This thread is a branch-off from the Master KVS Availability Tool Thread (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/travelbuzz/319244-new-kvs-availability-tool-here.html?referrerid=28181&xs=f-sa#post2804833), and is intended for discussion and support on Star Alliance-specific issues.
Please continue to use the main thread for all other matters, and http://www.KVSTool.com for membership-related issues.
Regular Availability:
All 27 Star Alliance member carriers (AC/UA/CO/US/LH/LX/OS/SK/TP/LO/JK/BD/TK/SN/A3/SQ/NZ/NH/OZ/TG/CA/SA/MS/JJ/JP/OU/KF) are supported via all Availability Methods.
Star Alliance Award/Upgrade Availability:
Award Availability is fully supported for all 27 Star Alliance member carriers (AC/UA/CO/US/LH/LX/OS/SK/TP/LO/JK/BD/TK/SN/A3/SQ/NZ/NH/OZ/TG/CA/SA/MS/JJ/JP/OU/KF).
Upgrade Availability is fully supported for most Star Alliance carriers, except JJ.
Please see http://Help.KVSTool.com/#Classes for a complete listing of Star Alliance Award/Upgrade Booking Classes.
Fares, Fare/Routing Rules:
Published Fares of all Star Alliance member carriers are supported by all KVS Tool Fares Methods.
Also supported are Star Alliance Round-The-World (xRWSTARx/YRWSPCL) & other special circle Fares, including Circle Asia (xCASTARx), Circle North Asia (xCNASTRx) & Circle Pacific (xCPSTARx) via the [Fares/DotRes] Method.
Please see http://Help.KVSTool.com/#RTW for more info.
Seat Maps:
Seat Maps are available via the [Amadeus-Text] & [Amadeus Enhanced] options for most Star Alliance member carriers, with the exception of OZ.
Timetables:
All 27 Star Alliance member carriers (AC/UA/CO/US/LH/LX/OS/SK/TP/LO/JK/BD/TK/SN/A3/SQ/NZ/NH/OZ/TG/CA/SA/MS/JJ/JP/OU/KF) are supported
Operational Info/Flight Tracking:
Star Alliance flights are supported in all Tracking options.
Detailed Operational Info (incl. delay reasons) is available for AC/UA/US/LH/OS/SK/TP/LO/JK/BD/TK/SQ/NZ/NH/OZ/SA/KF/LX flights via the [Amadeus] option.
Detailed Operational Info is also available for US/UA flights via the [WSpan] option.
KVS
May 25, 11, 9:06 pm
<Reserved For Future Use>
KVS
May 26, 11, 12:26 pm
http://www.kvstool.com/Images/StarGreen15.gif Interested Diamond-tier KVS Tool members are invited to RSVP using the link at http://www.KVSTool.com/
DownUnderFlyer
May 26, 11, 11:09 pm
Thanks a lot for a new way of helping us to spend our miles! ^
Tested it and it works well in some cases but have issues with others.
A routing like DFW-SYD for example gives nice connections and works well.
However a routing like HAM-KRT gives me
Datasource Error [RD]: "(Engine Error)"
CAI-KRT a "route to complex" even so there are direct flights.
The ANA tool shows flights and availability for both HAM-KRT and CAI-KRT.
uk1
May 27, 11, 12:05 am
Thanks ..... looking forward to giving it a go!
nyc6035
May 27, 11, 4:43 am
KVS,
Thanks VERY much for taking this on and adding this value add to the tool.
I have a couple of comments initially:
-It would be a tremendous value add if users could use psuedo city codes like NYC and enable the tool to poll the potential combinations back to aeroplan (i.e. JFK, LGA, EWR) -(so the user wouldn't need to run multiple queries) and have the kvs tool concatenate the results.
Second -the message Route too complex - perhaps should capture the lack of availability and say something else like "No Availability."
Lastly - when there is no availability - it would be a huge help if the tool could capture the alternative dates in the displayed aeroplan calender and make them a right click option in the KVS tool so those available dates could be viewed.
This is great work. Thanks for all your efforts!^^
KVS
May 27, 11, 12:19 pm
Thanks a lot for a new way of helping us to spend our miles! ^
You're welcome!
Tested it and it works well in some cases but have issues with others.
A routing like DFW-SYD for example gives nice connections and works well.
However a routing like HAM-KRT gives me
Datasource Error [RD]: "(Engine Error)"
It appears that, for some reason, that engine is, indeed, unable to handle requests for HAM-KRT.
CAI-KRT a "route to complex" even so there are direct flights.
The ANA tool shows flights and availability for both HAM-KRT and CAI-KRT.
CAI-KRT shows availability on some dates; the error message will be adjusted:
[KVS Availability Tool 6.2.9921/Diamond - ITA: Awards/AC-StarAlliance] (http://www.KVSTool.com/?R)
CAI Cairo Intl EG [HECA]
KRT Khartoum Civil SD [HSSS]
SAT 01 Oct 2011 | 1 Seat
Carrier Flight From Depart To Arrive A/C St Availability
--------- ------ ---- -------- ---- -------- --- -- ------------
MS 853 CAI 00:15 KRT 03:50 330 0 CS+ YS+
DownUnderFlyer
May 28, 11, 4:25 am
CAI-KRT shows availability on some dates; the error message will be adjusted:
The issue is that the ANA tool shows availability on more dates than AC. Not sure why this is.
KVS
May 28, 11, 11:51 am
The issue is that the ANA tool shows availability on more dates than AC. Not sure why this is.
Could be a StarNet datalink issue between AC & MS ...
KVS
May 28, 11, 12:46 pm
KVS,
Thanks VERY much for taking this on and adding this valid add to the tool.
This is great work. Thanks for all your efforts!^^
Glad you're finding this latest addition useful!
Lastly - when there is no availability - it would be a huge help if the tool could capture the alternative dates in the displayed aeroplan calender and make them a right click option in the KVS tool so those available dates could be viewed.
The Award Availability option has now been added.
Please download an updated Beta (V6.2.9921.B2) and give it a try:
[KVS Availability Tool 6.2.9921.B2/Diamond - ITA: Awards/AC-StarAlliance] (http://www.KVSTool.com/?R)
LHR London Heathrow UK [EGLL]
SAN San Diego Metro / Lindbergh Fld Intl CA US = SAN CLD [KSAN]
FRI 01 Jul 2011 | 2 Seats
Carrier Flight From Depart To Arrive A/C St Availability
--------- ------ ---- -------- ---- -------- --- -- -------------------------------
Awards Available:
CS: 28 Jun/29 Jun/06 Jul/24 Jun
YS: 24 Jun
Second -the message Route too complex - perhaps should capture the lack of availability and say something else like "No Availability."
That message has been changed, as per the earlier post.
-It would be a tremendous value add if users could use psuedo city codes like NYC and enable the tool to poll the potential combinations back to aeroplan (i.e. JFK, LGA, EWR) -(so the user wouldn't need to run multiple queries) and have the kvs tool concatenate the results.
Unfortunately, this would not be feasible, due to an equally tremendous increase in the number of queries and the amount of time those queries would take.
For example, NYC (JFK/LGA/EWR) to LON (LHR/LGW/STN/LTN/LCY/QQS/QQW/ZLS/ZEP) would require 27 (3*9) separate queries.
nyc6035
May 28, 11, 1:32 pm
KVS,
Thanks for continued efforts. Thanks for the alternative dates option!
It appears the beta I downloaded is not throwing ANY messages now when there is no availability.
Search the following as an example:
LGA-XMN Jun 29 or July 2 one way all classes 1 pax
Regards
KVS
May 28, 11, 3:35 pm
Thanks for continued efforts. Thanks for the alternative dates option!
It appears the beta I downloaded is not throwing ANY messages now when there is no availability.
Search the following as an example:
LGA-XMN Jun 29 or July 2 one way all classes 1 pax
Thanks for the bug report -- please download the updated Beta:
[KVS Availability Tool 6.2.9921.B3/Diamond - ITA: Awards/AC-StarAlliance] (http://www.KVSTool.com/?R)
LGA New York La Guardia NY US [KLGA]
XMN Xiamen CN [ZSAM]
WED 29 Jun 2011 | 1 Seat
ICN Seoul Incheon Intl KR [RKSI]
SIN Singapore Changi SG [WSSS]
SUN 17 Jul 2011 | 2 Seats
Carrier Flight From Depart To Arrive A/C St Availability
--------- ------ ---- -------- ---- -------- --- -- -------------
SQ 603 ICN 09:00 SIN 14:15 333 0 YS+
SQ 609 ICN 16:40 SIN 21:55 333 0 YS+
OZ 331 ICN 08:40 PEK 09:40 321 0 CS+
-> CA 969 PEK 15:35 SIN 21:25 777 0 FS+
OZ 735 ICN 08:40 SGN 11:55 333 0 CS+
-> SQ 173 SGN 13:10 SIN 16:05 772 0 CS+
OZ 369 ICN 08:50 CAN 11:20 333 0 YS+
-> SQ 851 CAN 13:25 SIN 17:25 333 0 YS+
OZ 361 ICN 09:30 PVG 10:30 747 0 YS+
-> SQ 831 PVG 14:30 SIN 19:50 772 0 YS+
OZ 361 ICN 09:30 PVG 10:30 747 0 YS+
-> SQ 833 PVG 16:35 SIN 21:55 773 0 YS+
TG 659 ICN 09:35 BKK 13:25 772 0 CS+ YS+
-> TG 401 BKK 19:40 SIN 22:55 772 0 CS+ YS+
TG 659 ICN 09:35 BKK 13:25 772 0 YS+
-> TG 409 BKK 16:25 SIN 19:40 773 0 YS+
TG 629 ICN 10:20 HKG 12:55 772 0 YS+
-> SQ 861 HKG 15:30 SIN 19:15 388 0 YS+
OZ 363 ICN 10:50 PVG 11:50 777 0 YS+
-> SQ 831 PVG 14:30 SIN 19:50 772 0 YS+
OZ 363 ICN 10:50 PVG 11:50 777 0 YS+
-> SQ 833 PVG 16:35 SIN 21:55 773 0 YS+
OZ 363 ICN 10:50 PVG 11:50 777 0 YS+
-> SQ 835 PVG 19:10 SIN 00:30 +1 772 0 YS+
OZ 711 ICN 11:00 TPE 12:30 767 0 CS+ YS+
-> SQ 879 TPE 18:10 SIN 22:35 333 0 CS+ YS+
OZ 711 ICN 11:00 TPE 12:30 767 0 YS+
-> SQ 877 TPE 14:05 SIN 18:30 333 0 YS+
CA 124 ICN 13:05 PEK 14:10 330 0 CS+ YS+
-> CA 969 PEK 15:35 SIN 21:25 777 0 FS+ CS+ YS+
CA 124 ICN 13:05 PEK 14:10 330 0 CS+
-> CA 975 PEK 23:30 SIN 05:45 +1 763 0 FS+
CA 124 ICN 13:05 PEK 14:10 330 0 YS+
-> SQ 805 PEK 16:00 SIN 22:20 77W 0 YS+
OZ 365 ICN 14:00 PVG 15:00 767 0 CS+ YS+
-> SQ 835 PVG 19:10 SIN 00:30 +1 772 0 CS+ YS+
CA 126 ICN 17:50 PEK 19:00 738 0 YS+
-> CA 975 PEK 23:30 SIN 05:45 +1 763 0 YS+
OZ 367 ICN 20:00 PVG 20:55 321 0 CS+
-> SQ 825 PVG 00:10 +1 SIN 05:30 +1 772 0 CS+
KVS
May 29, 11, 4:58 pm
Select Bus/First for cabin, but it still shows all the flights with only Y cabin available:
That's the way the [Awards/AC-StarAlliance] engine works, but you can use the [Filter] to only show flights that have FS/CS Availability:
[KVS Availability Tool 6.2.9921.B3/Diamond - ITA: Awards/AC-StarAlliance] (http://www.KVSTool.com/?R)
ICN Seoul Incheon Intl KR [RKSI]
SIN Singapore Changi SG [WSSS]
SUN 17 Jul 2011 | 2 Seats
Carrier Flight From Depart To Arrive A/C St Availability
--------- ------ ---- -------- ---- -------- --- -- -------------
OZ 701 ICN 08:25 MNL 11:15 333 0 CS+
-> SQ 917 MNL 14:10 SIN 17:40 772 0 CS+
OZ 735 ICN 08:40 SGN 11:55 333 0 CS+
-> SQ 173 SGN 13:10 SIN 16:05 772 0 CS+
OZ 711 ICN 11:00 TPE 12:30 767 0 CS+
-> SQ 879 TPE 18:10 SIN 22:35 333 0 CS+
CA 124 ICN 13:05 PEK 14:10 330 0 CS+ YS+
-> CA 969 PEK 15:35 SIN 21:25 777 0 FS+ CS+ YS+
CA 124 ICN 13:05 PEK 14:10 330 0 CS+
-> CA 975 PEK 23:30 SIN 05:45 +1 763 0 FS+
OZ 335 ICN 13:20 PEK 14:30 777 0 CS+ YS+
-> CA 969 PEK 15:35 SIN 21:25 777 0 FS+ CS+ YS+
OZ 365 ICN 14:00 PVG 15:00 767 0 CS+ YS+
-> SQ 835 PVG 19:10 SIN 00:30 +1 772 0 CS+ YS+
vrichard
May 29, 11, 10:19 pm
That's the way the [Awards/AC-StarAlliance] engine works, but you can use the [Filter] to only show flights that have FS/CS Availability:
[/CODE]
Then why have the Cabin drop-down enabled at all for this method?
KVS
May 30, 11, 7:18 pm
Then why have the Cabin drop-down enabled at all for this method?
The option will be removed, as it has now been confirmed that it does not affect the search results.
maestro1981
May 31, 11, 3:50 am
I have version B4 of the Beta and whilst the other sections still work, since upgrading, every time I search using the KrisCom: Awards/SQ method, it freezes the program always about 5secs after clicking the search button. Standard Availability, Fares, etc still work.
KVS
May 31, 11, 2:47 pm
I have version B4 of the Beta and whilst the other sections still work, since upgrading, every time I search using the KrisCom: Awards/SQ method, it freezes the program always about 5secs after clicking the search button. Standard Availability, Fares, etc still work.
Please try the troubleshooting steps at http://Help.KVSTool.com/#Errors
under "KVS Tool hangs (freezes) intermittently when transferring data, particularly when using the [Amadeus: Awards/CX] Method".
JohnDP
Jun 2, 11, 1:06 pm
I hope not to be too unsavvy, but can anyone tell me the differences in results from this beta award search than the previous search function? Thanks
jasonvr
Jun 2, 11, 1:38 pm
I hope not to be too unsavvy, but can anyone tell me the differences in results from this beta award search than the previous search function? Thanks
The existing *A award search engine was using ANA's award tool. The new method is using Air Canada's. Theoretically all the same inventory, but in practicality, usually isn't.
KVS
Jun 3, 11, 12:12 pm
I hope not to be too unsavvy, but can anyone tell me the differences in results from this beta award search than the previous search function? Thanks
Some of the main differences are:
Automatic Route Construction: Up to 3 Connections (4 Segments) Vs. 1 Connection (2 Segments)
Maximum Date Range: 355 Vs. 330 Days
Just to let you know that I used the AC/StarAlliance award feature on 6.2.9921.B4 and it worked great. I was able to locate seats for upcoming trip and booked them already.
jasonvr
Jun 11, 11, 9:37 am
The Availability/GTC issue from the mainline product is also affecting the beta with the AC award method.
KVS
Jun 11, 11, 10:02 am
The Availability/GTC issue from the mainline product is also affecting the beta with the AC award method.
This Beta is now complete and the new [Awards/AC-StarAlliance] Method (as well as an update for [Sabre/GTC]) are now a part of the V6.2.0 Release, which is available for download at http://www.KVSTool.com/.
jasonvr
Jun 11, 11, 10:08 am
This Beta is now complete and the new [Awards/AC-StarAlliance] Method (as well as an update for [Sabre/GTC]) are now a part of the V6.2.0 Release, which is available for download at http://www.KVSTool.com/.
That would explain it. Thanks
danananan
Jul 28, 11, 8:05 am
Hi. I'm not sure if I'm doing something wrong. I'm searching for award availability from YYZ to SCL using the SNT method, and I'm getting a "No Results/Route too Complex" message. I can search routes to other cities and get results, even if there is no availability, and I can find this route on the general availability tab.
jasonvr
Jul 28, 11, 9:53 am
Hi. I'm not sure if I'm doing something wrong. I'm searching for award availability from YYZ to SCL using the SNT method, and I'm getting a "No Results/Route too Complex" message. I can search routes to other cities and get results, even if there is no availability, and I can find this route on the general availability tab.
How many connections does it take to get from YYZ to SCL? The SNT method (based off of NH's award search) can't do too many connections. I think it maxes out at 2 connections, but it might be as low as 1. You can search going segment by segment if you know the connection cities you want.
DownUnderFlyer
Jul 28, 11, 10:37 am
Hi. I'm not sure if I'm doing something wrong. I'm searching for award availability from YYZ to SCL using the SNT method, and I'm getting a "No Results/Route too Complex" message. I can search routes to other cities and get results, even if there is no availability, and I can find this route on the general availability tab.
Welcome to FT, danananan! The ANA tool (SNT Method) is good put its not that great for routes with lots of connections. For whatever reason it doesn't pick up the direct AC flight and all other ways for that routes are 3 segments which the ANA tool can't do. Just use the AC tool (ITA) and you will see available seats for that routing.
KVS
Jul 28, 11, 1:20 pm
I'm not sure if I'm doing something wrong. I'm searching for award availability from YYZ to SCL using the SNT method, and I'm getting a "No Results/Route too Complex" message. I can search routes to other cities and get results, even if there is no availability, and I can find this route on the general availability tab.
How many connections does it take to get from YYZ to SCL? The SNT method (based off of NH's award search) can't do too many connections. I think it maxes out at 2 connections, but it might be as low as 1. You can search going segment by segment if you know the connection cities you want.
Welcome to FT, danananan! The ANA tool (SNT Method) is good put its not that great for routes with lots of connections. For whatever reason it doesn't pick up the direct AC flight and all other ways for that routes are 3 segments which the ANA tool can't do. Just use the AC tool (ITA) and you will see available seats for that routing.
Welcome to FT & KVS Tool, danananan!
The automatic route construction capabilities of the [SNT Awards/StarAlliance] Method in the KVS Tool are limited to 1 connection (2 flight segments).
The [ITA: Awards/AC-StarAlliance] Method can automatically build up to 3 connections (4 flight segments).
Please see http://Help.KVSTool.com/#Methods for details.
What day of the week did you try to check? The YYZ-SCL flight does not operate on Mondays and all other *A options would require > 1 connection:
[KVS Availability Tool 6.3.0.R2/Diamond - SNT: Awards/StarAlliance/JP-ANA-SP1] (http://www.KVSTool.com/?R)
YYZ Toronto Pearson Intl ON CA [CYYZ]
SCL Santiago De Chile Arturo Merino Benitez CL [SCEL]
THU 01 Sep 2011 | 1 Seat
Carrier Flight From Depart To Arrive A/C St Availability
--------- ------ ---- -------- ---- -------- --- -- -------------
AC 92 YYZ 22:55 SCL 10:25 +1 763 0 FS/ CS- YS-
DownUnderFlyer
Jul 29, 11, 1:54 am
What day of the week did you try to check? The YYZ-SCL flight does not operate on Mondays and all other *A options would require > 1 connection:
I can reproduce the problem. 29 November 2011 for example. ANA thinks its all too hard while AC finds the non-stop flight.
KVS
Jul 29, 11, 11:58 am
I can reproduce the problem. 29 November 2011 for example. ANA thinks its all too hard while AC finds the non-stop flight.
You just need to select the [+1D] POS option, as the closest flight in the opposite direction is on Wed:
[KVS Availability Tool 6.3.0.R2/Diamond - SNT: Awards/StarAlliance/JP-ANA +1D] (http://www.KVSTool.com/?R)
YYZ Toronto Pearson Intl ON CA [CYYZ]
SCL Santiago De Chile Arturo Merino Benitez CL [SCEL]
TUE 29 Nov 2011 | 1 Seat
Carrier Flight From Depart To Arrive A/C St Availability
--------- ------ ---- -------- ---- -------- --- -- -------------
AC 92 YYZ 23:55 SCL 12:15 +1 77W 0 FS/ CS- YS+
Please see http://Help.KVSTool.com/#Methods for details.
danananan
Aug 2, 11, 6:36 pm
Thanks so much for the help. I was able to find the YYZ-SCL flight for Tuesday, 2 Nov by selecting the +1 day option. I'm actually trying to track it to see if they release additional business class seats because as of now, I have an award seat in coach for 10 hours <shudder>.
If I'm trying to plan more complex routes, I'd need to upgrade to Diamond tier to use the ITA method?
KVS
Aug 4, 11, 11:51 am
Thanks so much for the help. I was able to find the YYZ-SCL flight for Tuesday, 2 Nov by selecting the +1 day option. I'm actually trying to track it to see if they release additional business class seats because as of now, I have an award seat in coach for 10 hours <shudder>.
You're welcome & good luck with your search!
If I'm trying to plan more complex routes, I'd need to upgrade to Diamond tier to use the ITA method?
The new [Awards/AC-StarAlliance] Method can certainly make things easier.
However, you can still use the [Awards/StarAlliance] Method, but you should do the route construction yourself first, e.g. using the [Timetables], where you can specify up to 3 airlines & which can automatically build routings with up to 5 segments.
FlyerGoldII
Aug 7, 11, 1:17 pm
Glad you're finding this latest addition useful!
The Award Availability option has now been added.
Please download an updated Beta (V6.2.9921.B2) and give it a try:
[KVS Availability Tool 6.2.9921.B2/Diamond - ITA: Awards/AC-StarAlliance] (http://www.KVSTool.com/?R)
LHR London Heathrow UK [EGLL]
SAN San Diego Metro / Lindbergh Fld Intl CA US = SAN CLD [KSAN]
FRI 01 Jul 2011 | 2 Seats
Carrier Flight From Depart To Arrive A/C St Availability
--------- ------ ---- -------- ---- -------- --- -- -------------------------------
Awards Available:
CS: 28 Jun/29 Jun/06 Jul/24 Jun
YS: 24 Jun
That message has been changed, as per the earlier post.
Unfortunately, this would not be feasible, due to an equally tremendous increase in the number of queries and the amount of time those queries would take.
For example, NYC (JFK/LGA/EWR) to LON (LHR/LGW/STN/LTN/LCY/QQS/QQW/ZLS/ZEP) would require 27 (3*9) separate queries.
I would like to have access to the KVS tool, with the feature of Star Alliance (through the AC method) award availability on alternate dates. However, I would prefer to have access to this feature, when this feature has passed the beta phase. When might this feature be part of the regular phase KVS tool?
jasonvr
Aug 7, 11, 1:30 pm
I would like to have access to the KVS tool, with the feature of Star Alliance (through the AC method) award availability on alternate dates. However, I would prefer to have access to this feature, when this feature has passed the beta phase. When might this feature be part of the regular phase KVS tool?
*A/AC is now part of the mainline product and came out of Beta a couple of months ago
FlyerGoldII
Aug 7, 11, 3:45 pm
*A/AC is now part of the mainline product and came out of Beta a couple of months ago
If the feature of listing award availability on alternate dates is part of the Star Alliance/AC award mainline product, then how do I get access to this feature?
jasonvr
Aug 7, 11, 4:05 pm
If the feature of listing award availability on alternate dates is part of the Star Alliance/AC award mainline product, then how do I get access to this feature?
Is this what you are referring to:
[KVS Availability Tool 6.4.0/Diamond - ITA: Awards/AC-StarAlliance/CA] (http://www.KVSTool.com/?R)
YVR Vancouver Metro / Intl BC CA = YVR CXH [CYVR]
SYD Sydney Kingsford Smith NS AU [YSSY]
THU 22 Dec 2011 | 1 Seat
Carrier Flight From Depart To Arrive A/C St Availability
--------- ------ ---- -------- ---- -------- --- -- -----------------
Awards Available:
CS: 24 Dec
YS: 23 Dec/25 Dec
That only comes up if I tick the "Calendar" check box
FlyerGoldII
Aug 10, 11, 9:01 pm
Is this what you are referring to:
[KVS Availability Tool 6.4.0/Diamond - ITA: Awards/AC-StarAlliance/CA] (http://www.KVSTool.com/?R)
YVR Vancouver Metro / Intl BC CA = YVR CXH [CYVR]
SYD Sydney Kingsford Smith NS AU [YSSY]
THU 22 Dec 2011 | 1 Seat
Carrier Flight From Depart To Arrive A/C St Availability
--------- ------ ---- -------- ---- -------- --- -- -----------------
Awards Available:
CS: 24 Dec
YS: 23 Dec/25 Dec
That only comes up if I tick the "Calendar" check box
I ticked the calendar box, and compared the displayed availabiliy for several routes on several different days, with the calendar box not ticked.
I saw no difference in availability. I saw no availability for days in the future of the date requested, even with the calendar box ticked.
It is true that all my random requests for availability showed some availability (on the requested date) for business and/or economy class, with the calendar box ticked.
jasonvr
Aug 10, 11, 11:38 pm
I ticked the calendar box, and compared the displayed availabiliy for several routes on several different days, with the calendar box not ticked.
I saw no difference in availability. I saw no availability for days in the future of the date requested, even with the calendar box ticked.
It is true that all my random requests for availability showed some availability (on the requested date) for business and/or economy class, with the calendar box ticked.
I'm no expert on this, but I thought the calendar checkbox only did something if there was no availability on the date you chose. It would then show alternate dates. If there is any availability, then it doesn't need to show alternate dates. Try the query I had above to see if you get the same thing.
mrx900
Aug 11, 11, 11:59 am
I got ruffly 150K CO miles and would like to book a trip to TUN....when attempting to look for the first segment, I am finding availability out ..but is this availability jus showing that theres 'availability' in that class? or does it mean I can use my miles in the saverpass to get it?
(hope im making sense)..
PDX Portland Intl OR US [KPDX]
IAD Washington Dulles Intl DC US [KIAD]
FRI 18 Nov 2011 | 2 Seats
Carrier Flight From Depart To Arrive A/C St Availability
--------- ------ ---- -------- ---- -------- --- -- ------------
UA 250 PDX 07:48 IAD 15:40 752 0 FS+
jasonvr
Aug 11, 11, 1:42 pm
I got ruffly 150K CO miles and would like to book a trip to TUN....when attempting to look for the first segment, I am finding availability out ..but is this availability jus showing that theres 'availability' in that class? or does it mean I can use my miles in the saverpass to get it?
(hope im making sense)..
PDX Portland Intl OR US [KPDX]
IAD Washington Dulles Intl DC US [KIAD]
FRI 18 Nov 2011 | 2 Seats
Carrier Flight From Depart To Arrive A/C St Availability
--------- ------ ---- -------- ---- -------- --- -- ------------
UA 250 PDX 07:48 IAD 15:40 752 0 FS+
It would be helpful to know which method you are using as there are several that will show *A availability. From the results, I'd say you are using the AC-StarAlliance. The FS+ indicates that there are 2 F seats available for redemption on that flight. In fact, since it is a UA flight, you can use the UA Award method and find out there are in fact 3 F seats available for redemption (XF3)
If you are using CO miles, you might want to use the new CO Award method, although, I have to admit, I have yet to figure out how to interpret the results especially for non-CO flights. However, I find using the actual CO site for award searching really easy and fast, especially when searching a lot of dates. It is also really fast to scan if there are business or first class seats available at saver rates.
KVS
Aug 11, 11, 1:46 pm
I'm no expert on this, but I thought the calendar checkbox only did something if there was no availability on the date you chose. It would then show alternate dates. If there is any availability, then it doesn't need to show alternate dates. Try the query I had above to see if you get the same thing.
That is correct.
KVS
Aug 11, 11, 1:51 pm
I got ruffly 150K CO miles and would like to book a trip to TUN....when attempting to look for the first segment, I am finding availability out ..but is this availability jus showing that theres 'availability' in that class? or does it mean I can use my miles in the saverpass to get it?
(hope im making sense)..
PDX Portland Intl OR US [KPDX]
IAD Washington Dulles Intl DC US [KIAD]
FRI 18 Nov 2011 | 2 Seats
Carrier Flight From Depart To Arrive A/C St Availability
--------- ------ ---- -------- ---- -------- --- -- ------------
UA 250 PDX 07:48 IAD 15:40 752 0 FS+
Yes, you are looking at First Class ("F") Standard ("S") Award Availability and yes, you can use it as a part of a SaverPass reward.
In terms of the calendar box, I tried jasonvr's example.
It works if I do not add any filters to the search. Now, it comes up as Dec 23/25 for economy class only.
The filter does not allow you to enter a specific airline - otherwise the functionality of alternate dates does now work.
What jasonvr's and my example does not display, is the airline that these awards on the other dates are available.
I also tried to filter this functionality by class - I added the letter "c" to the class requested - nothing happens.
jasonvr
Aug 11, 11, 8:42 pm
In terms of the calendar box, I tried jasonvr's example.
It works if I do not add any filters to the search. Now, it comes up as Dec 23/25 for economy class only.
The filter does not allow you to enter a specific airline - otherwise the functionality of alternate dates does now work.
What jasonvr's and my example does not display, is the airline that these awards on the other dates are available.
I also tried to filter this functionality by class - I added the letter "c" to the class requested - nothing happens.
The calendar feature will not show the airlines on those other dates. If you've used the AC functionality on the website, it just shows a calendar of available dates. To see what is on those dates, do another search on the dates indicated.
You are correct that the "Availability required in Classes" doesn't seem to do anything. However, "Display only the following Classes" does seem to work, but it deletes the dates and just leaves CS which isn't very useful.
KVS
Aug 13, 11, 4:19 pm
it just shows a calendar of available dates. To see what is on those dates, do another search on the dates indicated.
That is correct.
You are correct that the "Availability required in Classes" doesn't seem to do anything.
You cannot apply a Filter to informational messages (incl. Calendar listings), only to actual [Award] Availability results.
KVS
Dec 13, 11, 11:09 am
Ethiopian Airlines [ET] has now joined the Star Alliance and its Award Availability is accessible via the [Awards/StarAlliance] Method in the KVS Tool with immediate effect:
http://Help.KVSTool.com/#Classes
pete4212
Dec 13, 11, 1:55 pm
Ethiopian Airlines [ET] has now joined the Star Alliance and its Award Availability is accessible via
...via the ANA and AC award search tools, as well as any site that screen scrapes from them, like AwardNexus, for free.
KVS
Dec 13, 11, 6:35 pm
AC award search tools
The AC engine did not support ET Award Availability at the time of the OP, but it does now.
any site that screen scrapes from them, like
As mentioned in the top post, this thread is dedicated specifically to the KVS Tool.
In order to keep it on-topic, other tools/sites/services should be discussed in their own respective threads (and, preferably, using one's primary handle).
jphripjah
Dec 13, 11, 7:04 pm
Ethiopian Airlines [ET] has now joined the Star Alliance and its Award Availability is accessible via the [Awards/StarAlliance] Method in the KVS Tool with immediate effect:
http://Help.KVSTool.com/#Classes
Nice! You guys are fast.
mileq
May 9, 12, 8:39 am
The idea is great, as it speeds up searching for the +7 days.
The problem, which I can see is:
- no connecting flights
- it gives you the results for non-existing flights :D:D:D
Please cross-check below vs. which flights actually fly on these days.
I understand that it is beta and the general idea is good.
[KVS Availability Tool 6.9.9902/Diamond - SNT: Awards/StarAlliance-7D] (http://www.KVSTool.com/)
WAW Warsaw Okecie PL [EPWA]
JFK New York John F Kennedy Intl NY US [KJFK]
TUE 21 Aug 2012 - 28 Aug 2012 | 1 Seat
So far the 7 day forecast works very well. Nothing to complain about.
jasonvr
May 10, 12, 11:36 pm
So far the 7 day forecast works very well. Nothing to complain about.
Gotta agree. I haven't used it extensively, but it seems to work fine. Some other options might be nice though, such as +/-3 days instead of just x thru x+6. I realize that I can accomplish that by setting my start date 3 days earlier than I intended, but sometimes thinking of it as a delta around a center point is easier.
KVS
May 11, 12, 4:45 pm
The idea is great, as it speeds up searching for the +7 days.
Thanks for your feedback!
The problem, which I can see is:
- no connecting flights
- it gives you the results for non-existing flights :D:D:D
Please cross-check below vs. which flights actually fly on these days.
I understand that it is beta and the general idea is good.
Both of these are limitations of the underlying Engine itself.
Flight departure/arrival times are based on the 1st date in the range and flights that do not actually operate on a particular date are easy to spot, as they will have the No Cabin ("/") indicators shown for all Cabins.
KVS
May 11, 12, 4:49 pm
So far the 7 day forecast works very well. Nothing to complain about.
Gotta agree. I haven't used it extensively, but it seems to work fine. Some other options might be nice though, such as +/-3 days instead of just x thru x+6. I realize that I can accomplish that by setting my start date 3 days earlier than I intended, but sometimes thinking of it as a delta around a center point is easier.
Excellent suggestion -- this has now been implemented in the updated KVS Tool Beta V6.9.9903 as a user-selectable option:
http://www.KVSTool.com/Images/Screenshot_SA7D.gif
jasonvr
May 11, 12, 6:42 pm
Excellent suggestion -- this has now been implemented in the updated KVS Tool Beta V6.9.9903 as a user-selectable option:
Nice, but can I suggest that the days be listed as -3,-2,-1,<nothing>,+1,+2,+3. Since the date isn't listed, it's hard to tell where the median date (i.e. the date you entered) is. It happens to be +3.
onlysuites
May 13, 12, 5:54 am
Just started using it. Excellent so far ^
nyc6035
May 13, 12, 9:23 am
KVS,
Thanks for your continued efforts. The 7 day feature is a nice addition.
A couple of comments:
- (assuming you are using the ANA tool for the underlying search), could the 7 day search include the connections option (it appears the output is only displaying the more truncated view).
-it would be quite helpful if the return display shows the date of the departure of the flight in the list of the specific flights. Having to roll over the flight to see the date at the bottom of the box is suboptimal. This also would help with the regular (non 7 day) flight display when you want to extract the display into excel or txt - today the date of the flights doesn't carry over.
Thanks for the continued development and support!
KVS
May 13, 12, 9:34 pm
KVS,
Thanks for your continued efforts. The 7 day feature is a nice addition.
A couple of comments:
- (assuming you are using the ANA tool for the underlying search), could the 7 day search include the connections option (it appears the output is only displaying the more truncated view).
Actually, the ANA Engine only supports Non-Stop/Direct flights in the 7-Day mode.
-it would be quite helpful if the return display shows the date of the departure of the flight in the list of the specific flights. Having to roll over the flight to see the date at the bottom of the box is suboptimal. This also would help with the regular (non 7 day) flight display when you want to extract the display into excel or txt - today the date of the flights doesn't carry over.
If you drag-and-drop an individual segment into another application, the date will be included with each flight.
Thanks for the continued development and support!
Thanks for your feedback!
KVS
May 13, 12, 9:36 pm
Just started using it. Excellent so far ^
Enjoy!
Nice, but can I suggest that the days be listed as -3,-2,-1,<nothing>,+1,+2,+3. Since the date isn't listed, it's hard to tell where the median date (i.e. the date you entered) is. It happens to be +3.
That was, indeed, the intended behaviour in the +/3D mode -- please downloaded an updated Beta:
If you drag-and-drop an individual segment into another application, the date will be included with each flight.
You learn something new every day! I'd rather not think about how many times I've manually enter the dates in Excel and Word.
Thanks!
jasonvr
May 14, 12, 8:36 pm
Found a problem with the 7 day search, but it could be an error in the underlying engine. When the aircraft type changes for a route, all results for that flight seem to list the aircraft type that was first found.
For instance, on August 1, FRA-IAH LH440 changes from a 744 to a 380. Doing a +/-3 days search on 8/3 shows 744 for all instances of LH440. Doing the same search on 8/4 shows A380 on all instances of LH440.
[KVS Availability Tool 6.9.9904/Diamond - SNT: Awards/StarAlliance-7D] (http://www.KVSTool.com/)
FRA Frankfurt Metro / Intl DE = FRA HHN [EDDF]
IAH Houston George Bush Intercnt'l TX US [KIAH]
TUE 31 Jul 2012 - 06 Aug 2012 | 2 Seats
[KVS Availability Tool 6.9.9904/Diamond - SNT: Awards/StarAlliance-7D] (http://www.KVSTool.com/)
FRA Frankfurt Metro / Intl DE = FRA HHN [EDDF]
IAH Houston George Bush Intercnt'l TX US [KIAH]
WED 01 Aug 2012 - 07 Aug 2012 | 2 Seats
Found a problem with the 7 day search, but it could be an error in the underlying engine. When the aircraft type changes for a route, all results for that flight seem to list the aircraft type that was first found.
This is a limitation of the underling Engine itself:
http://Help.KVSTool.com/#Method_SNT_Awards_StarAlliance7D
A/C Type will be removed to avoid confusion:
[KVS Availability Tool 6.9.9.R3/Diamond - SNT: Awards/StarAlliance-7D] (http://www.KVSTool.com/)
SYD Sydney Kingsford Smith NS AU [YSSY]
LAX Los Angeles Intl CA US [KLAX]
SUN 22 Jul 2012 - 28 Jul 2012 | 1 Seat
Carrier Flight From Depart To Arrive A/C St Availability
--------- ------ ---- -------- ---- -------- --- -- -------------
UA 840 SYD 13:50 -3 LAX 10:15 -3 744 0 FS- CS- YS-
UA 840 SYD 13:50 -2 LAX 10:15 -2 *** * FS+ CS+ YS-
UA 840 SYD 13:50 -1 LAX 10:15 -1 *** * FS+ CS+ YS+
UA 840 SYD 13:50 LAX 10:15 *** * FS- CS+ YS-
UA 840 SYD 13:50 +1 LAX 10:15 +1 *** * FS- CS- YS-
UA 840 SYD 13:50 +2 LAX 10:15 +2 *** * FS- CS- YS-
UA 840 SYD 13:50 +3 LAX 10:15 +3 *** * FS- CS- YS-