Okay, I know I’ve been under a rock lately, but this is something I’m actually glad to hear about!
Apparently there are five new rules that went into effect April 20th, 2011. You can read about them at this link. In a nutshell, they are
- If they lose your luggage, they have to refund your fees
- All fees MUST BE CONSPICUOUSLY DISCLOSED!
- Denied boarding compensation bumped to almost $1,300 in some cases
- 24 hour grace period on tickets you buy
- Tarmac delay rules now apply to foreign carriers
Of all of these, I think I like the 24 hour grace period the best. Why? Because we’ve all done it. I’ve made a reservation on a carrier I don’t normally use, then for whatever reason, realize I’ve made a mistake. They’re all too happy to charge you $150 for that mistake. Well they can’t do that anymore – as long as you catch it within 24 hours. Buy a one-way ticket on United, then realize that American will get you there on your original ticket without a change fee? Cancel United without fees, etc. It’s pretty awesome – for the consumer. For the airlines? Not so much…