Air Passengers Bill of Rights Goes Into Effect in Canada
Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations went into effect on Monday.
The new rules from the Canada Transportation Agency require airlines to meet certain obligations and provide clear and timely communications to passengers.
The passenger bill of rights imposes standards that require airlines to provide clear and regular updates in the event of flight delays or cancellations; up to 2,400 Canadian dollars ($1,841) in compensation in instances of denied boarding when a flight is overbooked. It also puts into effect a three-hour limit on tarmac delays (in most cases), and standards for passenger treatment and comfort during such delays.
In addition, passengers could receive up to 2,100 Canadian dollars in compensation for lost or damaged luggage, and the bill of rights requires clearer policies regarding the transport of musical instruments on flights to limit potential damage.
Additional rules go into effect on December 15, 2019. These rules will require airlines to provide food, beverages, and hotel accommodations in instances of some delays and cancellations as well as compensation of up to 1,000 Canadian dollars and/or a refund or transfer to another flight.
Finally, airlines will be required to allow passengers traveling with young children to be seated together at no additional cost.
(Photo: Accura Media Group)
