DwayneSkyMiles,
(a) How would UP fares (A/P/I, that are seen on the res sys at e.g. LXXXXX/WNUP) would be treated? Was the technology updated to ensure this change is capture appropriately?
(PS- not that it seems to matter, but I may have no choice but to hold on purchases of A/P/D/I fares for my team until this one is cleared. It took me a long time to get approval to do those, so I'd rather not do that unless I have to)
(b) Clearing standby list- before boarding begins or after? would DM/PM/GM still be eligible to go on the UG list (sometimes labeled on FT as Battle Field Upgrade) and clear the list? at what point would stand by medallion pax be able to receive a seat? (e.g. still access economy comfort seats, etc.)
(c) Can one request the standby after the original flight departed? (This one really needs a yes/no clarification)
The new T&C states you "may" request before (departure). Does that mean- post departure (or more correct, once the flight is 'locked' and boarding begins) no 'dice'?. Just think about the number of times a pax is stuck in the line for security, etc. or between flights that are not necessary on the same ticket.
(d) Is the Co-terminal rule for DMs (change JFK to LGA, as one example) remains in place? If not, this is a major regression in the SDC program.
(e) Can you elaborate about change in routing? e.g. if there is no other JFK-ATL-LAS flight for the day, can I standby for JFK-LAS instead? (A yes/no one would help here). For the record/reminder- flying the pax, space available, nonstop in lieu of the connecting fight is cheaper to the company (That is- to DL)
(f) What about the cases where the same-day flight is scheduled more than 3 hours apart? Is there going to be a waiver for the SDC/standby fee? (e.g. John is on flight 1529 leaving JFK to LAS at 10:30. Wants to SDC to 0161, which is the next flight leaving at 16:30, 4:30pm. Six hours apart, next flight- kosher/non kosher? especially since now John may not SDC to JFK-MSP-LAS, for example)
(g) Given that it is a major change, it is worthwhile to send it to all passengers, not just the ones who have used SDC in the last X days/months/year
On a side note- It is my opinion (FWIW) that there was a place for clarifications/notifications earlier in this process, especially since the change was so widely distributed. Point for future enhancements.
For the record- you do not make a program more exclusive by
taking benefits from your loyal clients. You can certainly make them more upset. Please pass this message along to the higher ups. I don't care it goes through the shredder in the office.
Thank you again for joining the conversation. We are looking forward to see participation in the follow up Q&A.
PS-I am registered to "skymiles news and updates". This change does not show up there as of now (11:26 EST)
http://www.delta.com/content/www/en_...-updates.html#
This is the official channel in which delta announces changes to the terms and conditions for its frequent flyers member program. It would be nice/useful to update it there, and not only on the SDC program page, given that it was stated as the official communication channel