Originally Posted by
transportprof
So UA extended its interline agreement with DL, but will do its best never to rebook on them.
Sounds like a 'Project Quality' strategy to appear to offer something, like drinks in the United Club, or nuts in First Class, but then deliver the cheapest possible alternative instead.
So you would prefer AA's strategy? No DL at all? Got it.
Although it appears that many people's purpose of coming to FT UA is to brag about not flying UA, and complain anyway even though they are not actually experiencing flying on UA, this exact topic (interlining) is something I learned a lot about on FT.
Irrops happen
Do your own research and find what works best for you
Go in to your first conversation with UA strongly advocating on your own behalf - don't just take what they give you
And now we know, agents are
empowered(!) to put you on an interline DL flight
As a flyer, if DL is the best alternative - don't take no for an answer - you know they can put you on the DL flight
An uneducated (non FT) flyer will be much less prepared, will not know their options, and will be in a worse negotiating position on options for rebooking.
This, in essence, is the value of FT for me. Unfortunately, a shadow of the value it had just a few years ago when people came here to learn and help (and not complain about the CEO's compensation package, etc., ad nauseum).