Originally Posted by
nypdLieu
and I thought I was fighting this battle alone, thanks clipper....
Folks on FT have put their UA international UG rate at about 70%. Since we all know that the perentage given is probably over generous, I'd take the garaunteed DL M UG at time of purchase and be at a UG ratio of 100% then that of UA's of around 50 - 70%.
I'll spend the money to garauntee myself the seat I want AND get the extras in the MQM and RDm. Thank you.
You are correct assuming you can afford the difference between the Delta M fare and UA's W fare.
In my case the choice is between flying Delta and giving up upgrades or flying UA and getting some upgrades.
I had 5 international trips this year, 8 were eligible for upgrades and I cleared on 6 (+ 1 Op-up on a non eligible flight). My total air fare was < $10K. On Delta my total air fare would have exceeded $20K if I were to book M+ on 8 segments.
DL decided to give away the market segment I represent (VFFs who work for companies with "lowest available fare" travel policies or VFFs who pay for travel out of their own pocket and can't afford to pay straight J). That is a business decision that I respect, but I will travel on airlines that offer products that meet my needs.
Happy Travels
DLP