Before the industry and its aircrew can expect any form of respect, they will have to learn to respect the people that pay the bills.
I for one would sooner endure the heat here that tackle that journey home–with passengers being treated like cattle. Even AA's seat pitch is no longer...er, longer.
Connections that don't, and cabin crew that are aggressively rude. I'll give it a miss thanks.
Some time before 9/11, Bush senior was on British T/V promoting the US for holidays. Perhaps arrival in the US could be made less of a nightmare now that some experience has been gained with security. The immigration factor? Well, another issue, but if the US wants the income, it needs to provide a better welcome.
Almost all my traveling acquaintances all feel that it is more trouble than it is worth, and I have seen some old folk (of my age ) totally break down with frustration and fatigue. Most of the older travelers just want to see their kids...so Hobson's choice for them where they go.