[Butch Cassidy Slept Here]

With regard to operations NOT related to weather resulting in the shut-down of all flights for an extended period:

It's probably not reasonable, under these circumstances, to expect spare aircraft to be available at airports like Killeen, Tex., or even larger airports. My understanding is there are no actual penalties to the airline in the event of a delay or cancellation based on mechanical reasons. Even though Continental has "outsourced" the Killeen - Houston route Continental should be made to pay a CASH penalty (not travel vouchers) or a premium (similiar to what is paid in the event of an over-booking) to the customer. If Continental, or any airline involved in a code share arrangement, had to suffer monetary consequences for the shortcomings of its code share partners there might be more responsible behavior on the part of those airlines flying the code share routes.

With regard to operations RELATED to weather resulting in the shut-down of all flights for an extended period (major snow storms):

As I've indicated in previous posts, it IS reasonable to expect airlines to make additional aircraft available after the storm has passed, and the runways are clear. Allowing third-world conditions of people sleeping on the terminal floor--long after the storm has passed--is completely unacceptable. If an airline does not have enough aircraft of its own, it should be required to make arrangements with a larger airline--regardless of what type of ticket the customer is holding. In the alternative, an airline should be required to charter (hire) any additionally needed aircraft and crews. The reality of bad weather being a major expense must be recognized.