“OVERSOLD? I AM NOT THAT INTO YOU, AMERICAN”
by suvro on June 1, 2010
Flight from Los Angeles to Newark
- Airline:
-
American
- RT/OW
- Round Trip
- Number of Stops:
- No stops
- Date of Flight:
- May 2010
- Seat Class:
- economy
I had bought this ticket through Expedia, and primarily because my airline of choice United does not have direct flights from LAX to Newark (I was going to Princeton).
24 hours prior to flight, I could not check-in online and get a seat assignment. I called the AAdvantage program (I have some miles, but not enough to get premier status), and they said the booking has been closed, so only seat assignments possible at airport.
At the airport self check-in kiosk, it said no seat assignment possible there, I would have to go to the gate!
At the gate I was told no seat assignment possible because it was oversold, and only at the last minute will I know!
They asked for volunteers and at least 4 by my count did choose to take alternate routes + $400. I had events planned, and could not voluntarily give up this flight.
I was the second but last person who got a seat (24B) towards the back of the cabin. It worked out fine.
I had planned to buy food at the LAX AA Terminal 4. But since I had to go straight to the gate, I did not have time to do this. On board availability of the food was poor - crackers and cheese, or all other breakfast choices were yogurt and muesli, or oatmeal. No sandwiches. And the flight was 8:45am PST to 5:15 pm EST (local times) - so it would have been breakfast + lunch hours.
They kept the cabin quite cold and I saw many people wearing layers of clothes inside. I asked if the cabin temperature could be warmed, or alternately if they could provide a blanket. They were willing to sell me a blanket for $8, but no free blankets! Then why keep the cabin temperature so low?
This is the last time I am flying American by choice when other alternatives are available. I am willing to pay a bit more to travel by United or some other airline, but not American again!