But Critics Say It Doesn't Go Far Enough

Canada's national government has responded to calls for an airline passengers bill of rights by announcing a program it calls "Flight Rights Canada." But political opponents say the program does nothing to further protect the flying public.

The Toronto Star reports the proposal, introduced September 5, merely requires putting existing industry requirements in "plain language," and posting "prominent signage" at key airports.

Canada's federal transport minister, Lawrence Cannon, says the program builds on a 2007 amendment to the Canada Transportation Act that requires domestic airlines to prominently display terms and conditions of carriage at their business offices and on their websites. The measure also creates an informal complaints process within the Canadian Transportation Agency.

"Through Flight Rights Canada, air travellers will be reassured that options are available to them if they are inconvenienced. Consumer protection is important to our government and that’s why we are taking further action," said Cannon. "The introduction of Flight Rights Canada will help make sure that air travellers know their rights as consumers, and that obligations of air carriers are reflected in how they provide services."

However, several politicians have called for a more comprehensive passenger "bill of rights." New Democratic Party transport critic Brian Masse was especially blunt. "Today's announcement is not even an announcement," he said. "There's nothing in this whatsoever."

Masse wants, among other things, an expedited complaint resolution process for air travellers, reform in how airlines advertise fares, and 150 percent reimbursement for passengers delayed more than 12 hours because of overbooking.

The increased focus on the issue follows the sudden shutdown and bankruptcy filing of Ottawa's Zoom Airlines. As ANN reported, that low-cost airline abruptly halted operations August 27, after several of its planes were grounded at airports for failure to pay landing fees.

The legislative battle is playing out against Conservative Party Prime Minister Stephen Harper's request to dissolve parliament, and hold new government elections October 14.

FMI: www.tc.gc.ca/flightrights/menu.htm