US airline lobbyists are urging the Trump administration to roll back key passenger protections. The push has sparked criticism from passenger rights advocates, who fear that deregulation will reduce transparency and weaken safeguards for travellers.
Airlines Push for Deregulation
On May 5, 2025, the Department of Transportation (DOT) began seeking public input on deregulation. This aligns with Trump’s policy to eliminate ten regulations for every new one introduced. Airlines have taken this as an opportunity to demand sweeping changes.
Airlines for America Proposal
Airlines for America (A4A), which represents Alaska, American, Delta, Southwest, and United, submitted a 93-page proposal. The group called it a move toward “re-deregulation,” claiming it would bring a “golden age of air travel.”
Protections Under Threat
The proposal seeks to roll back refund requirements introduced during the Biden administration. These rules required vouchers or credits in cases of disease outbreaks or government-imposed travel restrictions. A4A also wants to end policies guaranteeing family seating and delay reimbursements.
Reducing Transparency
Airlines are also pushing to scale back the Air Travel Consumer Report, which monitors delays, cancellations, and complaints. Carriers argue that the report unfairly highlights their shortcomings, but critics say it is one of the few tools passengers have for accountability.
Passenger Concerns
While airlines argue deregulation reduces costs and red tape, critics remind that many protections were created after carriers resisted refunds and accountability. Given airlines received $54 billion in taxpayer funds during the pandemic, critics believe this push is more self-serving than consumer-focused.
