The largest airlines in the United States have made a commitment to the federal Department of Transportation to provide meals for travelers when flight delays extend for three hours or more, as well as hotel stays if flights are cancelled.
American Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways and other companies updated their service plans this week in the face of unforeseen events such as the previous ones amid pressure exerted by the Department in recent weeks. Previously, some airlines had offered “vouchers” or hotel rooms for delays but had not committed to executing a plan.
On 19 August, the Secretary of Transportation, Pete Buttigieg, said that he will publish for this Friday, ahead of the Labor Day weekend , an interactive board for passengers that will specify the services that each company will offer in the event of cancellations or delays due to circumstances under the control of the airline.
In a written communication to the main executives of the airlines, Buttigieg asked at least to provide food stamps in case of delays of three hours or more, and lodging for those who have to wait all night due to cancellations or interruptions.
The agency also contemplates the option of drafting new rules that would expand the rights of air travelers.
Some airlines have updated their terms to detail that, in the event that they cannot find a room, they will provide those affected with a voucher or refund to the passenger or passengers who had to reserve a room themselves, in addition to compensation for transportation expenses.
Southwest Airlines indicated For their part, if they do not have food coupons after the three-hour waiting period, they will comply with requests for reimbursement for the money that customers invest. In the case of JetBlue, they have agreed to provide $12 vouchers for food, while United Airlines will comply with the reasonable reimbursement of the cost of a meal at the points of sale of the airport.
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