The Transportation Department has taken a significant step by drafting regulations that would require airlines to ensure that children aged 13 and under can sit with a supervising adult free of charge. This move comes as a response to the FAA Reauthorization Act, which mandated the DOT to issue these regulations within a specific timeframe. The DOT’s initiative addresses the concerns of parents who often worry about having to pay extra just to sit together with their young children on flights.
According to the proposed rule, airlines would need to assign seats that place parents or guardians next to the children they are accompanying within 48 hours of booking, if such seats are available. In cases where multiple young children are traveling, airlines would meet the proposed requirement by seating children in proximity to their adult companion. If adjacent seating is not available at the time of booking, customers must be given the option of a refund or waiting for such seats to become available.
The proposed rule also mandates that airlines must clearly disclose passengers’ rights to free family seating during the booking process. Failure to comply with this policy could result in fines for airlines that violate the regulations. The DOT’s Airline Customer Service Dashboard already indicates which airlines commit to providing free adjacent seating for children aged 13 and under and their parents or guardians at least one day before the flight.
By implementing these regulations, the DOT aims to improve the overall flying experience for families. Flying with children can already be a stressful ordeal, and having to worry about seating arrangements should not be an additional burden for parents. Ensuring that families can sit together without incurring extra costs will undoubtedly make air travel more convenient and enjoyable for all passengers.
The proposed regulations for family seating on airlines represent a positive step towards prioritizing the safety and convenience of passengers, particularly families traveling with young children. By requiring airlines to adhere to these rules, the DOT is sending a clear message that passenger well-being is a top priority in the aviation industry. Airlines must recognize the importance of accommodating families and make every effort to ensure that they can sit together without any added hassle or expense.
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