they all seem to have their good and bad moments... So... now I'm curious to know what United did to upset you? Is it a good story? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites freeflir29 0 #9 August 20, 2004 QuoteUAL hasn't paid into their pension obligations LIKE THEY SAID THEY WOULD. Now you and I tax payers will be paying for the old pensions through the government backing of the pension plan. No doubt.........my parents have been a BEAR to deal with lately. Seems if Delta files bankruptcy my Dad's pension could be cut in half. It's a shame that a guy in his early 70's who spent 42 years of his life working for ONE company now has to worry about his pension. SAD! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites airtwardo 7 #10 August 20, 2004 paying for the old pensions through the government backing of the pension plan. Quote *** IS the government actually going through with that plan? The last I heard it was still being discussed.. Being somewhat close to the industry myself, I understand your concerns. None of the airlines are profitable at this point, some are just bleeding less than others. But United has always been the industry leader, and all the other airlines are worried as well because it's often been said~ So goes United..so goes the industry... I know United Pilots that are close to retirement, and were planning on a 7 figure retirement package. How would any of us deal with news like that?! Diverdriver and those like him, (Express pilots) are going to work every day with the lives of countless people in their hands... And for no where near the money a position of responsibility like that deserves. If a Doctor screws up, that's only one lost... there is a whole crowd depending on the pilot to be 'on his game' every day! I hope that United gets healthy again... This country depends on the airlines for more than most of us realize... I hope someday to be able to see D.D. left seat in a UAL heavy... ~ If you choke a Smurf, what color does it turn? ~ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Frenchy68 0 #11 August 20, 2004 As much as I feel they are not among the good major airlines, it is THE US airline that will cover Asia AND Europe from the US. 200k + miles in the bank. I can't afford to see them go... "For once you have tasted Absinthe you will walk the earth with your eyes turned towards the gutter, for there you have been and there you will long to return." Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites SBS 0 #12 August 20, 2004 I used to fly United all the time. They just seem to be more and more bitter as the years go on. I was in Chicago a couple of weeks ago, flying to New Orleans. I showed up late for the plane, cause I thought it was scheduled for a half an hour later than it was. I went to their kiosk to check in, and it malfunctioned. It continued to malfunction a couple more times, then I asked for help. The lady finally came to help me, and then informed me that I missed the 45 minute cutoff for checking a bag. By the time she had taken the time to finish with the other customers and get to me, look up my reservation, etc. I had missed the cutoff by a couple of minutes. Anyway, she was a bitch. She called her supervisor, and he was a dick. They kept saying things like, "if you hadn't have shown up late, we wouldn't have this problem." Not to mention that by the time the supervisor showed up, it was too late to check me in for the flight even if I hadn't had bags. Anyway, shit happens...it was partly my fault...it's how people respond that makes good or bad customer service, and they responded poorly. That was one situation, and I saw people in San Francisco treat customers poorly, and again in Chicago. I had a problem with American giving me the wrong information, and again, the supervisor wasn't the friendliest. They turned around and gave me 8000 frequent flier miles for the trouble. The ackowledged the problem, appologized for their part of the issue, and made good. Anyway, as DiverDriver pointed out, United has made some poor decisions, and they expect the government to bail them out. I don't think that's right. I agree, we don't want to see them go, but at the same time, why is it our responsibility to keep them in business? How many companies have the ability to operate poorly and expect to be bailed out? I don't have all the answers to this issue, but they are just not my favorite airline. -S_____________ I'm not conceited...I'm just realistic about my awesomeness... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites SBS 0 #13 August 20, 2004 I'm sorry...you wanted a good story... Ok, so me and this stewartess are in the bathroom on the plane, right...her skirt is hiked up, and I'm about to renew my membership in the mile high club... Is that more what you had in mind? -S_____________ I'm not conceited...I'm just realistic about my awesomeness... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites Shotgun 1 #14 August 20, 2004 QuoteI'm sorry...you wanted a good story... Ok, so me and this stewartess are in the bathroom on the plane, right...her skirt is hiked up, and I'm about to renew my membership in the mile high club... Is that more what you had in mind? Well, that's not what I had in mind (because if this was the story, then you would be a big fan of United!), but it does make a better story than the other one. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites diverdriver 7 #15 August 21, 2004 Quote I hope someday to be able to see D.D. left seat in a UAL heavy... Dude! That's the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me. Thanks man.Chris Schindler www.diverdriver.com ATP/D-19012 FB #4125 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SBS 0 #5 August 19, 2004 Oh, good, so all I have to do is break myself to get treated well??? Sweet. -S_____________ I'm not conceited...I'm just realistic about my awesomeness... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
diverdriver 7 #6 August 20, 2004 QuoteI hate UA - they should just sell off their crappy planes to good airlines, pay their people their retirement and go die quietly. They're just another Enron waiting to happen. Along those lines Hawaiian air sucks too - lousy mean service. Aloha? MY ASS! That's the point. UAL hasn't paid into their pension obligations LIKE THEY SAID THEY WOULD. Now you and I tax payers will be paying for the old pensions through the government backing of the pension plan. You know, there are hard working people at that airline (I fly for a United Express carrier) and maybe you just wish they would go away but we don't want to lose our livelyhood and have to start over. The managers have run it into the ground with STUPID business decisions like trying to buy USAir ($250 million loss on the deal), starting a corporate fractional carrier (multi-million dollars), failed plans at a commuter terminal for O'Hare (it's one of the first buildings to be demolished when the runway realignment comes), etc.... You wouldn't like if I posted that I wished you'd lose your job. Would you? I thought not.Chris Schindler www.diverdriver.com ATP/D-19012 FB #4125 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Jimbo 0 #7 August 20, 2004 Ugh. The last time I flew United I remember thinking "Damn, I've jumped out of planes in better shape than this." Well, two hours later, and still at the gate, we changed to a different plane. UA scares me. - Jim"Like" - The modern day comma Good bye, my friends. You are missed. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Shotgun 1 #8 August 20, 2004 I recently flew from CA to NC and back on United and was impressed with how friendly they were (and no, I wasn't drunk )... But I seem to have "hit or miss" service with all the airlines. I was very anti-Delta for a while because they pissed me off SO bad, but then after having problems with other airlines too I realized they all seem to have their good and bad moments... So... now I'm curious to know what United did to upset you? Is it a good story? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
freeflir29 0 #9 August 20, 2004 QuoteUAL hasn't paid into their pension obligations LIKE THEY SAID THEY WOULD. Now you and I tax payers will be paying for the old pensions through the government backing of the pension plan. No doubt.........my parents have been a BEAR to deal with lately. Seems if Delta files bankruptcy my Dad's pension could be cut in half. It's a shame that a guy in his early 70's who spent 42 years of his life working for ONE company now has to worry about his pension. SAD! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
airtwardo 7 #10 August 20, 2004 paying for the old pensions through the government backing of the pension plan. Quote *** IS the government actually going through with that plan? The last I heard it was still being discussed.. Being somewhat close to the industry myself, I understand your concerns. None of the airlines are profitable at this point, some are just bleeding less than others. But United has always been the industry leader, and all the other airlines are worried as well because it's often been said~ So goes United..so goes the industry... I know United Pilots that are close to retirement, and were planning on a 7 figure retirement package. How would any of us deal with news like that?! Diverdriver and those like him, (Express pilots) are going to work every day with the lives of countless people in their hands... And for no where near the money a position of responsibility like that deserves. If a Doctor screws up, that's only one lost... there is a whole crowd depending on the pilot to be 'on his game' every day! I hope that United gets healthy again... This country depends on the airlines for more than most of us realize... I hope someday to be able to see D.D. left seat in a UAL heavy... ~ If you choke a Smurf, what color does it turn? ~ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Frenchy68 0 #11 August 20, 2004 As much as I feel they are not among the good major airlines, it is THE US airline that will cover Asia AND Europe from the US. 200k + miles in the bank. I can't afford to see them go... "For once you have tasted Absinthe you will walk the earth with your eyes turned towards the gutter, for there you have been and there you will long to return." Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SBS 0 #12 August 20, 2004 I used to fly United all the time. They just seem to be more and more bitter as the years go on. I was in Chicago a couple of weeks ago, flying to New Orleans. I showed up late for the plane, cause I thought it was scheduled for a half an hour later than it was. I went to their kiosk to check in, and it malfunctioned. It continued to malfunction a couple more times, then I asked for help. The lady finally came to help me, and then informed me that I missed the 45 minute cutoff for checking a bag. By the time she had taken the time to finish with the other customers and get to me, look up my reservation, etc. I had missed the cutoff by a couple of minutes. Anyway, she was a bitch. She called her supervisor, and he was a dick. They kept saying things like, "if you hadn't have shown up late, we wouldn't have this problem." Not to mention that by the time the supervisor showed up, it was too late to check me in for the flight even if I hadn't had bags. Anyway, shit happens...it was partly my fault...it's how people respond that makes good or bad customer service, and they responded poorly. That was one situation, and I saw people in San Francisco treat customers poorly, and again in Chicago. I had a problem with American giving me the wrong information, and again, the supervisor wasn't the friendliest. They turned around and gave me 8000 frequent flier miles for the trouble. The ackowledged the problem, appologized for their part of the issue, and made good. Anyway, as DiverDriver pointed out, United has made some poor decisions, and they expect the government to bail them out. I don't think that's right. I agree, we don't want to see them go, but at the same time, why is it our responsibility to keep them in business? How many companies have the ability to operate poorly and expect to be bailed out? I don't have all the answers to this issue, but they are just not my favorite airline. -S_____________ I'm not conceited...I'm just realistic about my awesomeness... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SBS 0 #13 August 20, 2004 I'm sorry...you wanted a good story... Ok, so me and this stewartess are in the bathroom on the plane, right...her skirt is hiked up, and I'm about to renew my membership in the mile high club... Is that more what you had in mind? -S_____________ I'm not conceited...I'm just realistic about my awesomeness... Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Shotgun 1 #14 August 20, 2004 QuoteI'm sorry...you wanted a good story... Ok, so me and this stewartess are in the bathroom on the plane, right...her skirt is hiked up, and I'm about to renew my membership in the mile high club... Is that more what you had in mind? Well, that's not what I had in mind (because if this was the story, then you would be a big fan of United!), but it does make a better story than the other one. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
diverdriver 7 #15 August 21, 2004 Quote I hope someday to be able to see D.D. left seat in a UAL heavy... Dude! That's the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me. Thanks man.Chris Schindler www.diverdriver.com ATP/D-19012 FB #4125 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
diverdriver 7 #16 August 21, 2004 QuoteAnyway, as DiverDriver pointed out, United has made some poor decisions, and they expect the government to bail them out. -S Well, recently they were turned down for a guaranteed loan from the ATSB. It's not a handout from the government. It's a loan backing for other people to loan United the money. Now, the government backed pension program (signed up for years ago) will have to take the burden of the pension if United dumps them because the bankruptcy laws allow them to ask the court to do so. This agency is fighting hard along with the union groups (one of which is actually suing the top 3 execs at United because of this) to prevent this. So, we will stay tuned to this debocle.Chris Schindler www.diverdriver.com ATP/D-19012 FB #4125 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
LuvToFly 0 #17 August 21, 2004 Quote(one of which is actually suing the top 3 execs at United because of this) to prevent this... Chris, What SPECIFICALLY are the three top execs being sued for? And more importantly, do we know how much salary and bonuses they took while the company was spiraling down? I have not followed this specific situation, but I bet ya' it was a lot - "The helicopter approaches closer than any other to fulfillment of mankind's ancient dreams of a magic carpet" - Igor Sikorsky Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Keith 0 #18 August 21, 2004 WoW Leslie, I've never known you to use such restraint. Tell us what you really think. (for those that don't know Leslie, I'm not kidding) Give Boo a BIG kiss for me will ya Do you still have those pics?Keith Don't Fuck with me Keith - J. Mandeville Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sunshine 2 #19 August 21, 2004 QuoteI've flown with United a lot and have nothing but good things to say about them. When i flew back to the UK on tuesday after being all broken up at the WFFC they were excellent in offering me help, and then even upgraded me to buisness. UA rock After i broke my ankle in CA i flew back to IL on United. They were wonderful about helping me. I got to board first since i was in a wheelchair and the put me in the first row right behind First Class. The flight attendant gave me everything the First Class passengers got. ___________________________________________ meow I get a Mike hug! I get a Mike hug! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Keith 0 #20 August 21, 2004 QuoteI recently flew from CA to NC and back on United and was impressed with how friendly they were (and no, I wasn't drunk )... I was very anti-Delta for a while because they pissed me off SO bad, . . . So, you were drunk when you flew Delta? Just kiddin', only a skydiver would preface a statement with "and no, I wasn't drunk." Keith Don't Fuck with me Keith - J. Mandeville Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
skyyhi 0 #21 August 21, 2004 Okay, I really like United. . .I have always had great service with them. HOWEVER, I have not flown with any airline except Southwest (cheap commuter flight) since 9/11 so I don't know what has transpired since then. But, for many years I have worked with commercial real estate brokers who are VERY PICKY about how they fly. I would say that better than 75% of these brokers choose UA over any other airline. . .even now. . .________________________________________ Take risks not to escape life… but to prevent life from escaping. ~ A bumper sticker at the DZ FGF #6 Darcy Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
flyangel2 2 #22 August 21, 2004 I have friends that work for United, so I travle with them all the time. Sometimes I fly on buddie passes, other times I have a paid airline ticket. I have never had a problem. Leaving Cross Keys a few months back, I wanted to get out early. I had a paid airline ticket, and just arrived to the ticket counter and asked if I could get out on a earlier flight. There wasn't a problem moving me to that flight, and it didn't cost me anything extra. I will continue to support United. I would hate to see my friends having to look for another job.May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view. May your mountains rise into and above the clouds. - Edward Abbey Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Shotgun 1 #23 August 21, 2004 QuoteQuoteI recently flew from CA to NC and back on United and was impressed with how friendly they were (and no, I wasn't drunk )... I was very anti-Delta for a while because they pissed me off SO bad, . . . So, you were drunk when you flew Delta? No, but I probably should have been. In fact, they should have been giving me FREE drinks on that particular trip! QuoteJust kiddin', only a skydiver would preface a statement with "and no, I wasn't drunk." True... In this case, I knew if I didn't add that disclaimer that Steve would have accused me of being drunk when I said they were friendly. (He knows me too well. ) Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
diverdriver 7 #24 August 21, 2004 QuoteWhat SPECIFICALLY are the three top execs being sued for? And more importantly, do we know how much salary and bonuses they took while the company was spiraling down? I have not followed this specific situation, but I bet ya' it was a lot - Eh, it was in the papers. Seems they are being sued for failing to give "due care" to taking care of the employees. It's a long shot but thses guys are not going down without a fight. They want was promised to them when the contract was signed. And this isn't just daily/hourly wages. This is their retirement when they CAN'T work anymore. That's a scary thing in my mind. You were promised to be taken care of in retirement and then when you are unable to help yourself it's ripped away from you. I can't think of anything more scary than that. What do you do? When American bought TWA and then effectively furloughed EVERYONE that had worked at TWA there were actually 2 pilot suicides. Man, these execs have to realize these are humans and not robots. I know it was reported that Tilton took a $27,000 pay RAISE over three months at the beginning of the year when supposedly he had taken a pay cut along with everyone else. F'n sheisters.Chris Schindler www.diverdriver.com ATP/D-19012 FB #4125 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
