"We thought originally it would be something that firms would buy for top employees," said Bob Crandall, American's chairman and chief executive from 1985 to 1998. "It soon became apparent that the public was smarter than we were." The unlimited passes were bought mostly by wealthy individuals, including baseball Hall-of-Famer Willie Mays, America's Cup skipper Dennis Conner and computer magnate Michael Dell. Mike Joyce of Chicago bought his in 1994 after winning a $4.25-million settlement after a car accident. In one 25-day span this year, Joyce flew round trip to London 16 times, flights that would retail for more than $125,000. He didn't pay a dime.They've spent most of the time since trying to deprive the sixty or so holders of the pass the benefit of their bargain.
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
TANTALUM STATUS: In the early 1980s, American Airlines began to sell a pass that entitled the holder to unlimited First Class travel.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)