The travel world is abuzz over new air passenger rights passed in April, 2024 — and that went into effect on October 28, 2024. Passed under President Biden’s administration along with DOT Secretary Buttegieg, the Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill offers stronger protections for passengers for smoother air travel experience. Airlines are required to provide a refund to passengers when carriers “cancel or significantly change their flights, significantly delay their checked bags, or fail to provide the extra services they purchased.” Here’s a breakdown of the new passenger rights in 2024 and what travelers need to know before takeoff!
Full Refunds for Canceled or Delayed Flights
Under the new rules, airlines must provide no-hassle refunds for flights that are canceled or experience significant delays. Previously, many airlines offered credits instead of refunds, often leaving passengers without immediate cash back for canceled plans. Now, if a flight doesn’t meet your timing needs due to changes, you’re entitled to a full refund in cash, rather than vouchers or credits.
What qualifies for a refund? If you have experienced the following, you should now be able to get a refund for the cost of your unused flight:
- Cancelled flights;
- Domestic flight delayed 3 hours or more, unless rebooked;
- International flight delayed 6 hours or more, unless rebooked;
- Departures or arrivals from a different airport;
- Increases in the number of connections;
- Downgraded to a lower class of service;
- Connections at different airports from original schedule;
- Flights on different planes that are less accommodating to a person with a disability.
Refunds must be provided within 7 days for credit card purchases and 20 days for other payment methods. Government taxes and fees must also be included.
Compensation for Delayed or Lost Baggage, WIFI
Compensation for delayed or lost luggage has been a pain point for travelers for years. These new 2024 rules finally tackle this issue. Under the new requirements, you can get a refund for bag fees paid if you experience the following:
• Domestic flights: Passengers are entitled to refunds for checked baggage fees if flight is delayed more than 12 hours.
• International flights: Refunds must be issued for checked bag fees if bags are delayed by 15 hours (for shorter international flights) or 30 hours (for long-haul flights).
If the WIFI fails to work on your flight, you are also entitled to a refund.
No Surprise Fees for Family Seating Under New 2024 Rules
Families can now sit together without extra charges, a big relief for parents traveling with young children. The new guidelines prohibit airlines from charging extra fees for children under 13 to sit with an accompanying adult. This change will provide a safer and more cohesive experience for families flying together.
Upfront Fee Disclosures Required Under New 2024 Laws
Surprise fees have been a notorious complaint among travelers. This is especially true when it comes to add-ons like baggage, seat selection, or reservation changes. To address this, airlines and ticket agents must now display fees clearly at the time of booking. This will allow customers to see exactly what they’re paying for.
24/7 Customer Service For Passengers
The DOT now requires airlines to provide round-the-clock customer support. This ensures passengers can reach out any time they have questions. Whether resolving an issue with a canceled flight or seek assistance with a booking, this will reduce stress for passengers. They can deal with disrupted travel at any time with consistent customer support across all hours.
The Guessing Game Is Over For Passenger Rights
Finally, the guessing game is over for passenger rights when flying. The new airline passenger rights issued by the Department of Transportation in 2024 shifts more responsibility onto airlines to ensure a fairer and more streamlined travel experience. The new rules reflect a significant shift toward putting passenger needs first, ensuring that airlines remain accountable for providing a seamless flying experience. Passengers should know their rights before taking off!
For more details, you can check out the full list of these rights at the DOT’s official site. You can also file a complaint with the Department of Transportation an airline by clicking here for the form.
Next time you book a flight, fly a little easier knowing your rights are covered! Whether you’re a frequent flyer or just gearing up for a holiday trip, these new protections will empower you to travel with confidence. For more on travel, see our post for Best Travel Gifts for Everyone on Your List! Happy flying!
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