02-27-2008
03:31 PM
5 Loves
I must confess that I have not read all 285 prior comments on this subject. However, I did read enough to get the idea that few like the new boarding system, fare structure, and the devaluation of our rapid reward awards. On the latter subject, for instance, I find that there are no "standard" awards available for a trip from Houston to Los Angeles for Palm Sunday weekend, but plenty of seats on all flights at all fare levels. And, of course, plenty of "enhanced" awards tickets are available. This is the first time that I have not been able to find award seats this far in advance. I take that as evidence that Southwest has greatly reduced the number of "standard" award seats. How does this benefit customers?
I will reiterate several points made by others previously:
1. Numbered boarding passes are progress - though many do not agree.
2. The system of assigning the boarding numbers in NOT progress.
3. Families and those needing help should be boarded first. This allows them to stay together and the rest of us to sit far away - except for those unlucky "C" pass holders.
4. The new "twofer" for rapid rewards awards sucks - and is not worthy of Southwest. This sounds like something Continental would do (and has).
5. I do not object to receiving more rapid reward credit for paying higher fares. This makes good sense and rewards the traveler who pays more, for whatever reason.
6. Southwest is no longer automatically the cheapest seat in many markets - even the senior fare has recently gotten out of hand. This is not progress, either.
As a resident of Houston I have alternatifves to Southwest - Continental, AA, UA, USAir, Delta - just to name a few. With your new policies, these also-rans are starting to look more attractive - a good trick, to say the least.
I am hoping to see some major adjustments in your new policies. After all, hope springs eternal.
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