If you flew out of John Glenn Columbus International Airport recently, you might know how some airlines make your travel easier or, at times, make it more challenging. In 2024, the record of passenger complaints has a story you might find interesting if you’re selecting your airline for a trip to Ohio.
So here’s the scoop: American Airlines, one of the biggest carriers you’d expect to have tons of passenger issues, didn’t have the most complaints this year. And guess what? United Airlines, often criticized in the past, also wasn’t the airline with the fewest complaints. Instead, other airlines claimed those spots.
So what does this have to do with you in Columbus? John Glenn International is a busy hub for a lot of flights, but the airlines that were ranked the highest and lowest in passenger complaint rates throughout the country weren’t the expected suspects. That means your experience could be more dependent on the lesser-known airlines or regional carriers flying through Ohio rather than the behemoths you know.
Complaints from consumers were primarily against some of the low-cost airlines, which, while cheap, can sometimes be delayed, canceled, or have bad service. On the other hand, some of the mid-range or lesser airlines were praised for better problem resolution and more sophisticated customer service, which made a difference for those who traveled out of Columbus.
This is helpful if you’re planning on flying out of Ohio this year. You might want to know which airline gets more positive reviews and has fewer complaints before you reserve, especially for big trips. It’s all about making your flight experience as hassle-free as possible.
Now, switching gears but still in Columbus, you might have heard rumblings on the local retail front. Do you remember Big Lots? The discount store that’s been a staple for so many Ohio families?
Well, here’s some good news for you: Big Lots was actually on the brink of disappearing last year. In December 2024, they declared bankruptcy and planned to shut down all 800 locations in the nation, including some in Ohio. That would’ve been an enormous loss for individuals who rely on their cheap deals.
But hold on — there was an unexpected turn of events. Variety Wholesalers, the proprietor of other discount chains like Super Dollar, made an eleventh-hour bid. They bought 219 Big Lots stores, some of which are located right here in Ohio. And now, after a rapid closure for renovation and restocking, those stores are reopening in phases.
It’s the third week of Big Lots reopening scores of stores, recreating jobs, discount shopping, and familiar venues where Columbus families love to shop. It’s a bit of good news for the future of the company and for families who depend on them.
So whether you’re flying out of Columbus this year or stocking up your pantry and home goods at Big Lots, there’s plenty to watch. Airlines are shaking up the complaint rankings, and Big Lots is making a comeback from the brink of closure. Both show that things can change fast, and sometimes for the better.
Next time you fly or do some shopping, keep this in mind — your choices in Columbus and Ohio are evolving in some interesting ways!
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