United Airlines has fired 35 workers it says were part of a ‘brokering’ ring selling free and reduced flight privileges.
It claims travel benefits strictly for use by family members and buddy passes were sold.
United investigated after a group of nine passengers travelling on passes couldn’t name the staff member who provided the tickets.
According to United, the passengers said they had paid up to $4,000 each for a year’s worth of free travel.
Some employees registered buyers as bogus family members.
While many sold the privileges and made money, others gave away the free travel to non-qualified passengers which is also against the rules.
It is not just a problem for United, as other airlines have disciplined or fired workers for similar violations.
"Enjoying flying privileges is a unique and special advantage of working at an airline, and it is intended only for our employees and their friends and family. We have clear rules on flying privileges so we can all fairly enjoy this benefit," United said.
