Unveils Traveler, Employee Tip Numbers; Video Contest

Stating her organization advocates "putting the integrity, dignity and wellbeing back in air travel," this week Kate Hanni, founder of the Coalition for an Airline Passengers’ Bill of Rights, introduced a plan "to expose the truth about airline practices and bring justice to the flying public."

Elements of that plan include a free 24/7 hotline (1-877-FLYERS6) to provide hotel, flight status and alternatives, car rental and weather information for stranded travelers; and a revamped website, that will allow consumers to post their airline service issues, along with airline responses where applicable.

Additionally, members of the Coalition will be positioned in several major US airports over the holiday season, to distribute brochures containing information for passengers experiencing extended delays, bumpings, and other airline related problems. 

The Coalition will also maintain an anonymous tip line for airline employees (1-877-887-2678), to report concerns for passenger safety, security, or deceptive or unfair management practices. "Simply call our hotline with a blocked caller ID and tell us your story!" Hanni says.

Lastly, the Coalition will put up real, hard cash -- "not flight vouchers" -- to passengers capturing their stranding experiences on video. A $500 grand prize will be offered for the "best, most dramatic video," with $250 for second prize and $100 for third.

The contest ends January 5.

FMI: www.flyersrights.org