Domestic carriers are rated by Zagat

Midwest Airlines and Virgin America ranked highest in overall quality among U.S. airlines in a Zagat survey of frequent fliers, but the results showed that U.S. travelers also were unhappy with the industry’s overall performance, especially on late and canceled flights.

Midwest, a carrier known for its fresh chocolate chip cookies and leather seats, took top prize among economy-class fliers, with respondents praising its “extraordinarily helpful” staff and “excellent value.” It is the fifth time in a row that the Oak Creek, Wis.-based carrier has come out on top of the survey.

For passengers in premium seats, Burlingame, Calif.-based Virgin America came in first, just over three months after the airline started service. The carrier, which touts seat-back entertainment systems and leather trim, also tied for second in the economy category. One reviewer suggested that billionaire Richard Branson’s brainchild could set a “new benchmark” for domestic service.

Topping the list of complaints were flight cancellations and delays.

In addition, 60% of respondents said they favored a passengers bill of rights to help protect them in the event of bad or delayed service.