Travelers Urged to Check Rights as US Flight Delays, Cancellations Surge
Travelers, especially those flying in the US, are urged to check their rights before taking to the skies. This follows a surge in complaints about delays and cancellations, with 2024 marking the fourth consecutive year of record-breaking grievances. Andrew and Briana Bain's Labor Day trip turned into a 20-hour airport ordeal, highlighting the need for passengers to be informed and airlines to improve support.
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has set requirements for airlines to better assist passengers during controllable delays or cancellations. These include providing travel assistance like rebooking, accommodation, and meals. Passengers should be clearly informed of their rights. Several major US airlines, such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, have pledged to offer support in such situations. However, the implementation of these promises varies, and passengers may still face challenges.
Briana Bain and her boyfriend, Andrew, experienced this firsthand. Their Labor Day trip was marred by delays and cancellations, leaving them stranded at the airport for nearly 20 hours. Despite losing their entire vacation and incurring additional costs, they received little support from the airline. After persistent calls and emails, they finally secured a refund for their original tickets. This incident is not an isolated one. According to the US Public Interest Research Group (PIRG), complaints against US carriers have been rising sharply in recent years, particularly regarding delays and cancellations. Teresa Murray from US PIRG notes that airlines have control over factors like maintenance, staffing, cleaning, scheduling, and passenger care, which directly impact travel experiences.
With complaints against US airlines reaching record highs, it's crucial for passengers to be aware of their rights and for airlines to improve their handling of delays and cancellations. Checking the DOT's passenger dashboard, FlightRights.gov, before flying can help travelers understand what support they can expect. Despite pledges from major airlines, passengers like Briana and Andrew may still face difficulties. Consistent communication and follow-up with airlines and the DOT can help passengers secure the assistance they deserve.
