My experiences with Delta is that it is a not unpleasant airline for a 16 hour flight except for the part where they have trouble getting the plane off the ground. I will pay 20-25% more for a Delta ticket to not have to fly on United. United in Economy class is truly “steerage” and the staff makes sure you know it. You can’t beat Asian airlines for long hauls. Or maybe it is that you can’t beat foreign airlines with any American airline.
Yup United is way worse than Delta (on balance). Once you get status, all the airlines get a lot better. IF I have a connecting flight, I prefer ATL. Easier to get around the terminals, lots of food selection (and inexpensive for airport food), and coming back in international there is a breeze. I try to fly direct, which is nearly always American for me out of Charlotte. Fortunately I have some status and am an Admirals Club member, so I wouldn’t say its an amazing experience, it’s significantly better than when I just had a coach seat and flew once per year.
Since ALL the countries of the world have GOVERNMENT sponsored airlines and WE are the ONLY nation on the planet with airlines-for profit MAYBE you can understand why things aren't always perfect.
Personally I enjoy the CHOICE of THIS country. But, then this is the U.S.A. where we DO have choices.
United and Delta are both horrid.