Making flying a little better
PRESIDENT OBAMA touted new airline industry regulations Saturday as “another example of how government can be a force for good.”
In his weekly address, Obama lamented that he will soon no longer have the privilege of flying on Air Force One - and said he hopes the proposals will make air travel a better experience for all fliers.
“I’m going to be honest with you – one of the best parts of being President is having your own plane,” the President said. “And I’m going to miss it. A lot.”
Obama extolled new regulations he said would increase competition among airlines and ensure airlines treat customers fairly.
The proposals include refunds for anyone whose bag is delayed; requiring airlines to report more information on things like how likely it is that you’ll lose your luggage or reach your destination on time; providing more protections for travelers with disabilities; and ramping up transparency requirements for online ticket platforms.
“All of this should help you make better decisions for yourselves and your families – and hopefully avoid a few headaches, too,” Obama said. “That’s what this is all about – taking steps, big and small, that can make your life a little bit better.”
U.S. airlines said they largely welcomed the initiatives, but the government’s probe into how airlines control where their fares are displayed struck a nerve in the industry.
For months, airlines have been trying to draw passengers away from low-price comparison sites and back to their own home pages where they can sell travelers additional services such as airport lounge access, extra legroom or hotel stays.
The new regulations, in the waning months of Obama’s time in office, comes on the heels of an effort by Congress to improve the flying experience for consumers.
Several traveler-friendly provisions were included as part of an agreement approved by the House and Senate this summer that extended funding for the Federal Aviation Administration through September 2017.