Just beginning to nose around for flights from Portland, OR (PDX), to Jo'berg, and Qatar, while not the cheapest, is not far behind Delta in price. I know seat comfort depends in large measure on the aircraft you are flying in, but has anyone here had direct experience flying to Johannesburg on these two carriers?
I would be flying economy, as usual ...

Bill - I do the ATL to JNB on Delta 4 to 5 times a year. It is an relatively easy flight other than the 15.5 hours. Economy comfort isn't bad and the best seats in economy are bulkhead seat in the back - Row 44.

Delta is good with guns and so you don't have to change between airlines which can always be a little spotty. Other than that I cannot help you. I have not flown Qatar so...

I flew Qatar Air this spring Bangkok to Philly,then changed to a US carrier to finish in Columbus.
Even with booking 4 months ahead and calling customer service, they still messed up my food request every leg going and returning. I had an extra bag and was charged an extra time by the USA carrier too.
Needless to say, I can't understand how a carrier that is Muslim owned and has dietary restrictions can forget a Kosher client every step of the way. I asked the crew and customer service, the reasoning was the same... it was just overlooked.
I would not be happy if they did the same with say my $15000 Searcy!
I won't be flying them again.

Thanks fellas. Sounds like Delta is the way to go.

I like getting Skyteam miles, usable on several airlines I fly frequently.

I fly exclusively with Qatar airways from the ME to South Africa.

I actually arrived this afternoon in Jhb.

Qatar Airways is in my opinion the best in the ME.