Small question - Switching FF# at gate? and AMEX express path in SYD

[NZflygirl]

I've never switched #'s out at the gate.

My QR flight in Y earns zero on QF but I needed the QF # in the booking to access the upper deck on QR. Of course would be nice to use the QF lounge also so I'm wondering if I can just leave the lounge early to go to the gate to QR and get them to switch the FF# to my AA #? Then I may switch back to QF for the return leg a week or so later.

Secondly I've seen the AMEX sign for express path in SYD. I have the right card but never used it. Do you just show staff on the way through?

If I can't change FF # at the gate or you think its too risky I'll need to think about adding it in at the check in counter (I'm hoping my seat assignment will stick until I get my boarding pass) meaning no QF express path or lounge. I know there's an AMEX lounge I've yet to visit. 15 hrs in Y so my seat is the most important part of the trip.

 

[samh004]

Assuming you're at a lounge that can access their systems, someone in the lounge should be able to help you change numbers. I know my father frequently switches between CX and QF numbers in the lounge, shortly before boarding a flight, depending on the earn potential. But just watch out and make sure you save the BP, as he has had a few occasions where he's asked staff to change the number, they say they have and re-print the BP, but it still credits to CX, and it's a complicated process getting flights uncredited to re-credit them elsewhere. CX are very good at being sneaky!

 

[Danger]

In four or so years of changing numbers (more than 100 flights) I came across just one QF lounge agent who knew how to do it correctly. All the other simply added my other number to one of the other four fields. I gave up with them and always did it by phoning QF or, at the very least, double-checking with the phone agents before boarding.

 

[samh004]

In four or so years of changing numbers (more than 100 flights) I came across just one QF lounge agent who knew how to do it correctly. All the other simply added my other number to one of the other four fields. I gave up with them and always did it by phoning QF or, at the very least, double-checking with the phone agents before boarding.

That's a good point. You can get a competent agent to add two numbers to a booking. One that grants status benefits and the other that directs the points away. If you know a good TA they can do this for you. I believe the fields are FQTS, FQTR, FQTV, FQTU: http://api.dev.amadeus.net/api/Development/common/codelist/PNR_SSR.htm

 

[JohnK]

And there are many reports of agents refusing to change the FF# to that of another carrier.

And then the issues caused by not changing the FF# correctly and it credits to wrong program and the time spent trying to fix the issue.

 

[NZflygirl]

I knew there were 2 but not 4 fields! Hmmm I like Dangers idea of calling QF to see if they can change the number. I'll do this AFTER entering the lounge then ask the gate agent to print a new boarding pass?? Just in case crediting doesn't go according to plan I'm after a boarding pass with the actual AA# on it to submit to AA if needed for retro claim.

 

[flightobserver]

Can it be changed by oneself through the QR MMB (or even AY) after check in?

Please keep this thread updated with how you go NZflygirl, I'm in a similar predicament to you.

 

[serfty]

One in a reservation, Qantas do not permit a FF number to be changed using MMB.

The passenger needs to use other means to have it done.