On transatlantic flights, upgrades are rarely offered. I haven't had one for years. Us sardines, even those with golden frequent flier marks, points and statuses, will stay packed in the tail of the plane while the business class section stands empty and that’s okay with most airlines. You get what you pay for.
But today, Air France was feeling flush.
Perhaps it’s the airline’s jubilation at having just narrowly averted a strike this week. Perhaps, as Ed tells it, the clerk at the counter found him a formidable presence (must be the jeans: for once he agreed to leave the Farm and Fleet pair at home). I’ll never know the true reason for today's nod to my unwavering loyalty, but the clerk asked me if I, along with my partner (blessedly, neither of us corrected her on that one) would consider a free upgrade. As a favor to the airline.
Oh Air France, I take back all the bad thoughts I had about your sometimes stern crew of attendants. I’ll stay loyal, really I will. For that leg room alone, Ed (who is 6’4”) thanks you as well.
It might have been Ed's "formidable presence". Or it could have been because Ed was "nice" to the clerk.
ReplyDeleteIn over 35 years of flying over 100,000 miles a year on business and pleasure, I received many -- far more than normal -- unexpected and unasked-for upgrades. All those upgrades might have been caused by my own 6'4" "formidable presence", but I think the way I treated each desk agent was the more likely reason. I always greet each airline employee with a friendly smile and undemanding respect. I have been granted many hotel room upgrades, too, for the same reason.
If you were an overworked airline desk agent or hotel clerk, who would you rather help -- the red-faced jerk who demands special treatment, or the patient, smiling customer who is eager to praise you for anything you do right?
Getting a better airline seat or hotel room is often a simple matter of being nice to the people who can help you.
I hope you and Ed have a wonderful and refreshing trip.
Made my day.
ReplyDeleteWe had a similar experience on Air France, except that we were "only" upgraded to an exit row. And, my travel companion of choice is only 5'8", but we were traveling with someone over 6'. Either way, the extra room is delightful on a long flight. Enjoy your trip; I can't wait for the details and pictures!
ReplyDelete