Congress Nears Approval of Enhanced FAA Bill Mandating Automatic Refunds for Canceled Flights

The revised aviation bill aims to streamline the refund process, reflecting bipartisan efforts to protect consumer rights amid airline disruptions.

The FAA reauthorization bill includes provisions for automatic passenger refunds, set to counteract previous industry-backed proposals requiring manual refund requests.
Senators Elizabeth Warren and Josh Hawley championed the amendment, emphasizing consumer protection against airline cancellation policies.
Ted Cruz faced criticism for initially opposing the automatic refund rule, which he labeled as unnecessary for passengers.
The bill also introduces measures to improve air traffic safety and transparency in airline fee structures, alongside ensuring families can sit together without additional charges.
If passed, the legislation will enforce new rules by October, aligning with the Biden administration's consumer-focused aviation policies.