North American airlines recently have been going bankrupt and/or merging with other carriers at a rate that makes a person wonder if there will soon be only one or two airlines in North America to choose from. While our free-market society will probably not let this happen, it’s still a good idea for you to choose a North American airline carrier for your business travel needs. North American airlines can typically offer special services and rewards to frequent travelers, so it would be shame not to take advantage of these perks.

As you determine which of the airlines in North America to select as your primary carrier, consider the following:

1. Which of the airline carriers in North America has the most flights each day to the destinations you most frequent for business?

2. Which of the airline carriers in North America has the best frequent-flier programs, and what exactly do you earn with miles?

3. Which of the North American airline carriers has the best customer service reputation for those inevitable travel hiccups?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose one of the North American airlines that flies to your key destinations

If your business travel is mostly regional, consider a smaller US airline carrier. For business trips across the country and up and down the continent, opt for a larger airline carrier in North America.

I recommend: Southwest Airlines started, well, in the Southwest, but the US airline carrier has expanded its service across the country. The airline doesn’t fly to every state (the northern Midwest is especially absent from Southwest routes) and the rest of North America is not accessible with this airline. Delta Airlines recently merged with Northwest Airlines and now provides access to nearly 400 destinations in more than 65 countries.

Select North American airlines based on their rewards programs

Rewards programs from North American air carriers can save your business money thanks to free flights and complimentary in-flight services that might otherwise show up on an expense report.

I recommend: American Airlines’ AAdvantage and United Airlines’ Mileage Plus are programs from two top airline carriers based in North America that offer such rewards as free travel, upgrades and travel partner rewards from hotels, car rental companies and the like.

Ensure the North American airline carriers you consider offer stellar customer service

Airline travel isn't what it used to be. While there have always been weather delays and overbooked flights, the number of disgruntled passengers - or wannabe passengers in many cases - in an airport on any given day is staggering. Don't be one of them: Choose wisely.

I recommend: In spite of some notable lapses, a 2007 customer satisfaction study by J.D. Power and Associates ranked JetBlue Airways as the highest among low-cost carriers, and Continental Airlines was at the top of the list for traditional airlines.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Even if you are loyal to one of the airline carriers based in North America, occasionally compare fares between various carriers using online booking websites. There are deals to be had that you shouldn't miss out on.