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Federal Government Tables Legislation to Beef Up Rights for Airline Passengers

Federal government tables bill that would require airlines to prove why a flight was cancelled or delayed

Canada's Transport Minister says airlines have left the government no choice but to strengthen rights for passengers. 

Omar Alghabra says airlines have been using loopholes to avoid compensating passengers for canceled flights. 

During a news conference today, Alghabra outlined reforms requiring airlines to prove a flight disruption is caused by safety issues or reasons beyond their control. 

At the moment, a passenger is entitled to get between $125 and $1,000 for delays over three hours or cancellations made within two weeks of departure, unless there are safety or weather concerns. 

The bill, which was tabled in the House of Commons today, includes a fine of up to $250,000 for violations made by airlines. 

If passed, the legislation would also require airlines to respond to complaints within 30 days. 

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