MilesBuzz! - WOW - Free NW Platinum Elite Mailer

- kazman

[This message has been edited by kazman (edited 06-02-2000).]

Kazman, that's very interesting. What other elite levels do you have and where do you live?

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Kazman,

I agree that is terrific. You said it wasn't addressed to anyone, don't you find that odd? I wonder what NW's rationale is for sending out such a valuable promotion and not targeting a specific audience.

Originally posted by kazman:
Strange but true - just received a postage paid card from NW that says
"This exclusive invitation expires December 31, 2000.

Good thing this wasn't posted April 1st, or I would never have believed it! I'll have to ask my mailman if he can get one for me! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

kazman

[This message has been edited by kazman (edited 06-02-2000).]

Are you sure your own information isn't encoded somewhere on the card? IE like some unique ID number which relates that card back to you?

In any case, what an offer! Scan in the card so we can take a closer look. Enjoy it..

Without passing any judgement as to whether or not Kazman's NWA offer is transferable, the offer he received is not that unusual. A few years back United was offering a bounty to employees who could identify elite flyers of other airlines. This program may still be in effect. Those elite flyers were offered premier exec or 1K status for a year. There are other programs from other airlines. In South Florida there is an agency that can arrange elite status with a variety of airlines for a fee, of course. I'm sure any airline offering such an inducement to gain a good customer would want to keep its program as quiet and low key as possible. Think about it. Are you offended?

[This message has been edited by Wineman (edited 05-18-2000).]

I find this very interesting - and would love to hear more information. What are the programs that you can 'buy' elite status in (excluding amex black card). How expensive is it? Can I get the name and contact information of the agency that can arrange it.

If you don't want to post it here - maybe you could do me the favor of emailing to me at ldsny@aol.com.

Thanks!

Wineman, I would also be interested in any details you might have about a service that "gets" someone elite status on an airline. Again, please post, or if you prefer, use the "email Jetsetter" link. Thanks.

I'd be interested as well. Tell us everything that the reply card says. Maybe we can all call in and say we got the card and tell them what it says.

An alternative is for you to scan it and email it to us. Is that possible. My email address is markgjones@yahoo.com

------------------
AA Exec Plat
Chicago
1.75mm

Being a fairly new NW flyer who has yet to reach Elite status, I am also VERY interested in this (and the other paid) offers.

Please contact me if you can forward on any details whatsoever.

THANKS!!!

Sorry gang - I do not have a scanner and I am not very computer literate - BUT if someone that has a scanner wants to provide a fax number - I will gladly fax the card, in order that it may be scanned - Some more info - the card came from the regional LAX sales office - This has been confirmed - Kazman

If you fax it to 978-246-8103, I'll post it.

G'day Dudster, could you put me on you email list. I would appreciate it.

Dave
China

Dudster, put me in your mailing list also. Thanks.

Dudster,
I'd love a copy, too, as 5 family members are flying NW to Japan this July.
kidpachinko@yahoo.com - if you've scanned it. (or int'l fax at 81-3-3354-0801)

Dudster:

would be curious to see the contents of this mailing, although I already have status.

Would you please e-mail me a copy, as well?

fqtv@hotmail.com

Thank you in advance.

I'd love to be on the mailing list too.

Thanks http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

DUDSTER, Where is the post of the fax?

[This message has been edited by Sydneyjb (edited 05-21-2000).]

Dudster,

Count me in on a copy of that FAX

bob2@techie.com

thanks

------------------
AA..just plain old Platinum
AOL Instant Messenger# bobcharlap
bob2@techie.com

I'd like to see it too!

imtute@yahoo.com

No need for the flood of "me tos." I'll post it to a website once I receive it. Just waiting on kazman to fax it.

914 501-4316 or 815 377-2069 if you don't mind. thanks

Either address is a digitizer so I can forward the fax to anyone who leaves an e-mail address.

[This message has been edited by terenz (edited 05-22-2000).]

kazman

[This message has been edited by kazman (edited 06-02-2000).]

P.S. - I can't believe the response - I have received MANY e-mails from those who have my e-mail address - while I haven't decided what to do with the card, use or gift, I have had several offers - the most interesting offer has been 2 RT (4 total - UA 1k systemwides) kazman

That's a very interesting offer.

[This message has been edited by Flying Dutchman (edited 05-30-2000).]

kazman:
Since I don't have your e-mail adress and am going on my 1st transatlantic NW trip, I would love to be a "me too".

freho@online.no

You can now see a copy of the invitation at
http://www.umich.edu/~dudleys/nwa/

Originally posted by Dudster:
You can now see a copy of the invitation at
http://www.umich.edu/~dudleys/nwa/



Dudster- I live in Ann Arbor and would like to see this if you are willing...please list your e-mail address. Thanks.

Originally posted by Dudster:
You can now see a copy of the invitation at
http://www.umich.edu/~dudleys/nwa/



Dudster-I just called World Perks and they want to know what is the address on the back of the card. I plan on faxing it to them.
Thanks for your help.

This is nuts, just plain nuts...

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/frown.gif

I do hope that you all are not unwittingly creating a real mess for kazman and everyone else! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/rolleyes.gif http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/confused.gif

I too would appreciate it if someone could either post or email me the address on the back of the card...as it seems this might be needed. I have not as of yet called NW, etc.

Called NW. They advised that the post card must be mailed to the address on it, e.g. mail the actual post card. I asked if it could be faxed, and they say if the post card has a faxnumber...ok to use fax number on the card. The rep either did not, or pretended to not, know much about comp elite status in general. For example, also she said she did not know if they (NW) comp elite via other airline matches, etc. She just said maybe we will maybe we won't. She said she was not in the dept that did this. She was not aware if they would comp NW status for CO status. One NW advantage is 7 miles per dollar on Sprint PCS for NW elite. If the post card was not addressed to the poster of the original message, then I don't think it will cause them any problems. I would imagine that NW sent out a good number of these post cards.

- kazman

[This message has been edited by kazman (edited 06-02-2000).]

kazman

You've got mail.

you got some more mail....

Kazman,

I'm also very interested in this so guess you have got even more mail.

[This message has been edited by kungoskar (edited 05-29-2000).]

This is just plain Wacky http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif LOL!
Who knows... we will see what deal wins his heart...

For now, I am staying out of the eFlyertalk Auction http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif and catching my UA flight...

Originally posted by COJUNKIE:
Dudster- I live in Ann Arbor and would like to see this if you are willing...please list your e-mail address. Thanks.

I don't have the card, just the faxed copy. This was mailed to Kazman.

I suggest you go to www.ebay.com (http://www.ebay.com) and put this nice card up for auction. Start it at $1.00 or so. It should soar to $5000-$8000 in a couple of days and finally go for a nice-n-tidy $8000-$10000.

Be certain to get a cashiers or certified check from the buyer, then cash it prior to sending the mysterious card off to the lucky bidder and going off to vacation. Good luck and let me know when you complete your vacation.

Isn't that level equal to UAL Premier? I thought that level was fairly easy to talk your way into. Letter from you or travel agent with copy of proof of equivalent status elsewhere. Am I wrong???

No, this is the top level, equivalent to UA 1K.

I agree with MisterNice. Go the eBay route. Of course everyone here would like be a top-tier elite, but unless you have a friend or relative to give it to, the way to be fair to the FTers is to not give it to anyone.

Consider it a stroke of good luck, and, assuming the card has no fine print saying not to sell it, put it up on eBay. Better yet, donate the money to a worthwhile charity. Northwest certainly wouldn't fault you for that.

I disagree with MisterNice's estimates, but who knows? I'd say $1,000 wouldn't be out of the question, but maybe I'm way low. If you do put it up for sale, then we'll all know just what Platinum Elite status is worth!

Of course, if this goes up on eBay, NW might notice and decide to yank this offer lest some unworthy person ends up with it.

I'd say you should keep it quiet.

Hi,

what is the complete address that the card is to be mailed back to?

Cheers,
David

Guess who has Platinum Status without flying one flight on NWA this year! I faxed in the form to World Perks and now I have it!

How fantastic!

Thank you all...

I will think of you as I earn 125% in mileage!

Happy day to you all!

kazman, would you post to confirm that the card has gone? Thanks

I received a similar offer from Northwest in 1994 or 1995 after my very first flight on Northwest (full fare though). The offer then was for Gold which was their top back then. At that time my only other elite status was on United.

I got the same offer as DrFlyer about 5 or 6 years ago. I just threw it away because I did not intend to use NW much back then and there was no gang like this around to pass it on to.

Some very interesting comments - I will take all under advisement EXCEPT - e-bay - I am not looking for money - The fairness issue raised by some of you is valid - I don't want to turn this into something ugly -
I AM DELIGHTED TO HEAR OF COJUNKIE'S SUCCESS !!! I am glad that I was able to fax it and have it posted - Happy to HELP !!!! Send comission to - Just kidding !!! kazman

Originally posted by COJUNKIE:
Guess who has Platinum Status without flying one flight on NWA this year! I faxed in the form to World Perks and now I have it!

How fantastic!


COJUNKIE, have you received some sort of confirmation from NW that it was processed without a hitch?


[This message has been edited by avek00 (edited 05-29-2000).]

I checked my nwa worldperks balance and it says plantinum elt....next to my name.

I can't believe it!

I'm still flying high...(soon literally)

cojunkie, that's great! Glad it worked for you!

ps. can someone email me the fax number
for this letter? Thanks!

Call the NW WorldPerks Service Center and ask for the platinum elite fax number...
(I believe it is 218-254-7565)

Fax the form and you too will be flying high...(literally)

Another bonus to this, I called CO this morning and they said they would match my platinum status of NW! Even though they have an alliance, CO Platinum is much more valuable.

Thanks to kazman and others for sharing...

You all have made my week!

Hmmmm.....this thread has more twist-n-turns than the nice-n-twisty Maui Hana highway. The timeline as I reconstruct it is approx:

(1) Free offer for NWA Plat went from traveling kazman to all FT'ers on Sun May 28 928 pm, and

(2) COJUNKIE et al faxed kazman, kazman chose and faxed COJUNKIE, who then faxed NWA, and

(3) COJUNKIE's PLATINUM STATUS appeared on the NWA Elite computer on Mon May 29 before 702 pm

.....and on a very busy holiday-travel weekend too? WOW! NWA service just gets better-n-better. And so much quicker too! Just as I was ready to bid big bucks for it on Ebay or even Priceline.

Now for some consolation for all you avid but disappointed believers of this FF version of Jack and the Magic Beans, fax, write or call me ASAP for I gotta a nice bridge especially suited for your real estate portfolio. Comes with FF miles too. And Uranium 235 status in all bridge toll programs. And....... <GRIN>

MisterNice- are you sure Cojunkie just didn't print out the website and fax it in?

Cojunkie- to what number did you fax it to? It's worth a shot!



[This message has been edited by chexfan (edited 05-30-2000).]

To all my fellow flyertalk friends, here's the step by step on how to achieve free platinum elite status on NW...

1. Print off the invitation that our friend
Dudster put on the web site.

2. Complete the form and sign it.

3. Fax the form to NW Platinum Elite Desk at
218-254-7565

4. Allow three days to process your fax
and you will have your platinum
creditials within four weeks.

Then, you can take you new platinum status on
NW and challenge the other airlines to match it!

I just called NW...my platinum credentials were mailed on 5/26.

My best to you all...

Don't want to be a killjoy here, but don't u think NWA will get suspicious when they start getting fax after fax after fax?

Anyone have a copy of the other side of the card? Does it have any fineprint re: acceptability of photocopies or faxes? If not, we have a strong argument if our status is denied... http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Hope this works... I faxed mine this morning http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Has anyone paused to consider the possible ramifications of this? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/confused.gif

Doc... See my previous post... that was my "pause". http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

However, as I mentioned above, if there is no statement on the card that indicates copies of the card are prohibited, then a strong legal argument could be made if we are not granted the Elite Status.

It can't hurt...

Yes...One might get a letter/fax/email/call from NW saying that for whatever reason NW is not going to honor the offer. People are not faxing in a card with anybodys name on it....so its not like the carrier can say that someone tampered with (e.g. took an image of the card and altered the name/address) data. You could just say you got the card in the mail, or from an indescript person you met at MSP on a busy Friday night. What are they going to do? Any investigation costs an organization in time and money. Also such things can blow up into public relations issues...as in the case with the woman on DL who got good at getting fares and change fees waived. I think the slant on the media reports related to the DL ATL pax was in her favor, rather than in the favor of the carrier. Joe's article is a good example of the spin the media put on that. All stories have such a spin, and generally the media is going to sympathise with a pax more than a large corporation like an airline. So I think after a while they might refuse to honor the offer without having received the original post card, but I don't think they will take additional steps given the circumstances.

MISTER NICE - play nice - I DID NOT FAX ANYTHING TO COJUNKIE - COJUNKIE used the DUDSTER post - kazman (with the straight scoop)

I faxed in a copy of the certificate. If they do not honor it I hope they will at least pay attention to the "new address" check mark and update my address!

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif

TW

The party's probably over -- I did the same thing -- but I can just imagine that fax machine has dozens of faxes of the exact same postcard. Probably COJUNKIE was the first and they let it slide. But when one comes after after another -- I doubt they're going to keep comping left and right.

Heck, I'd be surprised if this whole epsiode DOESN'T end up in the news somewhere ... 'Frequent Flyers Abuse System' <grin>

I just hope my fax this morning beat the wave and I can have a slice of cojunkie's luck!

Soon to be NW Platinum Eite???
chexfan

From the postings here it looks like at least 22 people may have faxed in the form to NWA. Any thoughts on how many will be honored besides COJUNKIE's?

Boy has this gotten crazy - and I started it - soooooooo - 1.I am KEEPING the mailer - it is the only fair thing 2.I am requesting Dudster to remove the fax from the link - those who have been able to use it - Glad I could help - The original intent was to inform and share with other FT'ers - the ship got off course - and I am returning it to the proper heading (hopefully with everyone's help) - kazman

Well, at least those who faxed it did it today. Again, they probably sent out a lot of these cards...hundreds or thousands of them hoping for some percentage of a response. One thing in the favor of those faxing in the card is that big organizations tend to move very slowly. Somebody might notice a lot of faxes. That somebody tells his/her supervisor. They talk to marketing. A few phone calls are left unanswered. More emails back and forth with service center. Then a meeting by phone gets set up...and marketing needs to have an executive meeting to determine how to react to it. They have to get the LAX CTO where this originated involved. This could all easily take a few days to a week. They have to establish a procedure operationally to figure out which one's are from post cards received in the mail, and which are from faxes. A mail recipient could easily have thrown away the card after faxing it. They have to now inform the service center of the new operational procedure, write to all the people faxing the card, etc. Let's hope for once that the slow wheels of corporate America can help people in this instance.

Hey, perhaps NW is reading these messages on Flyertalk. Why not just sign up, and post your answer, NW? I've been thinking lately, Flyertalk really performs quite a service for the airline industry. We are essentially a free focus group for the industry to use. People perhaps post things on this board that they would not even say in a focus group, because posters do not always think the airline is readin each post...or they are not writing to an audience of an airline executive. So NW...how about for those that faxed it today...you give it to them because they are providing you with a service (focus group) that would normally cost you some real hard cash.

[This message has been edited by jetsetter (edited 05-30-2000).]

There used to be a NW poster on the board. MJW I belive. She vanished late last summer.

TW

Just sent my fax off.

Thanks kazmzan & COJUNKIE.

We have been asked by Northwest to alert FlyerTalkers that this offer is a very limited offer and is reserved for executives at companies which have large travel programs with Northwest. These individuals typically earn this membership on their own and the invitations are sent only as a courtesy.
Because this is not a promotional offer, Northwest cannot fulfill your request. Each invitation is identified with a unique serial number and Northwest will not accept faxes or photocopies.

So Northworst DOES monitor FlyerTalk...

My comment is that an agent from Northwest WorldPerks should have personally came unto the board and said something. But thanks for the heads-up, Anne.

I guess the party's over http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/frown.gif

Hmmm... I see some legal contention brewing here, possibly.

I don't recall the specifics, but there was an incident in recent memory of an on-line electronics store's mis-advertising (i.e., did not explicitly state the offer's *limitations*) of either ridiculously low, or incorrectly priced, computers/tv's/something or other.

California residents sued, and won, thereby obligating the firm to honor all orders placed by California customers, in the quantities in which they were ordered...

[This message has been edited by FQTV (edited 05-30-2000).]

If the original post card, received via U.S. mail, did not have a name or state it was non-transferrable then I can see how one would argue that the corporation would be required to honor it...no matter who filled it out as the receiver of the Platinum Elite offer.

Also, does the card have any "serial number?" Or a bar code? Or did they use invisible ink?

I do not understand your point about how the corporation might, in court, be required to honor all requests for the offer (even if the person does not have the original coupon). I mean if I have a grocery coupon for 50-cents off a can of Coke...and I photocopy the coupon to you and send it to you...does your store have to honor this non original coupon? Or must the coupon say expressly on it that photocopies are not permitted in order for the corporation to be able to legally dis-allow the copied certificate?

I guess the wheels at NW corporate spin faster than most large organizations. And I too do not see why a manager from NW could not have signed up on Flyertalk (it just takes a minute), to post the companys response. I am sure that NW managers have web access on their computers. Why must they use employees of Web Flyer to act as their messengers?

Jetsetter:

And I quote, "I don't recall the specifics..."

Anyway, according to the scanned coupon, the benefits last until the end of Feb '01.

I wonder what the attrition rate due to non re-qualification (i.e., duly earning the miles) will be...

Sorry about the bad news folks...

I hope that your faxes go through...

In case you are wondering, I checked my worldperks info online (just now after Anne's message) and it still says platinum.

I'm not sure how long it will last...

Sure was a fun ride...

All my best,

COJUNKIE

I agree with jetsetter.

To keep this in the air travel realm:

Continental sent me a special pack last year with upgrades, President's Club passes, and the like. The upgrades didn't have my name on it, nor did it specifically say "no photocopies".

So could I have photocopied these upgrade certificates, given them to all my friends, and assume that Continental would be forced to honor the certificates?

Come on, guys, let's come back to reality now.

Originally posted by kazman:
Boy has this gotten crazy - and I started it - soooooooo - 1.I am KEEPING the mailer - it is the only fair thing 2.I am requesting Dudster to remove the fax from the link - those who have been able to use it - Glad I could help - The original intent was to inform and share with other FT'ers - the ship got off course - and I am returning it to the proper heading (hopefully with everyone's help) - kazman


I think this makes sense. I posted a copy to the web because people were interested in seeing what the mailer looked like, not so that dozens of people could fax it in. Sorry, guys, and my apologies to NWA as well.

I am not absolutely sure, from a legal perspective, if a corporation *must* indicate on its certificates non-transferability and invalidity of copies. I just brought up the question, because at first glance, it would seem that a corporation could refuse to honor photocopies of its certificates. However, the law is very complex, and I certainly don't know either way which opinion is correct. I merely brought it up as a question in my mind. In my (not a lawyer) experience, it would seem that if this theory is correct, then anyone could photocopy *any* coupon/airline certificate/etc. as long as it does not say expressly that photocopies are not allowed. But then again, some certificates *do say* that only the originals will be accepted. Do they put this wording on the cert for a reason? Is the theory perhaps correct? Why would they write no photocpies accepted, if they would ordinarily not be required to honor photocopies? What I am saying is does this warrant additional legal research? Or does anyone here have a legal background in such matters? Common sense might say no copies, but the laws are indeed very obscure. I have a copy of the image file, and couldemail it to anyone interested (but so far as I know NW will not honor it).

quote:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
.....if a corporation *must* indicate on its certificates non-transferability and invalidity of copies. I just brought up the question, because at first glance, it would seem that a corporation could refuse to honor photocopies of its certificates...
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I could not agree with you more. So as a test, I made a photocopy of a nice new $20 bill. Guess what, the bank would not deposit it to my nice checking account. I wisely and correctly said no notations or instructions were on the $20 bill signifying I could not make copies etc. I demanded it be deposited. It did not work. They mumbled something re bank security may be called.

It appears this was probably a legitimate PR offer made to a major corporate individual decision-maker. These are not uncommon to a large corporation's CEO, COO, Dir of Purchasing, Chairman etc. I occasionally will receive one because of misrouting by the mailroom personnel, someone going through the trash or whatever. I (and other senior management) consider usage of such offerings (especially if addressed to another person) a form of theft, misrepresentation, etc and my best guess if found out, a proper reason for dismissal or reprimand.





[This message has been edited by MisterNice (edited 05-31-2000).]

Cute story Mr. Nice http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif
But your analogy isn't really fair.

two points I'd like to make here:
1. Using the term "common sense" and "the law" in the same sentence makes me laugh ! Every case I hear about a plantiff winning now-a-days makes "NO SENSE" to me!

2. Does anyone have a jpeg of the front of the mailer? I would like to see this so called "serial number" or other unique identifier.


As I said in previous posts, there is a reason companies uses the statements "photocopies prohibited" "no duplications permited" , etc...
Think about it....somewhere someone has the "terms" for this offer, but unless they accompany the offer when it is first made to the consumer... the legal wheels are a spinnin' http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

[This message has been edited by Bean (edited 05-31-2000).]

Ehhh....? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/confused.gif

While I generally agree with the "tenor" of your "nice" remarks, Fred, as you probably know, this is a rather poor analogy, IMHO!

-There are specific laws against reproducing currency - also known as counterfeiting! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

-An issued certificate is NOT equivalent to currency, and more importantly it (cert's) is NOT quite the same as an application for such or a membership card. Another words, xeroxing an application form, which is widely done and even encouraged by various corporations in many circumstances is NOT the same as xeroxing a membership card or issued certificate!

-The bottom line, from the available evidence is, IMHO, that this is a violation only of the "spirit" of the application card being offered and NOT the letter of the printed agreement! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

The real bottom line is that NWA "messed up bigtime" once again! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/frown.gif

Apparently they are still conducting their companywide contest to determine which division can get the "award" for most inept! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/frown.gif

This latest move puts Marketing a "huge" step ahead of customer service- no small feat! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif

When will this companywide "contest" ever end? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/eek.gif

Soon, I hope, for the sake of us all!

I cannot really fault NW for not honorning all the faxed in requests. I do think they missed a great marketing opportunity. How much new business could they have garnered by saying...

"Welcome new Platinum members..... we hope we live up to your expectations..... however we will not be able to honor this past today as this was not the intent of the offer....."

Just my thoughts..

TW

I see it as coming down to an age-old debate:

Loose constructionism v. Strict constuctionism
Alexander Hamilton v. Thomas Jefferson
Federalists v. Democratic-Republicans

You get the idea. "If not prohibited, it is permitted" or "If not permitted, it is prohibited".

Just because it doesn't say something, can you do it? Alternatively, just because it doesn't say something, can you not do it.

If I have a car/hotel cert, and it does not specifically say "not transferable," is it transferable? Yes. But does that mean I can photocopy it? No.

Yet this is much different than the car/hotel certificate because it is something of value to the airline. It is designed for a corporate executive who has the power to direct business not only to Northwest, but also away from a competing airline.

Law aside, I believe that it is a breach of ethic to photocopy it or even give it to another person.

As I said, I have no problem giving a car cert to another even though it does not specifically say I can, but I don't feel the same way for this.

Hypocritical? Probably.

Even though I worked in a law office for a couple years, I have no clue on the legal standpoint of this. But I don't believe it is ethical, even if it legal.

OK... here goes my shot at the legal issue of mailing/faxing the copy:

Provided the postcard was sent in bulk and wasn't directed at one individual (ie... mailed to "Chexfan", the premium customer) I believe it would be fine to copy and
mail the postcard to the airline. From the information provided it seems to be an advertising promotional offer. An offer is sent by the company and accepted when you complete and send the application (mail box
rule - as soon as you place the postcard in the mail or faxed the offer has been accepted). Note however, that this offer may be viewed as a license (much like a airplane ticket itself). A license entitles you to the use and enjoyment of a particular activity, but may be revoked at anytime for just cause. But this is highly unlikey due to the lack of terms.

In other words IMHO, "GO FOR IT". The worst they can do is say no.

To BostonBoy, I will have to agree with you on your comments on the NW offer and the Car Cert, they are very hypocritical.

I wonder if the wording on the offer advising the customer to "mail" the specific mail piece postage paid to the specific address would exculpate the airline from responsibility from having to honor faxed or photocopies of the offer sent to the service center? I am getting rather curious now about the legal questions? I mean is it an open and shut case...or one where both sides would have extensive legal arguments they might present in court...on appeal...etc. I will try to run this situation by a few lawyers that I know, and see if anything jumps off the page at them about it either way. This might involve federal law under the FTC, postal regulations (since it was originally mailed), as well as state laws where Northwest and the individual consumer are.

I would have welcomed NW PLT status just to be able to get a coach seat in other than row 35. NW seat reservation system does not recognize CO status so premium seats are not available.

I'm not sure why "everyone" is so upset. I saw the original posting, got a copy of the image and printed it (with diffuculty), and sent in my application.
If I get anything out of it, it will be wonderful!! If I don't, I didn't invest much effort, but I tried. As the saying goes "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is."

Well...my Platinum status with NW is history.

I just checked the NWA web-site and it does not say platinum anymore...

Here's what I think occurred...

NW got a hold of my e-mail address that I use at webflyer (which includes my full name)...

They looked me up in their system and the rest is history.

My wife said that I shouldn't have posted all of the information and kept it secret.

I believe I did the right thing sharing it with you. You all gave me the information.

It just goes to show you that, indeed, the airlines are watching us...

It was a fun ride...I'm truly disappointed. After flying this year, I will be Gold on CO. Life is not bad. It feels good to earn it the right way.

COJUNKIE, your e-mail address isn't showing up in your profile. More than likely, since there are very few people who get and take advantage of this offer (and probably even fewer who fax it in, since there was no fax number on the form), they probably had your fax somewhere and were able to tell that it was identical to the flood of them that came in.

motnot: Maybe he turned it off after he lost his status, so nothing like this would happen again. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/confused.gif

COJUNKIE:

Though I did not particpate the wave of applicants, I think most people here appreciate your information.

We all knew this wouldn't last forever -- it's too bad they took it away from you COJUNKIE -- after all, you gotta have guts to go through all that trouble and then be the first to fax the form over. The rest of us (including me) were just in the herd.

Like others, I'm not really upset either way. As they say, if it's too good to be true it probably is.

My final comment on this issue: NW should use the same expediency and ability exhibited in this matter to improve its service to the customer. If they weren't continually at the bottom in terms of customer service, then maybe everyone wouldn't have jumped on the offer left and right to the extent that they did.

But hey, that's just my take.

I think as a customer service gesture NW should give everyone on FlyerTalk an single upgrade in their Worldperks status. Example:

No status - silver
silver - gold
gold - platinum

If they did that or something else to make this up to everyone, I would have a LOT of respect for the people at NW.

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/rolleyes.gif

Am i the only one who thinks you all are acting like a bunch of spoiled brats??? FREE PLATNIUM ELITE... what happened to actually rewarding people who fly??? Remember suffering having to take a milege flight? I APPLAUD NORTHWEST FOR SHUTTING YOU GUYS DOWN!!! Can you imagine how hard upgrades would be if people like cojunkie, who flew one whole flight last year on nwa were platnium?? And that goes for continental also since nwa's elite can upgrade too. You all complain about upgrades imagine if every one was platnium? If everyone has status, status means NOTHING. It's like everything else in America today... you all have this victum complex. No one is responsible for their own actions...it must be Northwest's fault. GROW UP FORGET THIS LAWSUIT JUNK...TRY ACTUALLY FLYING. From the guy who flew 33 segments and 27000 miles last month. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/mad.gif

[This message has been edited by cigarman (edited 06-01-2000).]

We bow in the midsts of your greatness, cigarman... You are truly the king of the frequent flyers.

I think I've seen you on several flights. You're that guy sitting in first class giving coach flyers the look that says "move to the back. You're "status" is not high enough for you to sit with me!"

I suppose if you were walking down the street and saw a $100 bill in the road, you'd pass it by because you hadn't "earned" it?

Get a clue. And let the rest of us have our fun looking for ANY way to accumulate more miles.

P.S. You seem tense. Maybe try a cup of herbal tea?

cigarman....get off your pulpit.

I agree with most of what Cigarman says. We should be able to take advantage of legitimate offers but just because one persons gets an offer doesn't mean everyone is entitled.

Cigarman,

I would be really surprised if anyone really was contemplating lawsuits. When you have been around here a bit longer you will see that just about everyone here likes to chat about the "what ifs" I do belive that you have a point with your comments, but the tone of your statements is a bit harsh.

On another point. The original recipient said that the coupon he received wasn't address to him, or anyone in particular. Was it bulk mail? How did he happen to get it? Did the reverse side have all kinds of stipulations and disclaimers? We don't have any answers to those questions. Is he President/CEO etc of a major company that can push travel to NW? NW says that this is who the promotion was directed to. Why would NW send an offer of this kind to that type of person via a postcard? I would think that a more appropriate way would be to have the marketing sales people call on (in person visit) these executives. For this kind of marketing a postcard really says, We are impersonal in inviting you and will probably be impersonal in serving you if you give us your business." IMHO.

So many unanswered questions that everything is simply speculation.

TW

to anne at webflyer:
are you really speaking for northwest? i downloaded the posted form and it was as generic as could be (looked like something i could have made myself at staples [using one of their $ off coupons]). everyone else that i know who works in marketing sends a
nice letter to the "high rollers" to pet the old ego. they certainly do not send something this generic (if northwest's marketing really does this generic sort of mail out to their high rollers, please let me know where i can send the old resume http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif )

here's what happened with moi.

i downloaded the form and called northwest on may 30 telling them my wife got a very generous offer, etc etc. i asked the rep if i could fax it, she said sure and gave me the number. i faxed it. on may 31, for a brief minute, my wife's account actually said "gold elite" http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/cool.gif but, then it went back to nothing. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/frown.gif

i called worldperks today and asked the rep what happened. she said "the item was faxed in, but the referral code was missing. you'll have to fax it over again." (so much for those who say you can't fax it).

so, it looks to me like:
(a) the original form has a code on it. whether it is unique to each individual to whom originally sent, or whether it is a code that represents a group of "movers & shakers" is moot. the point is, there is a code on the original;
(b) the posting on the web did not have any code, so whoever scanned and posted it did it correctly to show us what (s)he received, while at the same time making it impossible for us to join in at the trough.

ah well, could have used those points in anticipation of some flights we plan next year.

bcnul8r

Bean, today i recieved ten dollars in change back too much. And yes, i gave it back. The key you seem to be missing is that i applaud creative "legitimate" ways to get status and miles. Just the other day i found a link to an american express offer with continental that i qualified for and made $75 dollars. That was legitimate. If the airline put a route on sale for some silly price and we learn of it here...that is legit because everyone can buy the ticket and take the flight. The whole point to being frustrated at this elite thing is that my dog could be elite if this was allowed to stand. Thus, people who never fly nwa or continental will fill all the good seats. The people who actually spend real money and keep the airline in business will suffer. The problem is there is a great difference between tax avoidance and tax cheating. Same thing here. Doing everything WITHIN THE SYSTEM to max miles and status is fine. It's when you try and cheat the system that it is wrong.As to my attitude i don't belive i was the poster who wished us luck while he was getting 125% bonus miles... As to relaxing, CIGARMAN prefers a Hoyo de monterry double corona and a glass of Remy XO. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif

Amen. Besides, NWA sux anyway.

I just Try to get my mom pl elite in fact I fax the info out on tue and her acount is still has changed. email or post what went wrong.

------------------
emmett w. smith jr.

I called NW today and they said that all that the airline needs is the referral code. With that, Plat. Elite status.

But I still belive that NW is better using its corporate "prowess" to try to improve its customer service rather than persecute possbile future customers who tried to take advantage of an offer.

Cigarman:

I support your point of view.

In reality, I'm not so sure there would be much of an impact to existing/earned elite flyers if the offer were to go through, since it sounds like most of the folks who are jumping on this don't really fly so much anyway.

Likewise, as I mentioned earlier, the fallout at the end of February would separate the "men from the boys," as it were.

So a little excitement now and then doesn't hurt...

However, NW is setting a double-edged precedent in doing this (who knows for how long it's been going on?). On the one hand, the marketing makes sense when targeted to truly frequent business travellers, who may happen to be "executives" at companies. This way, a lot of people who would not qualify anyway wouldn't dilute the pool of perks from which the elite members can draw. On the other, it contradicts the entire premise of an elite level frequent-flyer program - "be loyal to our airline by flying us a lot, and we'll take good care of you," which are geared towards frequent business travellers, who happen to be "executives" at companies...

I think I read the term "moronic" used in the same sentence in discussing NW elsewhere in FT. This episode certainly does not help to alleviate that perception.

Fqtv, Have you considered although the nwa will reset in feb 2001 you could get CO (as cojunkie "claims" to have done) to give you the same status. Do it late enough in the year and they will give you until feb 2002! Thus as i said on the CO board you could create a virtual daisy chain of elite status by switching each year.

From what I understand, most carriers require you to submit your most recent FF statement from another airline in order for them to consider comping you to elite. Thus, your "daisy chain" would break, and quickly, if one was not taking flights.

Also, no airline is going to comp you more than a one or two times in your entire lifetime.

Correct me if I am wrong on this one. I do not belive Co will comp similar levels from NW an HP.

TW

TW

[This message has been edited by Tolarian Wind (edited 06-03-2000).]

Cigarman:

As Motnot and Beckles are saying, it would be ridiculous that an airline would comp status multiple times based on actual flying/revenue-generating activity that falls far short of program guidelines.

Then again, I find this entire outright comping business ridiculous. Challenges go fine with me - the reasoning is logical - if one is already flying "that much" with airline A, then it stands to reason the flyer should be able to do at least as much business with airline B, so airline B gives the flyer X-amount of time to prove it as a condition of reciprocating status.

But to dole out highest-tier loyalty awards without auditing whether one has ever stepped from a jetway in recent years is quite counterintuitive.

Then again, it's NW we're talking about...



[This message has been edited by FQTV (edited 06-03-2000).]

What I'd like to know, is: Did membership in NW WorldPerks Platinum Elite allow members FREE access to their airline lounge?

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/confused.gif

No, lounge access is not a NW Platinum benefit.

It was interesting reading this thread. NWA was just doing something many consider smart marketing...offering something to someone who doesn't need it. It's all us other proletariats that crave it cuz we would abuse the hell out of the privilege. I've been comped by a airline that I went from zero to a total of 4 segments during the year. Guess what...they comped me again the next year, gave me 20K bonus miles and 12 upgrades. It worked. I'm now highest level elite on that airline. Another airline has offered me a comp to their highest elite level in a letter which I threw away because I know I can't maintain a platinum level in a third airline along with the two primary ones I fly now. This year I have comp gold and comp silver on two additional airlines which I don't fly. These comp promotions are intentionally aimed at those that really don't need it.

Motnot, i can speak from experience that a photocopy of my usair card worked just fine to get equal status on Northwest two years ago. Or, could it just be nwa is messed up again? Hmm....?? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif

[This message has been edited by cigarman (edited 06-03-2000).]

If one goes back to the beginning of this nice entertaining FF FAIRY TALE (ie original post by kazman) a "blank" posting appears. It sez edited 06-02-2000. Also many subsequent posts by the same person. Hmmmmmm.....wonder why? Just curious.

Fred- I think kaz has gone under to cover his butt! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

He also removed his email.

Yet, I have to say that I did email him 2x (not to bid on his card, but rather to urge caution on his part so as to minimize any "fallout"). I never did receive any reply! Maybe the address was dysfunctional, but I doubt it! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

mrnice, it does appear the evidence is vanishing... of course kazman was sloppy and missed some posts. His original post can be found on the cojunkie link to the card. HOWEVER the card has been removed "by request of kazman" Hmm...What does all this mean???

Just flew my first with NWA and this thread caught my eye. When I went to dudsters link it said picture removed by kazman's request. So what is going on here? Was there a fax number on the card to which one could attempt to try to take advantage of the offer?

P.S. To Cigarman,

You must be another one of those A**hole Tarheels that we have to put up with in Charlotte. Or, is it No Common Sense University (NCSU?) Who pissed on your cornflakes, anyway (but you still would have the 100 mile AA certificate LOL)?

as stated before...if you spend the money to fly and will actually use the platinum status...then...fine then go for the 125% bonus.....call NW and explain what you want...If they want more business then they will send out the card to those who they feel qualify...example American Gold or Platinum members.....try and see what happens....otherwise don't ruin it for everyone.....Is it really worth the hassle for NW flights?

Spartacus, didn't your mother teach you not to assume... Cigarman could care less about ACC sports and was raised and edjucated elsewere. And if believing that there must be moral/rational limit in life is wrong i guess i'll accept your label. Also cigarman lives in SOUTH carolina... and you know this can cause serious loss of brain cells http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by cigarman (edited 06-04-2000).]