http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/t...ss-select_N.htm
I like this idea.
Southwest Airlines (LUV), the feisty and unconventional airline founded in the 1970s on cheap fares and one-class service, will start actively courting high-paying business travelers and allowing them to be among the first to board flights.
The Dallas-based discount giant on Wednesday announced changes that CEO Gary Kelly said will generate at least $100 million a year in additional revenue by attracting business travelers willing to spend more for tickets.
The changes come at a time when Southwest's operating costs are rising and industry competition is intensifying for business customers, who tend to book late and pay more.
Starting today, Southwest is raising last-minute fares — its highest — and calling that category "business select." Customers who buy those tickets will get a guaranteed place in Southwest's "A" boarding group. Southwest doesn't assign seats but puts passengers into A, B and C boarding groups that determine the order for boarding.
"Business select" customers will also get a complimentary cocktail and will be able to earn points faster in Rapid Rewards, Southwest's loyalty program.
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I like this idea.
Everyone will continue to be treated with the same LUV and concern as always. Do you honestly think that the company contact employees will "treat" someone better just because of the "Y" class fare? I Don't think so. They are NOT even going to draw attention and make a gate announcment during boarding like: "we are now taking our Buisness Select group to board first" it is business as usual- except for standing in line.. Even if Mr. or Ms. Biz Select show up late or misconnect, they forfeit their "status" if you will...