The Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) on Tuesday warned airline companies that they face hefty penalties if they fail to provide appropriate assistance to passengers affected by flight cancellations.
CAB stressed that carriers are required to give timely and accurate updates, including the reasons for delays or cancellations.
“In case ang flight ay ma-cancel seven days or less prior sa oras ng paglipad, ang airlines po ay siyempre may obligasyon na magbigay na timely na notification sa kanilang lahat ng mga pasahero,” said Clarabel Anna Lacsina of CAB’s Air Operating Rights Division.
She added that airlines must go beyond simply announcing a cancellation and explain the real reason behind it.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr), through CAB, earlier reminded airlines of their obligation under the Air Passenger Bill of Rights (APBR) to inform passengers immediately of any changes in flight schedules, delays, or cancellations. The agency noted that late advisories cause inconvenience and additional expenses for travelers.
Airlines that fail to comply may face fines of up to P2 million, according to CAB.
“Ang kaparusahan sa paglabag ng mga regulasyon ng CAB ayon sa aming charter or RA 776, ang CAB ay may kapangyarihan na magpataw ng administrative fine ranging from P5,000 to P2 million. Sa APBR, ang paglabag ng regulasyon na ito ay puwede pong mapatawan ang airline sa hindi pagsunod mula P50,000 to P189,000,” said Lacsina.
