DOT Wants to Bring Back "Friendly" Skies

Let's face it, being an airline passenger just isn't much fun anymore. Even U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Mary E. Peters agrees and has announced a series of government actions she believes will help improve our air travel experience, including doubling the limits on compensation airlines must pay flyers bumped from oversold flights and making system-wide improvements to cut delays this summer.

Under changes proposed by DOT, the limit on compensation the airlines must pay passengers bumped from their scheduled flights would be doubled, up to as much as $800. The "bumping rule (.pdf)" would also be expanded to apply to aircraft seating 30 passengers or more; the rule currently applies only to aircraft seating at least 60.

"It's hard to compensate for a missed family occasion or business opportunity, but this rule will ensure flyers are more fairly reimbursed for their inconvenience," said Secretary Peters in a press release.

In an effort to reduce flight delays, DOT will allow airlines greater flexibility in using alternative routes in order to avoid severe weather. Additionally, a second westbound route will be opened; a move Sec. Peters likened to adding a new "interstate highway lane in the sky."

More information on what the DOT is doing to improve commercial aviation, including the new bumping rule, can be found on the Fight Grid Lock Now web site.

Also See:
Clinton Tried to Cut Flight Delays
So Did Bush
DOT: Long On-Board Flight Delays Should be Minimized
Miss Your Flight? Do Not Do This