
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) released its Air Travel Consumer Report (ATCR) for the month of August 2023. The report found that airline delays and cancellations continued to be a problem, with nearly 30% of flights being delayed and 5% being canceled.
The report also found that the number of consumer complaints about airlines increased in August, with over 11,000 complaints filed. The most common complaints were about flight delays and cancellations, followed by problems with baggage handling and refunds.
The DOT is urging airlines to take steps to improve their on-time performance and reduce the number of cancellations. The agency is also reminding passengers of their rights under federal law, such as the right to a refund for a canceled flight and the right to compensation for a delayed flight.
Here are some of the key findings of the ATCR for August 2023:
- The average delay for domestic flights was 52 minutes.
- The average cancellation rate for domestic flights was 5%.
- The most delayed airline was Spirit Airlines, with an average delay of 68 minutes.
- The most canceled airline was Frontier Airlines, with a cancellation rate of 8%.
- The most common complaint about airlines was about flight delays, followed by problems with baggage handling and refunds.
The DOT is continuing to monitor the air travel industry and will take enforcement action against airlines that violate the law. Passengers who experience problems with their flights should file a complaint with the DOT.
The following are some tips for avoiding air travel problems:
- Book your flights early.
- Be flexible with your travel dates.
- Consider flying on a different airline.
- Sign up for flight alerts.
- Be prepared for delays and cancellations.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure a smoother air travel experience.
