This was the first time in 20+ years that I have flown another airline, and sadly I have to report that American Airlines is the better travel experience. This trip reminded me of how good United used to be. There was a class and professionalism at American that over the last three years has been going away at United.
When Smisek said he was going to take the "best" from each legacy, he meant he was going to take the "cheapest" from each legacy, especially IT systems.