Respectfully, I disagree.

90% of (non-business) travelers consider one thing, and one thing only when purchasing a ticket: PRICE.

The internet has created enormous downward pressure on US airlines in domestic markets to provide cheap tickets for the masses. To try and make a profit, airlines have had to cut way back in other areas, and this includes staffing levels. Early retirements and buy-outs save the company money, but they also create the dual problem of eliminating your most experienced workforce while leaving the less-experienced personnel around to do even more work than before.

Frankly, I don't see this downward pressure ever going away, and pay at all levels in the airline industry are at best going to stabilize around current levels. There may be some room for premium ticket costs in the international market where flights are long and extra "goodies" (incl. premium customer service) might (!) cause some customers to pay more, but I doubt it.

This is EXACTLY the airline system the masses of Americans have been pushing for . . . cheap, no-frills, get-her-done travel. Be careful what you wish for, perhaps?

P.S. -- I think customer service overall is still pretty good at most US majors. Don't believe everything (or anything) you read in USA Today. It's called "Mic Paper" for a reason.