Consumer reports and major airline announcements

Congress Passes Bipartisan Five-Year FAA Reauthorization Act to Enhance Safety and Infrastructure

May 15, 2024, 02:32 PM

The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives have passed the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, a comprehensive bipartisan bill aimed at enhancing aviation safety, investing in infrastructure, and protecting consumer rights for the next five years. The legislation, which now heads to President Biden's desk, includes provisions for hiring more air traffic controllers, increasing the number of daily flights at Reagan National Airport, and ensuring automatic refunds for passengers facing significant delays or cancellations. The bill also addresses the needs of the aviation workforce, invests in sustainable infrastructure, and strengthens protections for airline passengers, including measures to prevent airlines from charging parents extra to sit with their children. The act garnered overwhelming support, passing the House with a 387-26 vote.