I am absolutely with DainB on this.
I recently flew Brissy to Melbourne with Virgin.
Checked in - was just like Tiger check in
Boarded - no diferrent to getting on a Tiger jet.
Sat in seat and was cramped as buggary. Yes, that has most definitely changed for the worse. Lady next to me looked at me and commented on the advantage of being a shorty. So how is that better than Tiger.
F/As walked down the aisle. With trolleys selling junk food at stupid prices. Guess what, exactly the same as Tiger.
I think you get my point. Basically the experience was EXACTLY IDENTICAL.
I think where I may see a difference would be if my bag was lost or my flight was cancelled, or anything deserving of complaint. I think that's where Tiger goes and hides in the bushes.
I think we need to face the reality of the here and now. Air travel 25 years ago was about good service, comfortable flights, no gouging with baggage costs, check in fees, no paying for a snack on board etc etc . NOT ANY MORE. it has all changed and we are stuck with the 21st century model.
Mind you 25 years ago a return flight across the country was more than double what it is today.