How the New Proposed U.S. Airline Compensation Rule Could Make Flying More Consumer-Friendly

How the New Proposed U.S. Airline Compensation Rule Could Make Flying More Consumer-Friendly

The Biden administration recently unveiled a new proposal to require airlines to provide compensation to passengers for flight delays and cancellations. This rule, if enacted, would be the first of its kind in the U.S. and is similar to the European Law EU261 that guarantees up to 600 euros ($660) for travel disruptions caused by airlines.

The proposed rule is the latest in a string of consumer-oriented steps taken by the Transportation Department under Secretary Buttigieg. These have included imposing millions of dollars in fines for violations, creating an online dashboard showing travelers what services they are entitled to if their flights are delayed or canceled, and pushing airlines to guarantee that young children can sit with their parents without extra charges.

The new proposal would also require airlines to cover expenses like meals and hotel accommodations that are incurred because of delays or cancellations within the airlines’ control. While many airlines already provide this service, Airlines for America (A4A), a trade association representing major U.S. carriers, noted that more than half of cancellations last year were caused by weather, and that U.S. airlines had to reduce their schedules due to Federal Aviation Administration staffing shortages.

Overall, it looks like the new proposal from the Biden administration is a major step forward in protecting passengers affected by flight delays and cancellations. It would also provide more clarity on what services are covered when flights are disrupted. While A4A has pointed out that some disruptions are beyond the airlines’ control, this rule should ensure they take responsibility for any problems caused within their sphere of influence. Additionally, this could spur more competition between airlines as they try to offer better customer service and make up for any disruption-related losses with higher fares or other incentives instead of passing them onto consumers.

Ultimately, we can’t be sure until the rule is put into effect, but it seems like this proposal could bring a lot of positive change to the aviation industry and make flying more consumer-friendly. It will give passengers more assurance that they will not have to face additional expenses due to flight delays or cancellations caused by airlines. We hope it passes soon so travelers can enjoy more peace of mind when booking flights in the future.