What would you do?

[Anonymous]

We just came back from an overseas trip on United. After a pretty horrific economy flight getting to Paris, we upgraded ($375 each) to Economy Plus for the eight-hour trip back. The flight back occurs during the day, so we were not planning on sleeping. The audio on the "entertainment system" was broken for both of us, therefore watching movies or listening to music was out. DH's light was also not working, so he wasn't able to read once they turned off the lights. After multiple requests for assistance, the attendant finally offered us a credit for $100 each on a future flight. Thanks alot. If you've ever been in this situation, what did you do? I don't believe that our "upgrade" to seats without entertainment was worth $550 (the $750 we spent minus the $200 credit).

[Anonymous]

DC clarified that we were bought "Premium Plus," not Economy Plus.

[Anonymous]

I would not have relied on in-flight entertainment for one. It's notoriously irregular these days. I never go without some shows/books/etc. downloaded onto a tablet or phone, and earbuds.

I wouldn't do anything because it is worth $550 not to have to deal with the airlines about something like this, because they are horrible.

[Anonymous]

I think you're lucky for even getting $100. It's probably because of the recent United debacle. Economy Plus is solely for buying the leg room, IMO. I bring my own entertainment, including a Kindle reader which allows you to read in the dark. Honestly, I think you made out. I haven't relied on airplanes for any entertainment or food for years, even in business class. (I will bring my own food in the event I'm not satisfied with what they're serving.)

[Anonymous]

Do you have status with the airline? No harm in calling and trying to get a larger credit or a bit of cash refund.

[Anonymous]

You got from point A to point B with extra leg rooom. That's what you paid for. Not entertainment. That's a bonus. You should have brought your own. That's on you.

Be thankful you got $100 and move on. You're not going to get anything else.

[Anonymous]

United gave me $200 when the wifi wasn't working from DC to SFO last fall. I slept 99% of the trip and was unaware there was an issue, so it was a nice surprise via email.

I would push back.

[Anonymous]

Gee, thanks for the helpful replies!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Gee, thanks for the helpful replies!

It's an asinine question. You're not getting a refund because the audio wasn't working. That's why you're getting realistic responses.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Gee, thanks for the helpful replies!

I think people are perplexed by your attitude that you are deserving of something more.

True story: I once upgraded to FIRST CLASS on a British Airways flight to DC from London and the entertainment system didn't work. Oh well.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:You got from point A to point B with extra leg rooom. That's what you paid for. Not entertainment. That's a bonus. You should have brought your own. That's on you.

Be thankful you got $100 and move on. You're not going to get anything else.

+1
Just about to post this.

I'm surprised you got $100 credit.

[Anonymous]

I wish I could brush off my disappointment as magnanimously as you did!

[Anonymous]

Write to United and express your deep disappointment. And then challenge the upgrade charge with your credit card issuer for services not received. You deserve and should receive more.

[Anonymous]

Wait - if it was during the day, why couldn't he read?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Wait - if it was during the day, why couldn't he read?

Not OP, but none of your business. Maybe he wanted to watch a movie or listen to music, which he paid to do!