Originally Posted by
Arazia
Newbie question here:
I have only just qualified for status this year (currently Platinum). Myself and two of my friends have a trip credit from a group trip we took earlier in the year (approximately $53 each). We'd like to use it for a trip in January before it expires.
The problem I'm running into is that I'm not sure how I can best use my status benefits /and/ the trip credits.
So, if we book together, I can get everyone MCE seats (a $220+ value for both companions) as well as the other benefits like earlier boarding, etc. However, if we book together, I cannot use the trip credits as it only allows one credit per person. I contacted reservations and they said the only way to do it is to separate out each person into a separate ticket/purchase. But in doing so, wouldn't I lose the free MCE seat benefit since my friends do not have status?
I can't seem to find a way to use the 3x $53 credits ($159), without my friends having to pay extra for their MCE seats ($220)+. Has anyone run into this issue before that has any advice?
I have had good luck calling in and requesting the MCE for companions and coworkers, even on a separate reservation with my Plat Status if you have their booking details. Even as a gold at the 24 hr mark I was able to do that for a coworker once.
The other benefit to keep in mind is checked bag fees, which absolutely requires people to be on your reservation. If a shorter trip not planning on checking a lot of bags then I wouldn't worry about it, but you get 2 bags per person on your reservation with your status.