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).