Airlines Get Big Boost from U.S. Deregulatory Moves

The Department of Transportation (DOT) recently said it would waive $11 million in fines owed by Southwest Airlines stemming from a 2022 operational meltdown that left millions stranded over the holidays, Danielle Chemtob reported for Forbes Daily.

 The move is the latest in a string of deregulatory actions benefiting airlines while weakening consumer protections. (Photo: Southwest Airlines Facebook)

The move follows the repeal of a Biden-era rule that would have mandated passenger compensation for flight delays within airlines’ control. It is the latest in a string of deregulatory actions benefiting airlines while weakening consumer protections.

“The DOT’s agenda reads like it was copy-pasted directly from the lobbying arm of the largest carriers,” wrote William J. McGee, senior fellow for aviation and travel at the American Economic Liberties Project.