Even the older posts need a little comment love from time to time 🙂 I appreciate the insight from your experience!

FTR – Flat Tire Rule, still works, though the excuse may only warrant a spot on the standby list. Which isn’t always bad, as long as it’s not a holiday, then you’re probably screwed. This really depends on how much of a dick the agent is, unless you’re the one being the dick, then you’ll probably pay full fare, hah.

You’re correct that you should never admit fault, though this should only be done if you’re NOT connecting through the same airline. As they can see that you had 3 hours connection time – or no connecting flight at all – and you probably screwed up yourself.

It’s actually better to say your missed connection is due to another airline’s fault, one that is NOT a part of their network. This helps to play on Airline vs Airline rivalries. Take UA vs AA for example. Running up to the gate and then telling the agent “I’m sorry(get on their good side right off the bat), I was coming from United, we were delayed X hours!” .. to which the AA Agent will probably remark something about United always being late or some other bullshit. You’ll be rebooked on a new flight in no time.

I was a gate agent for 5+ years, for a major airline out of a major hub. I’ve heard all the excuses you can think of. Just be sincere – whether it’s bs or not – and you will be taking care of. Kindness goes along way in an industry where the employees are usually treated like shit & make next to nothing.

LOL, exam hacking 101!

Be careful, once you miss one flight and get away with it…missing flights becomes all too easy!