New federal plan could get you cash for delayed or canceled flights
Flight delays, cancellations, and stranded passengers in distress may never cease regarding airline travel, but a new rule could make up for the inconveniences.
According to the Conde Nast Traveler, The Biden administration is proposing new rules to mandate that airlines make efforts to accommodate passengers when a delay or cancellation happens for reasons within the carriers’ control.
The outlet states the proposed regulations will be similar to the airline compensation rule currently in effect in the European Union.
Several guidelines were included as fair payback for passengers. U.S. airlines would need to compensate passengers when the carrier causes cancellations or significant flight delays and cover other costs like food and overnight accommodations.
The goal is to ensure airlines take more accountability for their engagement with passengers.
During a press conference on Monday, May 8, President Biden announced the plan would make it a “top priority to get American air travelers a better deal.”
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg added, “summer travel is going to put enormous pressure on the system.” With the impending influx “airlines need to accept their fundamental responsibility to better serve passengers.”
There was no particular amount specified during the press conference on what airlines would be required to pay passengers. However, the U.S. Department of Transportation mentioned that it previously asked carriers to agree to pay passengers at least $100 for delays of at least three hours caused by airlines.
Biden stated the administration would have the delay compensation rules proposed by the end of the year. In July 2021, a similar proposal for airlines to refund consumers fees for delayed baggage and onboard Wi-Fi and entertainment services not working.
No airlines have committed to the 2021 proposal and final regulations from the U.S. Department of Transportation have been finalized.
Martie Bowser is a journalist and public relations professional in Charlotte, NC. She enjoys amplifying the voices of POC and women that fill a void within their community. Her favorite things to cover include “person of interest” pieces, small business highlights, pop culture commentary, entertainment features, and everything about Beyoncé. Her bylines can be found in Blavity, Black Excellence, Signature Bride, Black Wall Street Times, and HipHop Weekly.
This story was originally published May 17, 2023 at 8:06 AM with the headline "New federal plan could get you cash for delayed or canceled flights."