Originally Posted by
Ti22
With FC BP you can use SkyClubs free of charge between NYC/west coast airports. Doesn't work on interior airports but if you mostly fly NYC-west coast odds are that you'll be able to use the club from time to time. They're not that great really, getting to use 'em a few times has confirmed that it's not worth what they charge to me.
I beg to differ about the value of SC access. I am faced with resuming a frequent flying schedule next week, and am NOT looking forward to spending so much time in the airport without SC access. For example, I don't fly out of ATL next week until 9:30, but will face a miserable traffic situation and security line if I don't leave for the airport before 6am. While coffee, oatmeal and newtons may not be the best breakfast in the world, it is infinitely better than using 4G internet and paying for an equally lousy breakfast while fighting for power outlets before flying out.
And I love to grab a pre-boarding beverage (not to be confused with PDBs, which paid F and higher elites get on the plane) before I take my seat in Y on my flights back home.
If you are a DM, SC member, or only fly international J, then the SC passes wouldn't mean much. If not, I would first recommend paying (or using miles) for SC access. Short of that, the SC passes are great.
It's easy to hate on the SC until you spend 7 hours in MDW (wishing you had booked flights to ORD instead) or your membership expires. That's when you really realize that a crappy coffee/breakfast/soda/snack really cost a fortune outside the SC, and don't come with a smile or free Wi-Fi either!