Delta Charges Soldiers $2800 For Checked Bags, Hastily Cobbles PR Release When Caught
It seems the quest to squeeze consumers of every last dollar by airlines doesn’t exclude military personnel returning from the fight in Afghanistan.
American soldiers who risk life and limb so Delta can continue to rake in profits were displeased with a policy that had them shelling out nearly $3,000 in fees to check baggage. The frustrated servicemen took to YouTube to vent about the situation, and the tale of poor treatment unsurprisingly went viral almost immediately.
Delta seemed to be fine enforcing the policy until the practice pissed off everyone on YouTube and other social media sites. As soon as their actions were highlighted, the company quickly tried to mitigate the damage via a press release- but didn’t state any policy amendment other than what the soldiers originally believed to be true:
After careful consideration, effective immediately, U.S. military personnel traveling on orders in First and Business Class can check up to five bags at no charge and 4 bags in economy class. This change also adds dependents traveling with active military on orders. Each bag may weigh up to 70 lbs. (32 kg) and measure up to 80 linear inches (203 cm), which offers added flexibility over the standard 50 lbs. and 62 linear inches (157 cm) allotment. Because of weight, balance and space constraints, Delta Connection carriers will accept up to four bags at no charge. You can read the updates to the travel policy on delta.com.
Delta continues that they “hope these changes to our policies reflect the true respect we hold for our service men and women and again demonstrate our appreciation as both a company and as individuals who benefit from the freedom our troops defend.” Do you think our troops deserve more of a concession from commercial airlines when flying back from duty?
