[1]Ro Khanna

Friend,

In the wake of last week’s snowstorm, hundreds of thousands of people were
left stranded over their holiday weekend when Southwest Airlines with no
indication that they would receive any sort of reimbursement for their
troubles. Even now, Southwest has canceled two-thirds of its flights to
“stabilize its operations,” further inconveniencing passengers who had
booked plane tickets.

Six months ago, Bernie Sanders and I sent a [ [link removed]- ]letter to the Department of
Transportation laying out a solution to the chronic and ongoing staffing
shortages facing the airline industry. The current mess could have been
avoided if the DOT had taken action. But they didn’t.

American taxpayers have supported these airlines to the tune of [ [link removed]- ]$60
billion in federal pandemic airline aid. Airlines promised to use the aid
to prevent layoffs and maintain staffing levels for when demand returned.
Additionally, airline passengers are paying into an aviation trust fund
that supports the national air transport system. But despite the pent-up
demand from the pandemic surges around the holidays, airlines have dragged
their feet on rehiring, all while reporting record revenues. American
Airlines’ revenue rose to $8.9 billion and United Airlines’ revenue was up
$7.6 billion, both more than double since last year.

This cannot continue. [ [link removed]- ]Tell the Department of Transportation: Protect
airline passengers from unfair practices.

During the Obama administration, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood
issued a rule fining the airlines $27,500 per passenger for excessive
tarmac delays. After three hours, the airlines had to allow passengers to
go back to the gates or face stiff penalties. Steep fines like these are
meant to hold airlines accountable to their passengers.

The Department’s incremental response so far lacks the urgency,
imagination, and boldness to meet the moment and needs of the American
people. It’s not fair to passengers or the airline’s overstretched
employees.

[ [link removed]- ]Sign if you agree: The Department of Transportation must institute
policies to hold airlines accountable to their customers and staff.

In solidarity,
Ro


 


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PO Box 3513, Santa Clara, CA 95051