Complaints about airlines to the Department of Transportation went up 28 percent in 2010, according to a new study released Monday. Purdue and Wichita State Universities reviewed the statistics reported to the FAA. Why consumers are dissatisfied is unclear, but those familiar with the numbers said air travelers are increasing, but there a fewer flights and fewer seats.
Which airlines kept their passengers happiest? Low-cost carrier AirTran has the best overall performance of the 16 largest U.S. carriers. Hawaiian Airlines came in second. Regional carrier American Eagle ranked last in the study.
Though consumer complaints were up, so was performance in several categories. Overall, airlines lost fewer bags, bumpings due to overbooking were down, and on-time arrivals were up.
To read more of the Airline Quality report, click here.
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