Democrats suggest airlines to compensate significant delays with cash

Senators Mark Kelly of Arizona, Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, and Ed Markey of Massachusetts unveiled legislation on Thursday aimed at ensuring travelers receive monetary compensation for extended flight delays. The bill, supported by more than a dozen fellow Senate Democrats, would direct the Department of Transportation (DOT) to require airlines to pay passengers $300 for delays exceeding three hours and $600 for delays lasting six hours or longer. This approach mirrors regulations already in place in Canada and the European Union.

Under the proposed law, airlines would also be obligated to cover additional costs incurred due to disruptions, including meals, lodging, and ground transportation. Air travel is stressful and costly as it is. Airlines must be held accountable when delays and cancellations leave Americans stranded and out of pocket, Senator Kelly said. Our goal is to protect passengers so they arent financially penalized by airline disruptions.

Previously, the DOT had abandoned a cash compensation plan suggested by the Biden administration, which would have required payouts ranging from $200 to $775 depending on the length of the delay. Airlines for America, representing major carriers, had supported the withdrawal, citing concerns about excessive regulatory burdens.

Author: Gavin Porter