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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
Business
Elias Visontay Transport and urban affairs reporter

New Australian aviation ombudsman could force airlines to pay cash compensation for delayed flights

Qantas and Virgin Australia jets on the runway
A new aviation white paper tackles consumer complaints but it remains unclear how the Albanese government plans to address the Qantas-Virgin duopoly. Photograph: Bloomberg/Getty Images

An ombudsman will police how airlines treat customers and enforce a passenger rights charter to ensure timely refunds and possibly cash compensation for delayed and cancelled flights under landmark Australian aviation reforms.

The Albanese government will release its much-anticipated aviation white paper on Monday which will also boost protection for passengers with disabilities who have historically been mistreated by airlines. Carriers will have to adhere to new standards and accommodate a broader range of wheelchairs.

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