Sorting out a bereavement fare...
 

Ok all, need your help and suggestions. This past summer we had to purchase a bereavement fare from IND-BEY. We called AF to make the reservation and after much discussion and picking apart the segments, a reservation was made to start on NW from IND-BOS, continuing to BEY via CDG. Total cost was near $4000 although the bereavement rate, we were told, would take that down to about $2100.

Because AF doesn't have a counter at IND, we called from the airport and AF told us to buy the ticket via NW. They said the bereavement rate would still be honored, but now the ticket is on NW stock with a 012 ticket no.

After returning, all the documentation was sent to AF and they responded, as could be expected, by saying that because this ticket wasn't paid for through AF, they can offer no refund. So, we sent all the materials to NW.

Since October/November, we've sent about 10-15 emails to Northwest and even placed a few phone calls, and we've heard nothing. This travel was now about 6 months ago and this issue still isn't resolved.

All that said, does anyone have any ideas on what to do next? Are there any folks or a number other than the refund department that would be beneficial to call, etc? Thoughts? Any and all are much appreciated.

Regards.

Your deal was neogtiated with AF, not NW. That is where your complaint should go.

Did you tell NW that it was a bereavement fare you were looking for? If not you need to deal with AF.

The agent knew that it was a bereavement fare we were looking for and actually had to speak to the AF agent on the phone to complete the booking. We sent two letters to AF and they said it wasn't their issue to deal with because it was bought at NWA since IND has no AF desk. That's why this is tough, because one would think AF is due to pay the difference, but its not on their stock...doesn't that make a difference?

Might suggest you dispute the charge with your credit card company if you haven't already.

Good Luck!