Senator Ed Markey of Massachusetts says, “Enough is enough.”
Legislation was introduced Monday in both the House and Senate that would require airlines to provide cash refunds to travelers when the carriers cancel or significantly delay a flight. The bill would codify a Department of Transportation rule that mandates cash refunds. It comes as passengers continue to deal with widespread delays and cancelations stemming from technical problems and a shortage of crew or other workers.
Under the bill’s provisions, travelers would have the right to a cash refund if an airline cancels their flight at least 48 hours before their scheduled departure. Airlines commonly give travelers a voucher that can be used to purchase another ticket with that carrier and it has an expiration date.
Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey stated, “Enough is enough. Travelers are sick of wasting their valuable time fighting the airlines to receive their legally-required cash refunds. And they are tired of making flight reservations months in advance, only to face a health scare that forces them to choose between canceling a nonrefundable flight or traveling and risking the health of their fellow passengers.”
The bill would require airlines to provide refunds within 30 days of a canceled flight—or, if the customer prefers, a voucher that would be redeemable indefinitely.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For members of Congress to be prudent in the construction of the bill to address airline cancellations.
- For the president and the transportation secretary to seek God’s guidance as they work to resolve hassles for the American traveler.
- For airline workers and passengers to show one another grace and kindness as they face crew shortages and other potential delays and cancellations.
Sources: The Hill, Reuters
