Flying Monkey

Then there were 3...
I moved to the PPO as soon as they made it available, I think that was last year, and haven't looked back. We have small kids and quite a few Dr's visits. This is the only plan that makes economic sense; not that it couldn't be better. The HRA's were too costly and confusing. I'm glad to be back on a more 'traditional' plan.

The planning tool they make available at open enrollment time is indispensable. It's easy to make cost comparisons using your personal data from the last year. Made the decision easy.

Flying Monkey

This brings up a good question. What's the best emergency contact number to leave for the spouse while out of town, the CPSC number?

Prayers for your wife's mom, Buzz.

Wasatch Phantom

Buzz,

Prayers for your wife's Mom and your family as well. I'm glad that Delta took care of you.

What I'm about to post is not meant to take anything away from your situation, but rather a counterpoint to Delta's actions in your case, and something to "file away" for others...

Delta doesn't tout it as much as they used to, but the "Delta Family" concept was something they preached about quite a bit, and Delta justifiably had some bragging rights as that had been the corporate philosophy for decades. I bought into that and trusted that in my hour of need Delta would be there for me...

My Dad was terminally ill and his doctor called my wife (now ex-wife) to say we needed to "gather the family-he was not responding to treatment". I was on a trip and was able to get off the trip. However my wife and I were unable to get on any Delta flight from Atlanta to south Florida despite having "emergency passes", as they were oversold. So we drove all night to get to his hospital and when we got there he was dead. I went to the morgue and held his cold, dead body. It's not the same as being saying "good-bye" to someone you deeply love, respect and admire.

Needless to say I was really ****ed and when I called the Atlanta Chief Pilot's office and complained bitterly I was told:

a.) How did I know all the other (paying) passengers weren't having family emergencies? (no kidding)
b.) I could have bought a ticket.

Honestly the thought of buying a ticket didn't occur to me because I had trusted Delta would be there for me- just as they said they would. They weren't and it's something I will never forgive them for.

I would much rather have had Delta be honest up front and not led me to believe they would be there when I needed them.

Again, I'm glad they did the right thing for you, but for my other APC brothers (and sisters), realize that's not always the case and you should have a plan B.

crewdawg52

Ditto Buzz.

Crew Tracking has a dedicated line for emergencies only, manned 24/7. It's on page 11.8.8 of the FOM.

Flying Monkey

Thanks. I guess I should crack a book now and again.

ripn6

It's been over 4 years since I've been there so the hotel and prices may have changed. I rented a mask and snorkel from the hotel ($5), walked to the moped rental and rented a moped for the day ($20). These places offered a crew discount at the time. We drove the mopeds around the Island for the entire day stopping to snorkel in the grotto. We also went to Banzai Cliff, Suicide Cliff, saw Bird Island, and even found a few caves. To this day it's been my coolest layover. Wear sunscreen if you do this, and have fun.

Bucking Bar

Exactly. Delta takes care of Delta first. Never forget it. If you are a junior reserve, tell them what you're doing and try to minimize operational disruption, but spending any more time with them than you would on a sick call is a mistake.

Delta's "family" depends on who happens to be on duty and what their personal inclinations are.

Bucking Bar

That's great. My wife would know just where to find that if our kid was in intensive care. (guess I'll program it into her phone now)

ExAF

Everyone will be running around in shorts and t-shirts!

Buzz...Just said a prayer for you and your family. Hope all goes well!

Jack Bauer

Good Luck with your mother in law Buzz.