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Is Delta going to shut down?

April 5, 2006

For the last few weeks, I’ve dismissed most of the worries about a possible Delta pilots strike (and threats of a subsequent shutdown of the airline). But after the news that its pilots have authorized a strike, I wonder if that advice needs to be revised.

Would I fly on Delta? Sure, as long as there was another American carrier that could issue a standby ticket with the required $50 change fee. But not if Delta were the only U.S. airline on that route. And I would really think twice before using an award ticket, since another airline may be reluctant to accept that ticket in the unlikely event of a shutdown.

Christopher Elliott is the author of Scammed: How to Save Your Money and Find Better Service in a World of Schemes, Swindles, and Shady Deals. Critics have called it “eye-opening” and “inspiring” — it’ll “grab your attention and won’t let go.” Order your copy now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble or iTunes.

1 comment

  • Paul Robichaux

    But why hesitate to use an award ticket? If you use the ticket and Delta doesn’t strike, no problem. If you use the ticket and they do strike, your miles will probably end up being worthless anyway. The only case to worry about is using an award ticket for travel that begins now (or during a strike) and returns while the strike is in progress. I agree that you shouldn’t do that.

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