Four things airlines don't want you to know
By Sarah Burns on May 9, 2010 in
1. Frustrated by a flight cancellation? Remember rule 240. Airline can't get you where you need to go on time? Ask about Rule 240. Prior to airline de-regulation, this old-school rule stated that a person's chosen airline had to get them to their destinations at their stated time or put them on a competitor's flight if that would get them there faster. Fast forward to today and this rule is now off the "official" books. However, experts say it has now been integrated into many airlines "contracts of carriage" (a formal statement of rules and services airlines have to abide by in different circumstances). Unfortunately, airlines rarely share this info with consumers (for obvious reasons), so many folks are often left in the lurch in the event of cancellations and delays.The bottom line: Throwing out the phrase shows customer services reps that you are seriously informed about your rights as a passenger--and many experts say it can quickly turn things around. (One exception to this rule: If the flight's delay is beyond the airline's control, like in the case of bad weather, you're out of luck.)
2. Fantasizing about first-class? Ask about "Y-ups". Y-ups, also known as Q-ups and Z-ups, is airline code for "discounted First Class airline tickets." While not much is known about how Y-ups came to be (some experts say they were likely intended to allow the airline's best and most frequent travelers to skirt corporate travel policies in order to reward them by allowing them to book seats that usually went empty), they do exist and are currently offered by all major airlines. "I think most travelers do not realize that these fares are out there, and they can result in some big bargains," says Matthew Bennett of FirstClassFlyer.com.
3. Not happy with your flight experience? Speak up. Annoyed by lost baggage or a rude flight attendant? Say so in a calm, clear way right when the unsatisfying experience occurs, say experts. The truth is, most airlines are quick to try to soothe grouchy passengers with frequent-flier miles, free seat upgrades or cocktails, so it's not worth it to fume silently, says Terrance Zepke, author of the Encyclopedia of Cheap Travel. Too upset to express yourself clearly? Write a letter to the airline stating your specific complaints when you get back home.
4. Remember, 21 is key. Wondering when the best time is to buy airline tickets? "Airlines can differ, but generally, once you hit 15 days before a flight, the price begins to go up, then it goes up again at the seven-day mark. So if you want a retail ticket, buy it at least 21 days out for the best price," suggests Brian Ek, travel resource expert at Priceline.com.
(Source: consumersearch.com ..... productopia)
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