Summary
The Trump administration has decided not to move forward with a proposal from the previous Biden administration that would have required U.S. airlines to compensate passengers for long flight delays. The proposal was initially considered as a way to handle disruptions caused by airlines but was withdrawn due to concerns about it placing heavy demands on airlines. Instead, the administration believes airlines should compete based on their offered services and compensation.
Key Facts
- The Biden administration had proposed that airlines pay passengers for delays they caused, starting in December 2024.
- Compensation amounts would have been $200 to $300 for delays of at least three hours and up to $775 for longer disruptions.
- The Trump administration claims the rule would create unnecessary regulatory demands and financial strain on airlines.
- The proposal aimed to mirror compensation rules found in the European Union, Canada, Brazil, and the United Kingdom.
- A group of 18 Democratic senators asked the Trump administration to keep the compensation plan.
- USDOT has decided to allow airlines to set their compensation policies instead of imposing federal rules.
- The Trump administration is considering reversing other Biden-era regulations concerning airline fee disclosures and refund rules.
