Senator Mark Kelly: “Trump is letting airlines off the hook,” Unveils Bill to Shield Travelers from Delay Costs

Frequent flight disruptions leave passengers facing unexpected expenses and hours of uncertainty at airports nationwide. Senator Mark Kelly’s latest proposal aims to force airlines to cover those burdens when their errors cause the chaos.

The Arizona Democrat joined forces with colleagues to introduce the Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation Act this week. This measure would require carriers to offer cash refunds for lengthy delays or outright cancellations within their control, building on protections once targeted by the current administration.

Air travel has grown more unreliable in recent years, with mechanical failures and staffing shortages cited as top culprits behind widespread holdups. Regulators under President Biden had finalized rules to mandate similar payouts, but the Trump team rolled them back last fall, citing added burdens on the industry amid rising fuel prices.

Reports indicate over 200,000 flights faced significant delays in the past quarter alone, stranding millions and costing families hundreds in hotels and meals. Kelly’s bill seeks to close that gap by setting firm deadlines for compensation, regardless of the reason, to prioritize everyday flyers over corporate bottom lines.

It is true that the Trump administration rescinded the Biden-era compensation mandate in November 2025, drawing criticism from consumer advocates for favoring airlines during a period of record profits. Kelly’s legislation accurately reflects this policy shift, though supporters note it would apply only to controllable disruptions, exempting weather or air traffic issues to keep implementation feasible. While the bill enjoys backing from fellow Democrats, early Republican responses suggest resistance over fears of higher ticket prices passed to consumers.

Media reporting for this story: 62% Left | 13% Right | 18% Center | 7% Unrated

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