There is a difference between canceling/changing and rebuying for a saver on Alaska Airlines.
I started shopping for airfares after our guests left.Black Friday was followed by Cyber Monday.
When I found a great fare to Los Angeles for just over $150 one-way, I immediately went to the Alaska Airlines website to find out more.
The "Saver" fare came up.Delta's basic economy fares have been offered for more than a year.The basic economy fare of United is more difficult than Delta's.
The scheme is easy to understand.The airline publishes a stripped-down fare to boost its standing in comparison search engines.Low-fare airlines have been doing this for a while.
Clicking on the cheapest fares will lead you to work backward.Sometimes the schedule doesn't work.I am willing to pay more for a seat with more space.Sometimes I am not.
When Delta and United introduced basic economy fares last year, many travelers were happy about it.In April of last year, Alaska Air's marketing executives stated that they would roll out their own version of basic economy.
Saver fares will work for some travelers.You can still get an assigned seat, but those seats are no longer by the potty.Only the last five rows of the aircraft are available.You will get one at check-in if there are no pre-assigned seats.Probably in the middle.
Many Alaskans have mined the Alaska Airlines honey pot for years, building up their miles and earning elite status.If you want to upgrade to Premium Class, the Saver fares are not for you.There is no guarantee that you will sit next to your companion.If you miss your flight, you won't get credit.Same-day changes are included.
Delta and United are trying to offer a ticket that you don't want to buy.The goal is to get you to upgrade to Premium Class.
Depending on the demand for your flight, your regular coach ticket may get you a seat in the last row.It happened to me.You have the ability to change.The change-or-cancel benefits are valuable if you are an elite-level traveler.
Saver fare travelers will be the last to board the plane and use the overhead bins.If you are an elite traveler, you will be able to board earlier.
Saver fare tickets do not include checked bags.If you are a member of Alaska's "Club 49," you can check two bags free of charge on flights to or from Alaska.Travelers can check up to three bags for free.
Saver travelers can bring a regular-sized carry-on suitcase on the plane.Delta has the same policy.United will not allow this with their basic economy tickets.If you don't purchase the carry-on fee of $25 or pay for a checked bag with United, you cannot use the carrier's online check-in.The customer service agent can confirm that you are not taking a bag on the plane if you stand at the airport.