Canada proposes more rights for passengers following travel disruptions

The Canadian government has proposed amendments to the Canada Transportation Act to provide better protection for air travel passengers in case of disruptions. The changes would be part of Bill C-47, the Canadian Budget Implementation Act, and include streamlining the process for handling air travel complaints before the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA), strengthening the passenger rights regime, and increasing air carriers’ accountability.

Under the changes, the CTA will have the power to mandate compensation for all disruptions, set standards of treatment for passengers, and establish baggage-related requirements. The CTA will also define the parameters for refund requirements when the Canadian government issues a travel advisory.

The changes will enable the CTA to initiate regulatory processes to amend the Air Passenger Protection Regulations, with new regulations expected to be in place soon. The Canadian government has allocated CAD75.9 million ($55.8 million) to help the CTA reduce the backlog of complaints.