A couple of months ago I was scheduled to fly MCO-STL-LAX-SJC. Once I arrived in STL, I noticed that there was a non-stop flight STL-SJC that could put me at my destination 3 hrs earlier. The PLT desk said there were plenty of seats available on the non-stop, and I shouldn't have a problem switching at the gate. The gate agents said that I couldn't change. I spoke with another PLT desk agent, who also confirmed my ticket would allow the change of flights. After a half hour of bickering and after watching my original STL-LAX flight depart, the STL gate agent RELUCTANTLY allowed me onto the non-stop flight. (Needless to say, I was roughly searched when I went to board my flight) I saw no reason why the agent found it necessary to try to make me fly to LAX, make the long trek from terminal 4 to terminal 3, the take a cramped eagle flight to SJC instead of letting me fly a 3/4 full direct flight.

My theory is that either the STL gate agents were too lazy to process the change, or they were ignorant to the rules, etc. that pertained to that particular fare class.

This negative experience is what turned a lot of my business travel to CO, and has led me to pursue requal of CO Gold vs. AA Platinum. (I also enjoy doing my travel/mileage runs in the first class cabin after 100% comp CO gold upgrades)

[This message has been edited by FloridaFlyers (edited 08-04-2002).]