What are a customer’s rights and how can they sue an airline for a 12-hour delay in the USA?

Question from Jesus, What are a customer’s rights and how can they sue an airline for a 12-hour delay in the USA?

Answer from AI:

In the United States, airline passenger rights are primarily governed by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). However, it’s important to note that the U.S. does not have specific regulations that require airlines to compensate passengers for delayed flights.

Passenger Rights

The DOT has established certain guidelines for airlines to follow in the event of a delay. These include:

• Providing passengers with timely and accurate information about the delay.
• Ensuring passengers’ basic needs are met during the delay, such as food and water.
• Offering passengers the option to cancel their reservation and receive a refund if the delay is expected to last for a significant amount of time.

However, these are guidelines and not legally enforceable rights. The specific policies regarding delays can vary from airline to airline, so it’s important to check the airline’s contract of carriage, which is the legal agreement between the passenger and the airline.

Suing an Airline

Suing an airline for a delay can be challenging in the U.S. due to the lack of specific regulations requiring compensation. However, if you believe the airline has violated its contract of carriage or acted in bad faith, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.

Here are some general steps you might take:

1. Document everything: Keep records of all communications with the airline, as well as any expenses incurred as a result of the delay.
2. File a complaint with the airline: Before taking legal action, it’s generally recommended to file a formal complaint with the airline.
3. File a complaint with the DOT: If the airline does not resolve your complaint to your satisfaction, you can file a complaint with the DOT.
4. Consult with a lawyer: If you’re considering a lawsuit, it’s a good idea to consult with a lawyer who specializes in aviation law. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

Please note: This information is intended as a general guide and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and regulations can change, and each individual’s situation is unique. Therefore, it’s always recommended to consult with a legal professional for personalized advice.

For more information, you can visit the DOT’s Air Consumer Protection website and the DOT’s page on how to file a consumer complaint.