Passengers facing flight disruptions could get more protections under Canadian proposals

The Canadian Transportation Agency has recently introduced proposed amendments to the Air Passenger Protection Regulations, aiming to enhance air passenger rights and compensation rules. The amendments focus on holding airlines more accountable for travel disruptions caused by “exceptional circumstances,” such as security threats, unlawful acts, environmental disasters, or disruptive passenger behavior.

If the proposed amendments are adopted, passengers affected by flight disruptions in such circumstances may be entitled to various forms of compensation from the airline, including meals and accommodation. In cases where a flight is canceled or delayed by at least three hours, or a passenger is bumped from their flight, they will have the option of receiving a refund instead of being rebooked. The airline would be required to provide the refund within 15 days, halving the current 30-day window.

Under the proposed changes, airlines would also be mandated to provide meals for passengers facing delays of two hours or more and offer accommodation for overnight delays. Additionally, the amendments aim to improve travel for families with young children by requiring children under 14 to be seated next to a parent or guardian at no extra cost. If this seating arrangement is not available at the time of booking, the airline must inform passengers and make efforts to seat them together.

While these amendments are intended to strengthen passenger rights, Jeff Morrison, president and CEO of the National Airlines Council of Canada, has expressed concerns about the potential impact on airlines. He believes that the proposed rules are costly and burdensome, failing to consider the operational challenges faced by airlines and potentially affecting affordability and connectivity for Canadian travelers.

The proposed changes to the Air Passenger Protection Regulations were developed following consultations with the transport minister and approval by the Treasury Board, in line with amendments to the Canada Transportation Act passed by Parliament in June 2023. Transport Minister Anita Anand emphasized that the amendments aim to clarify when passengers are owed compensation, ensuring quicker resolutions for travelers.

A 75-day consultation period is currently underway to gather feedback on the proposed amendments, with the deadline set for March 6. The Canadian Transportation Agency is committed to addressing any concerns raised during the consultation process to further enhance air passenger rights and protections.