Broken Fare Basis Can Require double WP Miles for Upgrading using points
 

I booked a ticket on November 2nd CO 452 CMH/EWR (V Class) connecting to CO 1947 EWR/SJU (K class) returning on November 7th and was advised that there was "R" class space available on 11/2 for both flights but because the fare was "broken" I would be required to use 15K for the CMH/EWR upgrade and an additional 15K for the EWR/SJU flight due to the fact that one flight was booked in "K" and one flight in "V".

I am not upgrading the return flights because the routing is SJU/DTW/CMH on Northwest and I expect the EUA to work.

Has anyone heard of having to use double WP points to upgrade due to "broken" fare basis?

RC

In a word, yes. One of the most ridiculous rules in the WP programme. Possible options are to upgrade the tkt so it's all at the higher fare, or use double the miles, or hope for the EUA which I'd reckon you have a very good shot at given your status, or keep ringing back until you find an agent that will do it anyway.

I wouldn't worry much about the SJU upgrade. Tends to be a reliable one, esp. if they're flying a 757 or 767 down there. Also a great bump opportunity.