2 hackers hit the jackpot with United Airlines bug bounty, get a million miles each

Two hackers have scored a million frequent-flier miles each on United Airlines for finding security holes in the airline's computer systems.

The awards were made under a security program that United started in May. Technology companies have offered so-called bug bounties, but they are unusual in the transportation industry.

United spokesman Luke Punzenberger said Thursday that two people have received the maximum award of 1 million miles each and others got smaller awards. That's enough for several first-class trips to Asia or up to 20 round-trips in the U.S.

He declined to say what kinds of flaws the hackers found but said the airline's systems are secure.