An investigation of 10 airlines has been completed by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) regarding pandemic refunds due to passengers, with enforcement expected soon as the investigation continues at 10 other airlines, Reuters reported. Monday July 11.
“We will work with airlines when they are ready to take positive and proactive action, whether it’s pay improvements that make it easier to hire or flexibility in customer service,” the US Secretary of State said. Transportation, Pete Buttigieg. Told Fox News Sunday. “We will also uphold the rights of passengers and consumers.”
The 10 airlines were not identified by USDOT or Buttigieg, Reuters reported.
See also: Senate grills airline executives over refund complaints and COVID flight cancellations
The agency announcement a bill of rights on Friday July 8 for passengers with disabilities and issued an advisory to airlines to seat young children next to a parent. DOT said complaints against airlines are on the rise 300% above pandemic levels.
“We look forward to working with the federal government to identify and resolve common challenges to minimize disruptions and ensure safe and smooth travel,” Airlines to Americaan industry group said on Sunday, Reuters reported.
Read more: Pandemic triggers $2.1 billion loss for United Airlines
Buttigieg had a meeting with airline chiefs in June to discuss summer flight schedules following widespread cancellations. Carriers blamed the Federal Aviation Administration and its problems with air traffic control personnel, according to Reuters.
“We saw some improvement over the summer, but still not to an acceptable level in terms of performance, cancellations and delays,” Buttigieg said.
Related: Summer Series 2022: “Revenge Travel” Comes to Life with a Connected Economy
The USDOT plans to update its rules regarding refunds for consumers who cannot travel due to government restrictions, which was the case during the pandemic. Current regulations do not address eligibility for refunds in special cases where cancellations were due to the government.
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