New protections for air travellers kick in on Sunday.
The second round of rules focus on compensation for cancelled or delayed flights as well as assistance in rebooking.
Payouts are based on how long a passenger is delayed.
A large airline will have to pay a passenger $400 for delays between three and six hours and up to $1,000 if the flight is grounded more than nine hours.
They will also need to ensure that the passenger reaches their final destination.
Another highlight is ensuring children, under the age of 14, are seated near their parent or guardian at no extra charge.
Transport Minister Marc Garneau says airlines will also be required to collect data on their performance.
He says “Certain information will be made public and will help Canadians make better informed choices about which airlines they choose to fly with.”
Garneau notes the new rules apply to all airlines that fly into, out of or within Canada.
The fines for non-compliance can reach as high as $25,000.
The changes are for circumstances within the airline’s control. Situations outside airline control, including weather, security threats and medical emergencies, aren’t included.
Garneau says every single traveller in Canada will benefit from the new air passenger-rights rules.
The first round of changes were announced in July.
They addressed issues like overbooking, tarmac delays and compensation for lost luggage.
— Transport Canada (@Transport_gc) December 13, 2019
