By: jackie.sauter

I’ve heard nothing but complaints about airlines recently, mostly about the extra charges for checked luggage, pillows, blankets and a seat. But supposedly a new study shows that airlines are doing a better job with customer service.

University of Michigan found that passenger satisfaction rose over 3% in the first part of 2009. Doesn’t sound like a lot, but it’s the first time in six years that customer satisfaction has risen.

(Regardless of their “satisfaction,” the number of passengers has dropped and airlines are cutting back their routes.)

Southwest Airlines, a favorite of local business travelers (based on my cursory poll), had the highest score. Continental and US Airways both improved by more than 9%; United Airlines bucked the trend, remaining unchanged at dead last.

So far this year I’ve flown on AirTran (one aisle behind Michael Phelps!) and US Airways, with pretty typical experiences. Have you had better ones?