Beckles

Though I have seen this type of discussion on FT many times, in fact my understanding is that it is not at all accurate, airlines do not typically 'buy' seats on other airlines unless they do not have an interline agreement, rather the interline agreement specifies the arrangement and it typically involves the airlines agreeing to accept each others tickets for the value paid. So, then in the case of -UP fares, if it's a coach seat with an instant upgrade, then I would not be surprised if the interline agreement would result in that being treated as a coach fare.

baccarat_king

I "think" you nailed the issue here. Basically, the flight was completely "checked-in", and "boarded" except for potentially a last call.

We can of course argue, if there were upgrade seats still available the gate agent should wait until T-10; but the gate agent was probably also not aware of a "new reservation" that was simultaneously being booked at T-25.

In any event, there is always a good way; and bad way for gate agents to address these situations from a customer service perspective.

I'm not sure I would judge DL that much on a T-25/30 ticket purchase for a last minute re-booking. Yes, I know I am a Delta fan boy.

But, roles reversed, if Delta re-booked me on United (last minute) and I arrived at the gate after everyone had boarded (T-20); what's the chance United would still have left First Class seats empty and waiting for "potential" last minute folks?

Might be a red flag, but operationally Delta has very few issues. So, perhaps, a very "minor" red flag. I "guess" my point, is that as a Delta (frequent) flyer you just don't worry about MX that often. True, it happens, but it seems (antedoctally at least) to be much more of a rarity on Delta as opposed to United.

But, if the OP's wife had a FULL F fare, they would most likely be re-booked into full F on Delta. I agree, that if the OP's wife was on a highly discounted United F fare it would most likely be interlined to an equivalently priced fare in economy class.

Spiff

Response (w/time machine): "If you've got a problem, send United a debit memo. Please give me the class of service I paid for and was booked into."

Hartmann

I thought the interline agreements were negotiated per cabin (Y/C/F) at set rates and were reciprocal. Meaning, if UA needs a DL Y seat it pays $X and DL pays the same to UA if they need a seat on them.

baccarat_king

Cabin, and NOT fare code/fare basis? I would have assumed it was based on fare code, not cabin. Of course, the "Y-up" type fares make that a very muddy scenario. Though, perhaps, it was a discounted F-fare (on United) that was not a "Y-up" type fare. (similar to Delta "Z" and "I" fares, albeit in this case domestic)

readywhenyouare

I'll add another data point. Delta has thrown me under the bus as well (twice) when I've purchased A fares. The agent tried to argue the coach/instant upgrade deal. No, when I went to delta.com I searched for a first class ticket and the A fare is what Delta sold me. I hate government intrusion into private business and DL is just asking for it with this deceptive practice. I just don't understand it. Do they (DL management) not realize how much harder it will be if the government comes in and adds regulation to end the deceptive practice? It would be best for everyone if DL were honest and held up their end of the agreement.

suvayanr

This all being said though - if I haven't checked in by t-30 I would fully expect my seat to be given away. GA could have even IDBed the pax without comp since they did not check in by the check in cutoff.

Often1

But, it hasn't for years. And, it applies equally to AA, UA, so it's standard practice and DL, like the other legacy carriers is more than willing to take the risk that they get told to stop. At which point they will.

readywhenyouare

Well now that is the picture of ethical behavior. I suppose the same logic could be applied to serial killers. They will stop when they get caught. Perfect.

NoStressHere

I have an upcoming flight in 1st class, but noticed it has the "P" code. Our ATL connection is tight and now it bothers me if we miss it, they will put us in Coach.

Nowhere on the payment screen does it say they are selling a coach ticket with a space available in first class.

Like others, I prefer the feds stay out of private business, but here is one where Delta is just asking for trouble.

readywhenyouare

^ And it will only get worse with the expansion of FCM. Eventually there will be too many passengers burned by GAP fares and a lawsuit will only be a matter of time. I would much rather play nice and keep the Feds out of my business.

longing4piedmont

For well over a year now DL's policy has been to rebook you in first on the next flight if there is an empty seat. If there is not it will be your choice to downgrade to coach if you do not wait for a flight with first available.