Concerns have emerged over Spirit Airlines’ plan to sell a significant amount of its data to Google for $10 million, particularly in terms of safeguarding former employees’ privacy. Spirit is collaborating with an external service to ensure personal data is cleansed before approval of the sale.
Scope of the Data Deal
As per the agreement, Google is poised to acquire extensive business and software records from Spirit Airlines. This includes access to 3.4 million payroll records and 100 million emails as well as 80,000 email accounts. Historical staff data dating back to 1986 is also included, along with detailed insights into pricing models, reservation trends, passenger behaviour during flights, onboard purchases, Wi-Fi usage records, and details concerning refunds and travel packages.
Exclusions from the Data Sale
Importantly, the transaction will not encompass the personal data of Spirit’s customers. Specifically, the airline’s records of 97.5 million passenger details and 52.4 million loyalty programme members will remain secure and excluded from Google’s acquisition.
Procedural Developments
A hearing regarding the proposed data transaction was originally scheduled for August 18, indicating an ongoing review of the deal’s potential implications.
Reporting based on coverage first published by skift.com.