Funky Fares

[Shenos]

Got an email today from Qatar Airways with the larger than life subject "For 3 days only- Bigger World Promotion."

I thought here we go, got a wedding in Europe next year, let's have a little look see and check on the Business fares.

Overall the prices were pretty good, around $6100 return for the "Bigger World Promo" fares. However it turns out it cheaper to purchase the Restricted fares, only by about $70 each way. I took a screenshot for everyone's viewing pleasure.




The fare conditions for the Promo fares don't allow for any changes what-so-ever whereas for a fee you can change just about everything with the Restricted Business fare.

Is this standard practice or some sort of strange anomaly?

Thought I'd chuck this one out there for AFF's to chat over.

 

[MEL_Traveller]

can't comment directly on your case but was looking at fares yesterday under this promo for a friend... in economy. the difference between the 'world promotion' (absolutely no changes and total loss of ticket) and the regular 'promo fare' (changes allowed for $100 + fare difference) was $50. Was a no brainer to take the higher fare with effectively $50 'insurance'.

I initially checked bestflights... of course they listed the 'world promo' - tried looking for the fare rules mentioning 'no changes' (and no refund) but I couldn't find them. potentially some people going to get caught out by that (especially booking a long way in advance).