Nod and Smile

In April, I posted about Delta’s under the radar change of their baggage policy where they decided not only to charge $25 for a second checked bag, but also decided not to tell so many people about it. At that time, I questioned our friendship, said we’d get along much better if they just tried to contact me every once in awhile, and threatened to break up with them.

I have been trying to give them the benefit of the doubt, though. Hey, they got me to South Africa for $124.00 and some frequent flyer miles. I’m willing to give them a second chance for that. And to wit, I (and my one free bag) have flown with Delta 3 times since their policy came into effect in May. In fact, 2 of those flights were yesterday. Things are looking up. I’d say we’re back on good terms.

But then, my good friends at Travelocity sent me this the other day:

Delta has recently announced they are offering a rebate to customers who were charged the $25 second baggage fee if the tickets were purchased before April 9th 2008. We want to ensure that you have been notified of this information and are aware of the rebate being provided by Delta Airlines…

In response to customer feedback and as a matter of goodwill, Delta has decided to make a one-time exception to the rules established in its contract of carriage by offering rebates of the second checked bag fee to those passengers who purchased tickets before this new fee was announced on delta.com.

Nice gesture, Delta, I appreciate this. But again, and I’m sorry to have to say this, your coquetry is wearing thin. Travelocity is sending me this information? What, are you too ashamed to tell me personally? You have my email address. You have my frequent flyer number. You have my phone # for text messages. You have a freakin’ database with all flights taken during this time.

I know you’ve been going through a hard time and all, what with rising gas prices and the Northwest merger. You’re stressed out and you’ve got a lot on your plate. But I do think it’s time that you and I sat down and had a chat about your communication skills.

How about Sunday, after I get to Paris on yet another Delta ticket, discounted by frequent flyer miles? Oh, and if you have a little extra time, let’s chat about your SkyTeam partner Air France and their uncanny ability to lose every piece of luggage that goes through CDG.

See you in Paris, cheri, hopefully with my free, checked and less than 50 lbs bag in hand.