Originally Posted by
Transpacificflyer
You so nailed it on the part I bolded.
I don't know about the change fees as I don't fly AC tango. I wish AC did something about the cheapazoids who you highlight. They have the option to get what they want, but will not pay for it. They are con artists because they know exactly what they are doing.
Ok, I'll be gracious and say that I don't 100% blame all Tango-ticket purchasers. And IMHO, Tango tickets are not that cheap.
We all know many people - and perhaps many of those who purchase Tango tickets - do so via OTA. There may be the perception is that the ticket costs less than if they bought it on AC's website. I know a few people who were "lured" by the pretty link for one of these booking engines because they saw the name of the airline in the title. I was shocked that supposedly intelligent people thought they were booking directly at the airline's site.
IIRC, this may have also been discussed in other threads, but there are 2 other issues on the ticket purchase itself - that the buyer is not reading all the T&C to understand exactly what they are getting and what is included and, I am not sure if all OTAs show and remind purchasers of what is included with the ticket they bought.
I actually feel for some of these people. They may be overwhelmed by the details and have little flying experience.
The group of Tango-ticket purchasers I have no patience for are the types I've encountered on a couple of my LAX flights - where families are separated and one parent throws a fit and holds up boarding which can delay departure. (Last year, I posted details in another thread.)
The FA explained to the parent that people paid for the preferred seats and that's why they were seated there. This person's spouse and second child were also, due to GTE. Parent did not seem to care for the answer, continued to argue and wanted other pax to change seats so they would be accommodated.
Thankfully, FA had the wits and clarity of thought to ask the parent to take their seats and perhaps after take-off, something could be sorted out.
THESE are the people who need a lesson not only in how to buy tickets and what they get for their money, but also how to behave when travelling.
As for Air Canada, i think one suggestion made last year was that Tango ticket purchasers see a warning message during booking, saying that their ticket does not include seat selection (unless status allows it). It doesn't matter that AC has it on their charts with fares, or on the booking pages, if the person doesn't click the link or pay attention.
If they are buying from OTAs, that's another conversation.