A Proposed DOT Delay Prompts Call For Action By Congress

In response to reports that the U.S. DOT plans to push back the expected date for a final rule on airline passenger "protections" until February of 2010, a flyers rights groups has renewed its call for Congressional action.

DOT had planned to publish its new rule, which deals with issues such as tarmac delays and chronically delayed flights, before the end of this year. The agency's delay would allow Congress to act first on this issue, but represents yet another setback for airline passengers rights in the U.S., the organization says.

"We think allowing Congress to act first, before the Administration does its part is appropriate," said CAPBOR Executive Director, Kate Hanni. "Providing airline passengers with a Bill of Rights, including a 3 Hour limit whereby airlines must return stranded passengers to the terminal, should be established by federal legislation, not and not simply by regulation."

The Senate version of the FAA Reauthorization bill makes provisions for a Passengers Bill of Rights, including a 3 Hour Rule. But the bill has been delayed for many months now, and Congress has been forced to pass a series of short term measures to fund the FAA's continued operations. The latest extension passed by Congress expires on December 31, 2009.

"Given this most recent delay by DOT, which follows a series of delays in Congress, it is essential that legislators work to pass this legislation as soon as possible before the holiday travel period begins," added Hanni. "Establishing basic enforceable standards in how airlines treat passengers will be one of the most significant consumer protections in recent history -- we need and deserve action now."

FMI: www.flyersrights.org