Some readers are genuinely confused when they check in for a flight and find the entire cabin is full. "But... but... I confirmed my seat assignments two days ago, and it was half empty!" That row you thought you had to yourself on an international flight? Now you've … [Read more...]
Introduction to Airline Routing Rules
This is the fifth and final post in my introductory series to using ExpertFlyer for more advanced travelers. I've mentioned fare routing rules in passing several times but not in the same depth they deserve. For the most part these guidelines will only be helpful for … [Read more...]
Introduction to ExpertFlyer: Planning an Award Trip
Some people ask me for tips on searching for award space on ExpertFlyer. It's certainly possible with a few carriers, but it's not something I do. I think there are plenty of other, more reliable ways to get access to award inventory by performing free searches on an … [Read more...]
Introduction to ExpertFlyer: Combining Fares and Pricing Units
Continuing last week's introduction to ExpertFlyer, today I'll discuss different ways to combine fares and flights using what are called "pricing units." There are a lot of terms here, but they aren't too important. You should still come away with a better sense of how … [Read more...]
Does Manual Fare Construction Produce Better Results?
In the last two days I’ve explained in detail how to search for fares and availability to construct an itinerary from Seattle to Austin. I plan to revisit these topics later to show how some rules might change for more complex international fares, but in general the … [Read more...]
Introduction to ExpertFlyer: Finding Availability and Constructing Fares
In yesterday's post I reviewed the basics of searching for airline fares. Today I will use that fare information and match it with the booking class availability on different flights. I strongly recommend you read yesterday's post so you can pick up where we left off. … [Read more...]
Introduction to ExpertFlyer: Fare Rules and Prices
This week I'll be trying to recreate elements of my talk on ExpertFlyer at Frequent Traveler University Advanced. Some people who attend these presentations ask for a copy, but I usually give it live and have nothing to offer. Others only sign up for the regular FTU and … [Read more...]
Save $20 on FTU Tickets, Plus Great Benefits from Sponsors
Time is running out to buy tickets to Frequent Traveler University in Dallas. If you haven't bought yet, tickets are just $129 when you use the promo code MILEPOINT, and rooms at the host hotel are $99. The event will be held on April 17-19 and is the largest of its … [Read more...]
ExpertFlyer Now Includes US Airways Upgrade and Award Space
While I'm not especially excited by some of the declines in service that accompany a merger between American Airlines and US Airways, I am glad to see that US Airways is adopting American's approach to the controversial ExpertFlyer tool and making available award and … [Read more...]
How to Get Upgraded on Your Next Flight
About the only thing worse than waiting in a security line or the crowded airport terminal is actually sitting in coach. Seat 32B, to be exact. As you enter the plane and prepare yourself for the next four hours of misery, you’ll probably pass some happier passengers … [Read more...]
