The Biden administration is considering new rules that would require airlines to pay passengers for significant delays that are within the airline’s control.
The U.S. Department of Transportation on Thursday began a rulemaking process billed as a measure to “protect passengers stranded on airlines,” and is currently soliciting public comment.
The organization establishes basic standards for what airlines should offer passengers in the event of a disruption, such as a cancellation or significant delay, due to airline-related circumstances such as mechanical problems or IT system failures. I’m trying.
The proposed standards include paying airlines $200 to $300 for domestic flight delays of three hours or more, $375 to $525 for delays of six hours or more, and $375 to $525 for delays of nine hours or more. includes requiring tiered delay compensation ranging from $750 to $775. .
The department will also consider whether smaller airlines should pay less than larger airlines and whether they should be required to compensate passengers if they are given one to two weeks’ notice of a cancellation or major delay. I am doing it.
Other proposals include requiring airlines to rebook passengers on the next available flight at no additional charge and to compensate stranded passengers for meals, overnight lodging, and related transportation costs. Includes mandatory.
The public has 60 days to submit comments.
More than 60% of domestic delays of three hours or more in 2022 and 2023 were caused by airlines, according to airline data submitted to the DOT.
Additionally, the Congressional Government Accountability Office estimates that flight cancellations from July 2021 to April 2022 could affect more than 15 million passengers, and delays could affect more than 116 million passengers. It was revealed that this could have an impact on
The UK, EU, Canada and Brazil have consumer protection schemes in place to compensate passengers and provide service in the event of significant delays, the news release said.
“One study found that European Union compensation and service requirements reduce the likelihood and duration of aircraft delays,” the DOT said in a news release.
Currently, airlines are required to refund passengers for canceled flights, but there is no obligation for delays. The DOT says some airlines are required to offer at least $50 in credits or vouchers in case of flight disruptions.
DOT says 10 major U.S. airlines have already committed to rebook stranded passengers at no additional cost, cover meals during airline disruptions, and nine will provide lodging and related transportation costs. He pointed out that he had promised to do so.
“However, airlines may change their customer service policies at their discretion, and it is often up to airlines to determine when they are responsible for flight delays and cancellations,” the DOT release said. are.
Airlines for America, an industry group representing American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and others, criticized the news, saying, “A4A airlines are subject to significant delays and cancellations if passengers choose not to rebook.” “Refunds are automatically issued regardless of whether or not it occurred within 2020.” We also provide reimbursement for meals, transportation, and lodging expenses for significant delays that are within the airline’s control and control. ”
The group said mandating additional cash compensation would “increase ticket prices, make air travel less accessible to price-sensitive travelers, and negatively impact airline operations.” .
The group urged the Biden administration to focus on other aviation industry issues, such as the air traffic controller shortage and the Federal Aviation Administration’s infrastructure.
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