While I might have biased opinion regarding the AA of the past, I would say go with the sure bet…SWA. AA is an unknown at this point. All these estimates of movement/retirement/airplane orders/wage increases mean nothing right now. There is no guarantee that the merger will have a positive effect on the airline, and should the economy for whatever reason slow down, survival would be much better at Southwest IMO. I know little about SW besides the impact they have had on this industry for the last few decades. They seem much more efficient then anyone else. I'm sure I sound negative about AA…but if I were in your shoes and have a choice based on track record of the two,
I'd tell you what most AA guys would tell you, Southwest all the way.