In a desperate search for new revenues, Southwest Airlines is now charging passengers $10 for so-called EarlyBird Check-in.
But I care. And yes, it's partly about the money. For years I've gone out of my way to avoid Southwest, due mainly to their chaotic ticketing and boarding processes. There are better-organized bus companies plying back roads in the rural Third World. (Plus I hate Chicago's Midway Airport.)
You buy your ticket with no confirmed seat but must return to the very same web site 24 hours before your flight to reserve a place in some line unless you pay $10 more which may or may not get you a better place in line. WHAT? Are you kidding me? They MUST'VE modeled that process after something they found in a hospital somewhere.
Maybe I'd put up with it if I saved LOTSA money along the way. But I haven't saved money and the chances I ever will just got slimmer by $10.
"I'm now free to move about the country?" Add 'free' to the growing list of words with indeterminate meanings.
"Southwest officials say that by paying the extra $10, you'll probably be among the first 30 people to board — the "A" group — although they won't promise it." (Emphasis mine.)Analysts forecast the new charges adding $75 million - and possibly as much as $250 million - to Southwest's annual revenues. It's an interesting case study in pricing power and brand performance. If Southwest's fares are more than $10 cheaper compared to alternatives (which they are not, at least on the routes I fly most often) consumers may not care all that much.
But I care. And yes, it's partly about the money. For years I've gone out of my way to avoid Southwest, due mainly to their chaotic ticketing and boarding processes. There are better-organized bus companies plying back roads in the rural Third World. (Plus I hate Chicago's Midway Airport.)
You buy your ticket with no confirmed seat but must return to the very same web site 24 hours before your flight to reserve a place in some line unless you pay $10 more which may or may not get you a better place in line. WHAT? Are you kidding me? They MUST'VE modeled that process after something they found in a hospital somewhere.
Maybe I'd put up with it if I saved LOTSA money along the way. But I haven't saved money and the chances I ever will just got slimmer by $10.
"I'm now free to move about the country?" Add 'free' to the growing list of words with indeterminate meanings.
Comments
But, having an infant with us when we travel Southwest, I could foresee the value of early boarding at a price.
Getting on the plane early certainly discourages anyone from having to sit next to us who doesn't mind/want a crying baby.
Clearly, SW is still evolving its boarding policies and procedures, while trying to innovate and stay clear of traditional carriers policies.