While flying from DC to LAX yesterday, I was thinking about last year's flightmare, when Southwest Airlines canceled more than 17,000 flights.
The cancellations left passengers stranded, without refund or rebooking options. This meltdown, and the airline industry as a whole, is a great example of why we need both market competition and effective government oversight.
As airlines have merged and acquired one another, passengers pay more and get subpar service and workers end up with worse pay and benefit options. I've expressed much concern about the proposed Frontier and Spirit Airlines merger for this exact reason.
I've also introduced legislation to fix it. My Choices for Stranded Passengers Act would require refunds or prompt rebookings in cases of preventable delays or cancellations, even if the airline must purchase a ticket on another carrier. I've also introduced bills to stop airplane seat shrinkage and prevent airlines like Southwest from cutting corners by using antiquated scheduling technology.
So if you're traveling this holiday season, consider signing my petition to show your support for these bills to better regulate the airlines.
Add your name >>
Happy travels, and Happy Holidays!
Katie Porter
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