Mrs MH and I flew a couple of CO segments yesterday, with luggage. I put my BD number into the reservation to get the *G benefit of checking bags free, intending to change it to my LH number at the lounge for M&M mileage credit. (I've done something similar with UA in the past, soy.)
The CO gate agent and two lounge agents refused to make the change, citing "policy", unless I paid $50 for the bags. Given time pressure at the airport, and the fact that we really need the 2,500 M&M status miles, I paid.
Were the CO agents right? If not, what could I have said to convince them and have I got a chance of getting the $50 back?
I believe the CO agents were wrong. Per CO's posted baggage policy (link:
http://www.continental.com/web/en-US.../checkbag.aspx), you were entitled to free checked bags. It states bags are free if you are a Star Alliance Gold member. It does not list any requirement that you must associate the Star Alliance Gold frequent flyer # with your ticket.