QF Change Fee

[Ajjbaker]

Hi,

I was hoping for some expert opinions on QF International Change Fees.

I booked QF (EK Codeshare) earlybirds a few months ago for travel PER-ZRH in June 15. Booked 0600 flight as only flight that had availability.

EK have now changed the 2200 flight from a 773 to A380 and there is now class availability.

QF will change the flight as the fare difference is minimal ($10), however, they will charge a $200 change fee per person. There are 4 pax travelling - 1 Gold, 1 Silver and 2 Bronze.

What do you think the chances of getting the change fee waived is? Initial answer was No, however, this flight wasn't available at the time of booking. Not sure whether it is worth pursuing - would much rather travel on the A380 than a 777 in Y.

Thanks in advance for your thoughts....

 

[Captain Halliday]

Technically they probably don't have to waive the fee and it's a case of bad luck? However I'd call customer care and explain that the 2200 flight wasn't available at the time of original booking and hope for the best. If you luck out, try again and hope of a different customer service rep. Also I'd get he SG member to make the call, status is unlikely to make a difference, but it won't hurt to try.

OT and for what it's worth, the change fee seems high and I doubt it genuinely reflects the cost of the service, especially if you're doing it online. Just as the ACCC went after banks for hefty overdrawn account fees that didn't reflect the true cost of service, I suspect it's just a matter of time for airlines and their change fees.