[Tricky]

Easyjet are fine - You get what you pay for... I've used them on a number of occasions - Even at their expense (long story!)

The TV programme is aimed at viewers, what you don't see is the 100's of people each day they do check in without a problem - The programme wants to see the people upset and arguing which is why we all watch it.

Most airlines will refuse to take passengers that turn up late, excuse or not you should not be getting on the plane - If the gate is closed it's closed for a reason, which is to allow the plane to leave on time (after the baggage is sorted, right amount of fuel ordered and everything else).

I travel frequently with BMI and really do push the limits of late check in with them (arriving at airport 20 mins before takeoff), but if they turn round and said "sorry, we're closed" then I'd eat my humble pie and catch the next one.

All airlines are about providing customer service - let's just say some airlines are better at it and this usually comes down to cost. If I've paid £800 for a upper class seat then I expect smiles etc. if I've paid £9.99 +tax then chuck me in with the chickens we're riding roughshot.

You choose your airline based on price (usually first) and then availability (2nd) and then probably convenience (how many airlines fly into Bristol - Not many!)

I can say I would travel easyjet, but given a choice I'd go with another airline but Easyjet everytime compared with the charter type holiday flights - They are the real bargin cattle carts.