NIAGARA, ON (December 13, 2019) More than half (56%) of Canadians still don’t know they have new rights as air travellers, according to research released today by the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA).
Nearly six months ago, the Government of Canada announced the first phase of an air passenger rights regime that includes compensation as high as $2,400 for being bumped from a flight, more money for lost or damaged baggage, and a requirement that airlines provide travellers with clear communications on their rights and how to claim them.
“The latest finding makes it clear that the government and airlines should be doing more to ensure Canadians know their rights,” said Lisa Boardman, Associate Director of Travel Sales and Experience. “CAA Niagara would like to remind anyone travelling during the holidays to take the time to learn their new rights.”
A second, larger bundle of rights will be introduced December 15. New protections include cash compensation for long delays and cancellations. In addition, airlines will be required to rebook or refund travel that is delayed more than three hours or cancelled. And airlines will now be required to facilitate seating of children under the age of 14 with their parent at no cost.
If an airline does not respond to a passenger’s claim accordingly, travellers are encouraged to visit the Canadian Transportation Agency at www.airpassengerprotection.ca for more information or to file a complaint.
“Be aware, if you feel your rights have been breached, you are responsible for sending the claim,” said Boardman “CAA is committed to keeping the public’s travel rights top of mind.”
CAA Niagara operates one of the region’s largest leisure travel agencies and has been advocating for travellers for decades.
The latest CAA findings are based on a poll of over 1,500 Canadians carried out from November 27 to December 4, 2019. A probability sample of the same size would yield a margin of error of +/-2.5%, 19 times out of 20.
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