Schedule changes separate companions
 

My wife and I are going LAX-MSY this fall, and our return has been affected by schedule changes. I separated the records for upgrading purposes, but now we're on different flights back to LAX.

The original flights were MSY-MEM-MSP-LAX. This was one of the best itineraries I could piece together to maximize EQMs. Now, my wife is on a later MSY-MEM-MSP-LAX and I am on the nonstop to LAX from MEM.

I would like to be on the same flights as my wife, but I'm sure that when I call NW, they will first suggest putting her onto my flights. Anyone have a similar experience with advice on what to say when talking to NW??

Thanks-
Shane

I would start by explaining that my wife and I are traveling together. A schedule change was obviously run and it put us on different itineraries. Very importantly, say that you would like to be put on your wife's connection. Be nice but confident about what you want done.

In terms of separating itineraries, isn't it better to split them about 3 weeks before departure (rather than so early)? That would avoid these schedule change issues.

You're probably right about separating itineraries a few weeks before departure, but IIRC the "split reservation" becomes a new one with a new reservation purchase date, which could lead to being further down on the EUA list.

I'll call now and see what happens...

I called and got it changed, no problems or questions asked. I just let the agent know that our flights were changed, and I would like to be reaccomodated on the same flights my wife was put on. A few minutes of typing, and I was all set!

I had to do a lot less explaining that I thought I would have to ^ .