DOT balks again on contentious airline fee decision

The Department of Transportation has delayed action until May on its “Enhancing Traveler Protections III” rulemaking, in which it is considering a number of proposals.

The delay is five months later than DOT’s previous target date and nearly 18 months behind the original timeline.

The most contentious rule would require GDS-participating airlines to list their ancillary services and fees in the GDSs. Airlines are against that proposed mandate, contending that ancillary services are leverage in contract negotiations with the GDSs.

The GDSs and consumer advocates contend that the GDSs have been charging for ancillary services for five years and have made little progress in making them available to consumers who want to conveniently shop for the lowest price.