I don't know exactly when the search functions changed on Alaska site, but I think it's been awhile so if this has been asked already, apologize. I couldn't find it in the forums... When you filter the search for 100k (or 75k and below for that matter) you get the fares, screen shot below... . Prem class is same price as main cabin, since we can book prem class seats right away at no charge. Makes sense and that has always been there.. You have the normal first class fare and then you have the fare in-between. If you click and try and book it your charged the higher fare (in-between main/premium and first) however you don't actually have a first class seat.. You can only choose a premium seat. I understand the F icon is white and not blue so it's not available at booking, but why the higher fare at booking? Is that changing a priority order for upgrades or something else? If you get to the end of the booking it clearly says you're waitlisted in F, as I would be normally if I just booked the prem cabin.
Sometimes you can book right into first at a discounted rate when you have the 100k filter on, but your choosing a F seat in that booking so its clear why your paying the higher amount.
Is there something else happening here I am not thinking of?