The woes of air travel continue to plague American flyers, with the US Department of Transportation (DOT) reporting a significant increase in passenger complaints for 2023. This surge in complaints highlights the growing concerns regarding flight delays, cancellations, and overall customer service within the airline industry.
According to data from the DOT’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), the department received nearly 97,000 complaints from passengers in 2023. This represents a concerning rise compared to the approximately 86,000 complaints filed in 2022. While the number of flight cancellations has shown some improvement, delays continue to disrupt travel plans. The BTS data indicates that roughly 21% of all US flights were delayed in 2023, a figure that remains stubbornly high.
The DOT website serves as a valuable resource for air travelers, offering information on passenger rights. This includes what to expect from airlines during flight disruptions and the complaint filing process. The DOT emphasizes its commitment to ensuring a safe and positive air travel experience for all passengers. The department actively investigates passenger complaints and works to hold airlines accountable for their actions.
Given the current air travel landscape, passengers are advised to plan ahead and be prepared for potential delays. Checking flight status updates regularly, familiarizing yourself with airline customer service policies, and considering travel insurance can help minimize disruptions and ensure a smoother travel experience.
