Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) have announced a new partnership aimed at improving air travel consumer protection efforts. The memorandum of understanding signed between the two entities formalizes collaboration to address consumer complaints in the air travel industry.

Bonta emphasized the importance of protecting air travel consumers, stating, “In the past year, more than 200 million passengers traveled by air to and in California, these passengers deserve to be treated fairly, and if they are not, deserve to have their complaints carefully and quickly resolved.”

The agreement establishes a structured process for the California Department of Justice (DOJ) to escalate consumer complaints to the DOT, ensuring a timely response and enabling the DOJ to gather additional information from airlines or ticket agents during investigations.

Attorney General Bonta highlighted the significance of cooperation between state and federal agencies in addressing the challenges faced by consumers in the air travel sector. He expressed gratitude towards the Department of Transportation for the partnership, recognizing it as a step towards better accountability.

The collaboration between DOT and DOJ aims to promote compliance with aviation consumer protection requirements, hold airlines and ticket agents accountable for unfair practices, and enhance the resolution of consumer complaints in the industry.

Attorney General Bonta's dedication to consumer protection in air travel is evident through his past initiatives, including legal actions against anticompetitive mergers and efforts to strengthen regulations for transparency and fair practices in the airline industry.

The partnership between California's Attorney General and the U.S. Department of Transportation signifies a joint commitment to safeguarding the rights of air travel consumers, addressing their grievances effectively, and ensuring accountability within the industry.