Latest news with #frequentflier
Yahoo
30-06-2025
- Yahoo
Delta locks some customer accounts over security concern: What to know
HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) — If you have a flight with Delta Air Lines coming up, you may want to make sure you can access your frequent flier account before you head to the airport. The airline locked access to some customer frequent flier accounts because of cybersecurity concerns it learned of earlier in the week and didn't immediately notify those customers, based on similar information provided by two different reservations agents at different times Saturday to an affected customer, a reporter for Nexstar's WHTM. The potential security breach happened last week, based on the information provided. The reporter discovered the problem Saturday while trying to log into the airline's system to check in for a flight scheduled for Sunday. The login failed, as did an attempt to reset the password. This previously unreported issue occurred while Delta also worked to recover from a severe storm at its Atlanta hub, which caused the airline to cancel nearly 1,000 flights Friday and Saturday. The reporter called the airline's reservations center, where an agent immediately recognized the problem and said a known issue, regarding concerns about a potential security breach, had impacted a large number of customers earlier in the week, and those customers' accounts had been locked. The agent said the customer, like others impacted, had to upload a photo of a valid government ID (such as a driver's license) to verify his identity. The agent helped the reporter navigate to a form on the airline's website through which the photo could be uploaded. She said because of the large number of customers impacted, the requests were taking time to address; the reporter could call back later for further manual assistance over the phone if the issue wasn't addressed in time. 'Delta SkyMiles accounts are secure,' a company spokesperson said in a statement, responding to questions about the issue. SkyMiles is the airline's frequent flier program. 'As we do occasionally, out of an abundance of caution, we reset credentials for accounts and ask that customers verify them with us to maintain security of the accounts. We apologize for any inconvenience this might cause.' A different agent later in the day, assisting the reporter further, also recognized the issue immediately and said about 68,000 customers had been impacted. The spokesperson declined to comment further. The 68,000 customers would represent fewer than 1% of Delta's approximately 130 million SkyMiles members, and it was unclear whether any accounts had actually been breached, as opposed to whether, for example, hackers had unsuccessfully attempted to breach the airline's systems. But two security experts said the airline's handling of the issue — locking customer accounts but not immediately notifying the impacted customers that they should attempt to reset their account credentials to regain access — was unusual. 'This is the first time I've ever heard of a company doing something like this without notifying customers,' Jonathan Weissman, a principal lecturer at the Rochester (New York) Institute of Technology's cybersecurity department, said Saturday night. 'It makes no sense that they would lock the accounts and not tell the customers that the accounts have been locked.' Weissman said companies often require customers to reset their passwords, even after successfully blocking hackers from accessing an account, but they typically notify customers immediately when that happens so the customers can address the issue calmly and at their convenience rather than when they have an immediate need to access the company's website or app. 'Locking the accounts is a good, safe measure,' Weissman said of Delta's initial step. 'But not communicating that fact to the affected customers can cause mass confusion and problems with people boarding flights eventually. The information should be forthcoming from [Delta], not in response to questions from customers.' Weissman said it's possible the airline doesn't know the extent of the issue, but if it knew enough to lock the accounts, it should have notified customers of that action and their need to set new passwords at the same time. Another cybersecurity expert, also speaking Saturday night, agreed. 'They need to come clean and do their best job of notifying everybody affected,' said Scott Schober, CEO of a New Jersey-based cybersecurity company called BVS and author of several books about cybersecurity. 'At a minimum, they could alert you so you can take action, and then provide more information as they learn it.' Less than half an hour after the first agent helped the reporter navigate the process of uploading the photo of his driver's license, he received this message: But the password reset didn't work. The reporter called and spoke with another agent who was also familiar with the issue and was able to help successfully reset the password, resulting in a successful account login. Delta is generally well-regarded among U.S. airlines, sometimes ranking higher than all others in customer surveys and analyses of metrics such as airline punctuality. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Forbes
11-06-2025
- Forbes
How To Elevate Your Coach Class Ticket To A First Class Flight
getty Let's be honest: Flying coach isn't always the most comfortable experience—especially on long-haul trips. But with a few smart upgrades, it's possible to transform even the most cramped economy seat into a more relaxing, elevated ride. Whether it's creating a spa-like environment midair, drowning out cabin noise or getting real sleep at 35,000 feet, the right products and approach can make all the difference. This Father's Day, give the frequent flier in your life the tools to upgrade their inflight experience—no seat change required. These comfort-boosting, stress-reducing and downright genius finds will help any dad feel like a first-class passenger, even when they're sitting in 26B. getty When it comes to feeling like a first-class passenger, comfort is key. And it starts with what you wear, what you pack in your personal item and how you prep for the flight. Think breathable layers, supportive sneakers, compression socks that actually work and a travel pillow that won't leave you with a neck cramp. These comfort-forward essentials are designed to minimize aches, maximize rest and help any traveler arrive feeling more refreshed than rumpled. Let's start with the foundation—your legs. Long-haul flights can wreak havoc on circulation, often leaving travelers with swollen, achy feet and legs. Plus blood clots, also called deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can be a serious risk for some long-distance travelers, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The organization says that some people may benefit from wearing graduated compression socks. Dr. Motion's graduated compression socks help promote healthy blood flow and reduce swelling, and they manage to look sharp while doing it, thanks to a subtle pin dot grid pattern that adds a bit of style to the science. Next up: light. Whether it's harsh overhead LEDs or sunshine streaming through the window seat, blocking it out is key to getting real rest. Rest's Evercool® Cooling Eye Mask is designed for serious shut-eye—it's cool to the touch, moisture-wicking and ultra-breathable. With a full-face, light-blocking design and an adjustable strap that stays put, it creates a blackout effect that's ideal for red-eyes, midday naps, or any moment you need to unplug. What he wears on the plane matters, too. Cozy Earth's Men's Everywhere Pant strikes the perfect balance between polish and comfort—ideal for long-haul flights or quick business turnarounds. Made from temperature-regulating bamboo viscose with just the right amount of stretch, these breathable, wrinkle-resistant pants look sharp in the terminal and feel like loungewear at 35,000 feet. Whether he's hustling to make a tight connection or just logging steps in the cabin, On Cloud 6 Coast sneakers are built for movement. These ultra-lightweight shoes feel barely there, but still offer the support and cushioning needed for long travel days. The collapsible heel makes them easy to slip on and off at TSA, and the breathable design means no overheating—even when you're sprinting through Terminal C. Neck support is non-negotiable on long flights—however, chiropractor Dr Lawrence Woods, DC, founder of The Spinery, says, 'As a general rule, travel neck pillows don't offer any support, alignment, or comfort and are not recommended for travel.' We're guessing he hasn't yet experienced the Trtl Travel Pillow, which delivers a new style of neck pillow. Unlike bulky U-shaped pillows, this one features a structured internal brace wrapped in soft fleece that keeps your head upright and supported. It's lightweight, machine washable and small enough to toss in a carry-on without sacrificing space. getty Once he's settled in and buckled up, the next challenge is making the hours fly by. Whether he's trying to power through a few episodes, dive into a podcast or catch up on reading, the right tech can make all the difference. These smart picks help turn idle airtime into downtime well spent—no Wi-Fi meltdown or screaming toddler required. For the dad who likes to make the most of his time in the air, the Kindle Scribe is a game-changer. This sleek tablet combines the ease of digital reading with the satisfaction of handwritten notes—perfect for planning, brainstorming or marking up documents mid-flight. Lightweight and long on battery life, it slips easily into a carry-on and turns seat 26B into a mobile office (or sketchpad). For dads who want premium noise-canceling without the first-class price tag, Skullcandy's Method 360 ANC earbuds are a smart pick. Co-engineered with Bose, they deliver immersive sound, up to 40 hours of battery life and a secure fit that stays put from takeoff to touchdown. Perfect for blocking out engine drone, seatmate chatter and all the other ambient chaos that comes with coach. getty All those smart travel upgrades deserve carry-on bag options that can keep up. Whether he's a minimalist packer or the type to travel with gadgets, snacks and backup everything, the right bag makes all the difference. According to a 2024 study by SITA, an IT company that provides bag-tracking systems to airlines, 36.1 million suitcases worldwide were mishandled in 2023, meaning 36.1 million bags were lost, delayed, damaged, or stolen. It's definitely time to pare down and choose carry-on luggage whenever possible. Casetify brings its tech-savvy edge to the tarmac with the Bounce Carry-On Suitcase. Designed for travelers who don't want to choose between style and durability, it features impact-absorbing bumpers, a tough polycarbonate shell, and smooth 360° spinner wheels. Inside, a magnetic compression system, zippered compartments, and a hidden AirTag pocket keep everything secure and organized. Bonus: it's fully customizable, so Dad's bag will stand out at baggage claim—for all the right reasons. Equal parts luxury and utility, the Mogul Briefcase by BBC Bags is crafted from premium Italian leather and sewn in Los Angeles by a Black- and woman-owned brand. Designed by Jerey Oheah, it pairs a structured silhouette with smart compartments to keep in-flight essentials—like a laptop, passport, earbuds, and documents—secure and easy to access. Sleek enough for the boardroom but built for the jetway, it's a statement piece for dads who appreciate craftsmanship as much as convenience.
Wall Street Journal
11-06-2025
- Business
- Wall Street Journal
Toward One Rewards Plan for All Your Travel
Traveling in this day and age means accumulating hoards of points and miles, earned and valued at different rates. Spending them means navigating multiple loyalty accounts. What if there were an easier way: Imagine if one currency could be used across all your travel-loyalty programs—a kind of eurozone for points and miles. Some travel-loyalty executives and analysts see this as the future of frequent-flier programs. 'The writing is on the wall for that to happen because there are too many players pursuing the same thing,' said Evert de Boer, managing partner at On Point Loyalty, an advisory firm based in Singapore.
Skift
30-05-2025
- Business
- Skift
United and JetBlue, Viator and Airbnb, and IATA and Big Airline Fears
Today's podcast talks about a new partnership between United and JetBlue, a possible partnership between Viator and Airbnb, and the big worries of a big airline executive. Skift Daily Briefing Podcast Listen to the day's top travel stories in under four minutes every weekday. Listen to the day's top travel stories in under four minutes every weekday. Skift Travel Podcasts Good morning from Skift. It's Friday, May 30. Here's what you need to know about the business of travel today. United Airlines and JetBlue announced on Thursday a new partnership that will see the two carriers link loyalty programs and networks, write Airlines Editor Gordon Smith and Airlines Reporter Meghna Maharishi. United and JetBlue are launching a domestic partnership called 'Blue Sky' that will allow customers from both carriers to earn and burn frequent-flier miles on most flights. Customers will also be able to access the benefits of the other carrier's loyalty program, such as priority check-in or extra legroom seats. United and JetBlue will offer flights on each others' websites, but the two carriers will continue to offer and market their flights independently. JetBlue had been seeking a new domestic partnership with a major airline after a federal judge blocked its Northeast Alliance with American Airlines in 2023. Listen to This Podcast Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Youtube | RSS Next, Tripadvisor CEO Matt Goldberg has raised the possibility of Viator entering into a partnership with the relaunched Airbnb Experiences, writes Executive Editor Dennis Schaal. Viator is a leader in the experiences space and Tripadvisor is its parent company. Goldberg said at a Bernstein financial conference on Thursday that Tripadvisor would be paying close attention to Airbnb's efforts. Although competitors often partner with each other in the travel industry, Schaal notes the approach may not fit with Airbnb's current strategy of offering more curated tours. Finally, Willie Walsh, director general of the International Air Transport Association, believes the world's commercial airspace is under more strain than ever, writes Airlines Editor Gordon Smith. Walsh said in an exclusive interview that airlines are having to adapt to an ever-shifting map of viable flight paths. Tensions between India and Pakistan forced several carriers to cancel flights earlier this month while others were diverted. Another example is Russian airspace, which remains closed to many Western carriers following the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. However, Walsh said airlines have become more agile in dealing with the challenges.
Wall Street Journal
29-05-2025
- Business
- Wall Street Journal
United and JetBlue Form Alliance to Sell Seats on Each Other's Flights
United Airlines and JetBlue JBLU -3.69%decrease; red down pointing triangle Airways are entering a partnership that will expand JetBlue's reach and pave the way for United to resume flights at John F. Kennedy International Airport. The arrangement will allow the airlines' customers to earn and spend frequent-flier miles on both airlines. United will get access to slots at New York's JFK for up to seven daily round-trip flights starting as soon as 2027, and JetBlue will be able to operate more flights at Newark Liberty International Airport.
