Cathay Pacific Tightens Seat Reservations for Frequent Flyers
Cathay Pacific has recently instituted new restrictions for frequent flyer program members, impacting how they can manage their seat reservations. This policy change primarily affects customers holding tier memberships in partner airlines, who are encountering difficulties when attempting to select seats prior to arriving at the airport.
Cathay Pacific’s New Seat Reservation Policy
The airline’s new policy has left many travelers frustrated. Recently, a traveler with a reservation issued on American Airlines ticket stock faced challenges when attempting to enter their British Airways Emerald membership number. Despite correctly inputting their frequent flyer information, seat selection was not permitted.
Details of the Encounter
The journey starts from Tokyo, with stops in Hong Kong en route to Bangkok. The traveler noted that the Cathay Pacific website instructed them to choose a seat only during check-in. This restriction is a departure from the previous experience where no such limitations were present.
- First Leg: Japan Airlines flight from Tokyo to Hong Kong
- Second Leg: Cathay Pacific flight from Hong Kong to Bangkok
The traveler opted for a backup ticket on Japan Airlines and Cathay Pacific using AAdvantage miles. While they successfully booked their flight and included their frequent flyer number, they found no seat selection options were available on the Cathay website, despite Japan Airlines offering this feature for the same itinerary.
Frequent Flyer Restrictions Raise Concerns
These limitations have raised serious concerns about Cathay Pacific’s commitment to providing a seamless experience for their frequent flyer members. As an alliance carrier within the oneworld network, expectations for seamless travel and elite member benefits should be standard.
Unfortunately, Cathay’s recent actions suggest otherwise. Members now face difficulties accessing not only seat assignments but also preferred seats typically available for elite members, often requiring payment to secure these options.
Customer Reactions
Travelers are understandably frustrated and questioning what other changes may arise in the coming months. The expectation remains that airlines must uphold the privileges granted to elite members across alliances. With formal complaints possibly on the rise, Cathay Pacific may need to reassess its current policies and practices to maintain customer satisfaction.
In summary, Cathay Pacific’s recent restrictions on seat reservations and alterations to frequent flyer benefits have sparked frustration among travelers. As the airline continues to navigate these changes, it is crucial for them to uphold their standards and ensure a satisfactory experience for their loyal customers.
