A traveller holding SkyTeam Elite Plus status recently expressed disappointment with Air France over alliance benefits. The traveller, a EuroBonus Gold member with SAS, expected Elite Plus recognition across the SkyTeam network but found otherwise.
Issues with Seat Selection
When booking a long-haul flight, the traveller tried to select an extra legroom seat. To their surprise, Air France charged €100. This was frustrating because even Flying Blue Silver members, two levels lower, get free access to those seats 24 hours before departure.
Comparison with Flying Blue Tiers
Flying Blue Gold members receive free extra legroom seats 72 hours before departure, while Platinum members enjoy access anytime. Yet, this Elite Plus traveller was restricted to basic seat selection. The only available seats were less desirable, with no access to extra legroom or front rows.
Questioning the Value of Elite Plus
This raises a serious question. Can a passenger without any status secure a better seat by checking in late, compared to an Elite Plus member? If yes, then the value of alliance-wide benefits comes under doubt.
Need for Standardised Benefits
The incident highlights a key issue within SkyTeam. Alliance benefits seem to hold weight only within one’s home airline. To remain competitive, SkyTeam must standardise perks across all its carriers to truly reward loyalty.
