WASHINGTON, D.C. —The Department of Transportation announced today that it is seeking comment on whether to move forward with a rule that would require airlines to compensate passengers when they cancel or significantly change their flights. Consumer Federation of America applauds the DOT for continuing to advance passenger protections and level the playing field for consumers.

“The DOT’s notice today seeks to restore a principle that has been remarkably absent from air travel: fairness.” said Erin Witte, director of consumer protection for Consumer Federation of America. “When an airline fails to hold up their end of the bargain, they should be required to make things right. Flight disruptions create a cascading effect of expenses that often exceed the cost of a ticket, and a rule that requires airlines to compensate their customers for the harm they have caused makes perfect sense.”