Airlines Just Changed the Rules Again (Here's What You're Missing)

Seven Airline and Travel Changes That Could Affect Passengers

The presenter outlines seven changes that could affect passengers’ costs, comfort, or travel plans.

1. Fewer delays may count as the airline’s responsibility

A new Department of Transportation rule, described as taking effect in October, removes 10 categories of delays and cancellations from the airline’s responsibility. These include certain cyberattacks, government-system failures, medical emergencies, and unscheduled maintenance.

If a delay is classified as outside the airline’s control, passengers waiting for another flight may have to pay for their own hotel and meals. The presenter advises asking what caused a disruption and checking refund eligibility before deciding what to do.

2. Airlines are reducing included perks

Delta is adding more premium seats, leaving fewer standard economy seats, and has ended free snacks and drinks on flights under 350 miles.

United no longer carries extra economy meals for onboard sale; passengers must pre-order through the app at least 24 hours ahead. The airline also bans playing audio or video aloud without headphones and prohibits calls after the plane doors close.

American’s Basic Economy tickets no longer earn AAdvantage miles or loyalty points. Even elite members lose certain seat-selection and upgrade benefits when booking that fare.

The presenter argues that airlines are making their cheapest fares less attractive to encourage customers to pay more.

3. Disruptive behavior can bring heavy fines

A dispute over a seat is not automatically punishable, but threats, intimidation, assault, or interfering with crew can lead to serious consequences. The FAA can fine unruly passengers more than $40,000 per violation, with multiple fines possible for one incident.

The presenter also cautions that conduct toward airport security can prevent a passenger from boarding.

4. Checked-bag fees may change with demand

JetBlue now varies checked-bag prices based on travel dates and route demand. The presenter advises passengers not to assume a bag will cost the same as it did on a previous trip.

5. Power-bank rules are tightening

Limits vary by airline. Many allow up to two batteries under 100 watt-hours per passenger, while Southwest allows one. Larger batteries may require approval, and power banks should not go in checked luggage.

Some airlines require power banks to remain visible and accessible rather than in an overhead bin, and some restrict charging them from seat outlets. Southwest says a power bank in use must stay visible and not be charged inside a closed bag. Passengers should check their airline’s rules.

6. ETIAS is not yet required, and current payment requests may be scams

The planned European travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers, including Americans and Canadians, has been repeatedly delayed. The presenter says it is not currently mandatory and warns against websites claiming travelers must pay for it now.

Travelers should verify requirements through official government sources.

7. Automatic refunds can affect more of a booking than expected

If an airline cancels or significantly changes a flight and a passenger rejects the replacement, the airline must automatically refund the affected ticket.

The presenter describes a JetBlue passenger whose refund for one flight reportedly also left her without a return flight. She discovered this only two days before departure. Passengers should check the full reservation after any disruption to confirm what was refunded, canceled, or left confirmed.

Other Video Content

The video includes a paid promotion for Halara travel clothing and a reminder to sign up for the presenter’s travel-rules newsletter.

Presenters and contributors: Megan (presenter), Ali (mentioned in the closing), and Ollie (mentioned during the video).