16 JUL 2019: Airlines will now be accountable for bumping passengers off flights and for damaged luggage as a result of the implementation of the Air Passenger Bill of Rights that took effect Monday. The new regulations require prompt updates and clear communication with passengers about their rights should their flight be delayed or cancelled.

The CAA states on their website what can be expected effective immediately.

• Airlines must inform travellers in simple, clear and concise language what their rights are on all itinerary-related documents and messaging
• Overbooking: Compensation up to $2,400 for being involuntarily bumped from a flight and no cost re-booking

  • Increases to an airline’s maximum liability on domestic flights for lost or damaged baggage to match current international flight limits and the requirement to refund any baggage fees paid

• Tarmac delays: Airlines will be required to provide standard of treatment (access to toilets, heating/cooling, refreshments, etc.) beginning at the time of the delay. Airlines will also have to disembark passengers no later than three hours after the delay starts;

The new rules have been met with blowback from both industry and consumer rights advocates.

Some carriers asking the Federal Court of Appeal to quash the new rules, which they say violate international standards.

Passenger rights advocates say the rules do not go far enough, arguing the criteria for monetary compensation are difficult for passengers to meet as they would have to present evidence that is typically in the hands of an airline.

Compensation of up to $1,000 for delays and other payments for cancelled flights will take effect in December.

CAA-Quebec published a free guide to the airline passenger bill of rights that summarizes the scenarios, requirements, and compensation set out in the new regulations, backed by examples. The idea is to make sure travellers know whether they are entitled to compensation and what to do to claim it.