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The above is two Diamonds and a Gold Platinum stuck back in coach. Yes, C+ but as we all know, this “upgrade” is just a coach seat with a super tiny bit more space and free drinks and on 900+ long flights sometimes a snack basket (that is less than overwhelming). We were all stuck back here because upgrades, even for Diamonds, are becoming harder and harder this year. Heck I even, weeks out, attempted to use a Regional Upgrade certificate for this flight but it never opened up EVER. This is the new reality of FCM or First Class Monetization 2016 and Delta. Elites had better get real used to coach travel or, if you like kool-aid, the “idea” that C+ is some kind of upgrade (not for me, but whatever)!
This brings me to today’s talking point, that is, since Delta is fine with the fact that their most loyal customers and those who spend the most with Delta, unless they buy an upgrade, will likely spend their time flying coach, should they not have an option for a real meal / EATS / snack choice? Notice the FlyerTalk thread above (link is here).
I am not a UA or AA top elite but my understanding is with AA when an Executive Platinum, their top elite rank, does not get an upgrade to business / 1st class they have a right to a free snack from the service cart. The only thing required is proof of status. It seems, at least according to this FlyerTalk thread, that UA is going to do the same for their 1K top elite members as well now. And yet, for a Delta Diamond who flies MORE than an AA or UA elite (and spends way more for that matter) they are stuck with peanuts (literally)! Such a shame.
The fix for this is just so simple. Back in “the day” that is before the end of 2014, Delta allowed a HOOU coupon to be good for “One Non-Perishable Snack” as you can see above. That meant you could get a snack box or even a cheese plate. You could NOT get a slider sandwich but I think that was a mistake even back then.
So Delta, in a simple quick move, could allow Diamonds (and Platinum and Golds at least) use their current HOOU coupons for any ONE ITEM on the EATS menu. A quick fix to at least keep up with what the other major carriers offer their top elites when stuck in coach and even a move that would make other elites feel appreciated with little cost to the company.
Now am I suggesting that Delta not offering a snack to a top elite will cause them to fly another airline that does show respect for top elites stuck back in coach? I think most know that is simply not the case. But, if you take this issue, the destruction of other elite perks and the decimation of the SkyMiles program in totality, this could be that one straw that really does break the camel’s back. Something to think about mother Delta! – René
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I agree, it really send the wrong message to those who don’t drink alcohol.
The drinks coupons are worthless to me since I don’t consume alcohol. Should have a choice for a snack
As one who regularly pays for C+, I’d suggest you move back a few rows and then tell me how meaningless that extra room is.
Agreed. Also like to see some free movies for Platinim and Diamond who don’t get C + on their assigned seats in standard coach. 6 bucks for a movie to a loyal FF seems high.
A framed version of this picture will be give to Anderson as a trophy on his accomplishments upon retirement …
I have yet to see a snack or meal on an airplane that is worth eating. Almost always entirely unhealthy. Meals are cooked in batches (even first class) hours before serving then reheated and served on dirty tray tables. I pay for the transportation definitely not the meal service!
@ASD – I find Delta meals quite good. See these posts: http://renespoints.boardingarea.com/?s=food