During the holiday season, air travel often brings added stress for passengers. Senator Elizabeth Warren has raised concerns about policies affecting airline passenger protections under Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. Warren believes that Duffy, a former lobbyist for the airline industry, prioritizes airline interests over those of travelers.
Warren Questions Duffy’s Policies
Warren has formally requested the Office of the Inspector General to investigate Duffy’s policy decisions. She alleges that Duffy has reversed critical protections designed to benefit passengers. Specifically, the Department of Transportation (DOT) recently annulled a proposed rule that would have mandated cash compensation for significant flight delays.
Key Events and Statements
On November 17, 2025, the DOT eliminated protections that required airlines to automatically issue cash payments ranging from $200 to $775 for delays exceeding three hours. These payments were intended to assist travelers with additional costs incurred from disruptions, such as hotel stays and meal expenses.
- Senator Elizabeth Warren – D-Mass.
- Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy – Former airline lobbyist
- DOT Action Date: November 17, 2025
- Compensation Range: $200 – $775 for significant delays
Warren criticized the DOT’s decision, asserting that it shifted the financial responsibility of delays from the airlines to the passengers. She expressed her disappointment in the government’s actions, saying, “Instead of lowering the cost of air travel, former airline lobbyist Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy ended a rule that would’ve forced airlines to compensate Americans for expenses.”
Response from Airlines
In response, Airlines for America (A4A), representing major U.S. airlines, argued that the change would ultimately benefit consumers. A4A spokesperson Marli Collier emphasized that a European-style compensation scheme could cost passengers up to $5.2 billion annually, leading to higher ticket prices and operational disruptions.
Current DOT Position
The Department of Transportation has stated that it continues to seek improvements in air travel. A DOT spokesperson confirmed that the earlier proposals were never enacted and suggested that regulatory actions aim to balance consumer protection with operational efficiency.
As the holiday travel season approaches, Warren’s call for inquiry adds pressure on the DOT regarding passenger protections. Questions linger about the welfare of travelers as air travel becomes increasingly costly and complex. These concerns are especially relevant during busy travel periods when delays are more likely.
