Originally Posted by
ScottC
Remember, even when bloggers or other writers say they paid for a trip, this doesn't mean they paid the going rate - properties and airlines will sometimes offer a "media rate" of say $1. I'm not saying anyone here did (or did not), just something to keep in mind. It is a handy trick for larger publications to bypass editorial guidelines.
And there's also the part where access to the seats might not otherwise be available without help from the airline. Let's say I want to be on an inaugural long-haul flight in business class. Odds of that upgrade clearing are VERY low without some pull from someone inside. How does that count?