Air Travelers, Beware: DOT Cracks Down on Chronic Flight Delays
The Department of Transportation has taken a bold stance against airlines that consistently operate delayed flights, filing a lawsuit against Southwest Airlines and fining Frontier Airlines for their tardy arrivals.
Southwest Airlines in the Hot Seat
According to the DOT, Southwest’s flights from Chicago Midway International Airport to Oakland, California, and from Baltimore to Cleveland arrived late nearly 200 times between April and August 2022. The agency alleges that each flight was chronically delayed for five consecutive months, with Southwest responsible for more than 90% of the disruptions.
What Constitutes a Chronically Delayed Flight?
The DOT defines a flight as chronically delayed if it is flown at least 10 times a month and arrives more than 30 minutes late more than half the time. This calculation includes cancellations and diversions.
Southwest’s Response
In response to the lawsuit, Southwest expressed disappointment, citing its impressive record of operating over 20 million flights without violating the chronically delayed flight policy since 2009. The airline argues that the two flights in question do not represent an unrealistic schedule.
Frontier Airlines Fined
Separately, the DOT fined Frontier Airlines $650,000 for operating chronically delayed flights. However, $325,000 of the fine will be suspended if the airline doesn’t operate any repeatedly delayed flights over the next three years.
A Shift in Consumer Protections
These actions come at the end of the Biden administration, which has taken a harder line toward consumer protections than previous administrations. The DOT’s efforts aim to hold airlines accountable for their schedules and ensure a better travel experience for passengers.
What This Means for Travelers
As the DOT continues to crack down on chronic flight delays, travelers can expect a greater emphasis on realistic scheduling and improved communication from airlines. This shift in consumer protections is a welcome change for those who have grown tired of frustrating flight delays.
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