Like a dog trying to kiss its own reflection in a pond, using frequent flyer to fly when and where you wants can leave you wet and unsatisfied.

Employing a trick gleaned from Peter Greenberg, author of “The Travel Detective” Minneapolis Star Tribune reporter John Ewoldt was able to actually cash in his miles in a manner he found pleasing.

How the gambit works, after the jump…

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First, try to book a seat using frequent flyer miles. If you get it, great, enjoy your complimentary roast flying pig. If not, take the first available seat, even if it’s for days or even weeks later. Then show up at the airport with your e-ticket on the date you really wanted to fly on. Ask to get on a flight that day.

Make sure to keep track, though, as your choice date arrives near, of available coach seats. If none are available, this stratagem’s success is slim. Once you arrive at the airport, ask for your ticket change. The reporter was successful, though Northwest dinged him for $50 each way, which was still about $350 cheaper than what he would have normally.

You also have to be up for some pleading and begging if the situation gets tight but Greenberg reportedly has never an airport disappointed in this method.

Anyone else try this? Or wanna, and tell us how well it works?

“How frequent flier found way to spread his wings” [Star-Tribune] (Thanks to Jennifer!)

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