Southwest Airlines’ December meltdown opened the door for lawmakers and consumer advocates to push for more regulation and passenger protections. But at what cost?
Paul Hudson, president of advocacy group Flyers Rights, said during a hearing of the U.S. Senate Science, Commerce and Transportation Committee on Thursday that there are simple steps Southwest Airlines, other airlines and the industry’s regulators can take to improve the flying experience, especially when weather or technology problems disrupt travel.
At the top of the list is requiring airlines to provide compensation to travelers delayed by more than three hours — something the European Union requires of its carriers, Hudson said.
