Originally Posted by
LHR/MEL/Europe FF
So... for the next passenger on SQ plated tickets with an LX segment, what practical and realistic advice can be given to try and achieve a satisfactory outcome at the airport?
This will require input from the experts here - but if denied carriage in the class stated on the ticket, so far I've got:
- this ticket has been issued by Singapore Airlines
- the ticket is valid as Singapore Airlines carried me here today
- if there is a problem with the fare paid, this is not a matter for the passenger to have to deal with at this current moment
- as this is a valid ticket, EU compensation laws will apply if you downgrade me
- (as this is a valid ticket EU compensation laws will apply if you deny me boarding including my hotel and meal costs)
If the above does nothing, there are two immediate actions:
- ask the agent for a clear explanation of why you are being denied carriage / class of service (is it ticket, or fare)
- ask how it is the passenger's fault
- ask why EU laws do not apply
- go and see the SQ ticketing desk
If none of the above work:
- determine whether you want to fly coach for no extra charge (and pursue legal action later - if you don't win, no gain, but also no additional out of pocket loss), or
- whether you want to buy a full fare (and pursue legal action later, which you might not win)
Anyone add to or correct the above (that doesn't involve calling Swiss names, getting the police called, or threatening the gate agent with suing the airline)?
I'd like to thank LME for this constructive post and follow it up with a couple of questions of my own:
1. If stranded mid-trip, due to their relative ability/power to effect change quickly, would you agree that it is probably best to try and deal with the different parties in the following order: 1. operating carrier, 2. plating carrier, 3. OTA?
2. What are the legal/contractual obligations of accepting or declining LX's offer of an economy class ride home? By accepting that seat, might this be considered by the courts to be implicit acceptance of LX's contract breach?
3. If one would decline LX's offer of a Y seat, should the replacement seat be purchased with cash in the same ticketed cabin? If one would purchase a Y seat or use a mileage award to get home, would that limit the amount of damages that can be claimed back from LX later?
Thanks in advance for sharing your thoughts on these matters!