Originally Posted by travelerjim

Choom said:

"Anyway, you say you've been able to change to earlier flights after arriving at the intermediate airport.....but I doubt you would ever be allowed to retain the "standard award level" mileage in that case. Specifically, if I book a return flight from bangkok to dulles with a 7 hour layover in detroit (a standard award flight, because only rulebuster flights avoid that 7 hour layover and leave earlier from detroit)...but then I try to get on an earlier flight from detroit to dulles, i doubt they're going to let me do that without charging me rulebuster prices."

^ Choom, I have done this many times at the point of entry into the USA ...after clearing US Immigration...I get my luggage...walk thru the US Customs...and go to the luggage re-check point. There is a NW agent ready to assist you with both luggage re-check and has a computer if needed to rebook you.

I have politely asked the agent with a smile.....May I get an "earlier" flight into my final destination city...the agent has always tried and booked me on to an earlier flight - if available. NO added miles have ever been required....at this point in your trip - they are interested in pleasing you and getting you to your home destination as quickly as possible.

As a Plat I usually get upgraded to First class as well if availability exists on the earlier flight the agent has booked me on......Never a problem...and NEVER asked for additional ff miles to rebook at the US international trip point of entry.

Hope this helps...

TravelerJim