Of course they fly business class. Do you think they would fly coach? They are heads of a mid size corporation. As rub pointed out, with all the miles they fly, it would be insane to think otherwise.
Morpheus, Desirous of Change ...
I think so many here are naive about travel. I guess we are the only ones who travel on business trips here on the board.
The Society, or any other entity, would be blatantly stupid for not taking advantage of quantity discounts on travel, or anything else for that matter.
About half of the time I get an upgrade to first/business class when seats are available. Other times, I am moved into the "premium" coach section that many airlines now offer. But if it is me versus an upper JW manager waiting for one remaining upgrade, guess what, he will get the seat, not me.
Even we can arrange a cruise for 8-12 people, airline flights, hotels, etc. and any of us can get freebees and upgrades. Multiply that by the mass volume of travel that the Society arranges and yes, they get significant perks that the average traveler never sees.
Why do you think the Society insists that you stay at an "approved" hotel for the Regional Conventions. If they guarantee 30, 40, 50 percent occupancy for the hotel, they get all sorts of benefits. It's just the way it is.
It's no different than you or me buying a refrigerator. You buy one, you pay the price on the label. If you are a builder and need 25, you will get much better pricing. It's just obvious.
Folks, please take your heads out of the sand.
Rub a Dub