Mandates airline refunds and fee transparency introduced by Biden

April 25 :
New airline regulations, spearheaded by the Biden administration, prioritise immediate monetary compensation in the event of aircraft cancellations or major delays. These steps are being taken to make sure that refunds go more smoothly and to protect customers from hidden surcharges.

Mr. President, "It's time Americans got a fair deal." President Biden emphasised the need of this reform. The importance of airlines treating passengers better and the expected savings of over half a billion dollars for customers were both emphasised by Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who shared this attitude.

Airline refunds are now required to be processed quickly, usually within seven business days for credit card purchases and twenty days for other payment methods, without the need for explicit requests. Unless the traveller specifically requests otherwise, refunds will be sent in the same payment method (cash, credit card, airline miles, etc.) and will not be converted to vouchers or travel credits.

Furthermore, airlines must now clearly display all fees, such as those for checked luggage, ticket changes, and cancellations, at the time of booking. Consumers are able to make well-informed selections without being caught off guard by unexpected charges because of this transparency.

Deceptive advertising techniques by airlines, such advertising savings off base fares without mentioning mandatory surcharges, are also prohibited by the regulations. Questions such as family seating costs and compensation for passengers affected by aircraft delays may be addressed in future rulemakings. As part of the Biden administration's efforts to ensure fair air travel and safeguard consumer rights, these revisions represent a major milestone.