7 Key Updates to Airline Resource Management Rules in 2024 What Travelers Need to Know
7 Key Updates to Airline Resource Management Rules in 2024 What Travelers Need to Know - Upfront Disclosure of Baggage Fees
Airlines collected approximately $71 billion in baggage fees in 2023, reflecting a growth from $68 billion in the previous year, highlighting the significant revenue stream for airlines from these fees.
The new regulations are expected to save travelers over half a billion dollars annually by increasing transparency and enabling passengers to make more informed decisions when purchasing tickets.
The updated rules require airlines to issue automatic cash refunds for delayed baggage, with specific timelines of 12 to 30 hours depending on the flight's domestic or international nature.
Despite the consumer-friendly intent of the new regulations, major airlines are currently suing the federal government, challenging the requirement for upfront disclosure of all applicable fees, including those for checked and carry-on baggage.
The regulations aim to address the issue of "drip pricing," where airlines gradually reveal additional fees and charges during the booking process, often surprising customers with the final total cost.
The upfront disclosure of baggage fees is part of a broader set of updates to airline resource management rules, which also include improvements to the accuracy of flight delay notifications and enhanced customer service protocols.
The implementation of these regulations in 2024 is a significant step towards providing greater transparency and consumer protection in the airline industry, though the legal challenges from major carriers suggest ongoing tensions between industry interests and passenger rights.
What else is in this post?
- 7 Key Updates to Airline Resource Management Rules in 2024 What Travelers Need to Know - Upfront Disclosure of Baggage Fees
- 7 Key Updates to Airline Resource Management Rules in 2024 What Travelers Need to Know - Enhanced Protections for Wheelchair Users
- 7 Key Updates to Airline Resource Management Rules in 2024 What Travelers Need to Know - New Rules for Vouchers and Travel Credits
7 Key Updates to Airline Resource Management Rules in 2024 What Travelers Need to Know - Enhanced Protections for Wheelchair Users
The proposed updates to airline regulations in 2024 include significant enhancements to the protections for wheelchair users.
Airlines will now face penalties for mishandling wheelchairs, while also being required to provide loaner wheelchairs and improve staff training on assisting passengers with disabilities.
These changes aim to greatly improve the air travel experience for the over 55 million Americans who rely on wheelchairs.
7 Key Updates to Airline Resource Management Rules in 2024 What Travelers Need to Know - New Rules for Vouchers and Travel Credits
In 2024, significant updates to airline resource management rules will introduce new regulations regarding vouchers and travel credits.
Travelers will now benefit from more flexible terms on the redemption of travel credits, allowing for easier transferability and swifter access post-cancellation.
Additionally, airlines are mandating clearer communication regarding the status and usage of unused vouchers, ensuring that passengers are better informed about expiration timelines and redemption processes.