PER-MEL via Adelaide - Does that count as four sectors?

[Milefest]

A couple of times it has been on the PER-SYD route ... even when I have been in the lounge never got an upgrade and one time walked onto the plane and saw two empty business seats. Wasn't happy to say the least.

This has happened to me for upgrademe points too. Seat map shows available seats in the booking flow, staff tell me that it isn't an accurate reflection of the flight loads and the seats are available when I get onboard.

Maybe they don't want to release non-revenue seats for last minute upgrades in some instances?

 

[westsurf]

Makes a mockery of the primary benefit of a Platinum FF …

 

[AustraliaPoochie]

But then, you see this gaggle of people, who may or may not be in VA uniforms, but they are very pally and chummy with the cabin crew shimmy into those "empty" J seats.
Have seen this for myself, once or twice, this lady one time, was in "civvies" but had the red coat/jacket thing, it was winter, and we all know what the red short coat means, ie, VA crew, either land based or non working flight crew take a seat in J.

 

[simmomelb]

But then, you see this gaggle of people, who may or may not be in VA uniforms, but they are very pally and chummy with the cabin crew shimmy into those "empty" J seats.

Yes, I've seen this (only twice now), but the CM doesn't give them the food or drink options that are given to paying travellers (just water/coffee/tea).
Just standby seats for staff, I have no issue with that, as long as it's not bumping those passengers from wanting to upgrade, which I doubt that it would (I can't imagine Jayne allowing it).

 

[MEL_Traveller]

This has happened to me for upgrademe points too. Seat map shows available seats in the booking flow, staff tell me that it isn't an accurate reflection of the flight loads and the seats are available when I get onboard.

Maybe they don't want to release non-revenue seats for last minute upgrades in some instances?

The other thing is that because the VA J cabins are so small, any flight cancellations fills up the flights around that cancelled flight prett quick. I guess they try and factor that in?

 

[AustraliaPoochie]

I don't know the background, whether they were taking true empty seats, they probably were.
This was pre covid, so can't say what it is like now, ie, non flying crew/cabin crew who are not working that particular flight, but are what its called (I believe) deadheading.

 

[serfty]

Makes a mockery of the primary benefit of a Platinum FF …

I'm Platinum and if wanting to upgrade, book flights having award availability.

As soon as I get the emailed ticket, I upgrade.

If wanting to use Platinum upgrades you need to do this during weekday business hours when the Velocity call center is open.

Also, check flex. fares for say PER-//-CNS, flex fares are often cheaper than PER-SYD/MEL/BNE.

 

[Budbrian]

From what I can see the only day I can confirm business both legs is a Wednesday. It’s significantly cheaper than PER-MEL direct by nigh on $1000 pp return.

PER-BNE-MEL is simply time stupid and PER-SYD-MEL is more expensive again.

I had asked previously considering my issues getting Plat x 4 free business upgrades is it worth trying to keep my plat status? Being PER based it’s almost impossible to get them. Even if I do the above PER-ADE-MEL return I’m still going to have to complete another PER-Anywhere return to get my 8 sectors for the year to keep Platinum.

I am also Plat…also in Perth. It’s pretty bloody frustrating isn’t it. Trying to do a Flex and then upgrade. Last year only managed one LST MEL, There is never availability ex PER.
it’s better to Waitlist upgrade with points with Flex airfare. And try getting a look in for 2 seats..downright impossible. So really know what you are thinking, is it worth it?
to pay for a J now is tripled $ in 6-8 months too. I’ve also seen those airfares PER ADL MEL or SYD.

 

[westsurf]

Well a miracle has occurred ... got a business class upgrade Ex PER to MEL for this Friday morning via Velocity Call Centre.

Originally a FLEX seat naturally. Did Flex to maintain Platinum requirements for points.

 

[westsurf]

Well the miracles continued ... got another upgrade to Business for the flight home as well. However, had to move to the first flight of the day.

I will note though that I had to deal with the rudest of business class passengers ... No I wasn't responsible for your husband and you not sitting together. The second row had two free seats don't know why I had to move but accommodated you.

Perhaps that's why you and your husband were the last to be asked what meal you desired and then there wasn't as a choice was there ... karma is a cough isn't it. Honestly some people.

So Platinum for another year ... and finally some return for the status. Approx $2400 in seat upgrades on the one trip.