Expert: Roberto Gomes - 2/15/2004

Question
In October 2000, I got a return ticket from London to New York via Amsterdam travelling KLM for 175 UK pounds plus tax.  I als wanted to purchase a ticket for my friend who was working in Germany and would meet me at Amsterdam.  The ticket from Amsterdam to NY was over 500 UK pounds (same flight) so I wanted to buy the same ticket as mine for her to use on the second leg and back only.  I was told she would have to board in London or buy the expensive ticket from Amsterdam (which the agent couldn't sell me so it was not in their interests to tell be if this were not true) WHY should this be?  If they know when a person is boarding surely it is up to who has the ticket and they should be able to pay for an empty sear?

Answer
Dear David,

Airlines have many airfares available and each one has a different price and conditions. Usually the lower the fare, more restrictions are applied. Sometimes we face weird situations like this one which you are describing.
My advice to you is to try to find a low cost carrier from Germany to London to your friend and take advantage of this cheap KLM fare.
Also check all the restrictions applied to this KLM fare from London to NY.

Best Regards,
R.Gomes