Hi ER82, 18 months ago, I flew BA to SFO, nitestopped, then UA to Kona. The UA aircraft was tired and scruffy, and the breakfast service mediocre. Coming back at lunchtime, again to SFO, a good meal was served. The UA crew operating these sectors back then were predominantly very senior, and a joy to watch - on the return sector, one of them looked like Helen Hayes! I think the best value fares were the way-in-advance bookings with Hawaiian Air. The best reviews for service seem to be for Aloha. If you get a chance, see the Big Island - it was amazing. Good luck!