In a move that could bring relief to families that fly, the Department of Transportation proposed a rule aiming to put an end to airlines charging extra for family seating. This regulation, which is looking to ban junk fees associated with family seating on flights, is a nod to Rep. Ruben Gallego's earlier efforts to curb unnecessary airline costs.
Gallego, who introduced the Junk Fees Prevention Act back in April 2023, has been a vocal advocate for the elimination of hidden fees that weigh down on passengers, more so when flying with children. “As a dad, I know first-hand that flying with kids is enough of a challenge without having to worry that you’ll be charged extra just to sit with your family,” Gallego said in a statement obtained by his own office. The congressman greeted travelers at Sky Harbor Airport in Phoenix last April, where he proudly promoted the family seating provision of his legislative proposal.
The new DOT rule draws heavily from Rep. Gallego's act, reflecting a shared concern for passenger rights and cost transparency in the airline industry. Earlier this year, the House of Representatives, controlled by Republicans, approved two provisions from Gallego’s act that tackle hidden fees attached to ticket sales and hotels.
This development suggests that there might be a wider aisle of agreement when it comes to the issue of consumer rights, even amid political divisions. "I strongly support this new rule – based on my legislation – to ban airlines from charging extra for family seating, and I’ll continue fighting for more policies like this one that cut costs for hardworking Arizonans," Gallego stated, underscoring his commitment towards policies beneficial for the public. However, until the rule is formalized, families will have to navigate through these additional fees with fraying patience.
