FlyersRights.org reported the passage of a new, four-year FAA Reauthorization Act that contains a number of significant new protections for airline passengers.
According to a release FlyersRights.org worked to build a coalition of individuals, groups and lawmakers to make the legislation a reality, despite stiff opposition from airline industry lobbyists.
"We would like to thank all our supporters across the U.S. and our champions in the Congress for making the Passenger's Bill of Rights a reality including: Senators Barbara Boxer and Olympia Snowe, Senator Chuck Schumer, and Congressman Mike Thompson," said Kate Hanni, Founder and Executive Director of FlyersRights.org. "Airline consumers are now protected against a host of abuses and the skies are safer and more efficient today."
The new FAA Bill contains:
-A Tarmac Delay law, leaving it to the DOT to manage the rulemaking's for 3 hours domestic and 4 hours on the tarmac for international flights.
-Musical instrument provisions to allow musicians to bring instruments on board or checked at no extra charge
-A smoking prohibition
-No Child Left Unbuckled air carriers must now require seat dimensions be disclosed so that parents can choose seating that will fit an infant safety restraint
-Establishment of an Advisory Committee for Aviation Consumer Protection: There will be one appointed from each of the categories: Airports, Airlines, Government and one Consumer Advocate with Expertise in Aviation issues.
While the 3-hour tarmac delay time limit is not a part of the bill, cautions against excessive delay are. In addition, access to food, water, and medical treatment must always be available, removing DOT's restriction that those vital items be made available only after two hours on the ramp. Climate control in the cabin is also mandated.
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