New DOT Rules to Protect Passengers.. Are Airlines too Greedy?

The first proposal, due to be released in days, would require airlines to refund extra fees in more circumstances than under the current requirements, according to a source familiar with the plans.It would require airlines to refund fees for checked bags that arrive late, the source said -- more than 12 hours delayed for a domestic flight and 25 hours delayed for an international flight. If the bag is not delivered in that window, the rule would require a refund of any checked bag fees. The official said current refund rules apply to lost -- but not delayed -- luggage.


Another proposal, due out later this year, would require airlines to inform customers prior to selling the tickets about fees for baggage and to change or cancel tickets.
"This disclosure would stop families from getting hit with hidden airline fees and allow families to comparison shop between flight options more easily so they can get the best tickets available

Because there aren't enough advisements as it is, right? We already have to advise what airline is operating the flight - even if it is the airline they called - in addition to advising the rules in extreme detail. To buy a ticket on AS, the caller will be advised that the flight is operated by Alaska Airlines (not just the word Alaska). If it is operated by QX, they are advised "the flight is operated by Horizon Air as AlaskaHorizon" and so on. We already have to discuss the refund time period and the recommended arrival at the airport, must discuss the nontransferrability of the ticket and whether it can be changed plus make sure we advise that there may be a difference in fare (for changeable tickets) and possibility of getting credit when the rules allow. I literally spend more time giving advisements than I do booking the actual tickets. How many more advisements do I have to make that the customer is totally ignoring anyway?