Sacramento to Washington, D.C.
 

I'm checking various options for flying from Sacramento, Ca to Washington, D.C. in first class (back and knee problems). So far the lowest price that comes up is for Air West--any advice pro or con? The United and AA fares are not much more, but the AA flights are all on M80's, which I loathe.

UA is the only airline that flies SMF-IAD non-stop with a 1st class cabin. [Jetblue is all coach.] A non-stop of course is much more desirable than a one-stop service on America West.

How about Northwest in and out of Baltimore?

Due to the limited number of flights our of SMF I would definitely just fly Jetblue. The cabin and amenities of Jetblue are unbeatable. If you choose to sit in the back section of the plane, they have more legroom for you. Also, the convenience of a non-stop flight is top priority for me. Also, first class service on national flights these days are not worth it specially on the M80's. Only wide doby jets offer good business and first class. Don't bother spending the extra money. Fly Jetblue.

Definitely United if you are flying first class and taking the nonstop flight. Having back problems myself, the less time I have to spend on airplanes or changing planes makes all the difference to me. The United direct flight leaves about 8:00 a.m. and gets into IAD at about 4:30 p.m. The first class service is very good. Jetblue's nonstop flight is a red eye.