I’ll be the first to admit that I’m extremely critical of Delta Air Lines but I have to give props where it’s due.
This morning I received an email detailing how Delta is making lemonade from the lemons that the world has been given due to the current pandemic. They are turning their empty planes into free transport for critical healthcare workers.
AN UPDATE FROM ED
Ed Bastian, the CEO of Delta writes (per the email):
Three months ago, I would have never dreamt our world would be facing such volatile times, but I remain confident we will prevail because of you and the people of Delta. To support you and our communities, we are carrying medical supplies globally via cargo flights and operating repatriation flights to get you and your loved ones home. If you are a medical volunteer, we are offering free flights to certain U.S. regions that have been significantly impacted by COVID-19 (coronavirus) to support medical professionals on the front lines. As we make swift decisions to support your health and safety, we will keep you continually informed so you can make the best travel decisions for you and your family.
As detailed on Delta’s website, medical volunteers can book round-trip travel on Delta for free to:
- Georgia
- Lousiana
- Michigan
Volunteers will be deployed to hospitals in the areas hardest hit by COVID-19 in coordination with state and local governments.
The message continues and says that Delta is also look at expanding the program to:
- California
- New York
- Washington State
Friday, Delta’s Chief Customer Experience Officer, Bill Lentsch said:
We are witnessing the heroic efforts of our medical professionals around the world as they combat COVID-19, and we have deep gratitude for their selfless sacrifice. Air travel plays a significant role in making connections in both good and challenging times, and our hope is that offering free travel gives more of these professionals the ability to help in critical areas of the U.S.
How Medical Volunteers Can Obtain Free Tickets On Delta
For medical volunteers that are in interested, you can’t just call Delta and say, “I’m a medical worker, give me a free ticket to New Orleans.” Instead, you’ll need to coordinate with state governments, who will determine if your service is needed. If needed, they (the states) will work with Delta to issue your ticket.
To get in contact with the state governments, you have to send the specific locations an email via the contacts below:
- Georgia – providers@gema.ga.gov
- Louisiana – LHA-HealthPro@lhaonline.org.
- Michigan: – fill out the form on Michigan.gov
It’s worth noting that in the email it specifically states that tickets will only be booked three days in advance of travel.
FINAL STAMP
Simply, this is a great idea and exactly what we need right now. I hope this action also spurs other airlines to do the same. We’ve all seen the news and there is tremendous need in various “hotspots” around the country. The move is great foresight to transport idle medical workers willing to sacrifice their time and potentially their health to save other lives and props have to be given for that.
What do you make of this idea? Do you know medical personnel that may be interested in this opportunity? Forward them this blog or email.
1TattedPassport 