Flights disrupted | New rules clarify when travelers are compensated

(Ottawa) The federal government is proposing new rules regarding airlines' obligations towards travelers whose flights are disrupted, even when the delays or cancellations are caused by an “exceptional circumstance” beyond the carriers' control.

The Canadian Transportation Agency's changes to the Air Passenger Protection Regulations, announced Saturday, would require carriers to provide meals to passengers whose flights are delayed by at least two hours, as well as accommodation for at night if necessary.

Airlines would also have to provide refunds within 15 days, rather than the current 30 days, if a passenger prefers to be refunded rather than rebook when their flight is canceled or delayed by at least three hours.

Ottawa says exceptional circumstances include security threats, unplanned airport closures, bird strikes, weather conditions or aircraft damage that could affect flight safety.

Transport Minister Anita Anand said the proposed changes aim to simplify the rules for travelers and air carriers by eliminating ambiguity over when passengers are entitled to compensation. Changes are now subject to a 75-day feedback period.

The Canadian Transportation Agency has been working to change regulations associated with the Canada Transportation Act since the Liberal government passed legislation last year to tighten rules around passenger rights.