Watch Out: United connections on Air NZ ticket

[Milboo]

Just thought I'd share a watch out to help others avoid the same issue.

I held a Y+ ticket on Air NZ which had a return leg of EWR- SYD (via SFO on United then Air NZ from SFO- AKL- SYD).

Ticket says ways entitled to 2 pieces of luggage of 23kg each and that Air NZ baggage rules apply - especially as they were the significant carrier.

Got to EWR and check in and was told it would be $200 AUD for my 2nd bag - which weighed 7kg but no room on main bag for it which was at 21kg. 30 min discussion followed including showing them my ticket - consultation with manager then supervisor and flat out refusal to honour it.

Gate the agent at SFO said they'd had a few people say the same re United and Y+ fares.

It is now with Air NZ for resolution/ refund - they have been super responsive to the issue and expressed disappointment re what happened as yes, I did have a 2 bag allowance. I contacted them via Twitter while in flight!

 

[AviationNZ]

If I had 1c for everytime I've had issues in the USA with their carriers not accepting the correct baggage allowances, I'd be a wealthy man! Whether it has been UA, AA, US, etc, it has been a constant gripe of mine.

In this case, even though tickets clearly state 2 pieces, and the most significant carrier is Air NZ, United obviously still make up their own rules! Very frustrating!

 

[BAM1748]

Not just United.

The best thing is to just pay up and make a claim when you get back. Don't wreck the next few hours on the plane dwelling on it.

If the Kiwi carrier is serious they will refund and sort it out between themselves and UA.


Matt

 

[Milboo]

Pleased to report that after Air NZ contacted United, United have agreed to refund the $200.

Basically they explained to me that United elected to apply their own policy as they were the first carrier on the ticket (well for the return leg) rather than recognising the most significant carrier principle - as they are allowed to do under the newish legislation.

Air NZ acknowledged that it needed to be clearer that even though your ticket says Air NZ baggage rules apply, there is still the chance United will impose their own rules. So really, you have to take a gamble if you want to bring back a 2nd bag.