Bingo!

There are always those who feel the need to ruin it for everyone who is being sincere.

This happened years and years ago but... a man called in and got me. He said he had a "medical emergency" and he needed a "cheap ticket" (his words) to LON (he wanted to travel on 22DEC). I quoted him the sympathy fare and told him I would need to ask him some questions about the situation (name/relationship to deceased) in order to waive the 7 day advance purchase/min stay. I advd him that he would need to bring some sort of medical certificate with him to present upon check-in at LON when he returns. He agreed and finished the reservation.

When you have someone that is traveling on a sympathy fare, anyone that pulls the PNR will instantly know that (Res/Apt).

He called back and got someone sitting near me saying that he wanted to get seat assignments next to his five other friends on the same flights (they booked more than a month in advance).

To make a long story short, the agent knew what was going on and reminded him that he needed to bring proof with him when he checks in a LON.

I went back in the PNR and remarked the "hell out of it". The airport knew that as soon as they pulled up his check in record, to get the medical certificate. I printed out the PNR, pulled it up the day after his return flight to see an ADDCOL of $1,700 to his credit card.

I always feel bad when someone has no option but to use a sympathy fare, and I'm glad we are able to offer it. I makes me furious though, when a few decide to abuse it.

BA USA

[This message has been edited by BRITISH AIRWAYS USA (edited Feb 09, 2004).]