The Department of Transportation (DOT) has filed a lawsuit against Southwest Airlines, citing chronic flight delays. This legal action, initiated on Wednesday, follows a recent fine imposed on JetBlue Airways for similar allegations. The DOT's lawsuit accuses Southwest Airlines of operating flights that were consistently delayed over several months, raising significant concerns about consumer protection.
The flights under scrutiny include those departing from Chicago Midway International Airport to Oakland, California, and flights from Baltimore to Cleveland. These flights experienced nearly 200 delays between April and August 2022, with each flight facing chronic delays for five consecutive months. The DOT attributes over 90% of these disruptions to Southwest Airlines, asserting that the airline is largely responsible for the inconvenience caused to passengers.
This legal move comes as the Biden administration concludes, marking a notable shift in its approach toward consumer protections compared to previous administrations. By holding airlines accountable for operational shortcomings, the administration aims to enhance passenger rights and ensure a more reliable travel experience. The DOT's actions underscore its commitment to addressing persistent issues within the aviation industry.
In addition to the lawsuit against Southwest Airlines, the DOT has fined Frontier Airlines for similar issues with late-arriving flights. The fine on JetBlue Airways also involved allegations of chronically delayed services, indicating a broader crackdown on airlines failing to meet punctuality standards. This string of actions highlights an ongoing effort by the administration to enforce stricter consumer protection measures within the airline industry.
Southwest Airlines has yet to respond to requests for comment regarding the lawsuit and fines. The lack of immediate response from the airline leaves questions about how it plans to address the allegations and prevent future disruptions. Passengers affected by the delays have expressed frustration, emphasizing the need for airlines to prioritize timely service.