I searched through 7 pages of the most recently updated Skymiles threads and couldn't find this. A couple of days ago, I saw someone posting about NWA/DL pulling e-tickets from other airlines and wondered if anyone (I think Jaimito Cartero posted in that thread), could shed some light if this is still possible.

I'm flying to SFO tomorrow on AA. They screwed up and left me without a seat assignment on a full flight, and unable to check in. If this is not fixed when I get to the airport (i.e., I don't get a seat assignment), my best alternative would be to fly JAX-ATL-SFO or JAX-MSP-SFO roughly 30 minutes later (via DL, of course).

If the need should arise and AA gives no seat assignment, do I just walk up to DL and ask them to pull the ticket? I'm not willing to roll the dice on IDB overnight if I can help it.

Thanks in advance.

This is the thread you're looking for http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/delta...se-tix-nw.html

Perfect -- thank you, sir.

As I recall, that thread notes difficulty pulling tickets from AA, even if your DL agent is willing and otherwise-able to help you.

Yes, all the info is in the BUMP thread. AA tickets are no go unless AA releases them.

This wont apply to you. AA most likely wont release the tickets (and i dont think the DL system has access to them just like NWA didnt), and if you are IDB'ed, you're just going to get compensation and put on the next AA flight. AA will probably refuse to send you off on another airline, so I wouldnt worry about figuring out alternate DL flight combos.

I thought one of the most recent posts showed someone using BUMP for AA. But I understand it may not be possible. Thanks for the heads up.

Cannot tell if the OP is on the final return leg of the AA ticket. BUMP would only work if that were true since AA will cancx out the remaining legs.

Yes, very difficult to use the BUMP with an AA ticket, but it can be done -- I pulled it off about 5 weeks ago. You will have to look for a TA sporting a old NWA badge or lanyard (and proud of it)-- probably a bit difficult in JAX!

The other challenge is getting your DL SM number in the record so you can claim flight credit later....

DL was def. bigger in JAX than NW, but I know there are a number of former NW agents that work the DL counter. I'll ask them if necessary. Hopefully I'll get a seat assignment and it won't be necessary. This is a OW, so cancellations are not a concern, though that is good to know for future reference.

If you're checked in for the AA flight the agents will most likely get the response, "Unavailable--Call Direct" in which case you would have to go back to AA and have them uncheck you in (even with no seat assignment you would most likely appear on their "standby" list which takes control of the e>ticket).

If you're not checked in yet and it's a one-way ticket, would it be better to just go directly to the DL counter and ask to do a BUMP? You would have to allow enough time so that if it doesn't work, you can still check in with AA before their deadline. This eliminates the possibility of taking the nonstop, but avoids being stuck until tomorrow, which seems to be your main concern.

If it's a one-way full-fare ticket there should be no penalty, but DL may charge a $50 SDC fee if it's not a full Y/refundable fare type.

I'm confused. I thought BUMP was free, because it's basically a way when seats are empty to grab passengers who would otherwise fly some other carrier. Moreover, even if this would somehow be considered SDC, OP is Gold and hence can do SDC for free. Am I misunderstanding something?

I'm not sure I follow the logic.

First, the chance of an IDB is extremely rare. Much, much lower than a VDB. If they're oversold, they will likely get the volunteers they need.

Second, if the DL flights are after your AA flights, and they're open, why not be the one to VDB and negotiAAte with them that they rebook you on DL as part of the VDB? That way you get the rebooking the way you want with a voucher to boot.

Very clever pun Your logic makes sense. I'm actually in DFW as we speak; was placed in an aisle seat towards the back of the plane, and I made the flight, so it ended up fine. Thanks for your help, everyone.