Why is bookingwith Delta more than KLM/AF?
Sep 4, 2019, 10:42 pm
#4
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Although they coordinate and share revenue on TATL, they don't always exactly duplicate fare filings and bucket availability. The fare being quoted by AF/KL has a VLNW87B1 fare basis with a whopping $1 base fare (the rest of the price are carrier-imposed fees and taxes). DL has chosen not to duplicate this filing and the cheapest DL fare for these dates is a UL1J87B3 fare (the $1350 fare). Interestingly, EF, ITA Matrix, and OTA's don't seem to see the KL/AF fare for some reason. But the fare seems to be real deal as you can find it searching on klm.com directly.
Last edited by xliioper; Sep 4, 2019 at 11:09 pm
Sep 5, 2019, 12:18 am
#5
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It's an error due to codeshare. Technically you shouldn't be able to book a ticket using a codeshare if not at least one flight operated by that carrier on ticket. Even if the system shows it, it may not ticket.
Sep 5, 2019, 10:45 am
#6
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Look at JFK-LHR. You buy all DL metal operated flights under VS numbers with no DL connection at all or vice versa. AF/KL/DL sell non-stop europe flights like this because of the JV.
Sep 5, 2019, 11:27 am
#7
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I believe the AF/KL VLNW87B1 fare is a valid fare and is available for booking on DL flights. I'm guessing it's some sort of AF/KL "web special" which is getting picked up by Google Flights, but is not distributed through normal GDS channels (which is why EF and OTA's don't seem to see it). They seem to have boosted the YQ charges by $50 as it's now going for $630 (same $1 base).
Last edited by xliioper; Sep 5, 2019 at 1:08 pm
Sep 5, 2019, 12:51 pm
#8
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While, yes there are fare that end up allowing this, technically even with JV you should have one flight operated by the codeshare. This doesnt mean they enforce it.
Sep 5, 2019, 5:44 pm
#10
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Not seeing the fare on delta.com. Google Flights initially lists the flights with DL codings, but when you get to the final page, it only lists the AF/KL codeshare flights on DL metal. AF site lists the requirements for the VLNW87B1 fare -- 28-day advance purchase and 7-day min stay. DL has cheap fares from other cities (fare basis code VL7X87B1) such as MCO-LHR for $440 roundtrip with same 28-day advance and 7-day min stay. Just not out of IND.
Last edited by xliioper; Sep 5, 2019 at 5:49 pm