Having apparently started a rather heated set of exchanges, supported in my view by a few others, I have remained silent, but do wish to know the outcome. And Pucci, it is not that I have never been in a circumstance of having to travel when in a state of severe pain or otherwise incapacitated, and thus have no sympathy or understanding. Rather, I have been in such circumstances, but would never have thought of begging an upgrade for that reason. Other arrangements were made, and I was able to return in a degree of comfort without expecting the airline to do anything more than it is expected to do for any fare paying customer.

If crew members wish to treat someone in obvious pain to a seat change, fine. What happens when the doors close is another matter altogether. But when I pay $10K or $5K to fly across the Atlantic, I do so knowing that I paid for the comfort and amenities that go with that price. If I pay $1K on that same aircraft, then I expect nothing more than basic accommodation, a drink or two, and an appropriate meal. If I suffer chronic pain, I do not travel, or I do something with my accommodation that will minimize this pain. If I travel and happen to fall ill while on a trip, I know that I have purchased medical insurance that can cover an upgrade if the doctor feels it is necessary.


[This message has been edited by Shareholder (edited 06-08-2002).]