Statement By Ny State Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr.: Judge’s Ruling To Uphold New York State’s First-in-the Nation Airline Passengers’ Bill Of Rights Is A Tremendous Victory For All Who Travel Through New York Airports

    Today’s ruling by U.S. District Judge Lawrence E. Kahn to uphold New York State’s Airline Passengers’ Bill of Rights, which I authored, is a tremendous victory not only for all New Yorkers but for everyone who travels through New York’s many airports.

    With the majority of the country’s airline delays occurring in New York State, this first-in-the-nation law is a necessary and common sense way to ensure that stranded airline passengers are treated with respect.

    Beginning January 1st, airline passengers in New York State who are on delayed on planes for more than three hours will no longer be held hostage without basic amenities such as water, snacks, fresh air, and working restrooms. They will also have an Airline Ombudsman Office to whom they can turn to if they feel that an airline is violating these rights. Airlines that do not follow the law will face penalties of up to $1,000 per passenger per violation.

    I applaud Judge Kahn’s decision to uphold this law to give airline passengers in New York State the rights and protections they deserve.