ACI-NA applauds DOT NPRM on enhanced passenger protections
02-Jun-2010 Airports Council International– North America (ACI-NA) commends the Department of Transportation (DOT) for its Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that broadens the airline passenger protections under the DOT rule which became effective on April 29, 2010.
The NPRM proposes to increase compensation for passengers bumped from flights; require that airlines provide passengers more information, flexibility and protection when purchasing tickets; and mandate coordination of airline contingency plans for extended tarmac delays with more than 300 small- and non-hub airports. The airlines would be responsible for developing and coordinating these contingency plans.
Airports have long supported enhancing passenger protections. In its comments on the DOT's Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding "Enhancing Airline Passenger Protections" in March 2009, ACI-NA recommended that the final regulations provide more information for airline travelers and protect all passengers, not just those flying on larger aircraft or into medium- or large-hub airports.
"To the passenger, the effects of delays are the same no matter where the delay occurs or which airline actually operates the airplane" said ACI-NA President Greg Principato. "We do not believe there is any justification for only protecting a portion of the traveling public and ACI-NA is pleased that the DOT is proposing to amend the regulations."
ACI-NA has long been active on airline passenger rights, facilities and finances. In 2008, ACI-NA participated in a DOT national task force of airlines, airports and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to develop contingency plans to address delays. "The Task Force successfully produced a plan that addresses several issues raised by industry and passenger advocates," Principato said. "A number of airports already had implemented measures in the Plan."