New Rules To Protect Air Passengers Come Into Force On Thursday

New Air Passenger Protection Regulations come into force today.
The update comes as Transport Canada tries to close a loophole that has left some passengers unable to secure cash refunds following pandemic-related flight cancellations.
From Thursday, airlines will be required to issue full refunds for cancellations and delays if passengers are not rebooked within 48 hours, including for reasons beyond the airline’s control.
Previously, the passenger rights regime only required refunds for flight cancellations under the airline’s control, which excluded situations ranging from weather to war to unplanned mechanical problems.
In addition to a cash refund, the ticket price can also be refunded via credit or vouchers and must be paid in full by the airline within 30 days.
The original Air Passenger Protection Regulations were enacted in 2019, before demand for air travel collapsed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on September 8, 2022.