US

Returning GI’s Viral Vid Complains of Delta Charging Them $2,800 Baggage Fees

Delta Airlines is dealing with a potential PR nightmare right now after some Army soldiers returning from serving in Afghanistan posted a viral video complaining about being charged $2,800 in baggage fees.

The video features two soldiers explaining that the fees were assessed while flying from Baltimore to Atlanta yesterday. According to the soldiers, their military travel orders “authorize” them to carry four bags for free. However, Delta claims its policy only allows soldiers to travel with three bags free of charge.

Because of the policy, and despite the discrepancy, the soldiers had to pay $200 per extra bag, meaning the unit as a whole had to pay over $2,800.

“Not happy, not happy at all,” one soldier says in the video before mocking Delta’s “business model:”

In a blog post on its website, Delta apologized, explained its policy, but did not say whether the soldiers would be reimbursed.

“Currently, Active Duty U.S. Military Personnel traveling on orders may check up to 4 bags in First/Business class and 3 bags in Coach for free both domestically and internationally,” the post says. “Additionally, to help with the travel process, we allow each bag to weight an extra 20 pounds over the standard allowance.”

Later, the company apologizes. And while it says it will look into the situation further, it does not offer any other details:

In the case of today’s situation, we would like to publicly apologize to those service men and women for any miscommunication regarding our current policies as well as any inconvenience we may have caused. We are currently looking further into the situation, and will be reaching out to each of them personally to address their concerns and work to correct any issues they have faced.

They may want to decide fast. The video has only been up one day and already has over 130,000 views.

(H/T: Gawker)

Comments (220)

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  • thinkinghuman
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:34am

    —-WEASEL WORDS ALERT—-
    “you will be allowed up to four bags” key words: UP TO and then the catch is FIRST CLASS and no one ever hears about this fine print, so… those soldiers get zinged for the extra bag and none of those soldiers ever would have flown first class. Delta KNOWS THIS.

    Wow! On the backs of the soldiers!

    Report Post » thinkinghuman  
  • thorkyl
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:34am

    @SLIMRANGER

    Check out
    http://www.anysoldier.com/

    I have sent some packages through them in the past.
    No I go through the Church

    Report Post » thorkyl  
  • Orwell_Was_An_Optimist
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:31am

    Wow, wonder if they are traveling with their XO or Commander. I cannot imagine my thoughts if, while at the counter, I‘d been told I’d have to pay for the transportation of my carry weapon. For guys just out of combat AO, they actually seem pretty calm about the matter.

    OWAO
    SFC, USAR (Ret)
    91X70

    Report Post » Orwell_Was_An_Optimist  
  • zulu
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:31am

    Humor. You could have told them you did not two hundred dollars and left the case with the weapons.
    delta would be in a world of hurt.

    Report Post »  
  • rienheart
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:28am

    It’s in line with Obama Cutting their Pay. Everyone in Obama’s camp have been degrading the Military everyway they can. Now the Private sector is jumping on the Band Wagon. Nip it in the Bud By your Dollars and Who you do Business with.

    Report Post »  
  • hauschild
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:22am

    The point for me is whether Delta’s contract with the military is for (3) bags. If the contract is for (3) bags, where is the issue??? Just because somebody is in the military doesn’t mean they have the authority to force Delta customer services reps to break a contract.

    In this situation, the only logical response is to pay the $200 and inform your superiors, who will take it up the chain for resolution.

    Report Post »  
    • TheVOR
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:53am

      I work for a certain airline, that for a period of time started charging passengers for soft drinks, bottled water, coffee, etc… As part of this new policy, the flight attendants were told specifically, in the policy, that military personnel were NOT excluded from having to pay.

      On a flight, I had 40 service members on-board, in uniform. The flight attendants came up to the cockpit and asked us if we wanted anything. I said yes, I’ll have 20 Cokes, and the First Officer would like 20 bottles of water. I received a strange look from the flight attendant, and then explained to her that they were for the service members. She got a big smile, nodded, and let’s just say there was amazing crew solidarity on this issue.

      That was my policy.

      Report Post »  
    • hauschild
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 11:19am

      Well, that sounds so sweet, but who cooks the books in that situation? I mean, it’s only beverages, but if 40 were consumed with no money to show for it, who takes the hit?

      What I am saying here is that a contract is a contract and just because military personnel happen to be involved does not mean the contract no longer applies.

      I really dislike people that find it perfectly acceptable to change the rules in the middle of the game. That stems from the “entitlement’ mentality, I would presume.

      Report Post »  
    • TheVOR
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 12:30pm

      I am sorry that you “really dislike” people like me.

      The point was, and is, that the military personnel were NOT going to “take the hit”. It was just a very thirsty flight crew. The airline was still providing free beverages in first-class. And, if the military isn’t first class, then I don’t know who is. Oh, and I told the flight attendants, that if there were any “ghost-riders/secret shoppers” on-board that gave the crew a problem about this, that the Captain was buying the beverages. At that point, the rest of the crew said, “oh no, we are all buying the beverages”.

      Speaking of “changing the rules in the middle of the game”, the airline thought nothing of changing the rules and starting to charge for something that was free, at the time when thousands of customers had already purchased their tickets. By the way, the airline recognized their error in judgement and no longer charges for beverages.

      Please watch these two videos to gain a sense of the essence of what I am trying to convey.

      http://joinus.aa.com/military-commercials

      P.S. You presume wrong, I am no fan of the “entitlement mentality”. Especially in the politicized sense of someone getting something for nothing. Just Common Sense. And, as I stated earlier the airline came to their senses as well (Common Sense that is).

      Since you put a little political buzz in there…Entitlement Mentality-Anthony Weiner, wanting money for nothing, and his chicks for free. And, I digress.

      Report Post »  
  • Gonzo
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:21am

    Soldiers on duty should fly free, period. Come on Delta (and others). You wouldn’t be flying at all with out these good people.

    Report Post » Gonzo  
    • Mikhail Kennedy
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:28pm

      Yes Gonzo
      And whatever business you run or work in you should also work for free whenever a soldier or vet comes in. As a matter of fact you should be forced to let them stay in your spare bedroom and feed them for free.
      I am all for giving MORAL support to the troops , but it is my choice if I want to help financially.

      Report Post » Mikhail Kennedy  
  • jeff.cooper
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:21am

    There seems to be something missing from the story. Could this be an instance of soldiers taking advantage of the coach policy – trying to sneak an extra bag on board then claiming they get four bags free? Or perhaps the soldiers misunderstood the policy. Delta’s policy is clear. We need to see proof of the claim that soldiers are authorized to check four bags.

    Doesn’t it appear to be a rush to judgement on this thread – “Call Delta!“ ”Email Delta”? Wouldn’t you want to gather all of the facts first before firing off an Email or giving Delta a piece of your mind over the phone?

    I hate these stories being posted, backed by very little information because of the vagueness.

    Report Post » jeff.cooper  
    • Blackhawk1
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:42am

      jeff.cooper

      These soldiers were returning from COMBAT. The 4 bags they had is what they had for a year to live with in a combat zone. 4 bags is also what their orders indicated. I can tell you never served your country.

      Report Post » Blackhawk1  
    • jeff.cooper
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 12:08pm

      As I stated in my post, there is something missing and that is a verification of the soldier’s claims. When the soldiers’ claims are verified, then Delta should be questioned about what happened and held accountable. If the orders can’t be verified, would you say that persons involved in combat are allowed to ignore a policy that already extends them a courtesy? I should hope not. Clearly, based on what I wrote, I am wishing that Jon Seidl investigated this further, or at the very least state that he is attempting to verify the soldiers’ claims, before posting the story.

      Additionally, whether I served in the military or not is completely irrelevant because it has no bearing on my questions or statements in my post. It would be similar for me to state, “Clearly you don’t work for the airlines,” without any knowledge to the fact or the contrary; simply irrelevant.

      Report Post » jeff.cooper  
    • Blackhawk1
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 12:37pm

      jeff.cooper

      Never mind you just verified my suspicion about you. A mindless liberal that hates the military. How do I know this? 2 statements you made.

      1. Could this be an instance of soldiers taking advantage of the coach policy – trying to sneak an extra bag on board then claiming they get four bags free?

      2.When the soldiers’ claims are verified, then Delta should be questioned about what happened and held accountable. If the orders can’t be verified, would you say that persons involved in combat are allowed to ignore a policy that already extends them a courtesy?

      Do you really think that soldiers lie? What would they gain? It isn‘t like they are transporting a bunch of things they bought at Macy’s on a shopping spree and want to transport them for free.

      Being able to bring their assigned weapon back from a combat zone is somehow a courtesy extended by an airline?

      It‘s to bad that the military can’t choose whose Freedoms they defend.

      Report Post » Blackhawk1  
    • jeff.cooper
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 1:32pm

      Posing a question does not make one a liberal or hateful of the military. However, you have gone down the path that I must hate the military because I am questioning the soldiers and you are ignoring my point, which is Seidl should have verified the soldiers’ claims before posting the story. Please reread what I posted. In fact, you should read my other posts on this site – you’ll discover that I am clearly not a liberal. I am simply using my reasoning to state that all of the facts aren‘t there in there in Seidl’s story. As for the baggage issue, Delta changed their policy regarding the 3 bag limit.

      Report Post » jeff.cooper  
    • Blackhawk1
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 2:57pm

      jeff.cooper

      If your not a liberal then you are teetering on the edge of becoming one. There are 7 Army Values that soldiers live by. Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage. Your statements question the Integrity (Do what’s right, legally and morally) of these soldiers and more specifically the 2 Staff Sergeants. If the Sergeants said it is on their orders, then it’s on their orders, nothing needs to be verified. Some Officers may look at these values as a guideline but NCO’s live them.

      Yes, Delta changed their policy because evidently they were in the wrong as indicated in their response. “First and foremost, we want you to know we’re continuing to work with the soldiers individually to make this situation right for each of them. We regret that this experience caused these soldiers to feel anything but welcome on their return home.”

      Report Post » Blackhawk1  
    • Bullcop34
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 5:39pm

      @Blackhawk1 you really should reread jeffs post and see he is questioning the editor, not the serviceman. I appreciate you allegiance to the military, maybe you are Army? but your blind faith that all members adhere to the loyalty aspect of the core values is juvenile at best. While you may be adherent to them others are not, please don’t by that naive, it makes you look silly. If you truely do not think that folks abuse the travel card you really should take the gun ho visorsoff and look around. A member in my unit bought a horse while on leave with it. Another took his girlfriend to Pizza Hut while he was out of bounds on the weekend. It happens son, again, do not be so naive. As for the orders, they could very well claim 4 bags, actually only have 3 and get the money reimbursed to them when they file the travel voucher. All they have to do is use their buddies bag and they split the profit, it really isn’t that hard to do. Just verify the story and get the facts first. Yes, I feel it is wrong to charge for bags and Delta is making money off of it, no doubt…but VERIFY the story first is all Jeff was saying. Not everyone is as perfectly perfect as you are Blackhawk1.

      Report Post » Bullcop34  
    • jeff.cooper
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 5:42pm

      This conversation has become pointless because you toss out a straw man and evade my point: the story‘s omission of facts that verify the sergeant’s claim. The subjective manner in which Seidl wrote the story creates the impression that Delta is out to screw soldiers by making them pay for their extra bag. However, Seidl doesn‘t verify the soldier’s claim, so their actions are left for interpretation, thus the questions that I posed. You have made it clear that you believe that the sergeant is beyond reproach, but I am asking for verification of the claim in the story. I stand by what I posted. Thanks for the discussion.

      Report Post » jeff.cooper  
    • jeff.cooper
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 5:49pm

      Thanks for the assist, Bullcop :)

      Report Post » jeff.cooper  
  • Black Tiger
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:20am

    Boycott Delta Airlines by flying other carriers, like Jet Blue, Airtran, United/Continental or any other domestic carrier. Hit them where it hurts them – on their bottom line and tell the DoD to cancel their travel contracts with Delta.

    Hit then where it hurts – on their wallets.

    Report Post »  
  • Oh My God
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:18am

    Military personnel returning from combat zones should be given FREE airfare or the same discouint as airline employees. These people put their lives on the line for us and should be given the red carpet treatment, not the shaft.

    Report Post »  
    • Mikhail Kennedy
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:23pm

      Sure lets make it a law that all vets get everything for free, and when a vet wants his laundry done you must do it for free too. Don’t forget the extra starch!

      Report Post » Mikhail Kennedy  
    • rose-ellen
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 11:07pm

      they volunteered to go kill innocent men women and children in iraq and afghanistan and to torture them too.They’re no different then gangs or terrorists[though those terrorists really are fighting for their people who we consigned to be at the mercy of brutal tyrants who did our bidding for cheap oil,cold war benefits, military bases etc],hence at least their cause was just though they too are murderers..But when you invade their country they are right to fight back.Patriotism is the refuge of people in search of a grand trancendant meaning which allows you to rationalize evil impulses[[mass murder by calling it good,heroic ,noble.etc.]No different then a street gang of thugs.

      Report Post »  
  • zulu
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:17am

    What do any of you expect in a country that have people running the country that dont care about
    anything other then getting more power more money and playing golf while these boys put their lives
    on the line. I am a retired marine and I also believed the great lie that the government cared about us.
    As General Butler said (war is a racket). Hey guys when you can twitter a picture of your dick to
    congress and you might be elected to that wonderful group of elete people. Or at least your own tv show. lots of luck.

    Report Post »  
  • hightide
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:16am

    Email sent.

    Report Post »  
  • shadowrider
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:13am

    No military personnel in a time of conflict or war should be charged for any travel, food, water, hotel, etc.

    Report Post » shadowrider  
    • iamnate78
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:59am

      And free cars for everyone! For you! And you! And you! For all of you!

      Let’s not get into the business of forcing private businesses to give military everything for free. That goes against everything we are fighting for.

      Report Post » iamnate78  
    • chickenlittle
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 11:01am

      I’m with you totally. If the corporations were REALLY involved with supporting the war effort they would consider free passage in time of war as their part of the war effort. As far as the above posters that want to justify Delta’s position, I say charging it back to the military just doesn’t cut it with me… this independent contractor business is BS when it’s just extra commercial profit in the “world economic view.” All these wars and ‘police actions’, etc. are getting to be nothing more than commercial and political maneuvers… except to the people who have to fight them.

      Report Post » chickenlittle  
  • iamnate78
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:11am

    While Delta overcharged in the instance, the soldiers will be reimbursed, so I think they were a little misleading about how they had to pay “out-of-pocket”. They have government travel cards to put the charges on and then the voucher pays off the card.
    Also, I work in military finance and I have seen much worse abuse by military members themselves. Fake claims in thousands of dollars and purchases at strip clubs on their government travel card.
    Let’s hold off the boycott calls and realize that there are bright spots and darks spots in every organization.

    Report Post » iamnate78  
    • hightide
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:17am

      It’s still double pay to taxpayers. There is a contract that allows 4 bags.

      Report Post »  
    • rockstone
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:26am

      Agreed. Look, I don’t like the airlines either but, Delta’s side needs to be heard here before people go half cocked after them. And the troops don’t have carte blanche to make accusations without the other side being heard.

      Relax people.

      Report Post » rockstone  
    • dsd13130
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 12:26pm

      Please don’t tell me to relax. There shouldn’t be any reason for a service person to have to deal with this while coming home from a war zone. Delta may be a business but deal with these issues behind the scenes. So if the service person has more equipment than 4 bags, they just leave it there? It‘s my tax dollars that are going to Delta and I expect that they don’t cause the soldiers any stress.

      Report Post » dsd13130  
  • Jenny Lind
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:09am

    There is a point that is reached when you are traveling under orders, that makes you wonder if being a military family is worth all the “stuff” you go through. Then some kind soul comes along and says let me help you and sits with the kids so you can go to the restroom with the crying tired baby, and clean up the two of you, splash some cold water in your eyes and catch your breath. Those memories keep you going-that’s who your husband wants to protect. Thank you for the many times you “ civvies” helped us, for those who couldn’t, wouldn’t well he was a great guy and he still wanted to keep you safe too. He called it “duty”. There are some good companies out there that help, we should see if we can have a website to show the good ones, and the not so hot ones. I have always believed in giving business to the ones who support our troups.

    Report Post »  
    • TheVOR
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 11:59am

      Jenny, given the past tense in your post when referring to him. I am lead to believe that he and your family made the ultimate sacrifice.

      Thank You!!! God Bless you and your family!!!

      Report Post »  
  • I.Gaspar
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:07am

    I used to fly Delta to Atlanta a few times a year and it was never pleasant.
    I don’t fly them anymore, and after reading this I am certain I will never fly them again!
    What a disgrace!!

    Report Post »  
  • Mr. Oshawott
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:06am

    I’m with The Almighty Creestof on this one. Our Army soldiers ought to be allowed to pass through the airport without having to pay that exorbitant bag fee. The way Delta Airlines treated these soldiers were callous and dispicable.

    Report Post » Mr. Oshawott  
  • Tickdog
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:04am

    i don’t blame him. i would be pissed too.

    Report Post » Tickdog  
  • hightide
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:00am

    Delta will be getting an email from me today… That is disgusting and they should be ashamed.

    Report Post »  
    • Tusker
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:33am

      I’m going to join you on that HighTide, excellent idea. I have a family member that works for them and I’m going to cc him a copy of my email too! This is very pathetic on Delta’s part!

      Report Post » Tusker  
  • RugerHoyt
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:00am

    What a terrible way to say THANK YOU to the men and women who protect us. Shame on you Delta.

    Report Post »  
  • ED4237
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 9:54am

    They shoud be ashamed of themseleves for this and the military should be paying for this because they sent the troops there and should pay to bring them and all their bags home.

    Report Post »  
  • Mandors
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 9:52am

    The military should reimburse these guys not Delta. Three free bags is pretty damned good. What if the travel bureau told them six bags? Should we all pound our chests and make Delta pay for six? No.

    This is the Army‘s screw up not Delta’s

    Report Post » Mandors  
    • the_ancient
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 9:58am

      This is a case of perception being more important than reality

      Personally with the number of flights training and other that the military does per say I never understood by the troops file commercial anyway, but that is another topic.

      Report Post » the_ancient  
    • chickenlittle
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:02am

      @ MANDOR… “Army’s screwup” like hell. They should fly them all back for FREE in first class. Do they even give special rates to the military? Without these people there wouldn’t even BE a Delta Airlines. This kind of corporate greed is what gives capitalism a bad name… but it’s all part of the New World Order, right? The whole cost probably doesn’t even come close to their advertising budget.

      Report Post » chickenlittle  
    • Blackhawk1
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:03am

      No doubt some liberal civilian bureaucrat made the travel arrangements and didn’t understand what the difference between coach and first class was because bureaucrats always fly first class.

      Report Post » Blackhawk1  
    • PrfctlyFrank
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:07am

      Kma

      Report Post » PrfctlyFrank  
    • TheVOR
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:23am

      @MANDORS & ED4237 and others who would come to the same conclusion. It is NOT a military screw-up. Once AGAIN, it is a lack of Common Sense, Common Courtesy, Decency, and Respect.

      You have service personnel/veterans returning from duty to OUR country, that they have just served. So, we should do everything we can to serve them. We are secure because of the risks they took, and sacrifices they made.

      Delta and all airlines to service personnel, “Welcome aboard, Thank you for your service!!! Can we buy you a drink or a snack.” Their bags and gear should already be on board, with no additional charge, as a matter of policy; and oh yeah Common Sense too.

      Our military has “Paid it Forward”, let’s at least try and pay them back whenever and wherever we can.

      Take a look at these:
      http://joinus.aa.com/military-commercials

      I hope American Airlines’ deeds, match their words. Regardless, GREAT commercials, and GREAT message.

      American Airlines, helping to make Common Sense, Common!!!

      Report Post »  
    • BlueStrat
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 11:01am

      The *government’s* screw-up?

      Really?

      When there is a clear contract between Delta and the US Government for returning troops to carry four bags free, Delta says “No, screw all that, ya gotta pay extra for a fourth bag” it‘s the Government’s fault?

      I wonder how Delta would feel if some of these returning troops, carrying (per the video) stuff like an M4 assault carbine and a grenade launcher, found themselves unable to pay the extra and were forced to leave the weapons behind in the terminal?

      I think I’d look at the Delta counter person, reach down into the bag, pull out the assault rifle, and say “Should I leave this and the grenade-launcher here, or on the main concourse? Or, I could carry it on in the overhead maybe? I‘m sure other passengers and the flight crew won’t mind me sitting with an assault rifle or grenade launcher across my lap for the flight, right?”.

      Delta needs a serious rectal-ripping.

      Report Post »  
    • Mikhail Kennedy
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:08pm

      Bluestrat
      You have seen this contract have you? The article doesn’t mention any contract, just the soldiers orders.
      As to those of you who think that the soldiers should get free rides and that any company who doesn’t is unAmerican you are full of it. Should Lockheed make the jets for free? Should the company that clothes or feeds the soldiers do it for free? Should the govt not pay the fuel companies for the jet fuel? Should I as a private citizen or corporation be forced to give my services for free?

      Yes it would be a good PR move to be doing something extra for those that defend us, but to try to force somebody to do so is not American. By all means give all YOU want to these Heroes, but don’t get all high and mighty about others not giving away their services of products.
      Getting praise and admiration for being charitable is not charity, its for the ego.

      Report Post » Mikhail Kennedy  
  • nomercy63
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 9:45am

    If you didn’t like the bag fee wait until you get the rectal exam at the gate!!! Time for us to take our country back! I know a Marine in Afghanistan my sister had to send a big package of stuff over because they don’t have anything #1 item requested was toilet paper!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We are spending billions everyday and cant even provide them with toilet paper!

    Report Post »  
    • SlimnRanger
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:01am

      @ Nomercy63,I was wondering if you could find out how to send packages oversees to our troops,i will gladly send some things and ask my Church to as well,I really don’t have a clue where to send it ,any help would be appricated

      Report Post »  
    • Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:27am

      @No Mercy:

      I have heard similar stories from returning Afghan veterans here in Phoenix. Disgraceful across the board…these folks give their all on the front lines, and we fail to support them with all in all as well.

      Report Post » Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}  
    • MidWestMom
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 11:17am

      yep. I’ve shipped toilet paper, shampoo, soap, towels, sheets etc because the soldiers didn’t have / couldn’t get them. Shameful isn’t it. Every wonder how much of those things could have been available if the White House & Congress gave up as little as 1% of their so-called Must-Have expenses?

      Report Post »  
  • JoePatriot
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 9:45am

    Delta… you better get this right PDQ!

    Report Post » JoePatriot  
    • Marylou7
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:31am

      This made me cry that these brave men and women would have this happen to them on their way home from war. Let’s help this VID get millions of hits, send to everyone you know and call Delta.

      Report Post » Marylou7  
    • GulfPeg
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:57am

      Why Delta? If the US government promised this to the soldies then it has to come out of our taxes. The government probably promised them the moon just so they would enlist and go to war. Now that they are coming home the government does not keep their promises. Anyone to enlist anytime soon> I don’t think so Obama.

      Report Post »  
    • Mikhail Kennedy
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 9:47pm

      Delta is a FOR profit airline. There is nothing wrong with that. If the US govt wants to use their services to transport troops then fine. Pay the appropriate price. Does the article say that Delta promised that they could bring 4 bags or did it say their orders said so? As long as the soldiers get reimbursed I don’t see what the fuss is all about.
      The govt cannot and should not be setting the guidelines for a private companies charges. If they were breaking a contract then sure complain and demand a refund.
      The US military should pay these extra charges as I would expect my private employer to do if he/she told me I could bring an extra bag.
      On a side note I would gladly have tax dollars spent to have these HEROES sent home first class.

      Report Post » Mikhail Kennedy  
    • rose-ellen
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:48pm

      mass murdering american soldiers always whining about something.

      Report Post »  
  • sissykatz
    Posted on June 8, 2011 at 9:44am

    Please let’s all Call Delta and Complain and tell them to give them their money back and maybe a free tripl This is ridiculous. Please Call I will get the number and post

    Report Post »  
    • The_Almighty_Creestof
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 9:50am

      How many of out active military can afford first class? Business class? Of course they are going to fly coach…so there should just be 1 policy. FOUR bags FREE…WITH a SMILE!

      Shameful, Delta…just Shameful!

      Report Post »  
    • Obama Snake Oil Co
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 9:55am

      The can get reinbursment for it with a receipt…not defending Delta, just sayin.

      Report Post » Obama Snake Oil Co  
    • biohazard23
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 9:57am

      What a load of bollocks!

      Report Post » biohazard23  
    • PrfctlyFrank
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 9:57am

      OK lets see how to do this.. The sign will be DELTA AIR, then a big circle around it with a red slash from 2:00 to 8:00 Done.. Ill be hanging them up all day..

      Report Post » PrfctlyFrank  
    • Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 9:58am

      God Above, these soldiers are defenders of our liberties and freedoms, and the airlines have the sheer audacity to charge them extra when the policy allows an extra bag for each one? This sounds to me to be one of two likely scenarios…

      a. It could be a legitimate mistake, still inexcusable though.

      b. It was done by someone who dislikes the armed forces and wanted to thwart the matter in any way they could, no matter how petty and stupid.

      I pesonally see the latter option as most likely.

      Report Post » Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}  
    • Kansas Mom
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 9:58am

      Drop Delta an e-mail or give them a call…….this is disgraceful.

      customer-care@delta.com

      800-325-8224

      Report Post » Kansas Mom  
    • TheVOR
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:00am

      @SISSYKATZ I like your style!!!

      U.S.A. the home of the FREE, Because of the BRAVE!!!

      Fellow Blazers, let’s not just talk to each other here. Let’s take action, and let each other know we have done so.

      Delta: 1-800-221-1212

      If you’ve called Delta, please put in your post, I TOLD THEM!!!

      I TOLD THEM!!!

      Report Post »  
    • Want our country back
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:00am

      We cannot do enough for our military…..if we’re giving away houses, cars and everything else…. I think that our military should be at the front of the line while they are at the front line….. We don’t pay them enough as it is, we send them to nation build elsewhere, all the while, their lives are in jeopardy here…. Make sure we take care of our military first.

      Sorry Delta, you lost me…. shame on you

      Report Post » Want our country back  
    • rangerp
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:07am

      Keep in mind that not everything is always seen up front. The military has a contract, and airlines still need to make money. There are rules here, and the military knows the rules. I have made the trip back and forth from middle east more times than I like to remember, and the airlines (to include Delta) have gone out of there way to help me at times. Soldiers are great, and love them dearly (heck I am one), but not every little clip made with a cell phone is going to hold water when you start digging into facts. Do not let a clip from a young enlisted soldier get the best of your emotions.

      rangerp  
    • PrfctlyFrank
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:09am

      I Told Them

      Report Post » PrfctlyFrank  
    • randy
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:11am

      Just sent this to Delta :)

      Unless I see these brave soldiers have been reimbursed 100%,
      each one has been given one free round trip ticket to Disney World for them,
      their wives and their children, with all extra expenses paid……

      I will never fly Delta again!

      I TOLD THEM

      Report Post » randy  
    • JJBlazeReader
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:12am

      ..
      I called. These brave men and women do not make a lot of money so I am sure the $200.00 hit deeper than most would think.

      Delta you need to do the right thing.

      Report Post » JJBlazeReader  
    • hechafteth
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:18am

      While I agree with the Staff Sergeant that the charges were excessive, the FACT that the unit was authorized FOUR bags on their travel orders makes these fees REIMBURSABLE to them once they file their TRAVEL VOUCHERS.

      WE the taxpayers will end up paying these excess charges.

      Report Post » hechafteth  
    • TexasCommonSense
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:18am

      Do they not understand their own contract with the government? At least take the time to verify what they’re telling you about the contract. Their stupidity will no doubt cost them business and lots of bad PR.

      Report Post » TexasCommonSense  
    • rangerp
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:22am

      I already posted, but will post one more on this. You are a tax paying voter, and an adult, and can do as you please, but listen to an old Infantry soldier (still serving, with 24 years of enlisted and officer time) before you start calling Delta and clogging up their phone lines. This young soldier has a chain of command. They can and will fix this. Delta has flown tens of thousands of troops back and fourth, and helps them get home on midtour leave. A very kind Delta worker went above and beyond on my last trip home from Afghanistan to see that I got a much quicker flight. I was on leave, trying to get home to visit my dad (he was near the end of his battle with cancer). Delta is not putting it to the troops, and if this kid came back with his unit, his unit will fix the problem.

      Report Post » rangerp  
    • Anonymous T. Irrelevant
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:23am

      Fly SouthWest!

      Report Post » Anonymous T. Irrelevant  
    • American Soldier (Separated)
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:28am

      You were paying for the bags either way, poster above me. With whatever contract the US Army has with Delta, they are paying Delta for those bags and the tickets, most likely at premium rates.

      Were these guys on R&R? The story doesn’t make sense in my experience. When I returned home, we flew World Airlines, every time whether going or coming, and it was a private flight for just soldiers that few directly from our post to Kuwait. The only time I flew on regular commercial flights was during R&R but I only had a carry on with me. If these guys were flying back with all their luggage and weapons, why were they flying a standard commercial flight? Were they national guard?

      That just doesn’t sound like how we did it with the 101st…. there were no tickets involved during deployment or redeployment, the army just chartered the entire flight and it was with World Airlines every time. I suppose if they were national guard, they don’t have the same resources that the regular army would have…

      Report Post » American Soldier (Separated)  
    • zorro
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:28am

      What the heck is happening to these people? When I flew back from Haiti in ‘94, we were treated like kings from the airlines. They even held our plane in Dallas and when the flight was overbooked, they gave civilians free tickets to give up their seats for us. A mission in Haiti was nothing compared to what our guys have been going through in Iraq and Afghanistan and some suit doesn’t make an exception? Geez, Delta. Use common sense…

      I told them!

      Report Post »  
    • American Soldier (Separated)
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:30am

      I agree with RANGERP, this is not the way to handle the issue. The chain of command would take care of it, their S1 would process everyone reimbursement. It may take a while, but they aren’t going to be out 200 bucks for long.

      Report Post » American Soldier (Separated)  
    • Anonymous T. Irrelevant
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:32am

      @hechafteth
      Perhaps you don’t understand how it works. We, the taxpayer, pay taxes, to the military to defend our liberties. This money also pays the soldier’s salaries, meals,lodging, transportation from/to the war zone. Of course we the tax payer wil pay for this. I will gladly pay my taxes for these fine men to put their butt on the line for me.

      Report Post » Anonymous T. Irrelevant  
    • TomFerrari
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:33am

      wow.

      One word, Delta… “STOOOOPID!!”

      Do you have ANY idea how much this lame-brained policy is going to COST YOU?

      Holy crap! Would I like to have been in THAT meeting!
      Either the one making the idiotic policy, or the one when they found out this ignorant policy went viral!

      What a dumb business decision THAT was!!!

      CALL DELTA’s Corporate Headquarters in Atlanta, GA
      *****************************
      ** (404) 715-2600 **
      *****************************

      Report Post » TomFerrari  
    • zorro
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:34am

      @American Soldier (Separated)…I was active duty Air Force though not during war time. We always flew charter over but flew commercial back. I don‘t think it’s ever the same.

      Report Post »  
    • TheVOR
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:35am

      Well here is a better phone number: 404-773-0305 Option #5

      This is Delta Corporate Care. I tried to TELL THEM AGAIN. According to the message, “call volume is so high, please select one of the following options to contact Delta”.

      I TOLD THEM on the 800#, and I will try this one again later.

      Report Post »  
    • sissykatz
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:53am

      I called and told them how displeased I was. The representive said for us to go to Delta,Com and Email and we would get better results. She is going to relay the message. But go to DELTA.COM and tell them how wrong this was and see if we can get their money back and a FREE FLIGHT. THANKS

      Report Post »  
    • Want our country back
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 10:56am

      @RANGERP

      Thank you for your service.

      You’re right I acted on my emotion without thinking about it…. I should take a breath first before I react or overreact,

      Report Post » Want our country back  
    • Patrick in AZ
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 11:18am

      If these guys were traveling on orders, their tickets are paid for and these baggage charges will most likely be reimbursed by the DoD. If it makes you all feel better, you, as the tax payers, are paying these charges, not the soldiers.

      Report Post » Patrick in AZ  
    • Bullcop34
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 11:18am

      @snow It is not a mistake, Delta has been charging. They charged us when we left from Shreveport to fly to San Antonio. We were all reimbursed but that is not the point. Why can’t the military use the current inventory of jets and air bases to fly us to where ever we need to go? No TSA interference, and yes we ALL had to go through the screening process, we can actually have our weapons with us. See, we had to relinquish our weapons as cargo and they were then handled by civilians at civilian airports as we traveld the US. Scary isn’t it? Back to the military jets…we have 757′s, 747′s, C-130′s, C5‘s and C17’s that can accommodate numerous personnel, can be refueled in flight and then be landed at a base in theater all while flying non-stop from the US. It is just that easy but polotics make it retarded. And to top it all off, there is a good chance you will get deported too. I did, from Qatar, off of OUR OWN BASE THAT WE BUILT AND THAT OUR FLAG FLIES OVER!!! That was the last straw and I did not reenlist after 14 years of service. Our miltary is a freaking joke and the people in charge are not patriotic.

      Report Post » Bullcop34  
    • thegrassroots
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 11:20am

      Delta! Delta! Delta! You’ve been going Way Tooooooo Far on ALL your extras charges for years now. You’ve Finally Stepped Over Into Unconscionable.

      Let Delta Know The Wrath Of America People! And ……. Do Not Fly Delta!

      Report Post »  
    • hechafteth
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 11:27am

      @ ANONYMOUS CLOWN
      ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
      I understand it far better than you or anyone else in the room. The airline has a government contract to carry US soldiers and their gear and decided to profit on the front end from the soldiers by claiming excess baggage fees which is a violation of the contract.

      Since the soldiers will file their travel vouchers with their respective USPFOs and get reimbursed, the deficiency will end up being paid by the fund site manager.

      Guess who gets to pay the difference at the end?

      Suck my Weiner.

      Report Post » hechafteth  
    • Patrick in AZ
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 11:31am

      @ Bullcop – Why can’t the military use the current inventory of jets and air bases to fly us to where ever we need to go?
      ——————————-
      That answer is very simple – 1. it costs more to use a military aircraft to transport troops than it does to use commercial aircraft. 2. Those military aircraft are being used for other things, like transporting supplies (food, ammo, etc.), jet fuel, military hardware (i.e. vehicles), and some troops. 3. AMC does not have the inventory to transport all troops to all places – it is just unrealistic.

      Report Post » Patrick in AZ  
    • Bullcop34
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 11:34am

      @ American soldier….this is the way it is done now. We flew Delta from shreveport to San Antonio, public flight with all our weapons etc, in regular baggage! Omni Air, only militray from San Antonio to Ireland to Qatar. On the way back, Omni Air from Kuwait to Baltimore but from there on, it was commercial back to Shreveport. They did okay by us all the way but it was a pain in the back side to have to switch flights, TSA bull hockey, lost luggage. Read my other post on what else happened while there. No reason at all why we cant use our assets to fly our troops back and forth. We waste alot over there, for example, I flew with 7 other people from Qatar to Kuwait…..on a C-17. So don‘t tell me that we can’t afford to use our planes or that it is cheaper to use commercial. Commercial isn’t safe, not even Omni Air. The crew that flew us over, very nice folks too, had known 6 months in advance that they were flying from San Antonio to Ireland with our SPECIFIC unit. That is scary too.

      Report Post » Bullcop34  
    • Bullcop34
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 11:46am

      @Patrick…no offense but you sound like a politician with the lame answer. I spent 14 years in and there are enough aircraft to support the mission. In flight refueling can get the troops over there in less than 12 hours with all their gear too. That is exactly why we built the C-17 and C-5 so we could get everyone there at one time with all their gear as well. At present it takes 2 to 3 days to get over there. There are air fields large enough to handle those big jets then the troops can then get on connecting 130′s or helos depending on where they are going. This misnomer about cost is just political BS paying the big corporations back for their support. Call it like it is and don’t hide behind the lie that it costs less and is unrealistic.

      Report Post » Bullcop34  
    • Patrick in AZ
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 11:47am

      @ hechafteth

      If you know the process as much as you claim, then you should know that the contract with Delta only covers so much and I can guarantee you that the contract says that anything above and beyond what is contractually covered will or may result in an additional charge. This is not new nor is it out of the ordinary. Bag restrictions have long existed for military traveling on commercial aircraft while on orders. That is why baggage fees are a reimbursable expense on travel reports.

      Report Post » Patrick in AZ  
    • Patrick in AZ
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 11:49am

      @ Bullcop – Actually I have 20 years active duty service to include 6 years at AMC. What you are asking for is unrealistic.

      Report Post » Patrick in AZ  
    • lcam67
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 11:54am

      @ KANSAS MOM
      I sent them an email.. thanks for the info

      I TOLD THEM

      Report Post » lcam67  
    • six6six
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 12:19pm

      It’s just another example of unregulated business practices. Are you ‘free market’ proponents suggesting we add a new regulation. You’re getting what you wish for.

      Report Post »  
    • hechafteth
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 12:25pm

      @ PATRICK IN BOBOLAND
      ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
      That’s because you loggie morons in the NATIONAL GUARD have the luxury of writing off the difference in a mission end FLIPO instead of taking care of contract enforcement BEFORE the mission begins!!!

      Report Post » hechafteth  
    • jeffyfreezone
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 12:31pm

      I told them!

      Report Post »  
    • KS Kid
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 12:35pm

      FYI Folks most of the airlines charge for excess baggage on our troops. These folks were smart enough to put it on video for the world to see. The real travesty is that the tax payers foot the bill as these troops will be reimbursed for the expense. So these airlines (all the ones that charge for baggage) charge these fees are reimbursed with taxpayers monies.

      Report Post »  
    • Guerrino_P
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 12:40pm

      Whats wrong with a business trying to make money? You all sound like a bunch of commies.

      Report Post »  
    • Patrick in AZ
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 12:43pm

      @ hechafteth – Not all contracts are mission specific. Contracts with commercial airlines for transporting military personnel are long term. Baggage fees are not new and are a normal part of travel for the military. And for someone who likes to call other people names, I’m not, nor have I ever been, National Guard; Moron.
      The Stars & Stripes has this story and the responses from the military personnel is telling – most of them are saying this is no big deal and many are pointing fingers at the Soldiers for not being prepared for this
      http://www.stripes.com/news/middle-east/afghanistan/on-youtube-soldiers-home-from-war-recount-paying-delta-for-extra-bags-1.146040

      Report Post » Patrick in AZ  
    • Disabledvet
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 12:47pm

      Active duty members traveling on military orders are not allowed to travel first class or Business, they get coach and that is it.

      Report Post »  
    • vennoye
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 12:58pm

      They have put up an answer on Delta Blog about how they are going to resolve the military bag situation:

      http://blog.delta.com/

      Government may not be able to hear us, but corporations still can, apparently!! Good Job!!

      Report Post » vennoye  
    • Patrick in AZ
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 12:58pm

      If available, they can upgrade on their own dime

      Report Post » Patrick in AZ  
    • walkwithme1966
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 1:25pm

      Delta needs to be ashamed – they need to make this right immediately!! Unbelievable how our soldiers are treated. http://wp.me/pYLB7-12S

      Report Post » walkwithme1966  
    • Zoe
      Posted on June 8, 2011 at 6:06pm

      Charging the Troops….. Wrong-

      Getting Reimbursed by the Government…. hmmm Had to stop doing it , can you say Rumpelstiltskin?-

      Report Post » Zoe  
    • Lamarr01
      Posted on June 9, 2011 at 4:42pm

      These two soldiers that complained are probably placed on Napolitano’s Watch List. Janet thinks disgruntled ex-military are a significant threat for domestic terrorism. The two soldiers, their families and other travel companions will be subjected to enhanced security screening for the forseeable future.

      Report Post » Lamarr01  
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