Originally Posted by SS255

I echo SkiAdcock's statement to read the first few posts in the SMD1 & SMD2 threads, but here are some quick hits:

Cost - Usually dependent upon class of service on the charter flights. The costs range from about $700 for regular coach to about $1,500 for F or J class. This year, Tommy Class (coach, with the middle seat empty) was added as a "cabin" when booking opened, for $1,200, with the option of a $100 upsell for an exit row seat.

Tommy has been able to score us decent rates at the event hotels, ranging from about $99 for the IAH Sheraton, to about $150 for some of the downtown properties. Hyatt is our hotel sponsor for the SMD3.

There is also usually an international optional add-on. Last year it was in FRA. This year it's in MUC. (I'm not doing the MUC portion this year.)

Re miles: CO and UA have been giving EQM's (actual miles + bonus miles for the higher classes). In past years, some of the other *A carriers gave EQM's, but don't count on your carrier of choice giving EQM's unless Tommy confirms it.

There are also parties galore, but the parties are usually ONLY open to FT'ers who are booked on the charter flight. This year, there will be a dinner in Denver on Saturday night, 9/10, which benefits the Capt. Jason Dahl Fund (one of the 9/11 pilots), and is open to all FT'ers.

I would write more if I had more time...