RTW fare changes - They really read everything here
 

In a few of the posts about the RTW fare changes I saw some posts about the airlines watching the board.

You would be amazed with what they learn from us...

When I called the AA RTW desk a few months ago I learned they read everything on these boards, every day, and I think a few actually participate (although they don't let on who they are).

I'd spent years lurking around FT and finally started posting when I needed some RTW ticket help. A week after I posted my questions here I called the RTW desk to book my ticket only to find that the agent was waiting for me! As soon as I started asking some of the same questions I had posted on the board they asked if I was a FT'er. Then they told me about some of the incorrect answers I had receieved and said they were all wondering when I would call. Told me they all followed the board but 'weren't allowed to particiapte'. Practically had my itin waiting for me...

So the moral of the story, they read EVERYTHING.

[This message has been edited by glide (edited 05-26-2002).]

Yes, we know. And that is why when all the hype of getting your tickets issued in places like South Africa and Sweden caused the fares to increase into astronomical heights, people cried foul. But unfortunately FTers are really the ones to blame.

I was in South Africa recently and spoke to a couple of travel agencies there. They were shocked at how much the OneWorld fares went out and they basically said that no one in South Africa buys the OneWorld RTW fares anymore as they have basically priced themselves out of the market.

There are many many RTWs still out there that are still affordable for many people including FTers. I just don't post it here on FT.

The folks at the AA ATW (as they prefer to be known) desk don't raise the fares nor suggest to management how to stick it to the pax. These people are on our side. They work their butts off to get us the best deals, flights, seats, etc.

Now that's not to say the AA or OW revenue enhancement types don't read these boards too and close loopholes based on what we discuss but let's not blame the ATW desk reps. They are great!