Quote:
Originally Posted by jimworcs
I agree with everything you write in your post Phx, except this! Passengers should not be blackmailed into flying with US airlines internationally because if they don't, the airline won't take responsibility.
In this case, the airline is responsible and will NOT be able to weedle their way out of it.
If this case goes to small claims, the passenger WILL WIN. There is no doubt whatsoever that United are culpable. The actions taken were entirely for the operational benefit of United, and the compensation offered entirely inadequate.
The standards offered by US airlines are very low compared to international airlines. If I had a choice between flying QANTAS or Singapore Airlines versus United on a long haul international flight, it is a total no brainer... and that should not affect my expectation that United will fulfil their part of our contract if I use them to get me to the international port of departure.
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Point taken, Jim, however this itinerary could have been booked on a third-party website such as Expedia, Orbitz or Travelocity (just to name three) using one continuous itinerary and ticket. Had it been booked that way United would have been obligated to pay for his hotel and meals in Los Angeles and the Qantas flight would have to be re-booked at no additional cost or fee. Some people have avoided using these websites in the past as they traditionally charged their own ticketing fee but many now have none.