Most of you heard about, or were party to, the storm that hit Delta airlines a week ago. Given that the updates did not get the traffic of the original post, I wanted to thank Delta for their response to the situation. While it took a long time in new/social media terms, they reacted quickly in business terms and went from having one of the better military travel/baggage policies, to having the best. This, in turn, caused most every other major airline to also improve their military baggage policies as well. As noted in the final update, I do hope that those of you swearing to never use Delta again will reconsider. They had a policy that was above average for the airlines, and made it better. And while I have heard multiple reports that the airport in question has some issues in regards customer service to the military, it is not representative of Delta as a whole. This letter, which has been redacted to remove identifying information, was sent to us and is posted with permission to give you a better idea of how many/most employees at Delta do support the troops: I read the posting about the baggage fiasco & though I was saddened by the treatment of these Soldiers by my airline, but I wanted to make sure you know how much everyone at DAL cares about Soldiers and all Veterans. I am not an official spokesman, but am [Flight Crew] for Delta Airlines. It wouldn't surprise me if over 90% of the pilots have prior military service and many STILL serve in the ANG & Reserves in a multitude of capacities and in all services. Our Senior VP of Flight Operations is a graduate of the Air Force Academy & I guarantee you, we have the utmost respect for all our Soldiers. While airlines have struggled since 9/11, many pilots went back on active duty to serve their country full time, taking military leave from Delta Airlines and serving in various combat rolls in both Iraq & Afghanistan. All branches of service are represented here at Delta: Air Force, Army, Navy--I was even surprised when I flew w/a Co Pilot (First Officer) who had gone back to the Coast Guard & served enough to take him beyond 20 years of service. It is common, and a pleasure, when we can upgrade enlisted personnel to 1st Class. Often we (or our Flight Attendants) make announcements recognizing the sacrifices put in by our Soldiers. I know I search out personnel in uniform in the airports & on my flights to thank them for their service. [It is a great pleasure] when I can talk to either an elder World War II veteran or a young soldier who has just finished their basic courses but are willing to serve in any capacity knowing combat is highly likely. There is and always will be a bond between those who have served. My greatest honor, as tough as it is, is when we have to bring home a fallen Soldier to his home & final resting place. Everyone at Delta goes out of their way to make sure this Soldier gets the respect, attention & care he receives. I have always searched out the escort personnel to ensure he is comfortable & that we can facilitate him in his duties anyway possible. This isn't me, but a total team effort, that includes all flight attendants as well as ground personnel. Some times there is coordination required so we can give the fallen soldier a water salute from the airport fire trucks. Anyway, no excuses for our recent behavior, but it is my hope that everyone realizes Delta cares & respects our Soldiers and Veterans of all wars and I sincerely hope we can serve you better in the future. While we do need to bust the chops of those who deserve it, we also need to recognize and reward those who do good and/or change to do good or better. I've just put some business Delta's way, and hope you will too. Positive reinforcement works wonders, and is well deserved in this case. LW PS: Anyone who travels on business and who's company isn't a member of SkyBonus (you/it should be) and would be glad to do a charity a favor, drop me a line at the wolf1 addy to the right. :)
Read the complete post at http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Blackfive/~3/hLz6bLYM2rk/delta-thank-you.html
Posted
Jun 15 2011, 11:23 PM
by
BLACKFIVE