US slaps $80,000 fine on Air India

Washington, May 4: US Transportation Department has slapped a fine of $80,000 on

for failing to inform passengers about airline services, optional fees and what they needed to do if the flight was delayed.

This is the first time any airline is slapped with a penalty for violating the Department's new airline consumer rules that began in Aug 2011.

"Our new airline consumer rules help ensure that passengers are fully informed about airline services and fees and what to expect if their flight is delayed on the tarmac," said Ray LaHood, US Transportation Secretary.

Beginning from Aug 2011, foreign carriers operating to the US have been asked to adopt contingency plans and keep the passengers posted about the same on their websites.

Both foreign and US carriers with a website that sell tickets to the US consumers are required to include a hyperlink on their homepage that will take the viewers to a page that lists all fees for optional services, baggage fees and carrier charges.

Meanwhile, Air India plans to abide by the rules and also provide a link to its optional date.

OneIndia News