I was an optimist when the America West / US Airways merger news hit the airwaves.  Unfortunately I was a bit too hopeful.  I've traveled a lot for work (and pleasure) so it made sense to stay loyal to one airline and become \"Gold Elite\" to take advantage of the benefits, namely lots of first-class upgrades, no lines, bonus miles, etc.  \r\n\r\nA string of events (I won't bore you with the unethical and deceitful details) that took place last week on what was to be an easy non-stop flight from SFO to PHX cemented my negative feelings.  Since the merger took place prices have risen dramatically,  customer service has dropped substantially, and the sunny Arizona airline has been infiltrated with dreary East Coast attitudes.  The stock has tumbled and the outlook is not good.  Everything seemed to be on the up and up before there was any talk of a merger.  \r\n\r\nStrangely, America West bought out US Airways.  How did they let this demise transpire?  From now on it looks like Kayak.com will decide my airline and flights.