FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - Variable preferred seat pricing?

Sep 18, 2015 | 12:55 am

#11

kwflyer

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Join Date: Feb 2008

Location: YKF

Programs: AC Elite 50K, Amex AP Plat, Choice Privileges, National Exec Elite, Via Prefrence

Posts: 2,996

Quote:

Originally Posted by canadiancow

I'll never forget my SDQ-EWR flight. It was exactly as described. EVERY seat behind E+ was taken. And everyone in E+ had a row or two to themselves.

But if you can get it free at the gate or check-in, there's no point in paying ahead of time. And if you can get it for free on board, there's still no point.

They need to enforce it as much as J if they want people to actually pay for it. However, they could do LMU offers at check-in for 50% off or something. So if your status entitles you to 50% off, then it would be free at check-in. But only if the loads warrant it (so if they know 20 people are going to have to end up in preferred seats, offer the LMU, otherwise, don't).

I believe the market for those who can afford the small premium upgrade to E+ and those who are willing to roll the dice and get E+ for free, is quite small. The hassle premium keeps any outliers to just that, the determined few.

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