The DOT has implemented airline rules to protect passengers
PELLSTON, MI -- The Department of Transportation thinks they've found a solution to some of the most aggravating woes of flying the skies, but some question if it's enough.
Starting in August, airlines will have to pay for lost luggage and bumped flights.
A beefed-up version of the Passenger's bill of rights was released today.
But many passengers say time is worth more than money.
But with the new bill of rights, money is being used to pay people for their troubles.
"I looked out the window and saw it still sitting on the tarmac and called the stewardess over and said, uh, that's my suitcase out there, can I open the door and go get it?" laughed Micki Wilding, thinking about one of her flying experiences.
If you fly enough, you probably have your own story about lost luggage.
"There’s not a lot of fresh air going through. It's very difficult to sit on a flight that long, especially if you have children, that makes it even more difficult," said Teresia Kay, a frequent flier.
Or hours of sitting on a tarmac waiting to take off.
"I’ve had my luggage lost," said Kay.
Or for us lucky ones, both.
"They should be able to refund that," said Tina Umbarger.
And now the government is forcing them to do just that
If your luggage is misplaced or lost, you'll get your baggage check fee reimbursed up to $50.
Tarmac time has been limited. If your flying domestic, you can't be stuck on an idle plane for more than three hours. If flying international, four hours.
If you're bumped, the airline will pay. You'll be reimbursed two times your ticket fee up to $650 for a delay of less than two hours. For delays more than two hours, the maximum reimbursement jumps to $1300.
"If you get double back, then yeah, that would be a good deal," said Wilding.
Some say they think this is fair, but some question if the new guidelines go far enough.
“No, because you've got to incorporate your time, your luggage which could have gone without you, and all other things," said Kay.
"What about overnight stays? What about meals? These are the things that really should be included in the customer service part of an airline," said Lance Davis, a frequent flier.
Also part of the new Passenger's Bill of Rights, airlines will be required to disclose any hidden fees.
Transportation Director Ray LaHood says the new rules will allow passengers to be treated fairly.
To read a complete list of changes that will go into affect on August 23rd, CLICK HERE.
