Airlines Skirt DOT Fines Over Selling Passenger Data - Thoughts?

So, I just read that the DOT wrapped up a long review on how major US airlines have been handling passenger data. Apparently, they've been selling access to over 700 million flight records. But here's the kicker - no fines are being handed out because the DOT says no laws were broken.

Honestly, I find it a bit surprising. I mean, selling that much data to federal agencies sounds like a big deal. I guess the airlines were playing by the rules after all? Or maybe the rules are just too loose when it comes to data privacy.

I'm curious how you all feel about this. Do you think there's a privacy issue here, or is it just how things are now with data? Do you trust airlines with your info, or does this make you a bit wary?

I can't help but wonder if this'll change anything in the future. Maybe stricter laws or more transparency? Anyway, would love to hear what you all think.

Honestly, it feels like we give up a bit of privacy every time we book a flight. Selling data to federal agencies isn't shocking these days, but it's still unsettling. I mean, 700 million records? That's a lot of info floating around. If the airlines didn't break any laws, maybe the laws need an update. Kinda makes me think twice about how much personal info I share. Wonder if the EU's GDPR would handle this differently.

Yeah, it's a bit wild, right? I get that data's valuable, but I thought there'd be more regulation around it. I mean, just because it's legal doesn't make it cool. I wouldn't say I trust airlines completely with my info now. Maybe we'll see some changes if people start making noise about it. It's like, at what point do we draw the line on data privacy? Makes me think twice about what info I share next time I book.

I'm kinda torn on this. On one hand, I get that data's like currency now, but it feels weird airlines can just sell all those records. I don't remember agreeing to that when I booked my tickets. But then again, if no laws were broken, maybe the rules just need a serious update. Do you guys think passengers should have more say in how their data's used?

I think it's all about transparency. If airlines are gonna sell our data, they should at least tell us upfront. It's weird to think my flight info could be floating around without me knowing. Makes me wonder how many other places are doing this too. Maybe this will push for better privacy laws, but who knows with how slow regulations can change. Just wish they'd be more open about it.

I'm not really surprised they didn't get fined. The legal system's always a step behind when it comes to tech and data privacy. It's like the rules haven't caught up with the reality of how much data is out there. I do think it should be more transparent though. When we buy a ticket, a simple notice about how our data could be used would be nice. Wonder if this'll push airlines to be more upfront, or if they'll just keep it business as usual.

Yeah, it's a crazy amount of data being shared. Makes you wonder what else they're doing with our info. I always figured airlines had access to more data than they let on, but selling it without any consequences feels off. Maybe it's time to push for better privacy laws in aviation? I get that data's valuable, but at least let us know what's happening with it. Anyone else think we need clearer consent forms or something?