A recent attempt by a traveler to secure a first-class upgrade through unconventional means has captured the attention of social media users around the world. Parker Seidel, an adventurous flyer who took to the airwaves for zany publicity stunts. He tried to muscle his way into first class on three different flights and crazy adventure.
Seidel’s journey started on a French Bee flight from Los Angeles to Paris, France. For his inaugural run, he spent $192.34 on nearly two dozen presents. His giveaways ranged from Starbucks gift cards to chocolate and candy. He hoped that his delicious gifts would delight the airline personnel just high-quality to award him the treasured enhance.
“First-class airplane accommodations have always been a dream of mine,” said Seidel. If all the prices weren’t ridiculously high, that would work. With that said, here’s how I’m bribing my way into all of the first-class seats today.
Seidel was overflowing with enthusiasm and had wonderful, thoughtful gifts to bring. He unfortunately learned firsthand the disappointment of having his initial upgrade attempt denied. Unbowed, he pressed ahead with his agenda.
He successfully completed the second on a ZIPAIR flight from Tokyo, Japan. Yet again, he sought to ingratiate himself by showering gifts. It was his third attempt on a Norse Atlantic service to Rome, Italy that was downright funny. For this particular flight, Seidel went all out — to the tune of $183 — on an opulent bounty of goodies and gift cards. His hoard was a thousand pounds of sweets—and even more gift cards!
Despite his efforts, he received the same outcome: a denial for an upgrade on all three flights. At least he got to pop some complimentary champagne, munch on snacks and use an amenity kit all on the final leg of his trip. Seidel jokingly called himself a “coach king” throughout the process.
Seidel’s whimsical efforts were all to spread magic and happiness! They received wide spread support by being filmed in their protest and posting to social media, quickly going viral on Instagram. His antics nevertheless released a hailstorm of commentary, often vitriolic, positive as well as negative.
One environmental critic noticed the omission. “You spent your $100 worth on Starbucks gift cards and Halloween candy, and all they gave you for it was socks and a toothbrush. Another pointed out an essential distinction in the airline industry: “Flight attendants don’t give upgrades; gate agents do.”
Seidel knew his approach was controversial. He later confessed that the only point of his effort was to draw attention, not actually seek an upgrade.
This time it will be successful! I’m 99% sure,” he announced just ahead of his third attempt. That constant optimism was evident in every single word.
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