White House Bans Extra Fees for Family Seating on Airlines
Parents will no longer have to pay extra fees to sit next to their children when flying, thanks to a new rule proposed by the U.S. Transportation Department. The White House has announced that airlines will be banned from charging additional fees for family members.
Importance of Family Seating
Under the proposed rule, airlines will be required to seat parents and children 13 years old and younger together for free if they are booked with adjacent seats. U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized the importance of adults and young children sitting together, stating that it is common sense and should be standard practice. He noted that as someone who has flown with young children himself, he understands the challenges that families face when traveling.
Financial Impact on Families
The government believes that the additional costs of separate seating could impact families’ ability to afford travel for vacations or visits with family and friends. The proposed rule is estimated to save a family of four up to $200 in round-trip costs, with airlines charging up to $25 per seat for adjacent seating.
Sitting next to a parent is crucial for young children who may need assistance with buckling up or feeding themselves. Without proper seating arrangements, families often face the inconvenience of having to ask other passengers to switch seats. This can lead to stress for children, parents, flight attendants, and fellow passengers.
Implementation and Response
The Transportation Department’s proposal not only bans airlines from charging extra fees for family seating but also requires airlines to seat parents next to their children when adjacent seats are available within 48 hours of booking. If adjacent seats are not available, carriers must offer passengers the option of a full refund or the opportunity to wait for family seating to become available. If no adjacent seats open up, airlines must offer the choice to rebook for free or accept non-adjacent seating on the flight.
The proposal has received support from President Biden, who has called on Congress to take action to ban family seating fees and other “junk” fees imposed by airlines. While some airlines have voluntarily agreed to eliminate these fees, the proposed rule aims to make family travel more affordable and convenient for all passengers.
