Southwest vs. ATA

[madge]

I'm convinced that we can do the flying out of Indianapolis airport...after all my research, it doesn't seem "too" hard

Are there any real differences or advantages to flying ATA over SOuthwest or vice versa? The prices are the same and ether set of flight times are do-able. At this point I am leaning towards SWA because their cancellation policy is pretty flexible--if the fares go down in Louisville or Nashville, I can cancel the Indy flight and rebook through a more convenient city. If we book with ATA, then we are committed to it because ATA only flies out of Lexington near us.

Any thoughts would be appreciated!

 

[Gary M]

Madge, the biggest advantage for DW and I to fly ATA is the pre- assigned seats. We also get a 10% discount on ATA because we belong to their travel club. If you have small children, then SWA will most likely let you pre-board, so the assigned seats aren't that important.

I believe ATA charges $50 to change your flight and as you said, SWA charges nothing. Looks like SWA is best for you, unless the seat assignment is a problem. Both have non-stop flights.

 

[madge]

If you have small children, then SWA will most likely let you pre-board, so the assigned seats isn't that important.

***oh yes, we have our little pre-board insurance Anna is only one.

I think we will probably stick with SWA, I can get a rapid rewards credit and the cancellation policy really does make a difference with 2 airports closer. thanks!

 

[CarolA]

I keep hearing about ATA letting you book your seats, but someone else said you can only book it 24 hours in advance. If that is true, I think SW is just as good. I mean 24 hours in advance of your departure you are in WDW. Who wants to go find an internet to book their seats?

 

[prncess674]

I would go SWA. You have more options if there is flight delay or cancellation once you are in MCO.

 

[inkkognito]

I can definitely vouch that it's NOT true that ATA only lets you pick the seats 24 hours in advance. We fly on ATA to Orlando almost every month, and I pick our seats as soon as I book the tickets. We have never, ever had a problem.
I like ATA due to the sea assignments and also their nice, new airplanes. They fly mostly 757-300s and also some 737-800s. They have nice leather seats with adjustable headrests. They also give you a free companion ticket after you fly with them three times. We've never run into any significant delays with them, other than two that were weather-related and out of their control.
Barb
Visit the Platinum Castaway Club at: www.castawayclub.com

 

[Gary M]

As just mentioned, you can get seat assignments with ATA months ahead of time. We are flying to Vegas on ATA, in both Nov. and Dec. and we have our seat assignments for both trips, now.