What do you believe the spirit of the rules actually is? Are you opposed to the fact that there is no change fee now to buy up to a higher fare class? Are you opposed to the fact that "instant" upgrades are available from Y/B/M fares?

Would you be satisfied if the rules were kept as they were, but CO didn't publicise the fact that pax could buy up to the higher fares? Is it a visibility issue you have here?

You have a real chip on your shoulder about this particular point, as can clearly be seen in dozens of threads, however I really don't understand the issue. What would you propose as a solution within the "spirit" of the rules?

Absolutely. It's a one-size-fits-all program that makes sense in some markets and does not in others. Why would any Elite pay for an F fare on CO if they can buy a B-Up or Y-Up for less? Now if you have a market with no F-paying customers, this is perfect for that. In other markets, it doesn't make as much sense.



It's not a visibility issue, it's a delivery issue with respect to the traditional EUA. They're eroding their so-called "cornerstone benefit" of free, unlimited upgrades with what they're doing on this.

This thread shows a P-Plat without an upgrade, trying to figure out how to strategize for a better shot at an upgrade? Plus there are many high-level Elites with poor upgrade rates.

If they were up front about what they're doing, I'd be fine with it. All they need to do is post on the Elite Upgrade page.

They even have a section on "Tips to Help Ensure an Upgrade." Why not add the tip to "Look-out for buy-up opportunities to pay a little more and confirm your upgrade in advance. This offer may be offered to you on our website, or during the checkin process."

I don't think full disclosure is too much to ask for.

I am. For sure. If CO charged what UA charges for B fares then maybe.. ok .. but CO is still charging cheapo B-fares. B-fares are supposed to be paying for flexibility, not F.

The instant upgrade nature, coupled with the fact that B is often the cheapest available fare means they CO is dumping people into F that aren't necessarily desiring an F seat (at that price point).

If CO simply prioritized Y/B fares the way UA does for ORDER, for EUA processing, then the highest fares would still get the upgrade, but not necessarily block people who want to pay for F from buying it; nor would it punish people who pay the $$$ at the last minute only to be stuck in an E- middle seat.