MCO to LAX, or the longest flight I've ever taken...

[MAH4546]

Keep in mind, if you fly...

American Airlines - connections in Chicago or Dallas-Ft. Worth

Continental - you will most likely connect in Houston (also, Continental will begin the merger process with United in a few weeks).

Delta - Connections in Atlanta and/or Minneapolis St-Paul, Detroit, or Salt Lake City.

United - connections in Chicago O'Hare or Denver (Again, they will soon start merging with Continental)

Southwest - some flights are non-stop, others have stops and/or connections in the usual SWA cities (Phoenix, Las Vegas)

I saw some references to the "cramped 737" - before you use that as your reasoning to choose, keep in mind other airlines are no different (plus, you will most likely have to navigate a "superhub", somewhere).

My .02

Huh?

Southwest does not fly LAX-MCO non-stop. American, Delta and United, however, do.

 

[DebbieB]

From personal experience, I would definitely take a non-stop if offered. If you have to connect, try NOT to use DFW. It is the one place you might be "running" to make your connection. Houston and Chicago are both better (even Atlanta is a bit better) than DFW.

Me too. From PIT, there is a non-stop to LAX but not to SNA. Depending on the prices and times, I prefer the non-stop. If I have to connect anyway, I will go to SNA.

 

[ironz]

I connect through DFW quite often, and using the Skylink trams, making connections there really isn't that difficult.

That said, I think time of year should also influence choices for non stop or where a connection might be made. I would rather connect in more southern city in winter, as opposed to Chicago, for instance, because of snow, winter storms, etc. (though weather can affect any airport, I know).

A nonstop really is the way to go, if possible. No connection for you or luggage, a delay in takeoff won't affect a connection, and if you get up and walk around in flight a couple of times, it helps with the cramped feeling.

 

[jeff968]

My family and I flew from JFK to LAX on Virgin American. It was a very impressive flight (and a great price too!!), When we got on the plane all the windows were shut, the pink and purple lights were on, and the new age music was playing. i thought i was walking into a spa. The seats were very comfortible, the touch screen system on the back of the seat was amazing and offered everything you could think of including music, movies, games, TV, seat to seat chat, and you could order all kinds of food. the staff was great. It was a fantastic experience and made our trip go by very quickly.

 

[Dax]

Another vote for Virgin America...I believe non-stop from MCO-LAX begins in Oct...

 

[evaready51]

SNA - Orange Co is much more $$$ than LAX

 

[evaready51]

According to Seaat Guru SWA has the roomiest 737's and the seat are leather...very comfortable

 

[evaready51]

$40.00 extra per leg....very pricey for US Economy Plus

 

[OrangeCountyCommuter]

SNA - Orange Co is much more $$$ than LAX

I priced it on Delta for an upcoming trip.. price was actually cheaper going out of SNA.... YMMV but check every time and don't assume one is cheaper.

 

[uva185]

Another vote for Virgin America. You can even do a day of departure upgrade to First Class for only $270 for 1500+ mile flights. Totally worth it!

 

[wonderbear2]

I fly SW from PHL to SAN (phila to san diego) frequently, as well as US Airways. I don't find the space any smaller on SW planes. I agree about the LAX being a nightmare airport.....and that nightmare reaches out to the surrounding traffic near the airport. Avoid LAX if you can.