In concert with what Vulcan said, and in reference to a previous post of mine, I called CO and tried to get an upgradable ticket to asia, DCA-NRT over Thanksgiving, and guess what... it was over $2,000. How funny it was that they checked a bit further and could put me on NW for $1050, which was instantly upgradeable to WBC. Hmmmmmmm guess who I am flying on.....

[This message has been edited by thezipper (edited 10-22-2001).]

It's been explained to me at least half a dozen times and I've never fully been made to understand whether the review is manual or computerized or some combination.

Something about the res. going through "the rate desk" (no idea if that's an actual "desk" or not http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif) and that afterwards if it is determined that a non-upgradeable fare was upgraded a "training memo" appears in the offending agent's e-mail box.

I've asked the obvious question; if it can be determined with 100% accuracy what fare is upgradeable and what fare isn't-- why not determine it at the time of reservation? My guess is that it all comes back to getting the agent off the phone in a timely manner-- and of course that exact goal is (please hold your laughter) what CO claims begat the HoKeY enhancement.

All I know for sure is that it seems a virtual certainty that if an agent allows an upgrade on an ineligible fare they will most likely get the appropriate memo.


[This message has been edited by JonNYC (edited 10-22-2001).]

jetsetter:
The NW work around works for Europe as well, BUT, strangely, most CO upgradeable fares to Europe are cheaper (at $900-$1,100) than NW upgadeable fares (I've heard about $1,400 or so but can't confirm). Just the opposite is the case on Asia, where NW upgradeable fares are always cheaper.

By the end of the day, you may have to count me in the category of wanting to give Continental my cash, but Northwest ending up with it, due to absolutely refusing to risk being in coach for a business-related trip to Singapore. I know the European situation well, but this is my first trip to Asia. It does sound like when I talk to Continental shortly, the rules on the 30 day window are more flexible for Asian destinations. I hope so, otherwise I will just ask for a complete Northwest schedule through CO, and end the conversation knowing where I stand.
If the airline really does want the business traveler to return-one that has plenty of miles and would rather spend some of those to reduce total outlays in this uncertain economy than directly purchase a business class seat-they have to end the uncertainty aspect of this 30 day lottery.