Originally Posted by u2fan
Most of the above are correct. Fims are really a paper ticket They are used for a number reasons: most common are when an e-ticket is showing used, a ticket cannot be involuntary rerouted, or another carrier refuses to accept a rebooked passenger with an award ticket (no value ). They are usually hand written by agents (NW is an exception - theirs are computer generated), and are usually 'good as gold' as far as the receiving carrier getting paid. In addition, they are usually not written exactly correct, and the receiving carrier frequently gets paid a full y fare. Carriers love to receive them and hate to give them.
Can the passenger request that a FIM be issued or is it up to the airline? I had the situation once where I was flying IAD-JFK-BKK on a Star Alliance award ticket. The flight from IAD to JFK (on UA) was late and caused me to miss the TG flight from JFK-BKK. Two other passengers were re-routed to BKK via CDG or FRA who had paid tickets. I requested to fly via Europe but was told that no award seats were available and they could not get through on the phone to Austrian or Lufthansa. Instead, I flew the next day on UA to BKK via NRT.
If this situation were to happen again, would you request a FIM or should you just be happy to get to your destination since you are on an award ticket?