Interesting Phone Call From American Airlines
A few days before a recent flight, I received a call from American Airlines. My first reaction when I saw the caller ID was, please tell me they did not cancel my flight 2 days before departure! I hesitantly answered, and spoke with an agent (sales person) calling to inform me that I could change my flight to another (earlier) flight on the day for a fee. I was knocked so far into thought about what was happening that I almost forgot to answer.
My thoughts in “stream of consciousness form”…
- Is she selling me something?
- What nerve!
- Wait, I do want to change my flight to an earlier time if the price is right (I had booked a flight at less than convenient times because it was some $250 less expensive)
- What a great idea. Maybe this is the answer to the airlines financial challenge.
- Now that the airline industry knows how to make money – do I still have to pay for my bags?
Once I finally returned to the call, she informed me that it would cost about $40 and I could have my choice of flights. I agreed, and she charged the card on file and all was done. Actually, she emailed my new reservation to the email address on file as well.
After the call, it struck me what an interesting idea this really is. Think about it – By moving people earlier in the day, it opens up more available seats for afternoon/evening travel. Additionally, my flight might have been oversold or may now be able to produce more revenue for the airline. Either way, they got my $40 and I am a happy customer.
For the “Up In The Air” types that may read this, you are correct – this option has been available. On the day of travel, it has been possible to change flights and request upgrades, but only if you were an experienced-enough traveler to know how to ask (or use the kiosk). The call I received takes that concept to the masses.
Who knows how effective this program will prove to be, but I for one am thrilled by the idea!