Disclaimer: this is a shameless attempt to get something to take off on social media. If you're annoyed by that kind of thing, stop reading now and please accept my apologies for wasting your time. I hope this isn't in violation of any forum rules, I don't think it is, but I don't want to get on people's nerves.
Okay, so that said... After yet another disappointing flight as an elite passenger (AA EXP) I've come to the conclusion that the executive management teams at the major airlines (at least the US carriers) have lost touch with what their most valued customers go through on a weekly basis. So, I came up with the idea of the Airline CEO Challenge. Put simply, I'm challenging the CEOs of the major US carriers (United, Delta, and American) to earn top tier elite status on their airline during 2016. I think if they can make a commitment to experiencing their product the way we do, they will have a clearer understanding of where they're doing well and where they stand to improve.
I've started what I hope will become a Twitter "campaign" with the hashtag #AirlineCEOChallenge, casting the gauntlet at the feet of each of the three CEOs. So far only American has replied in any way (not a serious reply, of course), but I think if enough people are interested in seeing this happen we can get them to sit up and take notice.
So if you're on board and think this would be really cool to see, then please join me. Search twitter for the #AirlineCEOChallenge hashtag and retweet my challenge to the three CEOs, or add your own message with the same hashtag.
I've taken a minute to put together a first draft of some rules for the challenge, in case one or more of these guys chooses to accept. If anyone has suggestions for changes/additions, please chime in!
#AirlineCEOChallenge Rules
1. You must book discount economy fare, just like most of your business travelers are required to do
2. You get a budget of $500 for the year to spend on seat upgrades (e.g. Main Cabin Extra / Economy Plus / etc) and checked bag fees, after that you have to earn them with your status
3. You must travel with a laptop bag or briefcase and a rolling, carry-on size bag. It’s your choice whether you check or stow overhead, but you have to follow your airline’s rules in that regard, including things like paying bag fees
4. At least 50% of the flights must depart from a hub city on a Monday morning or return to a hub city on a Thursday evening
5. Domestic flights only, no “mileage runs”
6. You’re only allowed to upgrade to F when you’ve earned it!
7. No special recognition or accommodation at the airport, GA’s, FA’s, Pilots, etc. should not know who you are or offer any kind of preferential treatment
8. Share your itineraries (after the fact, of course) on Twitter, Facebook, corporate page, etc. Include pictures if practical!
9. You must earn top-tier status (Executive Platinum, 1K, Diamond) by the end of 2016 according to your airline's rules