ATLConsultant

Here is a link to an e xample fare in March.


From ATL for only about $160 more. A little over 21K MQMs!

HLT1904

I can not get this fare to replicate at the $880, but have found a few in the $1,100 range. Did you book it for that amount?

NYC Flyer

≈$900-$1,000 Premium Select fares available on this route through reputable consolidators, credited as "exception fares" in DL parlance (MQD=20% of redeemable miles), are available in Jan. and possibly beyond. Speak with a travel agent.

ATLConsultant

Tons of dates still available from Jan - April.

The link i posted is already sold out for that fare. But here is another fare in March. And only a 1+ hour layover in Detroit!

https://www.google.com/flights#flt=B...03*2.USD.87903

HLT1904

Thank you for the new link.

NYC Flyer

Of course, many DL flyers have Amex MQD waivers, but if you're aiming for Diamond without a waiver, same dates with "exception fare" MQD earnings (W on domestic legs and G on overwater legs) are available through a travel agent at comparable prices.

ATLConsultant

Good to know. I'm on Amex MQD 25K spend waiver though personally.

mcf747

Are there any OTA's that you recommend who can book the "exception fare", any luck calling the Medallion line and just asking for it?

NYC Flyer

Farebuzz? Justfly? There are many, but they are often opaque about exactly what kind of ticket you're getting and charge absurd fees to speak with customer service regarding changes/issues after the sale is made. Also, the fare rules are different than published fares. Some do not accrue mileage at all, and the pentalties/change fees are often different (sometimes more generous).

Consolidators negotiate these deals directly the airlines and primarily market them through traditional travel agents. Airlines won't sell them directly and reservation agents may not even be able to view the fares in their GDS (if they sold all they seats they wanted to directly to the public, they would have no need for the consolidator channel, and it would evaporate). International consolidator ticketing has a long history, and the best companies have been in the business for many decades, and have very good relationships with the airlines they market.

Speak with a travel agent. Many will wotk with you over text or PM (I do). A good travel agent will provide you with details on exactly who the consolidator is, what the fare rules are, and how the ticket is issued (generally a credit card charge processed directly with the airline and issued on the applicable carrier's ticket stock).