Gottheimer pushes for airline compensation law to protect families from costly delays
NEWARK, N.J. (Essex County) — U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) on Monday announced new federal action aimed at strengthening consumer protections and ensuring families are compensated when airlines cause flight delays or cancellations.
The announcement comes after the Trump Administration moved to abandon consumer protections that would have required airlines to pay customers for delays caused by the airlines themselves — including mechanical failures, fueling problems, and IT breakdowns.
“When families get to the airport, they’re often concerned that they will get hit with a delay or cancellation. Yet, after your flight gets delayed, you could even face delays in getting the money the airline owes you. That’s not right. The European Union, Canada, Brazil, and Britain all already have airline delay compensation rules. We need to ensure that the United States doesn’t just stay on track with other countries, but instead, leads the way on protecting hardworking families and business travelers,” Gottheimer said. “If your flight gets canceled or significantly delayed because of the airlines, you should be compensated — not left stressed out and swinging in the wind. Families shouldn’t be left holding the bag when airlines screw up.”
Gottheimer outlined what he called the Clear and Simple Airline Agenda, which includes introducing the Enhancing Transparency from Airlines Act (ETA Act). The bill would require airlines to provide passengers with cash compensation for airline-caused delays of more than three hours on domestic flights, with up to $500 for delays longer than five hours.
He also said he is sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation urging the agency to ensure travelers receive compensation for airline-caused delays despite the Administration’s recent policy decision. In addition, Gottheimer said he is requesting that major airlines and their associations share their recommendations with Congress for ways to increase consumer protections.
The push comes as travelers continue to experience rising cancellations and delays nationwide. The Department of Transportation reported nearly a 9% increase in airline complaints last year — the second-highest level ever, behind 2020. Flight cancellations were up 29% nationally as of July 2025 compared to last year, and delays cost travelers billions annually.
Last year, 37% of all flights were delayed. This year, more than 27% of flights have been delayed through July, including 26% of flights in and out of Newark. According to federal data, about 6% of delays were the fault of airlines. During Labor Day weekend alone, Newark saw more than 150 delays, JFK had 104, and LaGuardia reported nearly 100.
Newark International Airport was ranked third worst for delays in 2023, behind JFK. Gottheimer noted that the European Union, Canada, Brazil, and the United Kingdom already have airline delay compensation policies, with a 2023 study finding delays in Europe decreased 5% after such policies took effect.
