On an Alaska Airlines eight-hour long-haul flight from Liberia, Costa Rica, towards Seattle, United States, a passenger got bumped from their first-class seat to economy to give space for deadheading pilots.
First-class Downgrade to Economy by Alaska Airlines
The passenger had purchased a first-class ticket to an eight-hour international flight with Alaska Airlines. But, prior to boarding, they were called to the gate and were told about their downgrade. It was explained to the passenger the need to bump them to economy, so two pilots could seat in first-class. Also, it was said that the passenger was being moved as they had low elite status.
During boarding, the passenger made their way towards economy. The difference between first-class and economy is very noticeable, not only in comfort, but also regarding food options.
The passenger had preordered meals for the flight, and they inquired if they could still have those meals sitting on economy. The answer was “no”. Instead, what was offered to them, was a ham box, that they couldn’t eat, as they’re vegetarian. They were also given a Biscoff biscuit. The lack of options left the flyer hungry for the duration of the flight.
Alaska Airlines’ Deadheading Policy
When crew need to move locations for work, the airlines transport them as passengers in commercial flights, which is deadheading. While being transported, the crew is getting paid. It isn’t common for flyers to see passengers who have paid for first-class being downgraded so the airline can seat pilots.
As stated by AS’ contract comparison , the airline is required to offer premium seating to its pilots when the flight is longer than five hours. On the other hand, during flights that don’t exceed five hours, paying first-class passengers are unlikely to be downgraded due to a deadhead. Nonetheless, the agreement does make it clear that, if necessary, first-class passengers will be bumped to economy to accommodate pilots, which was the case for this specific passenger.
In the United States, the Department of Transportation guarantees that flyers are entitled to compensation or refund if downgrade to a lower class than what they have paid for. However, this will only be valid if the passengers chooses not to travel. If the flyer continues with the trip, their right to refund is revoked. Regarding the United Kingdom, the UK Civil Aviation Authority if downgraded, a portion of the ticked price can be claimed, depending on the length of the journey. This applies to all flights arriving and/or departing from an airport in the UK, or arriving at any airpot within the European Union in an UK airline.
No one wants to have their trip disrupted by being bumped, and it is a common fear within travellers. The best thing to do is look up the laws of the country in which you’re traveling to, so you can be aware of your rights if downgraded.
What do you think of this case? Have you ever been downgraded on an airplane journey? Share your thoughts in the comments.
