Before hidden city ticketing went mainstream, insiders were already flying first class for less than coach using what were effectively “owner fares.” It wasn’t something you’d find in Babson textbooks—but it was the model that actually got deals done. In The Producers, Max Bialystock slips into "little old lady land" to raise his million. We escaped into "middle-aged businessman land" in search of a few hundred thousand. A series of meetings led to more meetings but the pitch never changed: "Wanna Fly First Class Like An Owner at 75% Savings?" As compelling as this offer was, it was still Rochester, NY and many of these guys still needed to be pushed. While most of the prospective investors dragged their feet, Bob Barkman wasn't one of them proclaiming "I'm already in for $28K. Raise me up to $40 and you can pick up the check tomorrow. Now, what about the rest of you hot shots?" Once the first domino fell, the others followed suit to begin flying first class for less, often cheaper than coach before hidden city ticketing went mainstream.

More Babson business strategy and hidden city ticketing resources:

Babson EPS Classes Influences Airline

Keg Stands to the First Class Cabin-An Alpha Kappa Psi Story

From Babson to a Wall Street Hidden City Ticket Frenzy

Risky Business at Alpha Kappa Psi Gamma Nu

Hidden City Ticketing Examples

Hidden City Ticketing Litigation