Statement by Rep. Mike Thompson, Author of the Airline Passenger Bill of Rights, on House Passage of the FAA Reauthorization

Statement

Congressman Mike Thompson (D-CA) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the FAA Reauthorization:

"Today, the House sent a clear message to the flying public: everyone has a right to be treated decently and fairly while on a plane or in an airport, especially during excessive delays.

"For too long, we've heard story after story of paying customers being subjected to uncomfortable and sometimes unsafe conditions when flights are delayed or cancelled. Right now, airline passengers aren't guaranteed access to clean drinking water, food, bathrooms or medical care. They can also be held on a plane for hours on end against their will.

"I believe this is unacceptable, which is why I introduced the Airline Passenger Bill of Rights (HR 1303) in March, which requires airlines to provide passengers with the basic necessities during delays and allows passengers to get off the plane when delays became excessive. Today, the House voted on these key provisions in the FAA Reauthorization bill, taking a large step toward securing passenger rights.

"The inclusion of passenger rights in the FAA Reauthorization bill is a big win. However, we must make sure this legislation not only becomes law, but also does the job. We'll be keeping a close watch on whether the airlines use this as opportunity to improve the way they treat passengers."

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