Originally Posted by
mduell
Generally yes domestically, all three majors are engaging in extensive first class monetization (i.e. actually selling it) these days. OTOH it's generally pretty reasonably priced ($50/hr or less) to buy first over coach domestically.
Internationally it depends a lot on route, some have any easy time selling out (i.e. SYD, EZE, etc) while others are generally easy (AMS).
On most continents *A has the most/most good/best airlines, some continents they completely dominate (Africa), but they do have one weak spot (South America).
*A is the only alliance where earning is based on operating carrier/operating carrier's fare class (which may differ from marketing carrier's) rather than marketing carrier, so be aware of that. Also be aware of AC tango and LH light fares, which are like UA's new basic economy.
Thanks for the reply. Good info on the Tango fares, I would not have known that nor would I have known that mileage earnings were based upon the operating carrier's fare class and not that of the marketing carrier. I hear ya on the FCM, AA does this too, although I still have a decent upgrade percentage so long as the flight does not connect at ORD or DFW, it seems this is worse on the UA and DL sides, but I really don't know. Either way, per company policy, I cannot buy F, even if it is cheaper than Y, but I can purchase check-in upgrades, which I have before as a UA silver.
How does accessing non-UA *A lounges work on domestic itineraries? I thought it was allowable, but back when I had a US Airways Club membership (and was US *A Gold, flying US), I was denied access to a *A lounge at MIA (can't remember the airline).