New consumer protection rules will soon entitle airline passengers to automatic refunds when flights are canceled or significantly delayed, while also requiring airlines to reveal junk fees upfront.
In total, the new rules could save travelers $500 million annually, Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said Wednesday, describing the regulations as “the biggest expansion of passenger rights in the department’s history.”
They take aim at some of the most common complaints against airlines, such as delays and difficulties getting refunds. Airlines will also have to disclose all possible fees, such as added costs for seat selection, when advertising a fare.
The regulations are likely to effect in October, officials said. Here’s what to know about the new rules and what they mean for you.
You’ll get an automatic refund for delayed or canceled flights
The first rulemandates that airlines promptly refund customers when flights are meaningfully disrupted or delayed. Airlines will have to refund customers …
