Thread: AA non-rev load/experience from ORD-DEL, please!

First time flying NRSA? If possible, I'd start with someplace easier (ORD-STL or something) just to get used to the process, unless you're on a buddy pass and that's not really an option. Even if you don't leave the airport at STL, a quick test run helps. That said, let me copy and paste what I wrote for my parents when I started working for OO. Your mileage may vary on AA, but the idea is the same.

Dress business-casual in United, casual in Delta. Business-casual isn’t a bad idea in case you get upgraded on DL, just so you blend in a little better. Jeans are not a good idea on UA.

When talking to a gate agent at the airport, the best thing you can ask first is “do you have a minute to help a non-rev?” Usually they’ll make time for you if you’re nice, but don’t take that for granted, either. If there’s a huge lineup of people, try to let them go first. They’ll notice. Also, chocolate is always a very appreciated gesture to thank them for their help; especially if you’re working with the same person for a while or if they give you a good seat. Think of it as the tip jar at Starbucks (not required or even expected, but contributions are appreciated)

If something happens (flight cancellation, too full for you to get on, etc.) stay calm. They don’t want to deal with that either, and probably get enough grief from the 50+ paying passengers on a flight. Don’t even ask why (though they’ll probably tell you anyway). If you don’t get on, it is acceptable to ask if you can be listed for the next flight (chances are, they already did it for you). If nobody else is around, it’s also reasonable to ask (if they have time, be sure to ask them) about other itineraries (ie, going through Detroit to get to New York City, rather than a nonstop flight). Of course, United employees cannot help you for Delta stuff and vice versa (some employees in some small airports may be trained for both with SkyWest, but they still need to be on the correct computers).

Why not fly to ORD from your base airport? That'll give you a chance to test things out.

As for documentation, check the US State department. Really, as far as visas and such go, you're just like any other passenger. You also check in like any other passenger (at least on UA/DL)... the only difference is that your name goes on a standby list when you do so, rather than getting a seat. You should even be able to use the automated kiosks.

Just make absolutely sure that your loads are looking good to get back (you should be able to check whereever you listed). DEL is one heck of a place for a NRSA newbie to start

That works, just don't get stuck to the point you miss work, especially if you're new

Oh, and I almost forgot: as an employee, your badge always comes in handy. If nothing else, you sometimes get discounts at the airport shops.

Welcome aboard Desimunda and welcome to the nerve wracking world of non revving.
Your flight is looking very iffy. See your PM.

What to expect, well Spongebue has given you the basics.

I-- Flight List- I’m assuming you or your sponsoring employee have done this. If not, do it now.

The airport
2-- Arrive early, one of the golden rules of non-revving is to allow yourself plenty of time.

3-- Check-In - Because you’re traveling internationally you must be present to be placed on the Priority List. At the counter identify yourself as non-rev, present your travel documents and smile, smile, smile. The agent will make sure everything is in order, give you a quick glance to make sure you've followed the dress guidelines, return your paperwork and send you on.

4-- Security - For some reason non-revs are frequently chosen for the extra screening, why -who knows- just allow time for the secondary screening and you won’t be a nervous wreck.

5-- The gate (where the rubber meets the road) - When you reach the gate take a seat bring out that lucky charm start thinking good thoughts and wait for your name to be called.
Now many first time non-revs find the waiting nerve racking, but you won't, BECAUSE, you have planned ahead and have contingency plan A, B & C, ready to roll.. You do have a backup right?

6-- Boarding
The mad dash down the jetway, the hurried rush to locate your seat (usually it's a middle seat in the rear of the aircraft) the realization that there's a plane full of pax watching your every step and a sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach that there’s absolutely no room in the overheads. Packing note- Expect your carry-on to be stowed at least 15 rows away from your seat, so pack items you’ll want on the flight on top.

7-- The wait
Once you sit down and buckle up you're still not out of the woods, as a late arriving pax or an employee with a higher priority can have you gathering your things and marching back up the jetway in a New York minute --REMEMBER--Non-revs breathe easy only with "wheels up.

***Note---Sometimes you may be asked to change seats to accommodate a pax, but that's nothing in the grand scheme of things. Once in the air it’s time to sit back, relax and enjoy that first non rev trip.

Originally Posted by Migflanker

4-- Security - For some reason non-revs are frequently chosen for the extra screening, why -who knows- just allow time for the secondary screening and you won’t be a nervous wreck.

To be honest, I've found that I've been screened *less* as a nonrev. Assuming you're an employee and not a buddy, bring your badge and use that as identification (yes, it's sufficient for security). Many airports also have employee lines that are OK to use, even if you don't work at *that* airport, and they tend to be a little more laid back. As an example, the metal detector at MSP would let me go through with my belt on at the security line a couple years back, whereas when I tried to go through on a normal line it'd beep as soon as I stepped in.

Mig, since you're the most active member with access to AA's system, could you see if it's worth it for this guy to make the drive to ORD?

Just a reminder to all our first time nonrev travelers.

Flight listing is required before non-rev travel. Pax without a flight listing will be denied check-in. Listing at the airport is not an option.

Originally Posted by spongebue

Mig, since you're the most active member with access to AA's system, could you see if it's worth it for this guy to make the drive to ORD?

On it, I've sent a PM. *wink*