I am headed to Windhoek Thursday. Schedule looks like this:
DAL to ATL--Delta
ATL-JNB--Delta 200

Here's the rub. In light of Delta's computer shutdown Monday, there have been numerous cancellations and delays at Delta. I am concerned about the DAL to ATL leg,as they cancelled that flight on today's schedule for some reason. Obviously if I miss that one, no connection for ATL to JNB is possible.

Question: If I have to take a Southwest flight from Dal to ATL to make the connection, instead of the Delta flight from DAL to ATL, will my reservation for flight 200 ATL-JNB still be valid, even though I'm not on the DAL-ATL leg?

Just trying to consider options at this point.

Did you book direct or use a travel agent?

I booked direct this time....first and only time I've done that because it was so straightforward......Obviously in hindsight it may not have been a great idea. It is what it is though.

If you booked it as a single trip, usually you have to be on the first flight to be allowed onto the connection flight, but since the airline is cancelling the first flight, I would give the airline a call to see what the circumstances are regarding this.
Usually, airlines give you the option of booking a ticket with a cancellation option. This might be a wise idea for your backup flight, to pay the little bit extra, so if your original flights opens up again, you will get most of your money back.

Thanks Marius. They have not cancelled it as of yet, just trying to stay ahead of the curve.

Roger that. Misunderstood and thought that they pulled the plug already.
Sure you'll be fine. Shoot straight and take lots of photos.

BTW way, on a different note, are you planning on attending DSC in 2017?

Thanks Marius. I'll be at DSC 2017, good Lord willing and the creek don't rise! How about you?

I wish you luck and I damn sure hope they have everything straightened out by Friday!!!

99% sure that I'll be there. Will keep in touch.

I'm quite certain you'll be fine.

In the wise words of Ingwe: YOU SUCK!!!!!!!!!

I mean, Good Luck!

Have a great trip, looking forward to a full report upon return.