The White House is proposing a new rule that would require airlines to compensate passengers when flight plans change drastically due to causes within the carriers' control. Similar to passenger-protection measures in the European Union, this rule-making process would necessitate airlines providing cash compensation in addition to refunds for canceled flights or significant delays resulting from airline-caused disruptions.
Airlines have argued that such proposals make travel more costly for everyone; however, some argue that these disruptions were caused by extraordinary circumstances. In response, The Transportation Department has proposed a dashboard on FlightRights.gov highlighting which airlines offer passengers amenities and vouchers as compensation for disruptions. Airlines have countered by stating they already provided some or all of the services found on the dashboard before its launch.
This move comes after the airline industry and federal government faced significant backlash during last year's holiday season due to mass flight cancellations and delays stranding passengers. These troubles in the travel industry also led to political losses for former Indiana mayor Pete Buttigieg who bore much of the criticism.
Although specifics regarding this proposal have not been outlined yet, it could take months or even years before such a rule goes into force. With analysts predicting potential significant disruptions during this summer’s expected busy travel season buoyed by resurgent demand for overseas trips, regulations like these are under close scrutiny.
In comparison with existing EU regulations requiring cash compensations depending on flight length (with amounts reaching up to €600 ($660) for trips longer than 2,175 miles), President Joe Biden's administration seeks additional compensation beyond refunds while examining whether airlines should provide meals, lodging, rebooking costs coverage when responsible for stranding passengers.
Consumers will be able to check FlightRights.gov – an improved version displaying specific amenities each airline offers– since according to administration officials current offerings aren't enough. Furthermore, proposed regulation aims at setting requirements ensuring timely customer service during widespread flight irregularities periods.
This announcement is part of a series of steps taken by the administration to improve air travel and passenger protections, as well as an effort to prompt airlines into expanding existing benefits. Similar cash compensation policies for certain flight delays and cancellations caused within airline control already exist in Europe and Canada.