Biden admin proposes requiring airlines to compensate travelers for cancellations and delays
NBCNov 27, 2022
US Might Force Airlines to Compensate Travelers for Flight Delays, Cancellations
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Image copyright: AFP/Getty Images [via Forbes]
The Facts
On Monday, US Pres. Joe Biden unveiled plans to launch new regulations mandating all US airlines to compensate passengers in cases of carrier-caused flight cancellations or delays.
Later this year, Biden added, his administration will push for stricter rules requiring airlines to cover expenses for "meals, hotels, taxis, rideshares and rebooking fees, and cash miles and or travel vouchers," in addition to refunding the cost of affected tickets.
The Spin
Left narrative
The US is on the right path toward protecting passengers from financial losses when carriers are responsible for canceling or delaying their flights. The airline industry will undoubtedly oppose and lobby against this move, but the recent flight meltdowns have made it clear that the government must support those suffering the most.
Right narrative
Despite its attempt to pass the buck to the airlines for flight delays and cancellations, the government cannot deny its partial responsibility for flight meltdowns. While the FAA's controllers still track flights manually with paper strips instead of using computers, countries that have at least partially privatized air traffic control experience fewer delays, lower costs, and equal or improved safety. America must do the same.
