Brazilian Senate Analyzes Bill to Strengthen Passenger Rights in Air Travel

A bill introduced by Senator Ana Paula Lobato (PDT-MA) is under review in the Brazilian Senate and aims to introduce significant changes to the aviation sector, offering more flexibility and protection to passengers.

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The bill, identified as PL 4.223/2024, is currently being analyzed by the Infrastructure Committee (CI).

Correction and transfer

Among the main proposals of the bill are the free correction of errors in the name or surname on the plane ticket up to the time of check-in, as well as the possibility of transferring ticket ownership at no cost up to seven days before the flight.

For international flights operated by different airlines, correction costs may be passed on to the passenger, provided that the error is not attributable to the airline, according to the affiliated outlet Aeroin.

The bill also extends additional guarantees by determining that timely cancellations, cancellations, or no-shows by a passenger should not result in the automatic cancellation of subsequent flights on the same ticket.

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Refund

Additionally, it states that passengers must receive a full refund of the ticket value in cases of cancellations by the airline or cancellations due to force majeure, which are yet to be regulated.

Senator Lobato argues that the Brazilian air transport market is highly concentrated, which could enable practices harmful to consumers, who are considered the most vulnerable party in the consumer relationship.

She emphasizes that the proposed changes aim to bring more fairness and balance to these relationships, thereby strengthening passengers’ rights and fostering greater confidence in air travel.

Avoiding a parallel market

However, the bill highlights the importance of taking precautionary measures to prevent the possibility of ticket ownership transfers leading to a parallel market for selling plane tickets, which could disrupt the market.

If approved, PL 4.223/2024 would represent a significant step forward in increasing flexibility in consumer practices within Brazil’s aviation sector, ensuring a more transparent and fair experience for passengers.