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Airline Passengers' Bill of Rights

12/13/2023, 9:50 AM

Summary of Bill S 178

Bill 118 s 178, also known as the Airline Passengers' Bill of Rights, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The bill aims to protect the rights of airline passengers and improve their overall travel experience.

One key provision of the bill is the requirement for airlines to provide passengers with timely and accurate information about flight delays, cancellations, and diversions. This includes notifying passengers of the reason for the delay or cancellation, as well as providing updates on the status of their flight.

Additionally, the bill seeks to address issues related to overbooking and involuntary bumping of passengers. It requires airlines to establish clear policies for handling overbooked flights and compensating passengers who are involuntarily bumped from their flights. The Airline Passengers' Bill of Rights also includes provisions aimed at improving the treatment of passengers during lengthy tarmac delays. Airlines would be required to provide passengers with access to food, water, and restroom facilities during extended delays, as well as the option to deplane if the delay exceeds a certain time limit. Overall, the goal of Bill 118 s 178 is to enhance the rights and protections of airline passengers, ensuring that they are treated fairly and respectfully throughout their travel experience. The bill is currently under review in Congress, and its ultimate fate will depend on the outcome of the legislative process.

Congressional Summary of S 178

Airline Passengers' Bill of Rights

This bill expands protections for passengers in air transportation.

Among other things, the bill requires the Department of Transportation to implement regulations relating to

  • protections for airline passengers from being required to involuntarily relinquish their seats, unless necessary for safety or security;
  • the elimination of the dollar limitations on compensation to passengers denied boarding due to overbooking;
  • compensation to passengers for delayed or cancelled flights;
  • interline agreements between air carriers and other transportation providers;
  • training on the rights of passengers;
  • unreasonable air carrier fees;
  • unrestricted access of consumers to information on schedules, fares, fees, and taxes;
  • accuracy in pricing of tickets and disclosure of lowest fares; and
  • notifications to passengers of their rights and eligibility for refunds.

The Federal Aviation Administration must (1) prohibit any air carrier from reducing seat size or leg room, and (2) report on the quality of food and potable water on passenger aircraft and the sufficiency of flight crews and aircraft.

The bill provides a private right of action for passengers aggrieved by airline actions and increases civil penalties on air carriers for violations of passenger protections.

Current Status of Bill S 178

Bill S 178 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 31, 2023. Bill S 178 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on January 31, 2023.  Bill S 178's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. as of January 31, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 178

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
16
Democrat Cosponsors
14
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
2

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 178

Primary Policy Focus

Transportation and Public Works

Potential Impact Areas

- Administrative law and regulatory procedures
- Alternative dispute resolution, mediation, arbitration
- Aviation and airports
- Civil actions and liability
- Competition and antitrust
- Congressional oversight
- Consumer affairs
- Consumer credit
- Contracts and agency
- Corporate finance and management
- Department of Transportation
- Disability and paralysis
- Food industry and services
- Food supply, safety, and labeling
- Government information and archives
- Government studies and investigations
- Internet, web applications, social media
- Marketing and advertising
- Transportation costs
- Transportation employees
- Transportation safety and security
- User charges and fees
- Water use and supply

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 178

Airline Passengers' Bill of Rights
Airline Passengers' Bill of Rights
A bill to establish protections for passengers in air transportation, and for other purposes.

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