I am starting to think that you get what you pay for...

For the $180 or so that I paid, I certainly got well more than I paid for with my two trips :D . Fortunately I had no problems with IDB and such, flights were generally on time, met FT'ers on all the flights to/from LCA. Overall not a bad experience, but I was fortunate.

For the $180 or so that I paid, I certainly got well more than I paid for with my two trips :D . Fortunately I had no problems with IDB and such, flights were generally on time, met FT'ers on all the flights to/from LCA. Overall not a bad experience, but I was fortunate.

I agree.

I purchased 5 tickets and my family enjoyed their week in Cyprus. AZ inflight service was fine and the crews spoiled my 7 year old on both flights. I wished I had bought more tickets.

The unvarished truth is that this is one of the most dysfunctional and uncaring airlines in Europe/North America. I got caught in the last strike and it was not fun; who knows if another is around the corner. And, if one is re-routed to another airline, one does not get the Alitalia miles anyway. I am starting to think that you get what you pay for...

If you are re-routed you do get AZ miles and miles on whatever carrier they put you on.At least that's what happened to a friend of mine recently when an AZ flight ex FRA got cxd. AZ over the pond is better than others, at least in Y you get a decent meal both for quality and quantity! I agree that C/J service is subpar respect to others, but not as many as you think!

I purchased 5 tickets and my family enjoyed their week in Cyprus. AZ inflight service was fine and the crews spoiled my 7 year old on both flights. I wished I had bought more tickets.

I assisted with the purchase of (and changes to) 28 tickets. For many in my office, it was their first time in international business class. A fabulous time was had by all. The only glitch so far was a lost -- and never recovered -- bag. But even that yielded $500 cash finally from AZ. This really was one of the very best deals ever on FT -- because it's business class and because it was changable.

I assisted with the purchase of (and changes to) 28 tickets. For many in my office, it was their first time in international business class. A fabulous time was had by all. The only glitch so far was a lost -- and never recovered -- bag. But even that yielded $500 cash finally from AZ. This really was one of the very best deals ever on FT -- because it's business class and because it was changable.

Yes, quite a deal. It will be sad to see this thread dead in a month.

Yes, quite a deal. It will be sad to see this thread dead in a month.

Indeed, and it doesn't look like we'll hit 10,000 posts. :( But we're at well over half a million views. It's been quite a run. Truly one of the all-time greats. :)

I still have tickets departing 3/22, so I'm not done yet! (And it's J0 D0 I0 on the outbound ... and J0 D0 I0 Y0 B0 M0 H0 K0 V0 T0 N0 L0 O0 W0 on the return...! And I do not want to be bumped or ride in coach!)

For the $180 or so that I paid, I certainly got well more than I paid for with my two trips :D . Fortunately I had no problems with IDB and such, flights were generally on time, met FT'ers on all the flights to/from LCA. Overall not a bad experience, but I was fortunate.

No problem with IDBs? Some may even have wanted those IDBs, €X00 cash in hand -- greater than the cost of the tickets and certainly mega-value factoring in the miles. :D

And I do not want to be bumped or ride in coach!Are you sure? EC downgrade compensation for long-haul flights is 75% of the fare for the dowgraded sector (e.g. for YYZ-MIL, that would be almost $2000 CAD) :D ...

EC downgrade compensation for long-haul flights is 75% of the fare for the dowgraded sector (e.g. for YYZ-MIL, that would be almost $2000 CAD) :D ...
Fare paid or fare at the time of downgrade? Very important distinction. ;)

Fare paid or fare at the time of downgrade? Very important distinction. ;)Having just finished a 6-month long 'dialogue' with CY's lawyers, I can tell you, with confidence, that that depends on your negotiation skills :D :p ;)

Having just finished a 6-month long 'dialogue' with CY's lawyers, I can tell you, with confidence, that that depends on your negotiation skills :D :p ;)

Are you telling us that you were IDB'd and got this compensation?

Are you telling us that you were IDB'd and got this compensation?Actually, the flight just operated in an all-Y config :) ...

Are you sure? EC downgrade compensation for long-haul flights is 75% of the fare for the dowgraded sector (e.g. for YYZ-MIL, that would be almost $2000 CAD) :D ...
Can you please give us more details?

I have twice sent in a request for mileage on rerouted flights on other airlines after the Ailitalia flight had cancelled - both supported by boarding passes and receipts. So far, nothing but silence from AZ.

I emailed back and forth with Nicolo more than 90 days ago to request a refund and it still hasn't arrived. Has anyone else had trouble with this? I seem to remember reading a post about it somewhere back like 1,000 pages ago...

Thanks for any advice...

Am now in Rome finishing 2nd run this weekend. I learned something in LCA that may be useful to others, although rather late in the game.....

If you want to credit DL for the LCA-MXP or LCA-FCO leg, tell the GA to enter it as AZDLxxxxxxxxxx. It wont take as just DLxxxxxxxxxx.

The first time I passed that way, I didn't get any DL credit, as the GA in LCA didn't know, or offer to know, this trick. This time it is already credited even before NW finished processing the credit for YYZ-MXP !!

I emailed back and forth with Nicolo more than 90 days ago to request a refund and it still hasn't arrived. Has anyone else had trouble with this? I seem to remember reading a post about it somewhere back like 1,000 pages ago...

Thanks for any advice...

I sent my ticket back more than a month ago and I got a letter back within days confirming that the flight had been cancelled and a refund was in the works. However I still don't have any money back on my CC.

Wirelessly posted (probably driving while typing: BlackBerry8703e/4.1.0 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 VendorID/105)

According to cbc news radio:
Looks like the wall between greek+turkish cyprus is begining to come down. This should make for some interesting situations in nicosia. Apparently, some greek cypriots took bulldozers to a wall in the old part of the city. Make sure to be safe as the turkish in the north are suspicious of these actions by the greek in the south.

Just arrived in Cyprus for the 4th time yesterday. This time I decided to actually see some of Cyprus. Staying at the Hilton Park. If any other FT'ers are here, I'd be happy to buy a drink or two.

Just got back from my one and only run to LCA.

Despite my delta FF# appearing on the Cyprus boarding passes, the credit didn't post. Has anyone had luck getting delta to post by sending in boarding stubs?

Also, a heads up to anyone wanting to watch DVDs or listen to their Ipod -- Alitalia does not allow laptops to be used with CD/DVD-rom drives attached and does not allow the use of "non-analog audio devices." A FA stopped me from watching a DVD on my laptop. A quick check of the in-flight mag verified this strange policy.

Despite my delta FF# appearing on the Cyprus boarding passes, the credit didn't post. Has anyone had luck getting delta to post by sending in boarding stubs?
Yes

Just got back from my one and only run to LCA.

Despite my delta FF# appearing on the Cyprus boarding passes, the credit didn't post. Has anyone had luck getting delta to post by sending in boarding stubs?

Also, a heads up to anyone wanting to watch DVDs or listen to their Ipod -- Alitalia does not allow laptops to be used with CD/DVD-rom drives attached and does not allow the use of "non-analog audio devices." A FA stopped me from watching a DVD on my laptop. A quick check of the in-flight mag verified this strange policy.

the fa's are sporadic on enforcing.

best bet, stick your head under the blanket with the dvd player on your lap, facing away from the aisle!!

It took seven months, a letter, a bunch of calls, and a couple of faxes, but today we finally received the balance of our EU mandated compensation of $750 each for our IDB fiasco in Rome in July (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showpost.php?p=6116069&postcount=7615).

The original claim was inordinately delayed because the first agent handling the case quit AZ without completing the paperwork. Only after reviving the case and getting one check in the mail in February did the new agent realize that my son's check was not processed.

We probably "deserved" more considering the whole our experience, but are quite happy anyway since we never really thought we'd see a dime.

I received a call from the Alitalia offices in NYC today (missed the call, went to voicemail, no message left). I'm guessing it's about my request for compensation for incidentals during the 10 days I was without my bags after completing my trip....

Not sure which side of the ledger we're on, but:

The European Commission (EC) on Wednesday authorized the restructuring plan proposed by the Cypriot government to restore the viability of its ailing flag- carrier, Cyprus Airways.

"The Commission has today found compatible with the common market the restructuring plan proposed by the Republic of Cyprus in order to restore the viability of Cyprus Airways," said a press release issued by the EC.

"Following an in-depth investigation, the Commission has decided that the plan is in line with the Community rules regarding the rescue and restructuring of firms in difficulty," it added.

Cyprus News Agency reported that the restructuring plan, submitted to the EC in November 2005, includes a long-term loan of 55 million Cyprus pounds (125 million U.S. dollars), 45 million of which is government-guaranteed, the sale of Cyprus Airway's charter arm Eurocypria to the government for 13.4 million.

The plan also provided for ongoing cost cutting necessary to restore the airline's viability and a capital increase of 14 million Cyprus pounds involving public and private shareholders.

On March 22, 2006, the Commission decided to open the investigation procedure as it has doubts as to whether certain elements of the plan complied with Community rules for the authorization of restructuring aid. It asked the Cypriot authorities a number of questions and invited comments from interested third parties.

In late 2006, Cyprus Airways, with a small fleet of 11 airbus aircraft, sold Eurocypria to the government in a move to ensure that Cyprus would have an airline even if Cyprus Airways is forced to terminate its operations. The EC said it would look into whether the sale of Eurocypria amounted to an indirect subsidy. State subsidies are forbidden under EU law.

If anyone's still headed out to LCA and staying at the Hilton Cyprus, could you please PM me.

YYCC2, it was nice to meet you at the AZ ticketing counter today. Will anyone be flying today 3/16 YYZ-mxp??

I'll be in Cyprus on April 1st, but unfortunately for one night only. Has anyone gotten a reasonably priced place close to the airport? I tried one place that Renard recommended, but they never responded to my email.

The same thing for April 2nd in Milan. I would like to see a bit of the area, since I've only passed through, but don't know how much of a hassle it will be taking the train to the city. I'm certainly open to suggestions.

I'll be in Cyprus on April 1st, but unfortunately for one night only. Has anyone gotten a reasonably priced place close to the airport? I tried one place that Renard recommended, but they never responded to my email.

The same thing for April 2nd in Milan. I would like to see a bit of the area, since I've only passed through, but don't know how much of a hassle it will be taking the train to the city. I'm certainly open to suggestions.I have not seen any hotel near LCA.
The tourist desk in LCA arrival hall will fix you up
with a central hotel or apartment,
then taxi for 5-6 pounds each way.

In Milan take the bus, not the train, to the central train station.
Lots of small hotels around that area for 60-70 euros.

All this has been posted before, but with a thread of this magnitude....
thought I would just throw it out again.

I will go YYZ-LCA on 22nd-23rd, to FCO on 24th for 4 nghts, FT tags flying...

I will go YYZ-LCA on 22nd-23rdmrs. gleff and I will be on these flights.

mrs. gleff and I will be on these flights.

... and so will FourWheels.

My advice: don't worry about being near the airport. It's only a few minutes' drive into town, so I'd rather find a place from which you can take a nice walk along the sea.

But that's me.

The Antonis G is $46 USD on Travelocity.com, and is listed as a "Good Buy" hotel, thus eligble for the $10 HTL10 discount.

I have stayed at the Crown Resorts Henipa Hotel four times now... it's usually in the 20 CYP range. You get 5 CYP off if you join their frequent guest program.

The Henipa is not in town, however... it's about 10 minutes east of the center but within walking distance of a few bars and restaurants.

The Antonis G is $46 USD on Travelocity.com, and is listed as a "Good Buy" hotel, thus eligble for the $10 HTL10 discount.


Just a word: I went to this hotel 26 Feb. and it was very closed. Low season in LCA? It's also quite a ways from LCA but just off the highway to Agia Napa i the old section of Oroklini (or Voroklini). It's 1-3 minutes walk from two listed tradtional (but not necessary old) Cypriot tavernas - Voreas/Boreas and Mandrea.


I have stayed at the Crown Resorts Henipa Hotel four times now... it's usually in the 20 CYP range. You get 5 CYP off if you join their frequent guest program.

The Henipa is not in town, however... it's about 10 minutes east of the center but within walking distance of a few bars and restaurants.

I stayed there again this time after finding Antonis G closed. Paid CYP 16 for double occupancy after using CYP 9 credit from my previous 2 stays. It is quite a way from town too, and at least 20 minutes walk from old town Oroklini (which it is situated in). Occupancy was very low in late February so the buffet breakfast selection is much more limited than in summer. Frankly, I found it dismal though some eastern europeans didn't think so.

According to cbc news radio:
Looks like the wall between greek+turkish cyprus is begining to come down. This should make for some interesting situations in nicosia. Apparently, some greek cypriots took bulldozers to a wall in the old part of the city. Make sure to be safe as the turkish in the north are suspicious of these actions by the greek in the south.

The Greek side seems to be rather hysterical about anything the Turkish side does and doesn't exactly provide a balanced view of recent history (such as mentioning ethnic cleansing carried out by EOKA-B between independence and the Turkish peacekeeping mission in 1973/4). I was on the north side of the Ledra Street barrier on 23 February on a city-sponsored tour (the north side does a much better tour than the south side). The Turkish side has no wall, and just a bored guard at the border. Very very relaxed atmosphere compared to anywhere near the Green Line on the south side. There was a banner challenging the south side to tear down their wall and open the crossing. The south has done the former but not the latter. Photo taking weren't a problem. There was also a coffee shop with happy patrons not more than 30' from the border and in plain view of the south side's viewing platform (now presumably gone).

I would encourage everyone to visit the north before rampant development (such as concrete being poured for residential construction at 10pm on a Saturday night) destroys the idyllic charm it is supposed to have. One "problem" (for value tourists) is that the north has undergone a huge economic boom since 2003 (some 10,000 on the north side reportedly commute to work on the south side daily) and prices have soared to equilibrium with the south.

My advice: don't worry about being near the airport. It's only a few minutes' drive into town, so I'd rather find a place from which you can take a nice walk along the sea.

Well, I wanted to be close to the airport, not in Nicosia, or such! :)

I stayed only one night in LCA, and stayed at the Flamingo Beach Hotel. It's not very big, with small staff. They were nice, willing to help, and the hotel was fairly clean. Some of the facilities: snack bar, sauna, billards, video games were not available. I think it was due to the end of the season. The hotel was really quiet. Ok breakfast buffet. 5cyp cab ride from airport, which you can see from rooftop swimming pool. Beachfront across a small 2 lane road w/ loungers. Easy 1-2km walk into town along the waterfront. Although, there are a few nice looking restaurants right around the hotel too.

http://www.flamingobeachhotel.com/index.htm


In Milan, I stayed at a business hotel within walking distance from the Centrale FS on Via Napo Torriani:

http://www.milan-hotel-berna.com/welcome.cfm?idpage=1&lang=eng

While the general area is shuttered by 5p, the proximity to the train station/metro allows easy, and fairly quick access to just about anywhere. It was extremely easy to take the bus from the airport to the Centrale FS. The breakfast buffet was huge, fresh, and delish. The free mini bar in the room was a nice touch (no alcohol). Very clean.

Well, I wanted to be close to the airport, not in Nicosia, or such! :) Yah, Nicosia's a bit of a way. We stayed in downtown Larnaca, which was less than ten minutes by taxi. Decent selection of restaurants, waterfront etc. Pretty pleasant, except way too hot.

FWIW we stayed at the Hotel Amorgos, which was quite the dump.

Hi Party_boy,

I am in the YYZ AC lounge now. Flew in this am from SFO via BOS. I will be in seat 3D.

Cheers,

GumboCook


YYCC2, it was nice to meet you at the AZ ticketing counter today. Will anyone be flying today 3/16 YYZ-mxp??

Hi Party_boy,

I am in the YYZ AC lounge now. Flew in this am from SFO via BOS. I will be in seat 3D.

Cheers,

GumboCook

I'm in the lounge too, I'm actually at the computer terminals in the business lounge. I am in 2D. :D

You guys lucked out.
Starting from TODAY the 767 that operate YYZ-MXP have the new J with lie flat seats and AVOD (via personal video players)

You guys lucked out.
Starting from TODAY the 767 that operate YYZ-MXP have the new J with lie flat seats and AVOD (via personal video players)

Any photos?

You guys lucked out.
Starting from TODAY the 767 that operate YYZ-MXP have the new J with lie flat seats and AVOD (via personal video players)

Arghh!!! I flew 1 month too early! Guess I can't really complain but I was getting quite tired of the same movies.

Any photos?

Pics and trip report should be on the sticky on top of the other European airlines forum.

You guys lucked out.
Starting from TODAY the 767 that operate YYZ-MXP have the new J with lie flat seats and AVOD (via personal video players)

If they "lucked out" then me and a few others who flew outbound 3/15 must have "lucked in" and flew the plane's last dying flight.

The staff was nice, the meal okay and the seat comfortable; but everything was threadbare. (Of course I'm delighted with the fare:service for this trip, but would hesitate to recommend full-j fares.)

In contrast, the Cyprus Air operated MXP-LCA was aboard a seemingly new A319 that was a delight to fly in.

Does anyone know if the MXP-YYZ segments will hereafter be on the newer planes?

That's one of the beauties of real (paper) tickets ;).

If anything, you may even be saving AZ some money (as much as $500 CAD per PAX): Paper ticket coupons are like cheques -- if you throw-away a cheque, the money stays in the drawer's account.

The final decision is, of course, up to you and the above is not meant as formal advice ...

After 3 RT YYZ-MXP.Want to say I never made it to LCA. Went to MXP each time on the day of my MXP-LCA leg checked in(no luggage) proceded to Botecelli lounge told agent my meeting was canceled in LCA.They were no questions asked and easily canceled my MXP-LCA-MXP legs. Had them reconfirm my MXP-YYZ.

After 3 RT YYZ-MXP.Want to say I never made it to LCA. Went to MXP each time on the day of my MXP-LCA leg checked in(no luggage) proceded to Botecelli lounge told agent my meeting was canceled in LCA.They were no questions asked and easily canceled my MXP-LCA-MXP legs. Had them reconfirm my MXP-YYZ.

I'm sorry you missed out on LCA, both times we were there we enjoyed ourselves. Hope you ended up somewhere other then MXP.

I was in LCA last year on the LCA-SMF on the special fare.
Did not stay much in Milan.Took the train to Switzerland.

Cancelled my last trip Twice was enough. I appreciate AA a lot more than I did before these trips.

All info about all the 767 including pics of new Magnifica....

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=632101

Just got a letter today about a baggage claim I made on 1/13. It says they received my claim and will review it in the next 90 days... How expedient!

A few comments about the new seat. Please note, these are not complaints about the seat or fare, but instead comments for your awareness.

1. When the seat moves around, it makes a lot of noise. I mean a LOT, small grinding noises, etc.

2. There is NOT enough padding on the seat. When in the flat position, I felt like I was sleeping on two matresses stuck together...if the matress is 3in thick.

3. I wish the digiplayer had the power in the seatback in front of you instead of the wires hanging to your armrest (where the power is).

Now on to some tricks that I found. I typically like sleeping on the old style recliner seats for sleeping on airplanes, but I found that putting the seat to the flat position and then using the controls to lift the foot rest section. (note: this will not work for tall people, but I am 5'10) Although this reduces the foot space, it also does reduce the wedgie factor and does make sleeping quite a bit easier. The Digiplayer also has a stand on the back, so that you don't have to stick the player in the chair in front of you, but can instead lay back and have it stand on your tray table.

Ciao!

A few comments about the new seat. Please note, these are not complaints about the seat or fare, but instead comments for your awareness.

1. When the seat moves around, it makes a lot of noise. I mean a LOT, small grinding noises, etc.

2. There is NOT enough padding on the seat. When in the flat position, I felt like I was sleeping on two matresses stuck together...if the matress is 3in thick.

3. I wish the digiplayer had the power in the seatback in front of you instead of the wires hanging to your armrest (where the power is).

Now on to some tricks that I found. I typically like sleeping on the old style recliner seats for sleeping on airplanes, but I found that putting the seat to the flat position and then using the controls to lift the foot rest section. (note: this will not work for tall people, but I am 5'10) Although this reduces the foot space, it also does reduce the wedgie factor and does make sleeping quite a bit easier. The Digiplayer also has a stand on the back, so that you don't have to stick the player in the chair in front of you, but can instead lay back and have it stand on your tray table.

Ciao!


I agree, the seat does make a lot of noise.
I found the padding to be enough and very comfortable. Only issue there is slight bump in the seat when flat you have to work with when lying on your side... (possible that I couldn't get the lumbar support to go back in..)

Just got in from MXP->YYZ today, old seats. Was hoping to get the new ones, but they switched the metal at the last minute. Coach was oversold as well., there were some unhappy people in line.

I stayed at the Antonis G these past two nights and found it acceptable for my purposes. The rate was 10 CYP/night, or about $20. For that I expected a clean room and a hot shower. The hotel met my expectations and the proprietor, Antonis, was very personable and seemed genuinely interested in ensuring my stay went well. Indeed, I thought the Antonis G. compared well with the Flamingo, where I stayed on my previous MR, but at a better price. The Flamingo does win the location war, as it is a beach front hotel.

If your plan is to see some of Cyprus, The Antonis G's location is only convienent if you have a car. Otherwise, you will be stuck staring at a distant sea or a carved mountain. As I was staying just two nights I opted for the combination of Antonis G 10CYP each way transfers and then renting a car from the hotel for 15 CYP for my one full day.

DO NOT REPEAT MY MISTAKE

The car hired out by the hotel is not a registered rental car (no red tags) and the entire transaction was done sans paperwork. The JD inside me kept screaming - are you nuts! What will happen if there is an accident? No paperwork, no credit card coverage - was the car even registered, let alone insured, by the hotel? Adding insult, the car was a complete POS.

Fortunately, no accidents, no police stops, and the car did not die on my watch.

All in, I was pleased with the selection of the Antonis G and would stay again if I had another long weekend in LCA. If you have an overnight coming up, the combination of the transfers and the room will cost you 30 CYP or $60.

So I've tried and tried and tried, but to no avail. AZ won't let me drop a domestic segment that totally messes up my plans tomorrow. I've been told alternately that it's not possible because it's a rerouting and that it's not possible because it is a date change. I tried twice to change the tickets at the ticket offices in both Milano and Roma and have called the reservations offices in Italy, the US, and France. Does anyone know of anyway to cancel this segment? Any numbers? Any help is greatly appreciated! I'm probably screwed, but I just want to make sure of it. Thanks. If possible, send me an SMS over Skype to my UK cell, which is +44 79 24 05 07 94.

So I've tried and tried and tried, but to no avail. AZ won't let me drop a domestic segment that totally messes up my plans tomorrow. I've been told alternately that it's not possible because it's a rerouting and that it's not possible because it is a date change. I tried twice to change the tickets at the ticket offices in both Milano and Roma and have called the reservations offices in Italy, the US, and France. Does anyone know of anyway to cancel this segment? Any numbers? Any help is greatly appreciated! I'm probably screwed, but I just want to make sure of it. Thanks. If possible, send me an SMS over Skype to my UK cell, which is +44 79 24 05 07 94.

Yours is a paper ticket, right? What happens if you tear out the unwanted paper coupons and then call up to say you want to reconfirm your remaining segments after the flight date/time has passed? You won't get a date change, but at least you may be able to jettison some unwanted segments, even if it means a "new" record locator?

Departing on Sunday and traveling all next week. Also first week in April. Can't wait for new 767 seats. PM if traveling sometime over next couple of weeks.

Yours is a paper ticket, right? What happens if you tear out the unwanted paper coupons and then call up to say you want to reconfirm your remaining segments after the flight date/time has passed? You won't get a date change, but at least you may be able to jettison some unwanted segments, even if it means a "new" record locator?

Yes. It is. Fortunately, I just got an agent at the Roma office to change it and reconfirmed the change with the US office. Phew. Thanks for the suggestion though.

Yes. It is. Fortunately, I just got an agent at the Roma office to change it and reconfirmed the change with the US office. Phew. Thanks for the suggestion though.

Glad to hear it. Out of curiosity, who did you talk to in Rome and Milan? Phone number or desk agent and where, please? I ask because we are planning on dropping our LCA-MXP-FCO in favor of a separate one-way ticket we booked on Aegean Air LCA-ATH-FCO. I was fully planning on this being no problem at the Boticelli Lounge in MXP as in the past. Given what has been reported, it is surprising to hear that you were given so much grief. Was it the Boticelli lounge that originally nixed your segment drop?

So I've tried and tried and tried, but to no avail. AZ won't let me drop a domestic segment that totally messes up my plans tomorrow. I've been told alternately that it's not possible because it's a rerouting and that it's not possible because it is a date change. I tried twice to change the tickets at the ticket offices in both Milano and Roma and have called the reservations offices in Italy, the US, and France. Does anyone know of anyway to cancel this segment? Any numbers? Any help is greatly appreciated! I'm probably screwed, but I just want to make sure of it. Thanks. If possible, send me an SMS over Skype to my UK cell, which is +44 79 24 05 07 94.

Everything I have read on this thread about dropping segments had to do with dropping Italy-LCA-Italy segments operated by Cyprus Air. I don't recall anyone mentioning being able to drop domestic Italian segments (though that is not very common to have a domestic Italian segment).

Once you are told something by the airlines, they have probably documented your record so no matter where you call, you would get the same answer.

If you just don't show up for an AZ-operated flight then call after the fact to reconfirm the other flights, I only see trouble -

1) AZ might have already cancelled the rest of your itinerary due to being a no-show

2) they will know what you were up to due to the notes that are probably already in your record

You might be in for a surprise if you don't take the flights as booked, i.e. buying yourself an entire new ticket back from Italy to YYZ. That would be the worst case scenario.

Everything I have read on this thread about dropping segments had to do with dropping Italy-LCA-Italy segments operated by Cyprus Air. I don't recall anyone mentioning being able to drop domestic Italian segments (though that is not very common to have a domestic Italian segment).

Once you are told something by the airlines, they have probably documented your record so no matter where you call, you would get the same answer.

If you just don't show up for an AZ-operated flight then call after the fact to reconfirm the other flights, I only see trouble -

1) AZ might have already cancelled the rest of your itinerary due to being a no-show

2) they will know what you were up to due to the notes that are probably already in your record

You might be in for a surprise if you don't take the flights as booked, i.e. buying yourself an entire new ticket back from Italy to YYZ. That would be the worst case scenario.

AZ reps don't usually add extensive comments to records, even when the answer is a series of firm "No's". I have plenty of experience with this, going back well before the YYZ-LCA fares. :D

Personally, if AZ decided to not play nice, it wouldn't be much skin off my back. Then again AZ still thinks I'm a CIP. :D

That is, as long as keeping the same dates as on the paper ticket, I'd monitor www.seatcounter.com and just show up at the AZ check-in counter with only the desired paper ticket coupons to be used. Obviously, not for those with heart conditions. :D

Obviously, not for those with heart conditions. :D

Hehe... that is probably the best way to summarize trying to fly on this fare and making any changes :p

It was good while it lasted though, roller coaster and all.

I'm flying back tomorrow, 3/21 mxp-yyz. I was able to drop the mxp-lca-fco segments. This has been great fun, sad to see its all going to be over in a few days. At least I will always have my mxp-lca flight coupons to remember it by :)

Am now in Rome finishing 2nd run this weekend. I learned something in LCA that may be useful to others, although rather late in the game.....

If you want to credit DL for the LCA-MXP or LCA-FCO leg, tell the GA to enter it as AZDLxxxxxxxxxx. It wont take as just DLxxxxxxxxxx.

The first time I passed that way, I didn't get any DL credit, as the GA in LCA didn't know, or offer to know, this trick. This time it is already credited even before NW finished processing the credit for YYZ-MXP !!

How long did it take for your LCA-FCO/LCA-MXP leg to post to your DL account even when using the AZDL_______ method?

Are the LCA-MXP/FCO boarding passes supposed to print out with AZDLXXXXXXXXXX on them (where X is a number corresponding to the DL frequent flyer number)?

I'm flying back tomorrow, 3/21 mxp-yyz. I was able to drop the mxp-lca-fco segments. This has been great fun, sad to see its all going to be over in a few days. At least I will always have my mxp-lca flight coupons to remember it by :)


Hey, I'm in that 3/21 MXP-YYZ flight, look for me

Male, 5,11, 160 lbs. light blue shirt, bright red carryon, black and gray ski coat. Name- Steve

No seat assignment yet.

How long did it take for your LCA-FCO/LCA-MXP leg to post to your DL account even when using the AZDL_______ method?

Are the LCA-MXP/FCO boarding passes supposed to print out with AZDLXXXXXXXXXX on them (where X is a number corresponding to the DL frequent flyer number)?



Delta have been really messing me around with getting these miles to post. I had my Delta # on my res but nothing posted. Then I faxed in all the boarding passes and the receipt and nothing posted. I called and they said I need to re fax the receipt. I re faxed the boarding passes and the receipt and now I am on the phone and they are telling me that I have to send them the actual tickets to them i.e. call Alitalia and have them issue me some sort of copy of the ticket!!!

Has anyone else encountered this? It is driving me insane. Does anyone have any tips on how to get the mileage credited?

and FYI, they are citing the rule at http://www.delta.com/skymiles/about_skymiles/membership_guide_program/mileage_credit_rules/index.jsp

which states that "You should maintain copies of tickets/ticket receipts and boarding pass(es) for your records until proper credit appears in your SkyMiles statement."

They are using this rule to tell me that I need an actually copy of my ticket. This is both the agent and the supervisor.

I don't want to write one of those detailed long accounts of my experience voulenteering to give up my seat on AZ's MXP to YYZ flight on 18 March but I need some counsel and advice.

The flight was oversold by 10 and then had to swap aircraft at the last minute to one configured with a couple of less total seats.

My experience with AZ in MXP and FCO on the previous run was the contract employees gave out a lot of miss information.

I voulenteered at check in early and was first on the list. At the transfer desk the contract agents offered me 125 euros to take a flight the next day. I said no. The agent got on the phone and quickly offered 150 euros and a free flight.

I asked if that free flight was a rev tix at the lowest fare class or was it like a frequent flyer tix that carrries no miles and with all the restrictions of a FF tix and if it was between the US and the EU. The agent said yes to the Transatlantic flight but she didn't know if it was a rev tix or award tix.t

I accepted and was issued a FIM as they had to route me through BOS and on to YYZ on AA.

I was sent to the ticket counter to get the funds and the free flight.

When I got to the ticket counter the agent said the 150 Euros was in the form of a TCV and there was no offer of a free flight.

I was very tired and shakey at that point and after a long wait at the ticket counter and at a trouble shooting desk in the check in counter line. I signed the wavier doucument but noted the document that I signed it under duress.

My Question is:

Was this an honest mistake on AZ staff and contractors or is there a history of the agents at the high pressure time of departure just sayying anything to get you to voulenteer.

The FIM is marked as the flight was over sold but the waiver document was marked as it was a change of aircraft.

I am undecided if I am going to do a complaint to the airline and the approprate regulatory authouritys. This could just be contractors working many differnet airlines flights not knowing all the rules and the issue of understanding eachother when we are not native speakers of the same language.

Thanks

Thanks

Sitting in the AC MLL, ran into FourWheels in the checkin line. AC flight up here, DCA-YYZ, was uneventful. I know I'm taking a huge (and silly)gamble but I've checked bags all the way to LCA. Have a couple changes of clothes in my carryon though! :p

Sitting in the AC MLL, ran into FourWheels in the checkin line. AC flight up here, DCA-YYZ, was uneventful. I know I'm taking a huge (and silly)gamble but I've checked bags all the way to LCA. Have a couple changes of clothes in my carryon though! :p

On one of my trips, I started in MSP with UA, flew via ORD, switched to AZ in YYZ then took OS from MXP to VIE. UA checked my luggage in MSP all the way to VIE and it made it with no problems!

I decided to cancel my tickets yesterday so I called NWA reservations using the I'm a nobody line (i.e., no status) and spoke with a rep who upon looking at my ticket and for 30 seconds of dead silence says; This is weird; can I put you on hold and go find a few things out? what was I going to say NO.... anyway she comes back ten minutes later saying that all I've paid was taxes on this and that would be all I'd get back (she was nice, giving her credit here) and I said, thats all I want, whatever I paid.. it was over a grand though for four tix so I wanted it for sure

She gave me the refund center, told me to mail my paper tickets there, give a phone number and gave me an address..

I asked her to note my record and she stated that she did.. so I'll have to believe her

Anyone able to tell me how long before the credit hits my AX? I assume it will hit my AX card as that is what I used to pay for it...

thanks

I decided to cancel my tickets yesterday so I called NWA reservations using the I'm a nobody line (i.e., no status) and spoke with a rep who upon looking at my ticket and for 30 seconds of dead silence says;

Funny, is this for the LCA tix? I didn't think NWA would handle this... perhaps you're referring to BUH tix?

Sitting in the CY shared lounge with FourWheels and MrHalliday, having just left the Boticelli lounge. Took a shower.. they had shower kits today. Unfortunately no hot water and a clogged drain. Crowded as usual. The lounge upstairs and closer to the CY gates is certainly quieter, but no showers. They give out 15 minute free internet access cards here upon request and presentation of passport for photocopying.

YYZ-MXP flight was fine. New seats. I agree that they are very loud when going into lay flat mode and back. Food was mediocre and service was fine, nothing special. Dig-E-Players, but unlike AS flights they run on seat power rather than battery. Putting them in the seat back in front of you makes a small screen seem even smaller.

Of course I am more than happy with all of this for the price, to clarify the ongoing debate here. Just reporting on the particulars. ;)

On to LCA. :)

Following the advise provided here I plan to visit the lounge in MXP to drop the LCA segments (or simply remove the paper tix), reconfirm my MXP-YYZ return, and then stay in Milan.

My question: I get to the lounge by following the transfers line, but once in the lounge, how do I clear immigration/customs to get street side?

TIA

Following the advise provided here I plan to visit the lounge in MXP to drop the LCA segments (or simply remove the paper tix), reconfirm my MXP-YYZ return, and then stay in Milan.

My question: I get to the lounge by following the transfers line, but once in the lounge, how do I clear immigration/customs to get street side?

TIA

If I recall correctly from a just-missed connection last year:

Exit the lounge and descend to the lower level via stairs or escalator to the right of the entrance to gates B1-BXX. That's the pier connected by a moving walkway and guarded by the LEGO Harry Potter statue. The stairwell/elevator is marked "Staff Only" or some other ominous warning.

At the bottom of the stairs is the customs checkpoint and the arrivals hall.

If I recall correctly from a just-missed connection last year:

Exit the lounge and descend to the lower level via stairs or escalator to the right of the entrance to gates B1-BXX. That's the pier connected by a moving walkway and guarded by the LEGO Harry Potter statue. The stairwell/elevator is marked "Staff Only" or some other ominous warning.

At the bottom of the stairs is the customs checkpoint and the arrivals hall.

Took the same route to exit a few weeks ago.A guard when you go down the stairs will let you know where to exit and go through immigrations.

Departing today YYZ-MXP, can't wait for new seats. In AC lounge right now. Anyone flying 03/25, look for a guy in blue jeans and a dark blue shirt up front. Staying at PH Milan on arrival. Might go to LCA or might not, haven't really decided yet. Will post TR about new seats shortly after.

If I recall correctly from a just-missed connection last year:

Exit the lounge and descend to the lower level via stairs or escalator to the right of the entrance to gates B1-BXX. That's the pier connected by a moving walkway and guarded by the LEGO Harry Potter statue. The stairwell/elevator is marked "Staff Only" or some other ominous warning.

At the bottom of the stairs is the customs checkpoint and the arrivals hall.

Thanks YYZC2 and lovtofly3

Departing today YYZ-MXP, can't wait for new seats. In AC lounge right now. Anyone flying 03/25, look for a guy in blue jeans and a dark blue shirt up front. Staying at PH Milan on arrival. Might go to LCA or might not, haven't really decided yet. Will post TR about new seats shortly after.

I'm curious to see what you think of the new seats. Also to deal with the bump on the seat when flat try messing around with the lumbar support.

took the sun mxp-yyz flight. it was the old plane with no tvs and the old seats.

was fine though, slept the whole time.


I'm curious to see what you think of the new seats. Also to deal with the bump on the seat when flat try messing around with the lumbar support.

took the sun mxp-yyz flight. it was the old plane with no tvs and the old seats.

I'm flying this route next week. If I get the old seats can I ask for a refund? ;)

Delta have been really messing me around with getting these miles to post. I had my Delta # on my res but nothing posted. Then I faxed in all the boarding passes and the receipt and nothing posted. I called and they said I need to re fax the receipt. I re faxed the boarding passes and the receipt and now I am on the phone and they are telling me that I have to send them the actual tickets to them i.e. call Alitalia and have them issue me some sort of copy of the ticket!!!

Has anyone else encountered this? It is driving me insane. Does anyone have any tips on how to get the mileage credited?

Just bumping this in case anyone has any advice on how I can get the miles. Delta are just refusing to budge even though I kept all of the boarding passes.

Just bumping this in case anyone has any advice on how I can get the miles. Delta are just refusing to budge even though I kept all of the boarding passes.

Send them a copy of the applicable section of the credit card statement, detailing the ticket number, along with the boarding pass.

I notice that according to KVS, my flight on Satuday is quite full. Only one Y seat showing at this point. The LCA leg on CY only shows 4 upper coach seats available as well. While I wouldn't jump at the bump, if the money was right, I can be bought. :)

I wouldn't place too much stock in the KVS displays for AZ as an indicator of the fullness of the flight. My YYZ-MXP flight last August was completely zeroed out in Business Class for weeks, and yet the actual load was 5 seats taken out of 25 (!) come check-in time.

took the sun mxp-yyz flight. it was the old plane with no tvs and the old seats.

was fine though, slept the whole time.

I have no clue why they keep randomly changing the planes. It usually doesnt happen

I wouldn't place too much stock in the KVS displays for AZ as an indicator of the fullness of the flight. My YYZ-MXP flight last August was completely zeroed out in Business Class for weeks, and yet the actual load was 5 seats taken out of 25 (!) come check-in time.

You definitely want to check the CY loads and not the loads for the AZ codeshare. Same goes for aircraft... When I checked in for the MXP-LCA flight a few days ago AZ thought it was going to be an A319, CY was showing A320, naturally CY was correct.

You definitely want to check the CY loads and not the loads for the AZ codeshare. Same goes for aircraft... When I checked in for the MXP-LCA flight a few days ago AZ thought it was going to be an A319, CY was showing A320, naturally CY was correct.

Many of the times for my flights have changed, and one I can't pull up via KVS, but Nicolo assured me the flight still existed. I also called up AZ last month to verify as well. (Flight in question, LCA-FCO, AZ7701 April 2nd) I can't find a listing for a CY or AZ coded direct flight. Perhaps it's just not listed on KVS?

Many of the times for my flights have changed, and one I can't pull up via KVS, but Nicolo assured me the flight still existed. I also called up AZ last month to verify as well. (Flight in question, LCA-FCO, AZ7701 April 2nd) I can't find a listing for a CY or AZ coded direct flight. Perhaps it's just not listed on KVS?

I was scheduled to fly LCA-FCO on this flight on Monday, 3/26.

About six weeks ago i saw it wasn't operating per KVS (checking on Worldspan and Sabre).

I called Nicollo and he confirmed it no longer existed. So he gave me the choice of LCA-MXP the day before or the day after. I chose the day before and ticketed LCA-MXP-FCO.

Check the Cyprus Airways website to see whether the flight shows there, and if not call Nicollo right away.

I was scheduled to fly LCA-FCO on this flight on Monday, 3/26.

About six weeks ago i saw it wasn't operating per KVS (checking on Worldspan and Sabre).

I called Nicollo and he confirmed it no longer existed. So he gave me the choice of LCA-MXP the day before or the day after. I chose the day before and ticketed LCA-MXP-FCO.

Check the Cyprus Airways website to see whether the flight shows there, and if not call Nicollo right away.

I would agree with that quote. My first flight on CY going towards cyprus was changed due to schedule....after my return flight. Called Nicolo, who had to do some tap dancing with my other flights, but in the end made it work through a reroute.

I was scheduled to fly LCA-FCO on this flight on Monday, 3/26.

About six weeks ago i saw it wasn't operating per KVS (checking on Worldspan and Sabre).

I called Nicollo and he confirmed it no longer existed. So he gave me the choice of LCA-MXP the day before or the day after. I chose the day before and ticketed LCA-MXP-FCO.

Check the Cyprus Airways website to see whether the flight shows there, and if not call Nicollo right away.

I checked back in February, and it wasn't showing. I first called Nicollo and he said it still showed. He recommended that I call AZ if I wanted to double check. I did so, and they said the flight was fine.

I'm not finding it on CY's website, or on KVS using WS or Sabre. I'm on hold with AZ right now.

I only have 1 day in each place, so there's not much wiggle room.

Looks like a normal AZ situation for my return ticket. Even though I called up in February when I noticed there was no CY flight back to FCO, and was told by Nicolo and the 800 AZ number that the flight was fine, it no longer exists.

I was offered a return on April 4th, which would have been great in February, before I had booked my return from YYZ, prepaid a hotel in Milan, and some other fun stuff. The AZ agent offered a full refund, but we all know what my answer was to that.

I left a message for Nicolo, but I'm sure he's left for the day already. Hopefully they'll find something for me going back on my original departure date, or just axe the MXP-LCA legs.

Don't rely on what AZ tells you. They probably won't see the flight, but if they do then they're likely the ones in error. As I mentioned earlier, AZ doesn't update realtime with CY operational data (though usually this manifests itself in terms of discrepancies over what aircraft will be flying, etc).

When I called Nicollo in February about the 3/26 LCA-FCO flight he first thought it was operating then looked further and saw that it wasn't.

I flew 3/22 YYZ-MXP, 3/23 MXP-LCA.. and was scheduled to fly 3/26 LCA-FCO but moved it to 3/25 LCA-MXP-FCO.

FWIW when I spoke with Nicollo the schedule change seemed like pretty much a blank check for making changes again, within the parameters of YYZ-LCA (he would have changed dates/added or deleted internal flights, but he wouldn't let me open jaw YYZ-MXP-LCA/ATH-FCO/FCO-MXP-YYZ where I offered that I would just buy an LCA-ATH one-way on my own).

I left a message for Nicolo, but I'm sure he's left for the day already. Hopefully they'll find something for me going back on my original departure date, or just axe the MXP-LCA legs.
No doubt your current reservation shows an open jaw, i.e. they've already just axed the LCA-FCO leg.

Nicollo may not be helpful dropping MXP-LCA from the reservation, but as noted elsewhere I imagine the Boticelli lounge at MXP likely would be. ("There's been a schedule change and I no longer have a return segment from LCA, which is no big deal since the LCA meeting wasn't that important, let's just drop that part of the trip and we'll be all good.")

For those whose tickets had a break in MXP or FCO and then continue on there on a later date to/from LCA, apparently some people no showed for the MXP/FCO-LCA-MXP/FCO segments and just threw away the paper ticket coupons for the CY-operated flights and then later called to reconfirm their AZ-operated flights. It may be a gamble, but that's what some people did and it worked.

No doubt your current reservation shows an open jaw, i.e. they've already just axed the LCA-FCO leg.

Nicollo may not be helpful dropping MXP-LCA from the reservation, but as noted elsewhere I imagine the Boticelli lounge at MXP likely would be. ("There's been a schedule change and I no longer have a return segment from LCA, which is no big deal since the LCA meeting wasn't that important, let's just drop that part of the trip and we'll be all good.")

Nicolo was not helpful is dropping the LCA leg, and AZ ticketing had apparently "protected" me on February 28th by moving my return dates by a couple of days. Of course, it would have been considerate to call at that time, which never happened. Since then I've booked a Hotwire room in Milan, and changed the date of my return from YYZ to April 4th. I'm over $500 into the connecting flights and hotel already, so it's obviously very frustrating.

I'm not too hopeful of dropping the MXP-LCA portion now, since they have already moved me to a later date, so my MXP-YYZ might not be available on Apr 3rd. I obviously wouldn't mind so much if I had been notified in a timely fashion, or if Alitalia would cover my room that I'd paid for and whatever fees my NW YYZ-PHX tickets had run. I'd say that's a long shot with AZ, though.

This whole episode is quite frustrating since since I had checked in February and hadn't seen the flight then. I had done the boy scout thing, and had called immediately, and was reassured by both Nicolo and AZ reservations that the flight was intact and fine.

Finished Round #1 today. Had Magnifica seats both ways... which may be a bad sign for tomorrow's equipment YYZ-MXP. LCA-MXP yesterday was Biz class seats, not the jimmy-rigged 2-3 config'd cloth seats on inbound.

Met FTers gleff (YYZ-MXP-LCA) last Wednesday, groundradar (LCA-MXP) yesterday and a WAS lurker(MXP-YYZ) today. Great having three segs with my ol' buddy, MrHalliday too.

Just an observation: 3 vacant seats on my outbound and 10 today inbound.

BTW, I had Row 1 on AZ and Rows 1/2 on CY. Signed the mags. I, for the first time ever, spotted a FT sig... myself. :o My camera's battery died after snapping pics of the Matterhorn today, so if anyone can take a photo of my double-signing on the fleet page, send me a PM. Mille grazie.

Guess I'd better be checkin' my next round to make sure segs exist...

All
Apologies in advance - failed to keep an eye on this thread for a while now and will have to ask for your help...
I'm currently facing the unfortunate situation of having to cancel my tix and ask for a refund :(
Can someone pls advise on the procedure, steps to be taken? Booked with Orbitz. Any warnings from past experience?
Many thanks in advance

Think I found the answer here http://flyertalk.com/forum/showpost.php?p=5573574&postcount=4

Yyz-mxp?

Am presently overseas and am faced with a conundrum;

My dates were modified by Nicollo but the tkt was never issued due to an urgent trip abroad; whats the best method to process the refund?

send the tkts it to Alitalia c/o Nicolo OR send to ORBITZ address indicated on first page?

TIA

Am presently overseas and am faced with a conundrum;

My dates were modified by Nicollo but the tkt was never issued due to an urgent trip abroad; whats the best method to process the refund?

send the tkts it to Alitalia c/o Nicolo OR send to ORBITZ address indicated on first page?

TIA

I'd send it to Orbitz because the ticket you still have in hand is actually issued by Orbitz and not by Alitalia directly.

I'd send it to Orbitz because the ticket you still have in hand is actually issued by Orbitz and not by Alitalia directly.

ok, thanks again..; send it off asap

EDIT: i am told that i should include a cover letter prepared by Nicolo (Dear Travel Partners...); i did not find it on the first few pages, anyone here can confirm which letter i am to include please..?

thanks again.

ok, thanks again..; send it off asap

EDIT: i am told that i should include a cover letter prepared by ***** (Dear Travel Partners...); i did not find it on the first few pages, anyone here can confirm which letter i am to include please..?

thanks again.

I suggest including a letter including the original fare rules, noting that it's refundable too, along with the ticket and the notice from ***** <last name removed> indicating that if there are any questions contact him.

Remember to get this sent ASAP back to the travel agency and to get delivery tracked.

It's on the first page of this thread IIRC:

To: Orbitz/ Cheap Tickets/ Travelocity
C/o Refund department:

Dear Travel Partner,

As per rule of fare basis DRTCA9, CAD39.00/eqv USD33.00 plus taxes , YYZ/LCA/YYZ;

*Tickets are refundable.

*Lost ticket procedure not applicable prior or after departure.

*Partial refund not applicable.

**This authorization to refund purchaser is only for the above fare basis and fare. For ticket/s issued at CAD3900.00, with same fare basis, please apply rules/restrictions accordingly.** Feel free to contact me for any questions at the number indicated below.

Best regards,

**** <last name removed>
Alitalia Airlines
Tariffs Analyst
350 Fifth Avenue
Suite 3700
New York, NY 10118
Tel: 212-***-****

I suggest including a letter including the original fare rules, noting that it's refundable too, along with the ticket and the notice from Nicolo <last name removed> indicating that if there are any questions contact him.

Remember to get this sent ASAP back to the travel agency and to get delivery tracked.

It's on the first page of this thread IIRC:

yes, i saw it too, thanks again; am sending it off as per your suggestions; many thanks once again from abidjan!!^

At MXP for my return to YYZ, checked in without difficulty and decided not to bother with the Boticelli lounge. Fortunately as a BA Gold I can use the BA lounge, which is really quite the oasis - and I'm alone here. Well, with mrs. gleff actually (technically BA gold gets access solo - no guests - when not traveling BA, but I managed to sweet talk us both in). Nice food and self-serve liquor spreads and quite the tranquil environment. Exact opposite of the AZ disgrace... (I know, I know, for $33+tax... I am not complaining, just describing.)

Flight is delayed an hour currently.

At MXP for my return to YYZ, checked in without difficulty and decided not to bother with the Boticelli lounge. Fortunately as a BA Gold I can use the BA lounge, which is really quite the oasis - and I'm alone here. Well, with mrs. gleff actually (technically BA gold gets access solo - no guests - when not traveling BA, but I managed to sweet talk us both in). Nice food and self-serve liquor spreads and quite the tranquil environment. Exact opposite of the AZ disgrace... (I know, I know, for $33+tax... I am not complaining, just describing.)

Flight is delayed an hour currently.

Enjoy the BA internet terminals there -- another thing the AZ lounges in Italy don't provide any longer. The one thing that the AZ lounge has over the BA lounge at MXP is a shower. ... and from there it's straight to the BA lounge. :D

Nice array of sandwiches and pastries as well as the usual chips/lounge snacks. Plenty of wine and hard liquor in addition to juices, sodas, waters... Relaxing music, stylish decor. There's finally another person in the lounge.

This is far from the best BA lounge, but it's frankly what a lounge should be.

It really does amaze me how gross the AZ lounge is here. Those that have been know what I'm talking about. The bathrooms are terrible. I tried to shower after my inbound, fortunately they had shower kits, but there was no hot water and the shower drain was clogged. Crowded, cramped, uncomfortable furniture, a line 15 pax deep to get a coffee.

When this deal first materialized I thought "a whole bunch of very frequent flyers will now try Alitalia, many of whom never have before or never would have considered it." True enough, as far as it goes...

Although a big thanks to AZ for honoring the fare nonetheless, and to Nicollo who really is a marvel.

Flight pushed back again.. delay now is until 12:30pm. :(

Flight pushed back again.. delay now is until 12:30pm. :(

Are you getting the new AZ biz seats on that route today?

Enjoy the BA internet terminals there

Alas I don't see any computers here, the desks where they used to be are empty :o

Are you getting the new AZ biz seats on that route today?

Don't know, actually. I asked at checkin and CSR said she didn't know. I asked her, "how many seats are there in the business class cabin today?" and she just shrugged. I haven't been to the gate.

I was actually a bit worried. Flight was showing completely zeroed out, so I thought I might have trouble and get bumped. Then it showed some availability a couple days ago (J5 D4 Y0)... then zeroed... then J0 D0 Y1).. then zeroed... then this morning J5 D4 Y0 so I thought perhaps they subbed in an old 763 with more seats? Who knows with AZ. They want to sell seats, they don't want to sell seats, they want to sell seats. :confused:

Alas I don't see any computers here, the desks where they used to be are empty :o

After all this time, they are gone from there because of the Italian rule that demanded that public internet-connected PCs keep a log of who was using them or because of refurbishment? (Hopefully, it's the latter, even as it was the former that was the reason given for AZ's removal of PCs from their AZ lounges.)

and it was the new seats. However, they can always sub out for a different a/c.

Don't know, actually. I asked at checkin and CSR said she didn't know. I asked her, "how many seats are there in the business class cabin today?" and she just shrugged. I haven't been to the gate.

I was actually a bit worried. Flight was showing completely zeroed out, so I thought I might have trouble and get bumped. Then it showed some availability a couple days ago (J5 D4 Y0)... then zeroed... then J0 D0 Y1).. then zeroed... then this morning J5 D4 Y0 so I thought perhaps they subbed in an old 763 with more seats? Who knows with AZ. They want to sell seats, they don't want to sell seats, they want to sell seats. :confused:

AZ's inventory management -- particularly in business -- definitely seems bizarre to me too; in my situations it hasn't even seemed to correspond systematically to equipment substitutions.

Why was there a 3.25 hours delay on your flight? Best of luck in making whatever connections out of YYZ you may need today given arrival is 2.7 hours late.

Fortunately my evening plan is dinner with friends in Toronto, so no connection to make until tomorrow. I've checked into the King Edward, a nice club lounge and excellent Plat recognition.

Meanwhile, my guess turned out correct, old seats.

And since pretty much everyone had boarding passes based on a different aircraft configuration, they were reissuing boarding passes person by person as folks got up to walk out to those darn buses.

I can only guess that the 2 hour delay prior to beginning the boarding process was waiting for aircraft and then the next hour was from the absurd boarding / reissue boarding passes process.

No nuts on the flight. And no customs forms either. Heh.

And no customs forms either. Heh.Hilarious !
That was the same situation with BOTH my returns to YYZ this month.

A few hours before landing they announced:
"Unfortunaterly Milan catering staff failed to load the landing cards".

Now that I think about it, I believe it was a pre-recorded message. :eek:

Fortunately my evening plan is dinner with friends in Toronto, so no connection to make until tomorrow. I've checked into the King Edward, a nice club lounge and excellent Plat recognition.

Meanwhile, my guess turned out correct, old seats.

And since pretty much everyone had boarding passes based on a different aircraft configuration, they were reissuing boarding passes person by person as folks got up to walk out to those darn buses.

I can only guess that the 2 hour delay prior to beginning the boarding process was waiting for aircraft and then the next hour was from the absurd boarding / reissue boarding passes process.

No nuts on the flight. And no customs forms either. Heh.

I'd bet that, so far this year, more often than not the AZ flights between Milan and Toronto meant passengers picking up a Canadian customs form at YYZ itself. :D

Does anyone have the phone # of Cheaptickets corp? They got my paper tickets in the mail asking for a refund over a month ago, and still nothing. I don't want to have to go threw India to get someone who has a clue...

I'd bet that, so far this year, more often than not the AZ flights between Milan and Toronto meant passengers picking up a Canadian customs form at YYZ itself. :D

Forms? We don't need no stinkin' forms! :p

Of my 3 RT's, I only got the form from the crew once. :rolleyes:

Forms? We don't need no stinkin' forms! :p

Of my 3 RT's, I only got the form from the crew once. :rolleyes:

That's not bad; that's about standard with AZ on this route IME. :D

I'm still amused that in the past 15 months I've received at least 5 different variations of AZ amenity kits, with no obvious rhyme or reason to that variation. (Sometimes they seemed to cycle in and out with certain variations, but in no obvious order.) Even as of late, sometimes AZ is giving out "Bulgari" kits but at most other times they are not.

Anyone still yet to fly?

Today was supposed to be my FCO-EWR flight ... but I got posted overseas for a few months and couldn't go. FedExing my ticket now to get the taxes back. Easy come, easy go I guess.

I'm in Rome now and am headed to LCA Tuesday, and back to YYZ on Thurs.

That's not bad; that's about standard with AZ on this route IME. :D

I'm still amused that in the past 15 months I've received at least 5 different variations of AZ amenity kits, with no obvious rhyme or reason to that variation. (Sometimes they seemed to cycle in and out with certain variations, but in no obvious order.) Even as of late, sometimes AZ is giving out "Bulgari" kits but at most other times they are not.

I am just getting the grey Alitalia kits. 3 flights so far and just the grey kits. Hoping to get the Bvgari one, but not keeping my hopes up.

Oh as a sidenote, I have gotten rides to the old town rome for free via the Hilton shuttle bus. However there isn't a place for luggage so if you are MR it and your hotel is downtown, just walk to the Airport Hilton and take the shuttle in. It leaves the hilton on the even numbered hours and back on the odd numbered hours. Not sure when it starts, but the last bus leaves at 11pm.

That's not bad; that's about standard with AZ on this route IME. :D

I'm still amused that in the past 15 months I've received at least 5 different variations of AZ amenity kits, with no obvious rhyme or reason to that variation. (Sometimes they seemed to cycle in and out with certain variations, but in no obvious order.) Even as of late, sometimes AZ is giving out "Bulgari" kits but at most other times they are not.

The grey kits only here, unfortunately. Among the least generous kits I've ever seen. Bvlgari would have been nice. (Not that I expect or deserve Bvlgari at the price paid, but whatever.)

In Toronto airport again, flying YYZ-MXP tomorrow and straight through to LCA. Sadly this will by my last AZ MR. Flying back MXP-BOS-YYZ on Thursday. My last flight will be with old 767 seat configuration so we will see.

As for the new J seats, similar to SQ Space Bed except noisier and that famous lump when in flat mode. At least its not like trying to sleep on a slide the way CX is.

Anyone flying this week, let me know.

The grey kits only here, unfortunately. Among the least generous kits I've ever seen. Bvlgari would have been nice. (Not that I expect or deserve Bvlgari at the price paid, but whatever.)

The Bulgari kits were rather spartan inside too, with a Bulgari-logo-bearing circle tag used to pull the zipper on it. The Bulgari kits actually felt more spartan than what I think most of you are getting as of late (i.e., the grey ones that seem to have a metal/magnet plate used as the fastening device instead of a zipper).

In Toronto airport again, flying YYZ-MXP tomorrow and straight through to LCA. Sadly this will by my last AZ MR. Flying back MXP-BOS-YYZ on Thursday. My last flight will be with old 767 seat configuration so we will see.

As for the new J seats, similar to SQ Space Bed except noisier and that famous lump when in flat mode. At least its not like trying to sleep on a slide the way CX is.

Anyone flying this week, let me know.
I will be on the same flight MXP-BOS. Maybe even BOS-YYZ if you're on AC.

01APR MXP-YYZ (and subsequently YYZ-MXP) is operated by an aircraft with the old seats. No customs forms on this flight either.

I'm LCA at the same hotel as FourWheels.

As for my ongoing saga, it got worse before it got better. I had two mechanicals on NWA while connecting in MSP, and they canceled the flight entirely. My only chance to get into YYZ in time to check in was by going on an Air Canada Jazz RJ. Fun!

In trying to change my return on AZ, so I could use my prepaid hotel in Milan and YYZ, I tried to change back to the original MXP-YYZ on April 3rd. No luck, it was full. I even checked about doing an immediate turn, which I loathe, but full there too. April 2nd was available, but decided to pass on that.

I'll be flying LCA-MXP tomorrow on CY. and then MXP-YYZ on April 4th.

I'm LCA at the same hotel as FourWheels.

As for my ongoing saga, it got worse before it got better. I had two mechanicals on NWA while connecting in MSP, and they canceled the flight entirely. My only chance to get into YYZ in time to check in was by going on an Air Canada Jazz RJ. Fun!

In trying to change my return on AZ, so I could use my prepaid hotel in Milan and YYZ, I tried to change back to the original MXP-YYZ on April 3rd. No luck, it was full. I even checked about doing an immediate turn, which I loathe, but full there too. April 2nd was available, but decided to pass on that.

I'll be flying LCA-MXP tomorrow on CY. and then MXP-YYZ on April 4th.

Where are you two at? Will you be there tomorrow? Want to get a couple of Keo's?

In YYZ AC lounge again, just missed the soup offering. Also found out plane is old 767. :( I guess they use newer ones for more profitable routes possibly. My flight today is only 11 out of 25 upfront.

Therefore, will be in LCA tomorrow night and the depart day after tomorrow. Return however is 0 all across the board for availability. Would love to end the trip with a bump....just so I could do something similar all over again!

Where are you two at? Will you be there tomorrow? Want to get a couple of Keo's?

JC and I will be out of here in the morning (3 April), LCA-MXP. Sorry we're missing you!

In YYZ AC lounge again, just missed the soup offering. Also found out plane is old 767. :( I guess they use newer ones for more profitable routes possibly. My flight today is only 11 out of 25 upfront.

Therefore, will be in LCA tomorrow night and the depart day after tomorrow. Return however is 0 all across the board for availability. Would love to end the trip with a bump....just so I could do something similar all over again!

Where will you be staying in LCA? Want to meet up for some KEOs?

After doing some snooping around, I finally found the key management folks at Alitalia who Nicolo Cimilucca reports to. It would do him a world of good, I believe, if FTers who benefited from the AZ YYZ-LCA fare and Nicolo's follow-up assistance and terrific attitude, could write a letter of commendation (no email accepted) on his behalf to:

Ms. Lucia Alla: Alitalia Director, Sales and Marketing Coordination
Mr. Thierry Aucoc: Alitalia VP for North America, Canada & Mexico
350 Fifth Avenue
Suite 3700
New York, NY 10118

Though I missed out on the LCA deal, this would be a great idea!

I met him personally along with a few of the other folks in the NY office. He and the entire office represented AZ wonderfully.
For those who have not already expressed appreciation for Nicolo's help along with the NYC AZ office's help, and AZ's general handling of this mistake fare a letter of commendation is definitely in order. Thank you Beaubo for publishing the address and names.

It would do him a world of good, I believe,
if FTers who benefited from the AZ YYZ-LCA fare...... Seems like a nice idea, but I wonder
if there might be unintended consequences.

His managers might not be fond
of the people who benefited from the fare.

His excellent customer service could perversely be viewed
as helping out those customers Alitalia managers
view as least valuable !

I don't know which way it would play,
but I would check with Nicolo first.

Seems like a nice idea, but I wonder
if there might be unintended consequences.

His managers might not be fond
of the people who benefitted from the fare.

His excellent customer service could perversely be viewed
as helping out those customers Alitalia managers
view as least valuable !

I don't know which way it would play,
but I would check with Nicolo first.

I'd concur with this. I have sent Nicolo (and Leonardo in YYZ) small gifts in exchange for their help.

After 8904 posts and most everyone completing their trip, I wanted to post a reminder that the Holiday Inn Nicosia City Centre is still only 5000 PC points per night according to this link (http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/pc/1/en/c/1/content/dec/pc/0/en/points/us/hre/pointbreaks/europe.html?rateCode=IVANI). Enjoy your trips. I certainly enjoyed mine and pass positive words to the AZ rulers.

Hi, I am writing this from Athens, Greece while on my YYZ-LCA ticket.:eek: and am completely baffled on my situation.

I was scheduled to fly from FCO-LCA today on CY, but upon arrival to FCO, I was given a huge shock! My flight from FCO-LCA wasn't operating today although I did have a ticket in hand. Issued in 15Mar07 and confirmed with the checkin agent in YYZ upon departure (Mar30).

I got to the Alitalia ticketing counter in FCO and after some hemming and hawing, they finally decided to reroute me via ATH on a mixture of both AZ and A3 (Agean Airlines).

As there are no Cyprus Airways agents available at the airport, I flew to Athens.

I have talked to a Cyprus Airways agent in ATH and while looking up my reservation, he found it quite odd that AZ7700 was still showing on my reservation as to be flown, but with no indication that I was rerouted. However, on his schedule, AZ7700 didn't exist on Tuesdays.:confused:

On my reissued tickets the reason given was NOOP, and reason for issuance was CXLD. Am I correct to think that means No Operating flight was Cancelled? I am disappointed as I will not get to spend the day at the beach as planned as I will be arriving 5 hours after my origionally scheduled flight, and am wondering if this was something that the EU rules would cover as IDB?

He also mentioned that it was his understanding of the EU rules that the marketing carrier has the responsibility to inform me of the changes and that I should discuss with Alitalia as Cyprus Air only has responsibility the day of the flight. However, they failed to do so and it was their fault. He also mentioned as they reticketed me, they are accepting responsibility for transport and I should discuss with them.

Should I re-checkin in Cyprus to make sure I still have a return flight as per his system, as I didn't fly the AZ7700?

Does anyone have any input as what I should do?

Thanks.

PB

*sorry dup post

I can't believe it's been a whole year since this awesome deal hit FT!

I can't believe it's been a whole year since this awesome deal hit FT! And one year means it's all over -- what a ride!

I can't believe it's been a whole year since this awesome deal hit FT!

And the only mistake I made was buying just 5 tickets.:D

On my reissued tickets the reason given was NOOP, and reason for issuance was CXLD. Am I correct to think that means No Operating flight was Cancelled?It means NOt OPerating/CanceLleD.

and am wondering if this was something that the EU rules would cover as IDB?No, this is most certainly not an IDB, it's a flight cancellation.

You may find the following guide helpful: http://www.caa.co.uk/default.aspx?catid=306&pagetype=90&pageid=4409

He also mentioned that it was his understanding of the EU rules that the marketing carrier has the responsibility to inform me of the changes and that I should discuss with Alitalia as Cyprus Air only has responsibility the day of the flight. However, they failed to do so and it was their fault. He also mentioned as they reticketed me, they are accepting responsibility for transport and I should discuss with them.Logically, that's true, especially since CY did not get paid for the flight in question.

However, technically, Regulation EC 261/2004 states that:
"In order to ensure the effective application of this Regulation,
the obligations that it creates should rest with the
operating air carrier who performs or intends to
perform a flight, whether with owned aircraft, under dry
or wet lease, or on any other basis."In other words, you can claim from CY ...

"This Regulation should not restrict the rights of the
operating air carrier to seek compensation from any
person, including third parties, in accordance with the
law applicable."... and CY would then re-claim any pay-out from AZ.

Should I re-checkin in Cyprus to make sure I still have a return flight as per his system, as I didn't fly the AZ7700?Yes, call CY call centre approx. 48 hours of the return flight departure time at 8000-0008 (toll-free from Cyprus) to reconfirm the flight and select a seat.

Sorry to hear about your mix up in flights, partyboy. But a lesson to be learned for you and everyone else is that even though reconfirming flights is not longer required by most airlines, it can't hurt to reconfirm your flights 48-72 hous in advance. This goes for all flights, but especially international flights. It might or might not have helped in your case, if Alitalia still showed the CY flight as operating. But at least you could have had one more arrow in your ammunition in that you even called to reconfirm. Enjoy. Are you heading back soon? I thought you had to be back by today. Apparently you got a reprieve.

I returned on Tuesday, April 2, MXP-YYZ and also had the old plane. I believe there were about 5 empty seats in Business. Crew was efficient but not too conversant, unlike my flight from YYZ, March 15. That crew was a fun one!

And to think that it is all over tomorrow. I just had one of these tickets but what a ride it was. Thanks to all who made this such a memorable 12 months! Maybe there will be some sort of ceremony at MXP and YYZ tomorrow to commemorate this day (and quite possibly NYC) :D

Seems like a nice idea, but I wonder
if there might be unintended consequences.

His managers might not be fond
of the people who benefited from the fare.

His excellent customer service could perversely be viewed
as helping out those customers Alitalia managers
view as least valuable !

I don't know which way it would play,
but I would check with Nicolo first.

NIcolo was indeed advised about contacting his superiors, and he was appreciative and supportive of the initiative. Hpoe that helps!

Just posted in the Trip Reports forum:

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=7528547#post7528547

FAREwell DRTCA9 ...

I made it back in one piece. FourWheels and I got to explore Cyprus a little bit, and then hit the Hilton in Milan for our one night stay there. I was quite pleased to be given all Hilton Diamond amenities (other than room upgrade) for a Hotwire booking.

I honestly found AZ to be rather lacking in their dealing with the canceled CY flights. They obviously knew about the cancellations at least a month ago, and did absolutely nothing to contact flyers and let them know about the situation.

Given the very limited options in the AZ lounge in MXP, I stuck with what my itinerary had been changed to. I ended up wasting about $200 in prepaid Hotwire reservations. Nicolo's steadfast refusal to drop LCA legs at the end, when the CY flights were canceled seemed a bit too hardline for my tastes.

At least I got the new seats going back to YYZ. I also got a great NW agent in YYZ, who rebooked me into F seats going to PHX at no charge, since my flight I had booked had left in the morning.

Was to return today April 5, MXP-YYZ but could not make it-- never really planned on takin git- a o/w in J for the price suited me fine!

Wow, hard to believe it's all coming to an end. I finally figured out how to sleep on the lump in the new J seats too. :p

Partyboy, what happened to you today MXP-BOS? Flight was oversold by 1 in J but you did not check in so I guess I got your seat assignment. I personally would have preferred the bump, or at least someone I know on the flight to talk to again.

Thanks to Niccolo, Alitalia and all ticketing and gate agents who never batted an eyelash or give grief over the fare basis amount. In addition I think it should be mentioned here as others have failed to possibly realize it. BIG thank you to Cyprus Airways. Without your Italy-LCA segments, AZ would have issued e-tickets and this fare would have probably never materialized. In addition, thanks for your comfy leather real J seats to LCA and warm meals, as other European carriers try to get away with the block the middle seat syndrome and offer cold sandwiches.

And lastly, thanks to Flyer Talk for allowing a forum to exchange ideas, tips, suggestions about what to do in Cyprus. It is an island nation steep in culture and history and I do hope to return again some day, albeit for longer than 2 days.

What a great ride this has been, when is the next deal!

Thanks to Niccolo, Alitalia and all ticketing and gate agents who never batted an eyelash or give grief over the fare basis amount.

Canceling the tickets in the first place was a big strike against them. The hassle factor in this deal was a bit high, including getting the paper tickets back from my UPS driver after CheapTickets had tried to cancel them, canceled flights that were never communicated to me, and all the express envelopes back to Niccolo. It was a great deal, though, and a big adventure as well. In a good story there is always a cliffhanger, and some setbacks before a happy ending. :)

Thanks to everyone in the thread who gave suggestions, and of course rosj for the great deal alert in the first place.

BIG thank you to Cyprus Airways. Without your Italy-LCA segments, AZ would have issued e-tickets and this fare would have probably never materialized. In addition, thanks for your comfy leather real J seats to LCA and warm meals, as other European carriers try to get away with the block the middle seat syndrome and offer cold sandwiches.

:) Had to smile. CY irrittes me so much these days I only fly them when absolutely necessary. Though, I agree, they do have "real" seats in J, at least on their 319s and 330s and on a 4-5 hour flight LCA-LHR that is a blessing.

And lastly, thanks to Flyer Talk for allowing a forum to exchange ideas, tips, suggestions about what to do in Cyprus. It is an island nation steep in culture and history and I do hope to return again some day, albeit for longer than 2 days.

Glad you enjoyed "my" island. Hope we took care of you and feel free to come back anytime!

I made it back in one piece. FourWheels and I got to explore Cyprus a little bit, and then hit the Hilton in Milan for our one night stay there. I was quite pleased to be given all Hilton Diamond amenities (other than room upgrade) for a Hotwire booking.

I honestly found AZ to be rather lacking in their dealing with the canceled CY flights. They obviously knew about the cancellations at least a month ago, and did absolutely nothing to contact flyers and let them know about the situation.

Given the very limited options in the AZ lounge in MXP, I stuck with what my itinerary had been changed to. I ended up wasting about $200 in prepaid Hotwire reservations. Nicolo's steadfast refusal to drop LCA legs at the end, when the CY flights were canceled seemed a bit too hardline for my tastes.

At least I got the new seats going back to YYZ. I also got a great NW agent in YYZ, who rebooked me into F seats going to PHX at no charge, since my flight I had booked had left in the morning.

No-showing for the MXP/FCO-LCA and LCA-FCO/MXP segments worked as long as you called to "reconfirm" the AZ-operated flights AFTER all CY-operated scheduled segments "passed"; people on these tickets just had to remove the paper ticket coupons for the CY-operated flights prior to going to checking in with AZ for your AZ return flights.

Wow, hard to believe it's all coming to an end. I finally figured out how to sleep on the lump in the new J seats too. :p

.....

Thanks to Niccolo, Alitalia and all ticketing and gate agents who never batted an eyelash or give grief over the fare basis amount. In addition I think it should be mentioned here as others have failed to possibly realize it. BIG thank you to Cyprus Airways. Without your Italy-LCA segments, AZ would have issued e-tickets and this fare would have probably never materialized. In addition, thanks for your comfy leather real J seats to LCA and warm meals, as other European carriers try to get away with the block the middle seat syndrome and offer cold sandwiches.

And lastly, thanks to Flyer Talk for allowing a forum to exchange ideas, tips, suggestions about what to do in Cyprus. It is an island nation steep in culture and history and I do hope to return again some day, albeit for longer than 2 days.

What a great ride this has been, when is the next deal!

^^

The DRTCA9 Online Database has now been archived, and its static snapshot is now available at
http://KVS.UnrealNetwork.com/DRTCA9, together with a link to the
Alitalia DRTCA9 YYZ-LCA Special Fare Tribute Video / Mini Trip Report (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=7528547#post7528547)

No-showing for the MXP/FCO-LCA and LCA-FCO/MXP segments worked as long as you called to "reconfirm" the AZ-operated flights AFTER all CY-operated scheduled segments "passed"; people on these tickets just had to remove the paper ticket coupons for the CY-operated flights prior to going to checking in with AZ for your AZ return flights.



^^
Unfortunately, my original scheduled return had already been changed, and there was no availability in D to change back to.

Thanks again to Jaimito for sharing accommodations. I by far got the better end of the deal.

My last LCA-MXP seg was in Y. I guess I'd forgotten that. The (hottie) check-in agent remembered me from last week and tried to finagle a seat up front, but couldn't manage it. Offered me lounge access though. Well, I was more than surprised to see only 4 pax in D. :rolleyes: Jaimito was kind enough to cross the curtain-line to share his newspaper (and other amenities) with me.

Happy (and lucky) to have had new seats on all segs. Happy to have it all done and over with. Still waiting for all segs to post.

I hope AZ remains in Italian hands... shudder to see/hear the safety video dubbed in Russian. Just say, "Nyet!"

I honestly found AZ to be rather lacking in their dealing with the canceled CY flights. They obviously knew about the cancellations at least a month ago, and did absolutely nothing to contact flyers and let them know about the situation.

Well, who made his or her original booking directly with Alitalia? Noone.

Thus, the "owner" of most PNRs is the online travel agency of your choice - and that's where the schedule changes were transmitted.

Ultimately, it would have been their responsibility to alert you of these changes, but of course, they did not even want to touch those PNRs at all.

It seems to be a small tech issues, but that's the way it.

Well, who made his or her original booking directly with Alitalia? Noone.

Thus, the "owner" of most PNRs is the online travel agency of your choice - and that's where the schedule changes were transmitted.

Ultimately, it would have been their responsibility to alert you of these changes, but of course, they did not even want to touch those PNRs at all.

It seems to be a small tech issues, but that's the way it.

How many of these tickets did you book?

I booked a total of 4 of these. After the dates were changed, you rebooked directly with Alitalia. Alitalia called me in October to let me know that the time had been moved up an hour.

Even when I came home this week, there was a message on my machine, telling me that my outbound departure was going to be delayed by an hour. So don't give me, "Oh your issuing TA is responsible". Since they can easily call for an hours time difference, they can certainly call for a canceled flight. In fact, if not for rechecking with KVS, and not seeing the flight, and posting on FT, I would have shown up in Cyprus thinking I was flying out on a non-existent flight.

So in closing, you don't know what you're talking about.

I hope AZ remains in Italian hands... shudder to see/hear the safety video dubbed in Russian. Just say, "Nyet!"

AZ hasn't made a profit since 1998 from what I read recently. And in 2006 their loss was significantly greater than in 2005 (i.e., a loss of $400+ million comes to mind for 2006???). I'm not sure what explains the growing losses at AZ given that 2006 was, relatively-speaking, a pretty good year for the global aviation industry. Personally, I would not look forward to AZ being taken over by Aeroflot, especially seeing the pricing and mileage-earning implications that happened on French-Netherland routes would probably hit the Italy-Russia flights too.

AZ hasn't made a profit since 1998 from what I read recently. And in 2006 their loss was significantly greater than in 2005 (i.e., a loss of $400+ million comes to mind for 2006???). I'm not sure what explains the growing losses at AZ given that 2006 was, relatively-speaking, a pretty good year for the global aviation industry. Personally, I would not look forward to AZ being taken over by Aeroflot, especially seeing the pricing and mileage-earning implications that happened on French-Netherland routes would probably hit the Italy-Russia flights too.

Hopefully they won't pin it on FlyerTalk. :)

I don't have any experience with Aeroflot, so not sure if they'd be a better partner than AF/KL. If they're bleeding that much, something has to be done, for sure.

Hopefully they won't pin it on FlyerTalk. :)

I don't have any experience with Aeroflot, so not sure if they'd be a better partner than AF/KL. If they're bleeding that much, something has to be done, for sure.

Too many Aeroflot experiences for my lifetime. :D Last I want to see is an AZ-coded flight being an IL plane. :D

We only took two LCA trips but they were the highlights of our 2006 travelling. Really interesting area of the world that we would not otherwise have visited. Thanks to rosj and all those who posted helpful hints.

The only disappointment is that with the deal expiring there is no way we will ever get to 10,000 posts! :D

RIP YYZ-LCA.

The only disappointment is that with the deal expiring there is no way we will ever get to 10,000 posts! :D

True, unless something radical were to happen. :eek: :)

The only disappointment is that with the deal expiring there is no way we will ever get to 10,000 posts! :D


Not unless we get a certain Omni poster to come ov