The US government is set to renew its push for airline-consumer protections, with the Biden administration seeking public comment on requiring airlines to pay cash compensation and cover lodging and meals for passengers stranded due to flight cancellations or delays.
The proposed rule would provide financial support to passengers affected by flights cancelled or delayed due to mechanical issues or computer outages. Compensation could range from $200 to $775, depending on the duration of the delay.
In addition to cash compensation, the proposal also includes provisions for free rebooking on the next available flight and accommodations for stranded passengers. The Transportation Department will consider allowing smaller airlines to pay less compensation than larger ones.
Industry trade group Airlines for America has expressed concerns that the proposed rule could lead to higher ticket prices, but Biden’s Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg says the move aims to discourage airlines from causing delays and promote passenger care when problems arise.
Buttigieg notes that protections for airline consumers enjoy bipartisan support in Congress, which is why he hopes the next administration will build on the existing rules. The proposal’s fate remains uncertain, as President-elect Donald Trump’s administration will take over with less than seven weeks left in office.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/airlines-compensation-biden-administration-rules-3e1d8f6c47328c274161a4cdb0910c64