GPU success chances on new intn'l routes (SCL)?
Jun 28, 2014, 1:47 pm
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: between SFO & SJC
Programs: UA 1MM (and no longer flying much)
Posts: 777
GPU success chances on new intn'l routes (SCL)?
I'm thinking of flying IAH-SCL-IAH around Dec 11-18. This would be about a week after the route opens (Dec 7) and a bit more than a week before Christmas.
My guess is that odds of clearing a GPU are better than usual when a route is very new. Does anyone have relevant experience?
I also worry somewhat about the Christmas holiday, though my flights are likely to be at least a week before the 25th, so I assume it shouldn't be too bad.
My guess is that odds of clearing a GPU are better than usual when a route is very new. Does anyone have relevant experience?
I also worry somewhat about the Christmas holiday, though my flights are likely to be at least a week before the 25th, so I assume it shouldn't be too bad.
Jun 28, 2014, 2:52 pm
#2
A FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Apr 2004
Location: GVA (Greater Vancouver Area)
Programs: DREAD Gold; UA 1.035MM; Bonvoy Au-197; PCC Elite+; CCC Elite+; MSC C-12; CWC Au-197; WoH Dis
Posts: 52,140
I wouldn't be super optimistic. With the difficulty of getting anything on IAH-EZE-IAH, I suspect people may just flock to the SCL flights with just this intention.
Jun 28, 2014, 2:56 pm
#3
Join Date: May 2002
Location: US
Programs: UA GS 2MM
Posts: 1,737
The one thing UA has been doing well lately - for better or worse for us 1Ks - is revenue management on their premium cabin sales. UA knows that business class purchases of the highest fares (i.e., J, C) may be minimal during the holidays on weekday flights. For that reason, they are likely going to keep the cheap-ish Z and P buckets open on this route even as seats start to fill up.
LatAm flights are 100% full during the holidays and as the cheap coach seats start to fill up people will start to debate between buying YBM fares or P fares as the price delta between business and coach closes.
I am sure you will clear SCL-IAH, but be careful flying Fri-Sun in either directions unless you can pre-confirm R space.
LatAm flights are 100% full during the holidays and as the cheap coach seats start to fill up people will start to debate between buying YBM fares or P fares as the price delta between business and coach closes.
I am sure you will clear SCL-IAH, but be careful flying Fri-Sun in either directions unless you can pre-confirm R space.