NEW YORK — Midwest Airlines and Virgin America ranked highest in overall quality among U.S. airlines in a Zagat survey of frequent fliers released Tuesday — but the results also showed Americans are unhappy with the industry’s overall performance, especially on late and canceled flights. Midwest, known for its fresh chocolate-chip cookies and leather seats, took the top prize among economy-class fliers, with respondents praising its “extraordinarily helpful” staff.” It is the fifth time in a row the Oak Creek, Wis.-based carrier has come out on top of the survey. For passengers in pricier premium seats, Virgin America of Bur lingame, Calif., came in first, just over three months after starting service. The carrier, which touts seat-back entertainment systems and leather trim of its own, also tied for second place in the economy category. One reviewer suggested billionaire Richard Branson’s brainchild could set a “new benchmark” for domestic service.
