Originally Posted by
icydog
1. Our flight is in Envoy on US and coach on TAP. I assume our luggage will check all the way through on the outbound to LIS but how about on the return? Will TAP check it through to PHL on the US flight?Will they mark it priority?
I wouldn't count on it. It really depends on the station where you originate and how well the agents can manipulate their computer system. You didn't mention whether you were departing from PHL or another airport but either way there is no policy that requires your bags to be tagged through. US staffs my home airport (YVR) with contractors who aren't even able to tag bags onto other US flights when they are same-day but on a separate ticket. But you might get lucky.
2. What's Envoy like on US? Will it be like COs FC? In short ---Will I like it?
Envoy is a solid product. Unlike domestic First, US has put some effort into keeping Envoy competitive. You won't have the new seats to MAD (which are industry-leading) although you will have the option to upgrade to Envoy Sleeper for fully horizontal lie-flat seats which are remnants of US's old trans-Atlantic First ($300/person per segment). The MAD crews tend to be quite senior, but unlike some other airlines that's generally a good thing. A lot of them have been working MAD for years. Catering has recently been improved and was very good on the Envoy MAD-PHL segment I took last month (I had the mixed grill). There is on demand PTV and empower, plus an onboard espresso/cappuccino maker. Wine selection is so-so. The Envoy Lounge at PHL is regarded as one of the best lounges in North America with lots of room, self serve and staffed bar, and a good selection of pre-flight food options. In MAD you'll have access to the airport authority-operated Sala Cibeles which is decent. Make sure you get an invitation at check-in. Leave plenty of time to walk to the gate as US has recently been operating out of one of the furthest gates from the main terminal (10-15 minute walk).
3. If our flight is delayed in PHL (like for the outrageous snow we just had) what will happen to the TAP ticket?
That's up to TAP but you would likely be responsible for any fare difference and change fees if not having it voided completely. That is the reason booking separate tickets is risky. Travel insurance comes in handy here, as many have clauses that would cover this sort of situation, but be sure to inform yourself about the minimum connection time required by your insurance.