DOT Abandons Rule Change that Would Compensate Passengers for Flight Disruptions

The Department of Transportation abandoned a rule change proposed by the Biden administration that would have paralleled European rules that make airlines compensate passengers for flight disruptions caused by the airlines.

In the USA, airlines usually provide something to customers when they cause long delays or flight cancellations. However, it is not required and passengers typically must press the airlines for it.

The rule that has been abandoned would require airlines to provide affected passengers with cash, lodging and meals when significant flight disruptions are caused by the carrier.

Scope of the proposed rule started with requiring rebooking on the next available flight at no extra charge, even if it had to be on a rival carrier, plus meals and lodging if the delay is overnight. It could have gone as far as compensation for flight cancellation or substantial delay due to mechanical issues with the aircraft of issues with the airline computer system, with compensation ranging from $200 up to $775 for delays of nine or more hours. Such policies are similar to rules that apply in Europe.

Airlines applauded not having to treat USA passengers in such situations as well as they must treat passengers in Europe.

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