The Department of Transportation (DOT) recently released a final rule that aims to make it easier for passengers to obtain refunds when airlines cancel or significantly change their flights, significantly delay their checked bags, or fail to provide the extra services they purchased. PVA commented on DOT’s proposed rule to express our concerns about the impact such changes and failures have on passengers with disabilities.

DOT’s final rule includes several new protections for passengers with disabilities. Specifically, DOT has determined that there are significant changes that can result in the right to a refund for a passenger with a disability. For instance, an aircraft substitution can result in a refund if it impacts an accessibility feature needed by a passenger with a disability. Travel companions who are on the same reservation can also receive a refund if the passenger with a disability elects to receive a refund rather than fly on the substitute aircraft. Changing a connecting airport also provides the opportunity for a refund. A downgrade in class of service can also have similar results. 

You can read the final rule here.