Originally Posted by
javabytes
1. Yes, it matters. Upgrade priority is by elite level, then fare class, then Reserve card, then time of request. If you split the PNR 8 days out, your request will be dated then, as opposed to getting a bit of a boost by having done it 60 days out. Granted this is the 4th level tiebreaker, so the effect is probably only a couple slots at most, but it could make the difference.
2. Ask the agent to "link" your PNRs after splitting them. This is really just a note that you are traveling together, but it's as much as you can do with split PNRs. An agent who sees the note should try to reroute you and your companion together in the event of IROPS, but there are no guarantees.
3. The seats will "hold" but they will not be able to change to other EC or preferred seats, or to reselect them if there is an equipment swap and they are automatically reseated in standard seats. Some agents will seat your companion next to you in EC or preferred seats, but recently this seems to be limited to a spouse, not just any companion.
Thanks a lot for the info! It gives me more information with which to make my decision. Can you or anyone else shed any light on the following comments:
Originally Posted by
johndoe123
Warning: I've been told the EC seats would be removed, and it would mess up the baggage allowance on your return.
I always thought the only safe time was on the return, after clearing the international leg.
The trip originates OUTSIDE the U.S. & splitting AFTER the 1st international leg will cause me to miss the upgrade window on a number of the subsequent legs. Does anyone have a different opinion based on it being a foreign originating itinerary? All flights except 1 are >4 hours. Are EC seats really removed to avoid a baggage allowance issue?
Originally Posted by
SuperG1955
If you ever do split, use Twitter and ask them to keep you on the original PNR. We split every res and they never mess it up as some phone agents have.
I have a very competent travel agent. (admittedly this is the first time I've needed something like this. Is splitting the PNR but making sure that I retain the original one something that can only be entrusted to the Twitter team?
I normally have the "rules of engagement" down pat. (my status is 100% BIS) This is my first trip involving a non-status companion where the tickets are not already in J (Their dime). Companion doesn't want me to miss an upgrade & we thought me in F them in EC was a good compromise. Am I correct that a subsequent request for a companion upgrade can be made DOD (Counter? Gate?)..for the off chance that there is space available on one of the legs with 20+ seats in F.
Thanks,
PPP