US laws to be introduced this August will increase how much compensation bumped air passengers receive and shorten tarmac waiting times.
The laws will also demand airlines reimburse passengers for lost luggage fees.
US transport secretary Ray LaHood described the new legislation as being all about showing passengers “respect”. He said: “Airline passengers have a right to be treated fairly.”
Under the new rules, passengers who have been bumped from a flight will be entitled to between $650 and $1330. Previously, the amount was $400 and $600.
Carriers will also be fined heavily if they do not let passengers on an international flight out of a plane which has been sitting on the tarmac for more than four hours.
As part of the new rules, airlines will also have to include taxes and fees in their prices and have to clearly display potential charges on their websites. Fees for checked bag fees, upgrades and changing reservations should all be clearly explained.
by Dinah Hatch
