Originally Posted by
PV_Premier
Today, AA became the last of the big 3 to introduce a basic economy fare, which basically is a stripped down coach ticket with limited elite benefits and no seat assignment. You can only bring a personal item.
Delta introduced theirs to much "fanfare" in early 2016, and were (of course) followed by United late last year. AA joins the fray today.
There is strong speculation that these fares may soon be "system wide" including international travel.
So, how long will it be before AS "enhances" its R fare bucket to the basic economy level?
April 1st 2017 all people who book travel starting on this day will show them booked in First Class except Frequent Fliers even without status and FlyerTalk Members who enter the secrete code in the Discount Box or who call Alaska with the secrete code but when the non special passengers who don't belong on FlyerTalk or who can't even read the fare terms and conditions come to checkin they learn they are booked in R class. R for Ration Class no bags, poor seats and pay to use the overhead bins. Just look at the family who thought they booked First Class be silently downgraded to the lowest of the low booking classes with poor seat selection.
Oh that Polenta Dinner you wanted will now cost you $15. Want a drink there will be a $5 surcharge over the regular price. Need to use the restroom its right next to you but you will need a code and that code requires an onboard purchases of a minimum amount of $5. Tough luck Charlie Toilet paper and soap not included and you will be timed for the use or else another $5 will be collected under Misc Charge Alaska on your Debit or Credit Card.
Sorry you can't get the MQM miles and you won't be getting full points for your trip.