December 21st 2024.
Australian travelers who are faced with the inconvenience of flight cancellations or delays may soon have more rights to protect them, thanks to a new charter proposed by the federal government. The government's draft Aviation Rights Charter aims to provide new guidelines to support customers who are impacted by flight disruptions in Australia.
According to the draft legislation, Australians whose flights are cancelled should be offered full refunds instead of just vouchers. Additionally, travelers who experience delays of over three hours should be given assistance in booking alternative options. This charter also promises that airlines will reimburse customers for any necessary meals or accommodations, and lost luggage will be returned free of charge. Furthermore, if a flight is cancelled, customers are entitled to a full refund within 14 days, not just a flight credit.
In cases where a delayed flight is time-sensitive, the charter states that customers should have the option to cancel with a full refund. Transport Minister Catherine King is expected to release the full draft today, just in time for the busy Christmas travel season. This document will clearly outline the expectations for how disruptions should be handled, following a tumultuous few years in the airline industry.
The proposed charter will be open for consultation until February, after which it will need to be legislated in order to be enforced. King emphasizes that the Australian flying public deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, which includes receiving timely and fair remedies in the event of flight disruptions. She adds, "The Customer Charter of Rights will bring to light what has been hidden in fine print for far too long. It will provide Australians with greater certainty about what they can expect when flying in Australia, and where to turn if these conditions are not met."
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