"That sentiment is almost universally shared by airline specialists. Some even say that bankruptcy is the best thing to happen to carriers like Delta and Northwest.

'It's going to be good for the airline, because it will give it the chance to restructure,' said Joel L. Widzer, author of The Penny Pincher's Passport to Luxury Travel: The Art of Cultivating Preferred Customer Status (2nd Edition, Travelers' Tales). 'It's good for passengers, because ultimately the airline will be able to lower its cost structure and offer better service to passengers.'"

Fliers Start to Take Defensive Action
from The New York Times
September 14, 2005

"You know the Seinfeld episode where first class seems like a spa and coach resembles a pickup filled with migrant workers? That's why Joel Widzer, author of The Penny Pincher's Passport to Luxury Travel, recommends the 'presumptive upgrade.' He explains, 'When talking to the gate agent, ask, 'What kind of an upgrade can you offer me today?' He may just bump you to first.' And if you suffer a delay or cancellation, presume to get yourself some time in the airline's private lounge."

Haggle airline upgrades
from Men's Fitness
Sept, 2004