I am traveling next week to Manila, via Nagoya in Business Class. I just received the following email and a phone message:

"
Thank you for flying Northwest Airlines.

Dear XXXXXX:

Northwest Airlines has important information about a reservation for the XXXX party.

Our records indicate that you have a reservation on a flight from Detroit-Wayne County Int'l, MI to Manila-Int'l, Philippines on March 29. We wish to confirm your intent to use this reservation.

Please contact Northwest Airlines at 1-800-225-2525 and refer to confirmation number XXXXXXX to confirm or cancel your reservation."

I rarely fly NW and am surprised by this 1970's style reconfirmation requirement. Can anyone please enlighten me as to the real reason? Thanks