Many people are actually able to fly first class anywhere in the world for
the cost of coach. Even though this sounds like the beginning of a wonderful
fairy tale it isn't. Hundreds of people step on airplanes everyday and it
never cost them a single penny more to sit in the luxury seats.
How does this happen? The explanation is simple- most airlines overbook their
flights to 110% of the plane's capacity assuming that there will be
cancellations and/or people that miss their flights.
What happens in the rare event that there are no cancellations or no shows?
That answer too is simple; more bodies can not be on the plane than seats.
Some people have to be denied the flight. Before they can kick someone off
the plane, they have to have alternatives and incentives to offer the
customers. The incentive for volunteering to catch another flight can be and
usually is a free upgrade to first class on the next flight. There are other
incentives that are just as good. If there is not a first class seat
available in the next flight and the customer wants to stay in coach, the
airline will offer coupons worth hundreds of dollars for future airline
travel.
The airline is willing to dish out coupons so they are able to keep the
customer's business. The average coupon size if around five hundred dollars
and can last an entire year sometimes even longer.
If you want to have the opportunity to take advantage of one of these
transfers there are a couple things that you can do to make it known that you
want to have the first choice if this overbooking situation occurs. Take the
time to go to the desk and tell them that you would like to volunteer if the
flights need to be changed, do this before the announcement even has the
chance to be made. This is especially effective during the peak flying
seasons, such as holidays, business hours, or vacation times.
Remember also that this is especially rewarding if the flight you are taking
is a transfer flight. Since you will be leaving later you will arrive for
your next plan late also. In most cases the new airline will give you a 300
dollar voucher for your hour wait with them, if it is going to be longer than
a few hours a nice hotel room is often provided for you to use to wait until
the next flight out. Keep in mind that very seldom do you get to volunteer
for the flight exchange if you are traveling with a companion. This is a case
when traveling solo can be to your advantage While two or more free upgrades
are not completely out of the question, seldom ever are the planes overbooked
by more than one or two seats.
Next time you have to fly plan ahead. Allow yourself the time that you need
for a second flight option. The outcome of the free ticket will make any wait
well worth the trouble.
Jonathan Kittley is the airline employee, and wasinterviewed on: http://www.
free-flight-upgrades.com where you can learn all about cheap flights and free
flight upgrades.
Jonathan Kittley is the airline employee, and wasinterviewed on: http://www.free-flight-upgrades.com where you can learn all about cheap flights and free flight upgrades.
