Originally Posted by
Cathay Boy
Why would the FAs know about op-up and nothing else? Since that seems to be the same information that only ISM would know, and unless FAs scan the passenger manifest, why would FA know about op-ups? Will the ISM tell the section leaders in turn tell the FAs about who's op-up so the services can be "different?"
The FAs all know about op-ups because the cabin leaders or ISM specifically tell all the other crew in their section who the op-ups are, and usually will write out their names and post them in the galley with an up-arrow next to their name. This will often be on the same sheet of paper with the DM names on it (this is usually hand-written). Anecdotally, FAs have told me they almost always know the op-ups, but don't seem to have a clue how we booked the ticket (J class, D class, I class, miles redemption, etc). Unlike mileage tickets, which really are just a form of payment (like J class vs I class, etc.), op-ups are a free way to get to a better class (that we all enjoy...), and hence it makes sense that the crew would be aware, to potentially give meal choices and more resources to the pax who truly paid (whether through cash or miles) for it.
Staff also know who the ID ticket (discount industry tickets) are, similar to the way they know the op-ups.