Changes in Airline Passenger Rights: A Shift Towards Deregulation

The Civil Aviation Committee has announced Regulation No. 101, set to take effect on November 20, 2025, which aims to enhance passenger rights on both domestic and international flights. Key changes include an increase in compensation for domestic flight delays exceeding five hours from 600 baht to 1,200 baht, and for cancellations from 1,200 baht to 1,500 baht. Airlines may offer compensation in various forms, including travel credits or frequent-flyer miles, but exceptions apply for delays caused by unforeseen circumstances.

Civil Aviation Committee issues new passenger rights rules for domestic and international flightsThe Points GuyAirlines want to roll back consumer protections — will your rights disappear?Tech firm estimates Air Canada owes passengers $66M+ for disruptions & lost time

In the United States, the airline industry is currently facing scrutiny over consumer protection regulations. The Trump administration has indicated intentions to rescind a Biden-era rule that mandated compensation for flight delays and cancellations. This proposed rollback has raised concerns among consumer advocates, as it could lead to a reduction in passenger rights similar to the pre-2000s era, characterized by hidden fees and limited recourse for travelers.

The Points Guy

Airlines, represented by Airlines for America, have submitted a request to the Department of Transportation (DOT) to withdraw several consumer protections, including automatic refunds for cancellations and rules requiring transparent pricing. The organization argues that these regulations impose unnecessary burdens and could lead to increased ticket prices. Critics, however, warn that such deregulation would diminish consumer rights and lead to a less favorable flying experience.

The Points Guy

Consumer advocates express concern that the airline industry's push for deregulation could severely impact passenger rights. Tomasz Pawliszyn, CEO of AirHelp, emphasizes the need for clear, universal rules to ensure fair treatment of passengers. The potential elimination of automatic refunds and fee transparency could result in a situation where airlines dictate compensation policies, undermining consumer protections established by previous administrations.

Airlines want to roll back consumer protections — will your rights disappear?

While the DOT has committed to enforcing existing consumer protection laws, the extent to which proposed rollbacks will be implemented remains uncertain. The airline industry's lobbying efforts have sparked a debate about the balance between operational efficiency and consumer rights. Some experts predict that while certain protections may survive, others, particularly those related to fee transparency, could be at risk.

The Points Guy

• “We are encouraged by this Department of Transportation reviewing unnecessary and burdensome regulations that exceed its authority and don't solve issues important to our customers,” — Airlines for America

The Points Guy

• “Carriers can’t be allowed to decide for themselves who and when to compensate,” — Daria Volochniuk, COO of FlightRefunder

Airlines want to roll back consumer protections — will your rights disappear?

• “The airline industry is pulling off a heist in broad daylight,” — Andy Abramson, frequent flier and communications consultant

Airlines want to roll back consumer protections — will your rights disappear?

As the regulatory landscape evolves, the DOT's decisions in response to the airline industry's requests will be critical. Stakeholders, including consumer advocates and airline representatives, will continue to engage in discussions about the future of passenger rights, with potential implications for air travel standards in the United States.

The Points Guy