I'm sure people may look at this question and be shocked at it's stupidity, but I'm very confused, so I feel the need to ask:
What is the difference between Continental's F class, J, C, D, and Z classes besides for the fact that they are all different prices? And why is it that on a given flight, there are no longer Z class available (as in they're sold out because it IS available on the same flight but different date) but there are C, D, J, and F seats available? If they're all in the same cabin, why does it matter? Furthermore, what exactly is A class as Continental sometimes seem to mention it, but it doesn't seem to ever be posted?

Thanks!!

A couple answers for you...

First off, check out the FAQ. There is a whole post on the different fare classes.

Second, there are often different restrictions that come with the different fares. A discounted ticket might require a minimum stay or advance purchase, for example, while a more expensive fare wouldn't.

Joshwex90 - welcome to the world of airline seat pricing!

In pricing, airlines differentiate seats by the benefits and requirements they provide beyond the cabin they are in. Airlines recognize that folks who have limited flexibility (e.g., business travelers) are willing to pay more to be on the exact flight they want or to maintain the flexibility to change their tickets. What you are seeing is a reflection of the fact that the cheaper, more restricted Z fares have been purchased already and the airline has allocated the rest to higher fares which provide greater flexibility, and which they expect will be bought closer to the departure date.

There's more details in the CO FAQ thread:



ETA: see sbm12 beat me too it as I was getting links...